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Our Approach to Teen Mental Health

Understanding the Mental Health Needs of Teens

Adolescents today face a complex web of challenges and pressures that can significantly impact their mental health. From academic stress to social media influence, the factors contributing to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are multifaceted. At Interval Teen, we recognize the unique emotional and psychological needs of young women aged 13-17. Our mental health program for teens is designed to address these needs in a comprehensive, compassionate, and tailored manner.

Our Approach to Teen Mental Health

In developing our mental health program for teens, we blend various therapeutic modalities to ensure a holistic healing experience. Our program encompasses individual, group, and family therapy, supplemented by skill-building groups and family participation. This multi-dimensional approach not only addresses specific mental health challenges but also fosters personal growth and development.

Experiential Learning and Wellness

Experiential activities form a cornerstone of our program, promoting wellness and the development of healthy hobbies. From yoga and equine therapy to martial arts and music labs, we provide a rich palette of experiences to help our residents explore new interests and find joy in movement and creativity. These activities are integral to our belief in the healing power of experiential learning.

DBT-Informed Therapy

We integrate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) informed practices into our treatment approach, focusing on improving emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. This evidence-based approach has proven effective in helping adolescents navigate the intensity of their emotions and the complexities of their relationships.

Services Offered

Our comprehensive mental health program for teens goes beyond traditional therapy to include a wide range of services tailored to each individual’s needs. With options ranging from academic support to transition planning, our program is designed to support not just the mental health but also the overall well-being of our residents.

Academic and Transition Planning

We understand that continuity in education is paramount. Our academic program is customized to meet the individual needs of our residents, ensuring they remain engaged with their studies. As part of our commitment to holistic care, we also focus on transition planning, facilitating a smooth reintegration into home, school, and community environments.

Therapy Options

At the heart of our program are the therapy options we offer: group, individual, and family therapy, along with skills training for both residents and their caregivers. Our skilled clinical team employs a range of therapeutic techniques, ensuring that the specific needs of each resident are met in a supportive and healing environment.

Conditions Treated

Interval Teen specializes in treating a broad spectrum of mental health issues. Our expertise encompasses depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar and other mood disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, among others. We provide a safe space for adolescents to address their mental health challenges and embark on a journey towards healing and resilience.

Why Choose Interval Teen?

Choosing the right mental health program for teens is a critical decision for families. Interval Teen stands out for its dedication to providing the highest quality care and support for teen mental health in Ventura County. Our gender-specific residential program offers a comfortable and secure environment for adolescent girls to stabilize and heal.

With a dedicated staff available 24/7 and a commitment to creating a home-like setting, we ensure that each resident receives the support they need when they need it. Our approach goes beyond stabilization, focusing on empowering teenagers and their caregivers to foster healthier lives and prioritize well-being.

Take the First Step Towards Healing and Wellness

Embarking on the path to healing and wellness is a courageous step for any teen and their family. At Interval Teen, we are here to support you through every stage of this journey. Our mental health program for teens is designed to empower young women and their families, providing the tools and support needed for recovery and growth. If you believe your teen could benefit from our program, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about how we can help.

  • For more information or to inquire about admissions, please contact us at (866) 420-2480.
  • Visit our location at 1408 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Suite 100, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 for a personal tour and consultation.

Join the Interval Teen community today and take the first step towards a healthier, more empowered future for your teen. Together, we can navigate the complexities of adolescence and pave the way to a brighter, more resilient tomorrow.

Why Choose Interval Teen?

What if my son has a mental illness and won’t get help?

It’s not uncommon for teens, especially young men, to resist seeking help for mental health issues due to stigma or denial. As a caregiver, this situation can feel helpless, but there are steps you can take. First, it’s crucial to communicate in an open, non-judgmental manner. Share your observations and concerns while emphasizing your unconditional support. Sometimes, involving a trusted family member or friend can encourage them to open up. Additionally, providing information about mental health and treatment options in a non-forceful way can help demystify the process for them. If resistance persists, consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional on how to navigate this challenging scenario. Remember, the goal is to create a supportive environment that encourages your teen to recognize the value of seeking help.

