May 29, 2025 | Frontal Lobe Development, Teen Mental Health
Understanding the Teenage Brain: A Journey Through Frontal Lobe Development The frontal lobe, located at the front of the brain behind the forehead, acts as the command center for your teenager's most complex thoughts and behaviors. This remarkable...
Alejandro Alva, M.D., is the Medical Director of Build Bright Care Group; a residential treatment program for teens with mental health concerns. Dr. Alva earned his bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton, and completed medical school at Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine in Mexico. He then returned to California, where he completed his psychiatric residency at the University of California, Irvine.
Prior to Dr. Alva’s work at Build Bright Care Group, he was involved in multiple endeavors including detoxification and rehabilitation work both inpatient and outpatient including the VA Medical Center In Long Beach, Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, Chapman Medical Center in Orange as well multiple rehabilitation centers. Since the formation of Build Bright Care Group, Dr. Alva’s focus is on the latest treatments available for psychiatric disorders and chemical dependency as well as aspects of ethnicity and gender and their correlation to pathological states. Dr. Alva has over 30 years of experience in serving the medical community in various capacities: as a patient advocate, researcher, and medical director.
Dr. Alva’s expertise in adolescent, adult, and geriatric psychiatry makes him one of the nation’s most innovative and prominent psychiatrists. Dr. Alva and his team of medical providers have extensive experience with dual diagnosis states utilizing the latest pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to treat depression (RTMS), as well as the use of anti-craving interventions including oral, injectable, and implantable treatments.
Victor Ramblaz is driven by a profound desire to make a difference in the lives of teenagers, guiding them through the tumultuous challenges they often encounter. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, Victor possesses a strong foundation in understanding human behavior and emotions.
His knowledge extends to evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), as well as coping and grounding techniques essential for adolescents navigating difficult circumstances.
Victor possess a remarkable ability to connect with teenagers. This gift helps his clients open up to learn crucial life skills he teaches them. Additionally, Victor enjoys facilitating meditation practices, and fostering self-reflection among his clients. Victor believes that teens need someone to hear what they have to say and he heartedly guides them through the issues they are going through.
Throughout his career, Victor has accumulated a wealth of experience working with diverse populations of teenagers. From foster youth to incarcerated teens, and those grappling with various mental health diagnoses, they all benefited from Victor’s profound understanding of their unique challenges.
For Victor, choosing to work in the mental health field stemmed from a deeply rooted passion for making a meaningful impact in the lives of young individuals. He wanted to create a supportive environment where they could flourish, where understanding and care would merge to empower them to navigate the world confidently.
In his daily work, Victor leads and trains behavioral health technicians at Build Bright to help them refine their skills and focuses on teens’ strengths to assist them to overcome obstacles. For Victor, there’s no greater reward than seeing their progress and smiles along the way.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Victor finds fulfillment in engaging with various forms of creative pursuits, outdoor activities, and time with family and friends.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of working at Build Bright for him is the supportive and collaborative environment. He believes that being part of a team that shares a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others creates a sense of unity and purpose that’s truly motivating. With a compassionate heart and a wealth of knowledge, Victor Ramblaz continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our adolescents helping them achieve a brighter future.
Ashlyn Sarubi holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an emphasis in Performance and Sports, along with a RADT (Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician) certification. She is currently completing a master’s program in Forensic Psychology to become a psychotherapist.
Ashlyn chose a career in psychology with the goal of ending mental health stigmas. She believes that eliminating these stigmas will allow individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds to receive the care they need. This mission has been the driving force behind her dedication to the mental health field.
Ashlyn has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with various mental health disorders. Her expertise includes helping those dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of these conditions and how to support those affected by them.
According to Ashlyn, Build Bright Care Group is built and composed of a team that can help each adolescent meet their goals. She particularly enjoys how treatment is tailored to meet each client’s specific needs.
In her free time, Ashlyn enjoys spending time with her family, volunteering at church, and reading books. She has a special interest in volunteering in the community to support minorities and individuals struggling with mental health disorders.
Karina Espinoza holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, providing her with a solid foundation to understand and address the challenges faced by diverse populations.
Her decision to pursue a career in the mental health field was driven by two pivotal experiences: successfully de-escalating a youth suicide attempt and helping an adult woman escape severe familial abuse. These events highlighted her ability to provide support and build trust, inspiring her to dedicate her career to helping those in need.
Karina Espinoza has accumulated over 14 years of professional experience serving diverse populations, including children, adolescents, and adults. Her work spans various settings, from correctional facilities to non-profits, where she has provided academic support, life skills training, and counseling services. She has also supervised interns and volunteers, coordinated programs, facilitated referrals, managed crises, and advocated for clients.
At Build Bright Care Group, Karina values the passion and dedication of the staff and management. She particularly appreciates the tailored treatment plans that address each client’s specific needs, ensuring they receive the best possible care. According to Karina, the supportive environment among staff members at Build Bright fosters a positive atmosphere that significantly impacts the lives of those being served.
