Shawn Mercier
Graduate Student Trainee
Shawn holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with dual majors in Marketing and Management from California State University, Long Beach, where he graduated magna cum laude. He is currently working toward his master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy at Pepperdine University in Irvine.
Prior to beginning his professional journey in mental health, Shawn spent over two decades working in the criminal justice system. His experience supporting individuals and families during times of legal crisis gave him a deep understanding of the emotional, psychological, and systemic challenges people face—especially those from marginalized communities. This work honed his skills in empathy, crisis response, and compassionate communication.
Shawn brings a calm, nonjudgmental presence to his sessions and is deeply committed to providing effective therapy for individuals, couples, and families. He takes a whole-person approach, viewing clients within the context of their family and broader cultural systems. Grounded in a strengths-based perspective, Shawn helps clients understand the underlying function of problematic behaviors, empowering them to make meaningful and lasting changes.
Shawn takes a special interest in trauma-focused therapies, believing that understanding and processing past experiences is often integral to healing. His clinical approach is informed by his rich life experience, cultural competence, and commitment to equity in mental health care.
Shawn works with teens, adults, couples, and families. Please call or email to schedule an appointment. Shawn is supervised by Beth Holder LMFT#52156
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(949) 427-1104 II shawn@holder-foundation.com
949-427-1104
Bella Stanke
Graduate Student Trainee
Bella is joining Holder Foundation as part of her graduate training to become a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and Professional Clinical Counselor (PCC) through National University. She has a background in education from Arizona State University, which has emphasized her belief in the magic of empathy, kindness, and helping others grow.
Bella has a heart for supporting people through life’s challenges and helping them feel seen, heard, and valued. Her passion for mental health and overall wellness drives her to create a safe and compassionate space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and goals at their own pace.
When not in school or in sessions, you might find Bella enjoying a new movie, walking her dog Barley by the beach, or spending time with her friends and family. She is deeply honored to be here and looks forward to walking alongside her clients on their journey toward healing and growth.
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Please call or email to schedule an appointment. Bella is supervised by Beth Holder LMFT#52156
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949-427-1104