What to do when your child is having a mental health crisis?

In a mental health crisis, the immediate goal is ensuring your child’s safety. Stay calm and reassure them of your support. If they’re in danger of harming themselves or others, don’t hesitate to call emergency services. For non-life-threatening situations, contacting their mental health provider for advice or taking them to a mental health urgent care can be effective. Afterwards, scheduling an appointment with a mental health specialist, like those at Interval Teen, for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan is crucial. Remember, a mental health crisis is a critical signal that your child needs professional intervention and possibly adjustments to their current treatment plan.

How does experiential learning benefit teens in mental health programs?

Experiential learning, such as yoga or martial arts, plays a pivotal role in mental health recovery by engaging teens in activities that promote mindfulness, physical health, and emotional regulation. These activities offer practical, hands-on experiences that help individuals learn about themselves and the world in a safe, therapeutic context. They foster resilience, self-esteem, and joy–qualities often diminished by mental health issues. At Interval Teen, we’ve observed that experiential learning not only complements traditional therapies but also empowers our residents to discover new hobbies and interests, contributing to a more holistic healing process.

Why is DBT-Informed therapy significant in treating teenage mental health?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has emerged as a cornerstone in effectively addressing the emotional and behavioral challenges faced by teens. Its focus on improving emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness is particularly relevant for adolescents, who are navigating the complex interplay of emotions and relationships. At Interval Teen, incorporating DBT-informed practices equips our residents with practical skills for managing intense emotions and enhancing their social interactions, thereby fostering an environment of growth and healing. The evidence-based nature of DBT ensures that our approach is grounded in proven strategies that support long-term recovery.

How does Interval Teen cater to individual academic needs?

Understanding that education is a critical component of a teen’s life, Interval Teen prioritizes personalized academic support. We collaborate closely with each resident to assess their academic standing and identify specific needs. Our tailored academic program then works to ensure that residents not only stay on track with their studies but also rekindle a love for learning often dampened by mental health struggles. From one-on-one tutoring to specialized instruction for diverse learning abilities, our goal is to foster an educational environment that aligns with each teen’s path to recovery, ensuring that their return to school is seamless and successful.

Why is transition planning essential for teens in mental health programs?

Transition planning is a crucial element of mental health recovery, aimed at ensuring a smooth and successful reintroduction into home, school, and community environments. For many teens, returning to these settings can be overwhelming and fraught with anxieties about relapse or stigma. At Interval Teen, we place a strong emphasis on transition planning by equipping both our residents and their families with the tools, strategies, and support networks necessary to navigate this important phase. Comprehensive transition planning helps bridge the gap between the therapeutic setting and everyday life, ensuring that the progress made during treatment is maintained and built upon.

Resources for Teen Mental Health

Interval by La Ventana Treatment Programs

800-560-8518
1408 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd

Thousand Oaks CA 91362 US


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Medical director

Dr. Manju Sharma-Beatty, MD

Dr. Manju Sharma-Beatty, MD is a psychiatry specialist in Ventura County and has over 21 years of experience in the medical field.

She has extensive experience in Psychotic Disorders as well as Addiction and substance abuse.

Dr. Manju Sharma-Beatty received her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in 2001. In 2005, she went on to study psychiatry at the State University of New York at Buffalo Medical Center. Dr. Beatty has given presentations highlighting topics such as personality disorders in hospitalized patients, the role of genetics in Psychiatry, side-effects of antidepressants and has contributed to the publication “Role of Antidepressants and Psychotropics”.  Dr. Beatty worked as Assistant Clinical Instructor for 3 years teaching and supervising medical students and interns all while developing communication skills protocol. Dr. Beatty has a special interest in Pharmacotherapy.

