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Our Approach at Interval Teen

Understanding Teen Mental Health

Teen mental health has surged to the forefront of societal concerns, reflecting a growing awareness of its critical role in adolescents’ lives. At Interval Teen, we recognize the complex interplay of factors contributing to mental health issues among teenagers, including developmental changes, societal pressures, and personal experiences. Understanding teen mental health is the first step towards fostering a supportive environment that encourages healing and growth.

Our Approach at Interval Teen

Personalized Care for Each Adolescent

At Interval Teen, we pride ourselves on providing personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each adolescent we serve. Recognizing that each journey to wellness is distinct, our team crafts individualized treatment plans tailored to the emotional, psychological, and developmental needs of our residents, focusing on girls aged 13-17.

A Multi-Faceted Therapeutic Model

Our therapeutic model integrates evidence-based practices with experiential activities. This holistic approach includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)-informed therapy, relationship-focused treatment, and a suite of experiential activities such as yoga, equine therapy, and music lab to promote overall wellness. By addressing the mind, body, and spirit, we aim to empower our teens to navigate their mental health challenges with resilience and grace.

Services Offered

The range of services at Interval Teen is carefully designed to support the multifaceted aspects of teen mental health treatment. From individual, group, and family therapy to skill-building groups and family participation, we ensure a comprehensive support system. Our academic program is tailored to meet the individual needs of our residents, ensuring their education continues seamlessly during their stay with us.

  • Experiential activities including yoga, equine therapy, kayaking, martial arts, and music lab
  • Transition planning for reintegration into home, school, and community
  • Therapy options including individual, group, and family sessions
  • Skills training for individuals and caregivers

What We Treat

Specializing in a range of mental health issues, Interval Teen is equipped to treat conditions including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar and other mood disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, among others. Our understanding of the complexities surrounding teen mental health drives our commitment to providing targeted, effective treatment.

Why Choose Interval Teen

Choosing the right teen mental health treatment center is a pivotal decision for families. At Interval Teen, our dedication to creating a secure and comfortable environment for stabilization sets us apart. Our specialized therapeutic support for teenagers and caregivers, combined with our gender-specific program, ensures tailored care that addresses the needs of adolescent girls in Thousand Oaks.

Our staff’s commitment to excellence in care is evident in our 24/7 support in a home-like setting, ensuring that every teen receives the attention and care they deserve. By prioritizing the well-being of adolescents in Ventura County, we aim to empower teenagers and their families, fostering healthier lives and brighter futures.

From Our Community

“Finding Interval Teen was a turning point for our family. The personalized care and comprehensive approach made a profound difference in our daughter’s life. Witnessing her transformation filled us with hope and gratitude.” – A Grateful Parent

“The skills and coping mechanisms I learned at Interval Teen have been invaluable. I now feel equipped to face challenges with confidence and resilience.” – A Past Resident

Getting Started with Interval Teen

Embarking on the journey to wellness begins with reaching out. Our admissions team is ready to answer your questions, provide a deeper insight into our program, and guide you through the admissions process. We understand the urgency and weight of the decision to seek treatment and strive to make the process as seamless and supportive as possible.

For families seeking a teen mental health treatment center that offers comprehensive, compassionate care, Interval Teen represents a beacon of hope and healing in Thousand Oaks. Reach out today to learn how we can support your teen’s path to wellness.

Contact us at (866) 420-2480 or visit our location at 1408 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Suite 100, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362 to take the first step towards healing and wellness for your teen.

Why Choose Interval Teen

What does personalized care truly mean in the context of teen mental health treatment?

At Interval Teen, personalized care is at the heart of our approach. It means recognizing that no two adolescents are the same, and thus, their paths to healing will also differ. We delve deep into understanding each resident’s unique history, struggles, and strengths. For instance, a treatment plan for a teen grappling with anxiety might include a combination of individual therapy, group sessions focused on building social skills, and experiential activities like music lab or martial arts to build confidence. This personalized touch not only addresses the specific needs of each teen but also fosters a sense of understanding and belonging, creating a more conducive environment for healing.

How do evidence-based practices contribute to the success of teen mental health treatment?

Integrating evidence-based practices into our treatment plans isn’t just about following industry standards; it’s about ensuring we provide the most effective and up-to-date care possible. These practices, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), are supported by scientific research demonstrating their effectiveness in treating mental health disorders. By incorporating DBT, for instance, we equip our teens with practical skills to manage their emotions and reduce conflict in relationships. It’s about merging what works on paper with the nuanced needs of each individual, creating a dynamic approach that truly facilitates lasting change. The outcome? Teens who not only understand their conditions but also possess the tools to navigate their challenges with resilience.

Why are experiential activities a critical component of your treatment model?

Experiential activities are not just supplementary; they’re a vital part of our holistic approach to mental health treatment. Through activities like equine therapy, kayaking, and yoga, our teens engage in experiences that promote physical health, emotional growth, and personal reflection in ways traditional therapy might not. These activities offer real-life contexts to practice newly learned skills, confront fears, and break through barriers. Picture a teen who’s struggled with social anxiety navigating a kayak through gentle waters. It’s not just about the physical act; it’s about facing fears, building confidence, and experiencing a moment of triumph and connection with nature. These moments are transformative, fostering healing in profound and lasting ways.

How does involving the family in treatment improve outcomes for teens?

Family involvement in the healing process is not just beneficial; it’s essential. Mental health issues in teens don’t exist in a vacuum–they affect and are affected by family dynamics. By integrating family therapy and offering skills training for caregivers, we bridge gaps in understanding and communication between teens and their families. It’s about creating a common language for discussing mental health and building a supportive environment that extends beyond our facility. When families participate in treatment, they’re not only supporting their teen’s journey to wellness but also fostering a more empathetic, understanding, and resilient family unit. This collaborative approach lays a foundation for healing that can support the teen long after they leave our care.

What should families consider when choosing the right mental health treatment center for their teen?

Choosing the right mental health treatment center is a pivotal decision that requires careful consideration. Families should look for centers that prioritize personalized care and offer a comprehensive approach to treatment, including evidence-based practices and experiential activities tailored to their teen’s needs. It’s also important to consider the environment–seeking a place that feels safe, welcoming, and conducive to healing. Don’t hesitate to ask about the qualifications of the staff, the ratio of staff to residents, and how the program integrates family involvement. Transparency is key, and a trustworthy center will welcome your questions and offer clear, detailed responses. Ultimately, finding a center that aligns with your teen’s unique needs and values is crucial for fostering a successful healing journey.

Do you have more questions or need further clarification about our approach to teen mental health treatment? Feel free to leave a comment or get in touch. We’re here to help guide you and your teen towards a brighter, healthier future.

Resources

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.