Teenage Rebellion Programs

At the Adolescent Wellness Academy, we help families understand and address teenage rebellion

GET IN TOUCH WITH AWA TODAY

**Note we are not a crisis hotline, in case of an emergency. pleace call 911

AWA does not support: Medicaid, KidsCare, or Sunshine and does not offer Residential or 1 on 1 therapy.

For Teens Ages 13-17 and Their Families

Available Day Program or Afterschool Program

In-Network with All Major Insurance Providers

Hablamos Español

teen-anorexia

The Adolescent Wellness Academy

We help rebellious teens feel safe, loved, and cared for as they heal.

Through our program, troubled teens receive personalized support in a safe and nurturing environment, empowering them to overcome depression and thrive.

  • Holistic Understanding: We approach depression as a multifaceted issue, addressing its psychological, emotional, and social dimensions.
  • Evidence-Based Therapies: Our program incorporates proven therapeutic techniques tailored to each teen’s needs.
  • Family-Centered Support: We involve the entire family in healing, fostering communication and collaboration for lasting positive change.

Teenage Rebellion Treatment Programs

Therapeutic Day Program

Ideal for teens struggling with intense defiance, school refusal, or risky behavior who may need a structured break from their daily routine while working toward emotional stability.

  • Weekly psychiatric assessment
  • 1 hour of individual therapy per week
  • 4 hours of daily therapeutic groups 
  • On-site school support
  • Clinical support for crisis management
  • Weekly Parent Support Group
  • Nutritional support as required

Intensive Outpatient Program

An after-school program for teens exhibiting rebellious behavior, offering structure and therapeutic support while allowing them to stay enrolled in school.

  • 1 hour of individual therapy per week
  • 3 hours of daily therapeutic groups
  • Clinical support for crisis management
  •  Weekly Parent Support Group
  • Nutritional support as required

Getting Started

1

Reach Out

Call or email us, and we will get to know your loved one’s concerns. Our Admissions team will understand your teen’s needs. We will verify your insurance coverage and work with you to find a solution that will help you with your financial situation.

2

Complete Assessment

An assessment process is designed to gather information about the teenager’s mental health history, symptoms, triggers, and any previous treatment experiences. This assessment helps in tailoring the therapy program to address specific needs effectively.

3

Schedule First Session

After completing the assessment, patients can schedule their initial therapy session. This session allows the therapist to evaluate the teenager’s condition further, establish rapport, set treatment goals, and discuss the overall therapy plan moving forward.