Outside of work, Karina prioritizes self-care. She is a huge Dodgers fan and enjoys outdoor activities, traveling, doing her nails and hair, reading, and embracing life. She believes that taking care of oneself is essential for effectively serving and supporting others.
Nidia Noguera, a dedicated Behavioral Health Technician at Build Bright Care Group, finds immense fulfillment in her role, driven by her genuine passion for helping others and making a positive impact on their lives.
With a background as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and a certification from the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP), Nidia is well-equipped to provide compassionate care to individuals facing mental health and substance abuse challenges.
Nidia’s journey in the mental health field began as a Behavioral Health Technician, where she gained valuable experience working with clients struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues. This experience has honed her skills in providing empathetic support and responding to the diverse needs of her clients.
In addition to her practical experience, Nidia holds certifications as a CNA and CCAPP, demonstrating her commitment to professional development and excellence in her field. She is particularly interested in working with adolescents struggling with mental health issues, driven by her desire to make a difference in their lives.
What Nidia enjoys most about working at Build Bright Care Group is the opportunity to help adolescents achieve their goals. She values the supportive team environment where colleagues collaborate and show support for one another. For Nidia, working with youth with mental health and substance abuse issues is not just a job, but a true passion. She finds fulfillment in knowing that she can make a difference in someone’s life every day.
Veronica Cuevas is a seasoned professional with over a decade of dedicated experience in the field of mental health and substance use disorders. With a career spanning more than 10 years, Veronica has honed her expertise, with a particular focus on adolescents, dedicating 7 years specifically to this pivotal age group.
Throughout her career, Veronica has worked extensively with individuals grappling with Alcohol & Substance Use Disorders, as well as various mental health challenges. Her repertoire includes aiding clients with a history of suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, anger issues, bipolar disorder, behavioral issues, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her comprehensive experience extends to assisting adult women and men in navigating the complex terrain of substance use disorders and mental health conditions.
Veronica’s passion lies in empowering teens and their families to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. She is deeply committed to providing support, guidance, and therapeutic interventions that foster resilience and facilitate growth in adolescents facing multifaceted challenges.
Outside the realm of her professional endeavors, Veronica finds joy and rejuvenation in the company of her family. She treasures moments spent together, cherishing the bonds that strengthen them. An avid traveler, Veronica embraces opportunities to explore new destinations, savoring the enriching experiences that travel affords. Yet, amidst life’s adventures, she enjoys the peace and quiet of walking on the beach.
Sandra Valenzuela’s career in the mental health field started 30 years ago, driven by one of her children’s battles with depression and self-harm. This challenging time in her life motivated her to tirelessly support those going through similar struggles.
Since 1994, Sandra has served multiple mental health programs and helped innumerable families. She holds a certificate in Early Childhood Development and another in Speech Pathology. She is currently working towards becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist, aiming to further expand her knowledge and skills.
At Build Bright Care Group, Sandra cherishes the opportunity to connect with each client individually and understand their unique needs. She believes that the positive environment, open communication, and appreciation from her colleagues make it an exceptional place to work. According to Sandra, the supportive team atmosphere ensures the best possible experience for both employees and clients.
Sandra is deeply passionate about educating and helping others. She frequently volunteers to find and bring resources to families in need. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, nurturing others with delicious meals, and engaging in home decor to bring joy and creativity into her life.
Jacob Kajiwara…
Daniel Durant, a native of the San Fernando Valley, has always had a deep connection to music, which has been a constant presence throughout his life. From a young age, Daniel showed a natural affinity for musical instruments, even before he could walk. His innate passion for music led him to pursue a career as a musician, artist, and music producer.
For the past three years, Daniel has been actively involved in the field of mental health, using his musical talents to facilitate music groups at various rehabilitation centers across Los Angeles County. Through these sessions, Daniel provides individuals with a creative outlet for self-expression, recognizing the profound healing power that music can offer. He firmly believes that self-expression is a vital tool for anyone, particularly those grappling with challenging circumstances and seeking relief.
In addition to his work in mental health, Daniel is also an accomplished artist and music producer. He has played shows and toured with multiple bands, showcasing his versatility and talent across different musical genres. His love for people shines through in his dedication to bringing them joy and inspiration through music and art.
Daniel sees his work in mental health as a calling and an honor, allowing him to combine his passion for music with his desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Through his music group facilitation and artistic endeavors, Daniel strives to create a supportive and empowering environment where individuals can find solace, healing, and hope.
Teairra is a Professional Certified Yoga Teacher and Fitness Trainer based in Beverly Hills. At an early age Teairra realized she enjoyed helping others and decided to use her passion in treatment centers.
Teairra can relate with many people as she struggled with anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and obesity in the past. This motivated her to go on her own healing journey and gives credit to overcoming this through Chakra Healing and a regular Yoga practice. Teairra uses her experience to help adolescents and adults struggling with mental and substance disorders find balance through mindfulness activities such as Yoga and other holistic healing modalities.
