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La Ventana Treatment Programs
About
Leadership
Our Philosophy
Business Model
Accreditations
What is Interval Teen
Why Interval Teen
Mental Health
What We Treat
Residential Treatment Program for Mental Health
Our Facilities:
Interval Teen’s Overview
Services
Experiential Activities
Sample Schedule
Admissions
What to Bring
What to Expect
Verify Benefits
FAQ
Contact
Resources
Blog
Program Brochures
La Ventana Treatment Programs
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Experiential Activities

Home / Experiential Activities

Talented Girl Playing Guitar

Healing through experiences and opportunities

Interval Teen offers multiple types of experiential therapies to support clients’ on their healing journey. The significantly varied needs of our clients’ mental and emotional states, relationship with their families, their social supports, physical status, and their long-term goals determine their individualized treatment plans. Our program provides an array of evidence-based and holistic therapeutic opportunities to promote overall wellness through learning and engagement.

Music therapy is one of the exciting experiential programs we offer and has consistently garnered an enthusiastic response from our clients, who genuinely love and connect with it.  They can express their creativity, individuality, and emotions through song and dance. There are opportunities to work independently and with other clients to develop teamwork, cooperative skill building, and problem solving . The act of writing lyrics offers a safe and creative way to express emotions. Musical interactions are often calming effects and can stave off restlessness, boredom, and decrease negative emotions.

The Science

Interactions with music have evidence-backed positive benefits to clients’ physical and mental states. When people perform or listen to music that they enjoy, their brains release dopamine, a neurotransmitter which triggers feelings of happiness. Practicing music develops gray matter, which increases client’s capacities for memory, learning, and auditory processing. Music in mental health and recovery has also been linked to reduced blood pressure, lowered stress levels, and increased endorphin levels. Musical activities provide clients with a way to express their emotions; this can be vital for clients who have withheld their emotions for months or years. Additional mental benefits of music in mental health and recovery include reduced depression, fortification of self-awareness, and development of problem-solving techniques and capabilities.

 

The Process

Music in Recovery is our signature music program created by professional musicians in our state-of-the-art custom built music studio. Regardless of prior music experience, clients in all of La Ventana’s treatment programs can participate to express their feelings through the power of music. Clients are guided through the process to develop skills including songwriting, drum circles, singing, playing instruments, and recording a final masterpiece that is published to Soundcloud.

Music in Recovery is one of the many programs offered at La Ventana Treatment Programs. We are happy to discuss our programs, conduct complimentary assessments, and give free tours of our facilities. Please feel free to contact us by calling (866) 420-2480 or emailing us at admissions@laventanatreatment.com.

Mindfulness

Our program introduces and encourages meditation techniques, the art of stillness, and the capacity to remain fully present. We guide and support our residents in crafting practices that can seamlessly integrate into their everyday lives beyond the treatment setting.

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    Our Location

    Mailing Address:
    La Ventana Treatment Programs
    1408 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd
    Suite 100
    Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

    LV_INTERVAL_LOGO_FA_KO-10_04_23

    Interval is the independent, adolescent division of La Ventana Treatment Programs, renowned for delivering top-tier mental health and substance use treatment since 2007.

    The Joint Commission

    The Joint Commission is an organization whose goal is to promote zero-harm health care practices. La Ventana’s certification from the Joint Commission reinforces our mission to provide high-quality treatment for mental disorders.

    Information

    • (866) 420-2480
    • 1408 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite 100. Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
    • Download Brochure

    © Copyright 2024 La Ventana Treatment Programs | All Rights Reserved | Accessibility Statement

    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.

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    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.

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    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.

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    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.

     

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    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.
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    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.

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    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.

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