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Cannabis Use and the Development of Depression in Adolescents

Adolescence is a critical period for brain development, making teens particularly vulnerable to the effects of substances like cannabis. Recent studies have highlighted a significant association between adolescent cannabis use and the increased risk of developing depression in young adulthood. But what does the research say, and how serious is this risk?

Key Findings

Research indicates that adolescents who use cannabis are at a 37% higher risk of developing depression in young adulthood compared to their non-using peers (Gobbi et al., 2019). This finding emerges from a systematic review and meta-analysis that pooled data from 11 studies involving over 23,000 individuals. These studies adjusted for baseline mental health conditions, suggesting that cannabis use itself is a significant predictor of future depression.

Supporting Evidence

In a detailed analysis, researchers found that the odds of developing depression were significantly higher for those who used cannabis during adolescence. This association persisted even after accounting for other factors like pre-existing mental health issues, indicating a potential causal relationship.

Gender Differences

Interestingly, the impact of cannabis on depression appears to vary by gender. Some studies suggest that males may be more susceptible to developing depression due to cannabis use during adolescence, while females might experience these effects more strongly in midlife (Harder et al., 2008). This gender-specific vulnerability highlights the importance of tailored interventions and further research to understand the underlying mechanisms.

Understanding the Link

Cannabis use during adolescence can disrupt normal brain development, particularly in areas involved in mood regulation. The endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in emotional processing, can be altered by the active components in cannabis. This disruption can lead to long-term changes in brain function, increasing the likelihood of developing depressive symptoms.

Real-Life Implications

It’s essential to consider the impact of these findings, especially for teenagers. Navigating the ups and downs of adolescence is already challenging, and adding cannabis to the mix can further complicate their emotional and psychological development. It is essential for everyone, including parents, educators, and healthcare providers, to comprehend these risks and work together to establish supportive environments that discourage early cannabis use and prioritize mental well-being.

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Kimberly Geller

Kimberly Geller - Primary Therapist (Davie)

Kimberly is a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida International University. Kimberly creates a nurturing and secure environment where clients can freely explore their emotions and embark on their journey toward healing and growth. Kimberly specializes in client-centered approaches that helps tailor her therapeutic methods to meet unique needs and goals. By fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship, she empowers clients to develop effective coping skills and achieve meaningful progress in their mental health journey. Kimberly ensures that each person she works with feels understood and valued throughout their therapeutic process.

Zainub Fatta - Therapist (Davie)

Zainub holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University and has extensive experience treating a wide range of mental health issues in adults, teens, and children. She specializes in treating diverse mental health struggles such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, anger management, etc. She also has a lot of experience treating addiction and substance abuse problems within various treatment centers. Zainub views mental health from a systemic perspective, emphasizing the significance of how one’s environment and childhood impacts them, which is why she also specializes in family therapy and couples therapy, when it comes to achieving holistic well-being. Passionate about empowering individuals to find their voice, she considers it a privilege to listen to their vulnerable stories and provide the support they need. Her therapeutic approach focuses on uplifting clients by building their confidence and challenging them to break old, negative patterns of thinking and behavior.

Allyson Timmons - Assistant Clinical Director (Davie)
Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Allyson Timmons is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the Assistant Clinical Director of our Davie location.  She is Florida born and raised, and has her bachelor’s degree in psychology and master’s degree in Counselor Education with a focus in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida International University. She has been working in the mental health field for over fifteen years in various capacities. She is a Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida and enjoys helping clients and supervisees alike. Allyson works with adolescents and adults that struggle with mental health issues, substance abuse, and co-occurring disorders. Treatment modalities and evidence-based techniques Allyson utilizes eclectic approaches and tailors treatment plans to clients based on their needs. She takes a more direct, supportive, honest, and solution-focused approach. Some of these modalities include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, and Humanistic approaches. Allyson empowers her clients to make change for themselves.

Krystine Garay

Krystine Garay – Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Krystine Garay is a licensed mental health counselor, marriage family therapist, and certified telehealth practitioner. Raised in Miami, Florida, and a member of the Hispanic community, she provides services in both English and Spanish. With five years of experience, she has worked with children, adolescents, and adults, focusing on domestic violence, substance abuse, family conflicts, co-occurring disorders, and mental health issues.
Krystine holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida International University and a master’s degree with dual specializations in mental health and marriage and family counseling from Barry University. She is pursuing a doctorate in clinical psychology with a concentration in health psychology from Carlos Albizu University.
Her clinical experience includes rotations at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, where she assisted children with co-occurring disorders using mindfulness exercises, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and dialectical-behavioral techniques.
Krystine believes in the power of personal growth and progress, and she is dedicated to fostering positive change in her clients’ lives.

Alyssa Mencucci – Therapist (Miami)

Alyssa is a dedicated master’s level clinician specializing in providing compassionate
therapy for adolescents and children facing severe mental health challenges. With a
deep understanding of the developmental stages and psychological needs of
adolescents and children, Alyssa offers expertise in addressing trauma-related issues,
guiding individuals through the complexities of grief, managing anxiety and depression,
navigating personality disorders, and supporting those dealing with PTSD. Alyssa uses
evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, play therapy,
and trauma-focused interventions to create a safe and nurturing environment for
healing. Alyssa believes in a client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to meet the
unique needs and circumstances of each individual. She creates a safe and nurturing
environment where adolescents and children can explore their emotions, develop
coping skills, and embark on a journey of healing and growth.

