Darrien Silva, SUDCC-III, MSW Trainee
Substance Use Disorder Clinical Counselor
Palm Desert, CA
Darrien Silva is a Coachella Valley native who is passionate about supporting adolescents and families on their journey toward healing, growth, and recovery. She holds a Substance Use Disorder Clinical Counselor III (SUDCC-III) certification through the California Association of DUI Treatment Programs (CADTP), earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Psychology from California State University, San Bernardino, and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree at the University of Massachusetts.
With eight years of experience in the mental health and substance use treatment field, Darrien has served in a variety of clinical and supportive roles. Her professional background includes working as a Behavioral Health Technician, a Substance Use Navigator in a hospital emergency department, and an Addictions Counselor at the renowned Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. As a Substance Use Navigator, she assisted individuals experiencing substance withdrawal, facilitated access to Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and connected clients with appropriate mental health and substance use services. Darrien is also deeply committed to community education and prevention efforts. In partnership with hospital addiction medicine teams, she has participated in fentanyl awareness panels at local Coachella Valley high schools and facilitated community forums for parents. These presentations focused on fentanyl education, overdose prevention, Narcan awareness and administration, and increasing access to life-saving resources within the community.
Darrien believes in meeting teens and families where they are, creating a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and work toward meaningful change. Her approach combines evidence-based practices with compassion, authenticity, and a strong commitment to helping young people reach their full potential. Outside of work and school, Darrien enjoys attending concerts, sporting events, participating in her monthly book club, spending time with her dogs, family, and friends, and embracing her Disney adult obsession.