What Parents ❤️ About AWA

95% of parents and teens recommend AWA

Dottie Eger
22:14 15 Apr 25
Finding AWA was a life changing experience for my daughter (and myself). I didn’t know where to turn and when I spoke with Anny on the phone (followed up by an in person visit), a sense of relief and calm washed over me. She was able to speak with my daughter on a human level, no judgment, no anger, just love and support. The program mixes individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, psychiatry and community to help the teens accept, understand and move forward from whatever brought them to the program. From a parent’s perspective, I felt tremendous support from the entire staff. Never once did either of us feel like we weren’t loved or cared for. From Anny to Dr Jackie to Dr Maria to Carol to the therapists and everyone else that plays a part, the care is extraordinary. Mental health is a struggle and AWA is a safe community for teens to learn how to adapt, overcome and cope in healthy ways. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Marlene Velasco
18:52 15 Apr 25
There are many good things to say about AWA.
In December 2024, my 17-year-old daughter was having serious behavioral problems, AS, and was making an attempt on her life😢. When I spoke to the place they gave me an immediate appointment and when I arrived at the center Anie welcomed my husband, my daughter and me. She was very clear, respectful but with a lot of character (something that I appreciate 1000%), she scolded the three of us, she told us the problems that we as parents allow with our little girl, She spoke to us so loud and clear that I immediately assumed that we had a serious problem with our daughter but at the same time I felt a lot of peace because I realized that we were in the right place (God gave us this group of Angels dressed as people) and that was how my daughter decided for herself that she should take this path, The three of us attended each week for my daughter's start, and I must say that each of the people called: Reception, Therapists, floor hangers, coaches, etc. Each of them always received us with a smile and we never felt in their eyes that they were being judged or criticized for the situation. Every Thursday there is a parent meeting in a help section and it is something so healthy for our Souls and minds that this therapy helps us so much to understand the part that we did wrong and what we should not continue doing. To date, I must say that my daughter has recovered 200%, she is clean, she is happy with her life and with her family, she has goals, other friends, she is in better shape talking about nutrition since she had bulimia problems, she was in AWA almost four months and I must say that she is now living happily and we as parents continue working and our daughter also continues in therapy only once a week to reinforce everything she learned at AWA.
So if you ask me if I recommend this divine place? Yes 10000% 🥰
Thank you so much to everyone for your great support and help. ♥️ we will always be indebted to you!!!🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
They have been a great help for my daughter, God's love is definitely in this place. Thank you so much !!!
Aleicia G
22:58 09 Apr 25
AWA is a great place for teens trying to cope with the different challenges they face as they navigate the teenage years. A caring team awaits you at AWA. One of the first persons you will probably interact with is Anny Smulevich. Anny does set the tone for the care and service you will receive. From the very first interaction you get the feeling that you are in a safe , non-judgmental space. Your teens will love her. You will feel as if you are not alone on this journey . Thank you Anny, thank you AWA !
matthew langford
18:12 26 Feb 25
I have the pleasure of working with Anny, as she effectively takes care of our referrals from our facility. I always recommend their programs and facility to families and community , they have a caring staff and strong programs. I highly recommend their services and im proud to call them a community partner and a referral partner.
Danielle Worthalter
23:27 14 Feb 25
AWA is great! They have wonderful staff who genuinely care about their clients. I specifically loved Anny and how welcoming/compassionate she was at every step of the way!
Mika Fabre
19:33 14 Feb 25
Kicked me out for no reason other than “they don’t work with suicidal people” How can someone treat their issues if they can’t talk about them? Also demanded I drop my psychologist to be a part of their program and we’re insanely rude to her when she called to see what happened.
Ivette OrtA
15:22 02 Jan 25
This place is wonderful, it helped us change our lives and that of our son, Anny is a being of light, God bless you!!!

Why Choose AWA

Our program’s positive impact and strong outcomes are the driving force behind our work. Seeing families thriving and witnessing the transformation of the teens fills us with a sense of purpose.

Satisfaction with staff & program
96%
Significant reduction of depression levels in 91% of our patients
91%
Program completion rate
86%
teen-anorexia-programs

Your care is
covered here

We understand that you have more pressing concerns right now, the cost of teen mental health and substance abuse treatment should not be one of them.

We are in-network with all major commercial insurance providers in Florida.

We’d like to handle the insurance details so that you can focus on what truly matters.

Our Teen Rebellion Treatment Locations

Facilities for teen rebellion treatment and therapies are available at the following locations:

Our dedicated team

Our compassionate team goes above and beyond to support you and your troubled teen on the healing journey.

We have an experienced clinical team with several mental health experts and multiple specializations.

Here, your family is in great hands! 

What Makes Adolescent Wellness Academy Different

When you join our therapy or afterschool programs, you enter a caring and non-judgmental community. This support network involves teens, their families, peers, and our team. Together, everyone plays a role in supporting each other while our clinicians create a safe space for this supportive community to flourish.

  • Building resilience
  • Fostering self-discovery and awareness
  • AWA offers a treatment experience beyond managing symptoms, aiming for transformative healing and lasting change
  • Engaging in creative and experiential activities offers various clinical benefits.
  • Our programs demystify mental health
  • Family Connection

We help teens work through rebellion and reconnect

At Adolescent Wellness Academy, we specialize in supporting teens who are navigating defiant, oppositional, or risk-taking behavior. Whether it’s constant arguments, rule-breaking, or emotional withdrawal, we help teens unpack the “why” behind their actions and give families the tools to rebuild trust and structure at home.

