Nicole Belton-Mercado's bio
Nico has lived experience with the Foster Care system, Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), and mental health/substance abuse recovery. Having received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of California Los Angeles; Nico’s extensive research on minority mental health and trauma, with a focus on Latinx and LGBTQIA+ youth, has equipped them to better serve the greater Los Angeles and San Bernardino communities. As a Certified Mental Health Peer Support Specialist (CMPSS), Nico’s aim is to provide a safe, inclusive space for all.
Nico transferred to the Training Institute after serving on the PRPSN’s Warm Line for four years. As a Training Instructor, Nico’s primary focus is to facilitate CAPS Academy Core Competencies for CMPSS certification. They assist with online cohorts as well as in person cohorts for individuals incarcerated within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation system. Nico specializes in the facilitation of Dr. Copeland’s Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) as well as Pat Deegan’s Hearing Distressing Voices Simulation.
Nico draws heavily from their lived experience; utilizing it as a tool to empower and inspire others to believe that recovery is possible – at any stage. Outside of work, Nico fills their days with activities such as roller skating, pickleball, video games, anime, or simply spending time with pets at home.