Additionally, In 2019 she founded Message From Serenity, a publishing company that creates uplifting inspirational and motivational content. In June 2021 she released her first self-published book “Healing The Wounds” to help people find peace through balancing the 7 chakras. As a happy vegan, she promotes change for a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Teairra continues to expand on her gifts and serves as a mentor for young pregnant women in Los Angeles at Harvest Home LA. Above all she is a mother to a beautiful daughter and miniature poodle.
Salina Rahim Salina serves as the Business Development and Outreach Manager for Build Bright Care Group. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications & Marketing from California State University Northridge and a Master of Arts Degree in Educational Leadership.
With 12 years of experience in Business Development, Marketing, and Outreach, Salina is dedicated to building strong relationships, forming valuable partnerships, and adding significant value to the field of mental health. Her expertise includes developing client relationships, strengthening industry partnerships, and identifying new clients through diligent research and creating networking opportunities.
Salina has also gained extensive experience working in PHP, IOP, and Residential Treatment Centers, where she has been instrumental in identifying individuals in need of support.
Salina considers that one of the most rewarding aspects of her role at Build Bright Care Group is the opportunity to collaborate with an exceptional team, connect with the teens, and witness their emotional well-being develop. Given the increasing challenges in teen mental health in recent years, Salina is passionate about making a positive difference for teens and their families.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Salina enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and volleyball.
Ivana is a licensed professional in the field of psychology, holding a master’s degree, whose career journey has been fueled by a lifelong passion for understanding the intricate workings of the human mind. Her fascination with the unconscious processes that shape human behavior began at the age of 16, sparked by her own transformative experience in therapy. Since then, psychology has been the lens through which Ivana perceives the world and has helped multiple teenagers change their lives.
With a relentless pursuit of knowledge, Ivana pursued her studies in psychology in both her home country and in the United States, graduating with honors. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, Ivana has been dedicated to providing compassionate care since 2009.
Her expertise extends across various demographics, from children, teens, adults, couples, families, groups, and individuals facing court-mandated cases. Having practiced in the private sector and in numerous intense programs providing services to the Department of Mental Health, Ivana has accumulated extensive experience in crisis management and culturally competent services.
In her role as a Clinical Director, Ivana mentors and guides therapists, empowering them to grow. Additionally, she directs a company aimed at supporting and inspiring mental health professionals in their careers.
As a mother to a beautiful 22-year-old daughter and blessed with two amazing adult step-sons, she and her husband find joy in family life. Their beloved cat Oreo is considered a cherished member of the family. Beyond her professional pursuits, Ivana’s passion for interior decoration and organization keeps her engaged in new projects, constantly fueling her creativity and zest for life.
With an educational background in Administration of Justice, Liberal Arts, and Social Work, Mona Loza brings extensive professional experience in the Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment field, specifically focusing on teenagers.
Over the span of her career, she has overseen operations at Teen Residential Facilities for more than a decade, holding a California Group Home Administrators Certification. This tenure has equipped her with comprehensive knowledge of adhering to Title 22 standards and regulations outlined by the Community Care Licensing Department of California. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, further augmenting her capacity to make impactful contributions within her field.
Mona has embarked on her career journey driven by an unwavering passion to support individuals, particularly teenagers facing vulnerable stages in their lives. Witnessing firsthand the critical need for support among the teen population, especially those contending with challenges such as unhealthy family dynamics, absent parental figures, lack of positive role models, limited resources, and struggles with mental health or substance use disorders, has motivated her commitment to making a positive impact. Guiding teens toward the necessary assistance and connecting them with resources to shape a brighter future is a fulfilling and purpose-driven endeavor for her.
What Mona finds most rewarding about working at Build Bright Care Group is the opportunity to actively contribute to the growth of many amazing teens and collaborating with their exceptional team, who are dedicated to each and every teen in their care. Mona feels that the commitment and passion exhibited by all staff members at Build Bright truly enhance the atmosphere and contribute to the continued success of their clients.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Mona cherishes quality time with family, friends, and her canine companion. Engaging in artistic endeavors such as painting and nature walks brings her joy. She also has a deep appreciation for mountain getaways, particularly in snowy landscapes. At the core of her commitment, Mona is a dedicated mother, daughter, and friend who always extends a helping hand to those in need.
Dr. Hugo Gomez Rueda, MSc, Ph.D., is a psychiatrist at Build Bright Care Group, specializing in aiding individuals in managing various mental health issues including depression, anxiety, dementia, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance use, and other related conditions, with the aim of facilitating their personal growth.
Dr. Gomez Rueda’s interest in psychiatry was sparked during his time as a research study evaluator. He earned his Medical Degree from The University of Montemorelos and pursued further education, obtaining Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Biotechnology from the Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education.
In recognition of his dedication and contributions to the field, Dr. Gomez Rueda was honored with the prestigious Rosenbaum Award for Research at the University of New Mexico in December 2020. He has been actively involved in various collaborative projects, resulting in publications and active participation.
Moreover, Dr. Gomez Rueda is deeply committed to volunteering his expertise. From February 2011 to December 2014, he led Medical Brigades providing free healthcare services to underserved populations in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, and Mexico.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Gomez Rueda enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and camping during his leisure time.