As a psychiatrist Dr. Beatty diagnoses and treats mental illnesses. Dr. Beatty may treat patients through a variety of methods including medications, psychotherapy, psychosocial interventions and more depending on each individual case.  

Dr. Manju Sharma-Beatty is known for her exceptional medical expertise and compassionate patient care. She has dedicated her career to diagnosing and treating a wide range of medical conditions while providing personalized healthcare services to her patients.  Dr. Manju Sharma-Beatty is known for her compassionate and personalized approach to patient care. She takes the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and works closely with them to develop a treatment plan that meets their individual needs.

Education Director

Deanna Ruby

For more than 30 years, Deanna Ruby has been a classroom teacher. Ever since she was a child, she knew that would be her career path.  Working with and mentoring students has been her life long passion. Her love for children and education led her to design and publish educational curriculum and several books. She is especially proud of her children’s math series, The Power of 10, which highlights a female superhero. Deanna holds an Administrative Credential and a Master’s in Educational Leadership.

Director of Nursing

Andrea Muladore

As the Director of Nursing at La Ventana Treatment Programs, Andrea Muladore brings a unique blend of compassion, leadership, and a diverse background in education and healthcare.

Before venturing into the healthcare realm, Andrea was a dedicated elementary school teacher and her transition to nursing was motivated by a profound desire to make a direct impact on people’s lives.

Andrea became an integral part of the organization’s commitment to providing exceptional healthcare services. Her role as the Director of Nursing reflects not only her proficiency in healthcare management but also her dedication to fostering an environment of empathy and quality care. Andrea leads a dynamic team of nurses with a focus on fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

Andrea’s passion lies in patient advocacy, ensuring that every individual receives compassionate and personalized care. She believes in the power of a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing not just physical ailments but also the emotional and psychological well-being of patients.

Known for her warm demeanor and a genuine commitment to patient well-being, Andrea’s approach to nursing is characterized by a holistic understanding of health. She firmly believes in the power of a caring touch and the importance of fostering a collaborative and supportive healthcare environment.

Andrea Muladore’s journey from education to nursing leadership is not just a career path but a narrative of passion, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in healthcare. As the Director of Nursing at La Ventana, she continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of both her team and the clients they serve.

Director of Operations

Wendy McCain

Wendy McCain is an accomplished professional with a strong background in mental healthcare administration. With a career spanning several years in the healthcare industry, she has shown exceptional leadership and dedication in her various roles.

Wendy’s journey began in the field of nursing, where she excelled as a Director of Nursing at La Ventana Treatment Programs. Her commitment to patient care and her ability to lead and inspire her team made her an invaluable asset to the organization. During her tenure, she implemented innovative strategies that improved client outcomes and enhanced the quality of care provided.

Recognizing her exceptional skills in operations and leadership, Wendy transitioned to the role of Director of Operations at La Ventana Treatment Programs/Interval. In this capacity, she continues to make a significant impact by streamlining processes, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring the overall efficiency of the organization. Her vision and strategic planning have been instrumental in driving La Ventana’s success.

Wendy McCain holds a deep-seated belief in the importance of accessible and high-quality mental healthcare services, and she has demonstrated her commitment to this cause throughout her career. Her educational background, work experience, and dedication to her profession make her a respected figure in the mental health field.

Wendy’s passion for mental healthcare, her exceptional leadership abilities, and her proven track record of success make her a highly regarded professional in the industry. She continues to make a positive impact on the mental healthcare community and delivers the best possible care to their clients.

