Darby Foster – ACSW, LAADC
Executive Director
Darby earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and graduated with honors from California State University San Bernardino. She later went on to become a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and an Internationally Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (ICADC). Darby is also a Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC) and trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). She graduated from California Baptist University with a master’s degree in social work.
Darby says, “I chose my career in the recovery industry because I genuinely care and because I wanted to give back what was so freely given to me. My personal journey into recovery led me to a path that allows me to help other people struggling with substance use find freedom. I found out that authentic and lasting recovery does not take place until there has been deep healing of the mind, body, and spirit. Bravely working on all three levels is the key that unlocks the door that holds us prisoner to our addictions.
It is my belief that those who are called to work in recovery are meant to be guides on a road that leads to reclaiming joyful and fulfilling lives. Our team has created a very specific curriculum designed to provide deep and meaningful healing of the mind, body, and soul. If you are looking to break free and restore peace, tranquility, and overall wellness, please contact us. We can most certainly help you.”
Devin Walters – RADT-1
Director of Admissions
Devin’s journey in recovery began in 2017 by committing to a treatment program. This was the best decision he could have ever made for himself. The staff at the facility made him feel welcome and accepted him for who he was. They helped him get to a place where life was finally worth living. After experiencing this life-changing event, Devin decided his purpose was to educate people and show them that they, too, can live a life free from active addiction.
Devin started working in treatment in 2019 and finally knew what his purpose in life was. He never thought that he would work in treatment, but after his own experience, he wanted to give back what was so freely given. Working in treatment isn’t for everyone, and it takes a special kind of human. Throughout his own personal experience, he realized he must meet people where they are, helping them feel accepted as he was, with love, kindness, and empathy.
Here at Palo Verde Wellness, we offer you an experience that can change your life forever. How? Remain honest, open-minded, and willing to accept everything and everyone for exactly who they are.
Melissa Corea
Director of Business Operations
Melissa Corea earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Pennsylvania State University in business administration with a concentration in nutrition. Throughout her career, she specialized in consulting, managing, and owning several businesses within the hospitality and real estate industries.
When Melissa relocated from Philadelphia to Southern California, she did not want a job. Her goal was to use her life and business experience for a higher purpose. This desire led her to Palo Verde Wellness, and as soon as she met the team, she could not say no.
Joseph Lashley – RADT
Case Manager
Joseph has worked in the field of recovery since 2018. He is in recovery himself and has been since 2015. During that time, he developed a passion for helping people and began volunteering to help in treatment centers, churches, and hospitals. He also helped start a non-profit organization called Live180. His experience as a mentor at Live180 inspired him to pursue a career in the recovery field.
Joseph began working as a Behavioral Health Technician at a treatment center in 2018. After two years, he was promoted to Client Care Coordinator, and he then decided to pursue his Drug and Alcohol college certification. His belief is that the more he knows, the more effective and efficient he can be for his clients and fellow coworkers.
He has a genuine care for people, but he has deeper care for those people suffering from the effects of addiction. His empathy and compassion flow deeply, and his goal is for clients to connect with his positive energy. He comes from a place of non-judgment, understanding, forgiveness, and love.
Mike Racadio
Clinical Supervisor
Michael earned a bachelor’s degree in social science from California State University San Bernardino in 2006 and his master’s degree from Loma Linda University in Social Work in 2013. He is trained in treatments such as:
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Trauma Resiliency
- Model (TRM)
- Psychoanalysis
- Jungian psychology
- Wellbriety
He has been a licensed clinical social worker since 2016. He has worked in the social work field since 2007.
Mike says, “I began my career in the recovery industry to support others in identifying and addressing the deeper underlying root causes that prevent sobriety. Having connected with the concept of ‘change your thinking, change your life’ but also experiencing self-sabotage, discouragement, and unworthiness; I found that underlying issues often keep people from the outcomes they deeply wish for. We all want to be happy but find ourselves stuck in habitual beliefs and patterns that keep us away from happiness. Being a part of the creation of a program that integrates ancient wisdom and modern science to provide a holistic approach to healing has been a joyful process. Supporting others through the process of letting go of their ‘misunderstanding’ of themselves and the world to connect to who they really are is the essence of Palo Verde Treatment Centers. Our goal is to empower clients to connect with their inner strength and potential to have the life they deserve finally.”