My name is Darrin Kern, MSW, SWAICL. I am a counselor with a BA in Psychology and a Master of Social Work from Eastern Washington University. I have practiced since 2014 and bring a strong background in chemical dependency, along with experience using CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, psychoeducation, and other therapeutic approaches tailored to each client’s needs. Throughout my career, I have supported individuals as they work toward healing, growth, and creating the life they desire.

My approach is person-centered, solution-focused, and nonjudgmental. I provide a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their experiences, better understand themselves, and move toward the changes they want to make. While I use evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and psychoeducation, I also believe therapy should be guided by each client’s goals, values, and personal path to well-being.

I was drawn to this field after seeing friends, family members, colleagues, and employees struggle with the challenges of daily life. In leadership roles, I often heard people share concerns about relationships, parenting, substance use, grief, and loss. Over time, I realized how meaningful it was to support others and help create a positive, encouraging environment. That experience eventually led me to pursue counseling, where I now provide compassionate support for teens, adults, couples, and families. I understand that healing and growth can be difficult, but you do not have to walk that path alone.

Outside of counseling, I enjoy spending time with my grown children, riding motorcycles and off-road vehicles, and being outdoors whenever possible.

I enjoy working with Treat Mental Health because of its strong treatment focus and collaborative care-team approach. I value being part of a team that surrounds clients with support and provides wraparound services to meet a range of substance use and mental health needs.