We are excited to welcome three new team members to Social Model Recovery Systems, each bringing unique experiences, strengths, and perspectives to our programs. From decades of international service to lived experiences that fuel a passion for helping others, Nvard Tariverdyan, Daniel Gomez, and Mark Hodge embody the resilience, compassion, and dedication at the heart of our mission. Their journeys remind us that healing and growth come in many forms, and we are grateful to have them join our community in supporting recovery and transformation.
Nvard Tariverdyan, MSW
Clinical Coordinator
Pasadena Council on Alcohol & Drug Dependence
With over 30 years of experience, Nvard began her journey with the Red Cross in Armenia, continuing her commitment to service after moving to the United States. She has held various roles across multiple programs, including Service to Armed Forces, First Responder, Disaster Response, and International Services. No matter the path, one constant has remained: her unwavering dedication to helping others.
Driven by empathy and a deep desire to make a difference, Nvard found fulfillment in serving people during times of crisis. After facing a series of personal hardships, she made the decision to return to college, earning dual degrees in Behavioral Science and Natural Science from Los Angeles Valley College. She then went on to study Criminal Justice and Psychology at CSUN.
Professionally, she has worked with PESA, where she advocated for juvenile justice, protected individual rights, and helped families reconnect. This experience inspired her to pursue social work, with a focus on ensuring that underserved populations have access to the resources they need to thrive.
After completing her internship at PCAAD and earning her Master of Social Work from USC, Nvard joined Social Model Recovery Systems. She is excited to be part of a team dedicated to meaningful service and looks forward to continuing her work in making a positive impact within the community.
Daniel Gomez, RADT
Primary Counselor
Mid Valley Outpatient
Daniel is an East LA native and is incredibly excited to be part of the team at Social Model Recovery Systems. His journey with SMRS began as a participant at both Bimini and Mid Valley, where he was deeply inspired by the individuals who supported him during his recovery. Motivated by that experience, he made a promise to himself and his counselor to one day give back and use his story to help others.
Now with three years of sobriety, Daniel is currently attending East Los Angeles College and continuing to pursue personal and professional growth. His path has not been easy, but it has been transformative, fueled by resilience, commitment, and the support of those who believed in him.
Daniel is passionate about helping individuals struggling with addiction and looks forward to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with this family and going on adventures. “My family and myself will forever be grateful with SMRS offering me a new way of life”.
Mark Hodge, RADT
Primary Aide
Omni Center
Mark says, “I’ve been looking for the path that I’m on for many years which was very difficult to find.” He came to Social Model Recovery Systems after those many years of searching for direction and purpose. His experiences with incarceration and its challenges have cultivated deep empathy and resilience. Through this journey, Mark discovered a spiritual path that has been instrumental in guiding his commitment to supporting others facing similar struggles.
He found meaningful connection in mutual help groups such as Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, and various self-help circles. Hearing stories that mirrored his own and gradually sharing his journey sparked real transformation within him.
Driven to deepen his ability to support others, Mark pursued education at Palo Verde College. He earned associate degrees in Social and Behavioral Sciences and in Arts and Humanities. He also completed coursework in Alcohol and Drug Studies one, two, and three. Through these studies, he began to recognize and attend to his wounded inner child. Those breakthroughs led him into a healing process that transformed his understanding of his experiences.
In coming to terms with the consequences of his choices, Mark took responsibility for his past. Today he lives with intention and day-by-day dedication to giving back. He values being a contributing member of society and is deeply grateful for the support and opportunities that Social Model Recovery Systems offers.