We don’t shame or punish rebellious behavior; we help troubled teens understand their emotions, gain insight into their choices, and develop healthier ways to express independence.

Our clinicians build bridges between parents and teens, helping both sides communicate more clearly, set healthy boundaries, and reconnect with empathy and purpose.

Take the first step toward support with a free consultation.

Teen rebellion

What AWA Rebellion Therapy Adresses

Teenage rebellion isn’t always just about breaking rules, it can be a reflection of deeper emotional struggles, identity confusion, or a desire for control in a world that feels overwhelming. At AWA, we look beneath the surface of defiant behavior to understand what’s really going on.

Some teens act out due to unresolved frustration, family conflict, or unmet emotional needs. Others may rebel as a response to stress, anxiety, low self-worth, or peer pressure.

Our therapy programs are designed to help troubled teens explore these triggers and develop healthier ways to express themselves.

Common emotional and behavioral patterns in rebellious teens:

  • Persistent anger, defiance, or refusal to follow rules
  • Disrespectful or confrontational behavior toward authority figures
  • Impulsive decision-making or thrill-seeking activities
  • Withdrawal from family and meaningful relationships
  • Sudden shifts in personality, appearance, or peer group
  • School avoidance, failing grades, or lack of motivation
  • Strong need for independence without accountability
  • Blaming others or avoiding responsibility for actions

Bipolar Disorder:  involves cycles of depressive episodes and periods of mania or hypomania.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD can develop after exposure to a traumatic even.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): OCD involves recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions).

Eating Disorders: Conditions such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder are often associated with depression.

Benefits for teens receiving treatment

Teens receive educational support to ensure they stay on track in school while pursuing their therapeutic goals.
We recognize that personal growth involves self-discovery, and the pace of this journey varies for each individual. Teens participate in the program for 4-12 weeks and then drop down to our lower level of care (IOP).

Each client has an individualized treatment plan developed by a multidisciplinary treatment team. Our program offers a mix of individual and group therapy where families are fully involved.

Our program also offers a community where troubled teens (and parents) experience a sense of belonging. In groups, teens learn from each other, find other teens going throught the same challenges as them, practice compassion and develop social skills. This is where the real magic happens.

Reach out to us today! You'll never be alone again.

All calls are confidential. 
We accept most insurance but do not take Medicaid at this time.

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Signs of Teenage Rebellion

What to look for

  • Constant arguing or challenging authority
  • Refusal to follow household rules
  • Sneaking out, lying, or secretive behavior
  • Declining academic performance
  • Sudden changes in mood or attitude
  • Defiance toward teachers or other adults

Behaviors your teen may exhibit

  • Risk-taking or thrill-seeking activities
  • Substance use or new peer groups with a negative influence
  • Verbal aggression or emotional outbursts
  • Emotional detachment from family
  • Refusal to take responsibility or accept consequences

If your teen is showing persistent signs of rebellion, early support can make a real difference. Open, nonjudgmental communication is a key first step. Let your troubled teen know you’re there to support them, not just discipline them.

Programs like Adolescent Wellness Academy offer teens a structured, compassionate space to understand their behavior, strengthen self-awareness, and rebuild trust with their families.

of teens exhibit some form of oppositional behavior during adolescence
0 %

Teenage Rebellion

Teenage rebellion is often dismissed as a “normal part of growing up.” But when defiance becomes persistent, intense, or disruptive, it can point to deeper emotional struggles that require support.

At Adolescent Wellness Academy, we help families navigate the complexities of teen rebellion, whether it shows up as constant arguing, risky choices, withdrawal, or disrespect for rules.

