Darnell Baker, also known as Coach Darnell, is a licensed alcohol and drug counselor with a career rooted in corrections, therapy, and case management. Starting out in 1994 as a corrections officer in Minnesota, his path quickly shifted to helping high-risk juveniles within the criminal justice system. After gaining experience as a case manager and therapist at the Red Wing Correctional Facility, he returned to his beginnings at Lino Lakes Correctional Facility in 2005, this time serving as a therapist in the chemical dependency program until his retirement in 2019. Coach Darnell also honed his skills in crisis situations, serving as a hostage negotiator for the Minnesota Department of Corrections.

Expanding his reach beyond correctional facilities, Coach Darnell worked with the Ramsey County Juvenile Division, deepening his understanding of the issues faced by at-risk youth. He contributed significantly to the 2019 New Directions Cognitive Behavioral/Chemical Dependency Curriculum, a collaborative effort aimed at improving rehabilitation processes. For over 25 years, Coach Darnell has dedicated his work to aiding the transformation journeys of African American men, seeing his work as an honor rather than a duty. If you're in need of a counselor who brings a mix of experience, empathy, and understanding, Coach Darnell is a committed partner in your journey towards transformation.