David Saldana
Fresno,CA
Summary
Compassionate and dependable behavioral health professional with experience as both a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor and Behavioral Health Technician. Skilled in Motivational Interviewing (MI) to support client engagement, promote self-efficacy, and encourage lasting recovery. Proficient in using Kipu for electronic health record management and experienced in writing clear, accurate DAP notes. Strong background in facilitating groups, conducting client observations, responding to crises, and maintaining structured, trauma-informed environments. Dedicated to providing respectful, client-centered care to individuals facing substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges in both residential and outpatient settings.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Behavioral Health Technician
First Steps Recovery
Fresno
01.2025 - Current
- Monitor and support clients in recovery and mental health settings
- Assist with daily routines, safety checks, and behavior observation
- Document progress using DAP notes and Kipu EMR system
- Use crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques when needed
- Collaborate with clinical staff to support treatment goals
- Provide trauma-informed, client-centered care
Program Participant
Dety Ventures.inc.
10.2019 - Current
- Advanced training in communication strategies from Stanford & Harvard faculty
SUD. Counselor
COSA Community Justice Center
Fresno, CA
09.2003 - Current
- Facilitated telehealth and in-person groups focusing on relapse prevention strategies
- Utilized CBT and M to support recovery and coping strategies
SUD. Counselor
Hernden Recovery Center-Private Practice
Fresno, CA
10.2024 - 01.2025
- Company Overview: Kaiser Permanente
- Provide individual and group counseling using evidence-based methods such as CST & MI
- Conduct trauma-informed screenings and assessments to support recovery goals
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated care
- Kaiser Permanente
Manager
Center for Living
Fresno, CA
09.2023 - 07.2024
- Designed relapse prevention strategies and implemented treatment planning interventions
- Facilitated client engagement through skill-building and strategic communication
Education
AOD - Substance Abuse Disorder & Counseling
Fresno City College
12.2025
Associate's Degree - Social Behavioral Science
Merced College
11.2025
Skills
- Experienced Behavioral Health Technician and SUD Counselor
- Proficient in Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques
- Skilled in writing accurate DAP notes and using Kipu EMR system
- Certified in CPR and trained in crisis intervention and de-escalation
- Strong in client observation, group facilitation, and support planning
- Focused on trauma-informed, client-centered care in residential and outpatient settings
Timeline
Behavioral Health Technician
First Steps Recovery
01.2025 - Current
SUD. Counselor
Hernden Recovery Center-Private Practice
10.2024 - 01.2025
Manager
Center for Living
09.2023 - 07.2024
Program Participant
Dety Ventures.inc.
10.2019 - Current
SUD. Counselor
COSA Community Justice Center
09.2003 - Current
AOD - Substance Abuse Disorder & Counseling
Fresno City College
Associate's Degree - Social Behavioral Science
Merced College