Our team provides a structured, therapeutic environment where teens can better understand their emotions, learn accountability, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

of teens who show persistent rebellious behavior also struggle with co-occurring anxiety or depression
0 %
to 17 is the most common age range when oppositional and defiant behaviors begin to escalate in teens
0
of adolescents who engage in high-risk behavior cite lack of parental connection or communication as a key factor
0 %
parents report that their teen regularly defies rules or engages in risky behavior
0 /4

Frequently Asked Questions

Some level of defiance is typical during adolescence, but when rebellious behavior becomes constant, aggressive, or disruptive to daily life, it may signal a deeper issue that requires professional support.

 

Teen rebellion can be caused by a mix of emotional, environmental, and developmental factors — including family dynamics, peer pressure, identity struggles, and untreated mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression.

 

If your teen is regularly breaking rules, isolating themselves, displaying aggressive behavior, or engaging in risky activities, it may be time to seek support. Trust your instincts — early intervention can prevent long-term consequences.

Tatiana Shiber - Therapist (Davie)

Tatiana Lourenco Shiber, MS, RMHCI is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. She has extensive experience working with adolescents navigating intellectual disabilities, trauma, self-harm, family conflict, depression, and anxiety. Tatiana has also worked with diverse populations providing culturally responsive and affirming care.
 
Tatiana’s therapeutic approach is strength-based and incorporates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) and Narrative therapy. Tatiana is passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and foster meaningful change. She is dedicated to walking alongside her clients in their healing journey with compassion, authenticity, and respect.

Tiffany Rivera - Therapist (Davie)

Tiffany Rivera holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida Atlantic University.

With a passion for empowering young people, Tiffany specializes in client-centered approaches that foster trust, growth, and resilience. She brings a strong background in mentoring youth and supporting individuals struggling with substance use, always meeting clients with empathy, patience, and genuine care.

Tiffany is known for her compassionate nature, strong communication skills, and unwavering commitment to helping adolescents navigate life’s challenges.

Ornella Barille - Therapist (Davie)

Ornella is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and holds a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and has extensive experience working with diverse populations, including children, families, and young adults. Ornella has worked in both K-12 schools and at the college level, where she has developed a strong commitment to helping adolescents thrive by supporting their personal and academic growth and empowering them to reach their full potential.

Her therapeutic approach centers on creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring their needs and expressing themselves authentically. Ornella utilizes a blend of mindfulness, existential therapy, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to empower clients in navigating life’s challenges.

Ornella’s compassionate approach fosters self-awareness and encourages clients to build effective coping strategies to achieve their therapeutic goals.

Jamie Namer - Therapist (Davie)

Jamie specializes in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) guiding individuals and families toward healthier, more fulfilling lives. With a focus on positivity, self-growth, and holistic healing, Jamie integrates spiritual perspectives and deep empathy into the therapeutic process. Using solution-based methods and emotionally focused therapy, Jamie helps clients navigate past trauma, enhance self-discovery, and strengthen relationships.

Jamie’s approach combines therapeutic techniques with mind-body healing practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and visualization. Experienced in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups, Jamie specializes in addressing issues like anxiety, grief, self-confidence, burnout, family dynamics, depression, PTSD, and life transitions. The goal is to promote overall well-being and support clients in living a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Maria Angelica Mejia – Clinical Director (Davie)

Dr. Maria Angelica Mejia’s therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, resilience-building, and collaboration. As the Clinical Director for Adolescent Wellness Academy, she is dedicated to supporting high-risk teens in navigating trauma, emotional distress, and life’s challenges with a holistic and trauma-informed lens. Dr. Mejia specializes in working with adolescents facing issues such as suicide risk, self-harm, anxiety, depression, and family conflict, utilizing techniques like CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and strength-based therapy. With extensive experience in community mental health, private practice, and clinical supervision, Dr. Mejia has a proven track record of empowering teens to overcome obstacles and thrive. She holds a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy bringing a depth of knowledge and compassion to her leadership role.

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.

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.