 

Clinical Director

Carla Fernandez, ACSW

Carla Fernandez, a trailblazing Clinical Director at Interval Teen, embodies a profound commitment to empowering vulnerable populations, driven by her own experiences as a first-generation Hispanic woman. Growing up amidst a backdrop of limited mental health resources, Carla recognized early on the critical need for support and education within her community.
With a rich background spanning six years in the mental health field, Carla’s journey began as a behavioral therapist, serving at-risk children, youth, and foster populations. Motivated by her frontline experiences, she pursued a Master’s in Social Work, a decision fueled by her unwavering dedication to effecting positive change.
During her tenure as a mental health clinician at a non-profit organization in Santa Barbara, Carla honed her skills in providing comprehensive support to at-risk youth and their families. From psychoeducation to individual therapy, Carla’s holistic approach centered on empowering clients to achieve their treatment goals while fostering resilience and healing.
At Interval Teen, Carla’s vision is transformative. With a focus on prevention and healing, she champions initiatives aimed at equipping teens with the tools for lifelong wellness. Her mission extends beyond the residential home’s walls, as she works tirelessly to nurture empowered and resilient families within the community.
Carla’s guiding principle, “each one reach one,” underscores her belief in the power of collective empowerment. Through knowledge-sharing and mutual support, she envisions a future where healing transcends generations, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of mental health advocacy.
Chief Clinical Officer

Sharon Volner, LMFT

My philosophy is that people, whether they are struggling with mental health or addiction issues, need to know their reality.


Sharon brings a broad range of experience to her role as the Chief Clinical Officer of La Ventana Treatment Program. She has over twenty years experience working with at-risk youth, couples, families, and adults in the field of mental health and addiction. She has worked at various rehabilitation centers with youth and adults struggling with issues of addiction and their underlying psychological causes. Sharon has worked as a trainer and operator on a crisis suicide hotline. Sharon has worked directly with the homeless population in assisting them in stabilizing severe and persistent mental health and substance dependence as well as gaining housing and employment.  Sharon’s approach is multi-modal: she addresses the biological, psychosocial, spiritual, and nutritional aspects of addiction and treatment.

Sharon earned her MS in Counseling with Distinction from California State University. She is a member of CAMFT, and a Co-Leader of her daughter’s Girl Scout Troop in efforts to help young girls develop empowerment and leadership.

CEO / Chairman of the board

Our Founder - Steve Zamarripa

Steve’s Story

I started La Ventana Treatment Programs in 2007 as a personal journey looking inward for answers on a more meaningful life.  I sold my previous business in 2005 and started my journey on giving back and helping others suffering from mental health illness and substance abuse. I had an awakening and simply wanted to create a place “to help” by providing a platform where professionals and dedicated staff could work their magic towards helping people.

Growing up, my family was plagued with mental health issues and alcoholism where nobody could express their feelings and I was taught that boys don’t cry ever and did not shed a tear myself until my early forties when I divorced and I cried for my three children. I learned to survive instead of learning how to live and that survival mode where I protected myself and did not trust anybody carried me through most of my adulthood.

Mental health issues were everywhere in my life growing up but in the 1960s and 1970s there was very little discussion around mental health and facilities to help people struggling were almost nonexistent.  Most of my childhood was filled with fear. I lived in fear of my father, in fear of family secrets, in fear of emotions and feelings and in fear of people in general. I remember being afraid of many things as a child and fear was part of growing up which led to establishing survival techniques to live. 

Interval Teen was the brainchild of Rebekah Sanchez Norton, from our own clinical leadership team, and I enthusiastically  supported it when she presented it to me. I realized how my own life would have been healthier and happier had there been an Interval Teen when I was growing up.

I have learned many things since opening my first mental health facility in 2007 and I have grown tremendously as a person.  I have realized that in my family I believe there are no crimes beyond forgiveness. I have forgiven my father and my mother for their crazy dysfunctional lifestyle and for any mistakes made in raising their children. I have forgiven myself for the crimes I committed on my family, for my inability to love and for the hurt I caused so many people throughout my journey.

I am now a loved man capable of receiving love, giving love and expressing love which is more than enough for my life. This has been the greatest achievement in my recovery thus far.

I provide the community with Interval Teen in hopes of helping young women face their fears, work on their mental health issues and become strong women for the future of our society.