Alicia Alva
Meet Alicia Alva, our dedicated Chief Operating Officer of Mental Health Division, a distinguished figure in the field of behavioral health with a wealth of experience and expertise. Holding a Master’s degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy, Alicia’s passion for enhancing mental health and well-being is palpable in her every endeavor. With a background […]
Jason Christopherson, PSYD, ABPP
Jason Christopherson, PsyD, MSCP, ABPP earned his doctorate degree in clinical psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University. He is the only Board Certified Child/Adolescent Clinical Psychologist in Central California. Dr. Christopherson is a neuropsychologically trained clinical psychologist and has been working with children, teens, and families for over a […]
Stephanie Patrick
Stephanie Patrick-Calvillo, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with training and experience treating patients with psychiatric disorders across the lifespan and across practice environments; including inpatient and outpatient settings. Her education includes a Master of Science in Nursing degree with a focus on Executive Healthcare as well as a Psychiatric […]
Amanda Frantz
Amanda Frantz brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as the Director of Outpatient Programs at Ascend. With a Master’s degree in Social Work, Amanda is deeply committed to improving the lives of individuals struggling with mental health issues and substance abuse. Prior to her current position, Amanda served as the Program […]
Aaron Vargas, MS
Aaron Vargas has earned his Master of Arts in Educational Counseling from National University and a Bachelors in Criminology from CSU Fresno. Aaron comes to Ascend as an experienced Facility Manager for Short Term Residential Therapeutic Programs, where he has helped establish the treatment of new programs. Throughout Aaron’s career he has supported patients and […]
Prioritizing Self-Care: The Key to Better Mental Health
Self-care is the practice of taking care of one’s physical, emotional, and mental health. It is a crucial part of maintaining overall wellness and preventing mental health issues. Self-care is not selfish; it is the foundation of a healthy and fulfilling life. Today, we will discuss what self-care is, its importance, and how it can […]
5 Ways to Show Your Teen Support for their Mental Health
Teen mental health is an important issue that deserves attention, especially in the current climate. Mental health issues among teens have been on the rise in recent years, and without access to the proper resources, teens may struggle to cope with their condition. Mental health issues can have a wide range of consequences for teens, […]
Fresno mothers bond over shared experience of their children being bullied
Both moms say Clovis and Fresno Unified school officials didn’t do enough to punish the attackers and say some have even accused them of blowing things out of proportion. “How could you dramatize something that’s facts. Everyone saw it with their own eyes,” said Powell. Fresno Unified declined an interview but told Action News necessary […]
A Critical State of Mind: a look into California’s mental health
It’s time to have real conversations about our mental health. ABC30 presents a five-part documentary series taking a deep look at the state of mental health in California, inside the lives of those who suffer, the stigma associated with mental illness, organizations making a difference and those standing up to give hope.
What Is a Major Depressive Episode Among Teens?
Teen depression is a serious issue that is often overlooked or misunderstood. One in every five adolescents in the United States is estimated to suffer from depression. Unfortunately, many teens do not seek help for their depression, resulting in continuing these symptoms and worsening their overall mental health. It is important for parents, teachers, and […]