Dr. Jacqueline Pablos – Clinical Director

Vulnerability and connection are at the heart of Dr. Pablos’ therapeutic approach. As the
Clinical Director for Adolescent Wellness Academy, she aims to create a safe space for
clients to embrace their emotions and express their needs in healthier ways. Dr. Pablos
specializes in treating depression, anxiety, body image issues, bullying, eating
disorders, and self-harm behaviors using techniques like CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and
ACT.
With extensive training in hospitals and counseling centers, Dr. Pablos has a strong
background in helping teens and adults with co-occurring mental and physical health
disorders. She holds a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology, with specialized training
at institutions like Florida International University, Jackson Memorial Hospital,
Clementine Monte Nido, and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.

Kimberly

Kimberly Carlesi – Therapist (Miami)

Kimberly, a dedicated therapist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health
Counseling from Florida International University, specializes in supporting individuals
with eating disorders, trauma, and substance abuse. She creates a safe, nurturing
environment for her clients’ healing journeys, drawing from diverse therapeutic
modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. With a
focus on trust and collaboration, Kimberly empowers clients through personalized
interventions, fostering self-awareness and resilience.

Melanie Medrano – Therapist

Melanie has a profound commitment to guiding individuals on their paths to self-discovery and healing. Equipped with a diverse skill set, Melanie has received specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. 

At the heart of Melanie’s therapeutic approach is a desire to provide clients with a safe, nurturing space where they can empower themselves with the tools necessary to navigate life’s complexities. Melanie finds joy in witnessing clients emerge from challenging circumstances, stepping into the light from what once felt like a dark place.  

Cristina Arango – Clinical Supervisor

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Benjamin Ziegler LMFT – Therapist

With a heart for guiding families through challenges and fostering connections, Benjamin is committed to creating a therapeutic space where each family member feels heard, understood, and supported. His genuine enthusiasm for helping families thrive is a driving force in his approach.

Benjamin is highly qualified professional with a Master’s Degree and credentials as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). He also has a certification in narrative therapy, where he skillfully utilizes storytelling to empower individuals and families on their mental health journey, guiding them to reshape their narratives and discover fresh perspectives.  

Celanie Chenet – Therapist

Celanie is a mental health professional with a Master’s Degree and licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Celanie is dedicated to providing supportive care through various modalities and has a robust background in trauma-informed care, Living in Balance, and Protective Action Response.

Celanie’s primary modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a specialization in Trauma Focused-CBT (TF-CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, and Brief Solution-focused therapy (BSF). With a commitment to helping individuals navigate challenges and achieve positive outcomes, Celanie brings a wealth of expertise and a caring approach to the therapeutic process.   

Michael Panzeca – Program Manager

With over 40 years of dedicated experience in the field of mental health and addiction, Michael has established himself as a pivotal figure in the development of transformative treatment programs. His expertise has been instrumental in shaping various nationally recognized treatment centers across the United States. Michael’s visionary approach also led to the creation of the Adolescent Wellness Academy, a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing the mental well-being of young people.Michael’s unique blend of professionalism and creativity sets him apart in his field. Drawing from his side profession as a stand-up comedian, he infuses humor and originality into program design, making therapeutic processes more engaging and effective. His ability to connect with parents and teens on a deeper level—balancing candor with compassion—has made him a sought-after counselor and mentor.Certified by the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium as an Addiction Counselor, Michael’s credentials are further bolstered by his training in Gestalt Therapy from The Cincinnati Gestalt Institute. His extensive training and hands-on experience equip him with the skills to address complex mental health and addiction issues, providing holistic and empathetic support to his clients.Michael is particularly passionate about working with families, helping parents and teens navigate the challenges of addiction and mental health with a blend of honesty, humor, and heartfelt understanding. His approach not only facilitates healing but also empowers individuals to thrive in their personal journeys.

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky – Medical Director

Dr. Carlos Satulovsky is a board-certified psychiatrist and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Facultad De Ciencias Medicas/Universidad Nacional. He is affiliated with medical facilities North Shore Medical Center.  

Jenn Jacoby LMHC – Clinical Director

Jenn is a highly qualified mental health professional with a Master’s Degree and credentials as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Jenn is not only a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) but also holds certification in Child and Family Studies.

Jenn’s extensive training includes being a Certified Trainer by DJJ for Trauma Responsive and Caring Environment, expertise in Aggression Replacement Training (ART), Impact of Crime, Thinking for a Change, Living in Balance, Cannabis Youth Treatment, Coping with Stress: A CBT Program for Teens with Trauma, Adolescents Coping with Depression, Motivational Interviewing, Protective Action Response, and being a Certified Peer Reviewer for Monitoring and Quality Improvement (MQI).

 In terms of modalities, Jenn is proficient in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Solution-focused therapy, Strength-based therapy, Narrative therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. With Jenn’s diverse skill set and commitment to professional development, she brings a comprehensive and compassionate approach to mental health counseling.