Reefer Madness, that infamous cult film of the 1930s that uses over-the-top effects to warn parents of the harmful effects of drugs such as marijuana, …
Reefer Madness, that infamous cult film of the 1930s that uses over-the-top effects to warn parents of the harmful effects of drugs such as marijuana, may have been on the right track after all. Mounting evidence points to some deeply concerning recent revelations about drugs causing psychosis in teens. While that may sound a bit melodramatic, the publication of several recent studies provides credence to this claim.
When a troubled teen is exhibiting signs of erratic behavior or emotional instability they should be assessed by a psychiatric professional. Teenage psychiatric evaluation involves a variety of screening tools designed to help the doctor arrive at a diagnosis and then design a treatment plan. In the event of a psychiatric crisis the teen would need acute stabilization services initially, with therapy to follow once the condition is stabilized. Teenage psychiatric evaluation and stabilization are services provided at a residential teen mental health center, which can provide the safe, supportive environment that will foster emotional healing.
When a teen shows signs of emotional and/or behavioral problems that are not related to a physical condition, they will be referred to a child psychiatrist who can then perform the routine psychological screening tools and an interview to arrive at a diagnosis. With this support and treatment, the teen will be better equipped to overcome drug induced psychosis and lingering psychiatric symptoms.
About the Author
Arastou Aminzadeh, M.D.
Dr. Arastou Aminzadeh or Dr. A as most teens refer to him, has been working in variety of clinical settings for the last 20 years. He is well respected nationally for his expertise in Addiction medicine and treating adolescents. Dr. A is a triple board certified physician in psychiatry, Child and Adolescent psychiatry and Addiction medicine.
Oliver Ahmadpour, M.D.
Dr. Oliver Ahmadpour is an adult and child psychiatrist with nearly four decades of experience in the field of medicine with an M.D. degree from Sweden, where he practiced as an Internal Medicine physician. In the U.S. he completed his Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Endocrinology at UCSD, and his Residency and Fellowship in Adult, Child, and adolescent Psychiatry at USC Keck School of Medicine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
We treat a wide range of teen mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, trauma-related disorders, behavioral issues, ADHD, oppositional defiance, substance use, and dual-diagnosis conditions. Many families come to BNI after struggling to find the right level of care elsewhere.
Most private insurance plans cover a significant portion of treatment. Our admissions team verifies benefits quickly and explains coverage, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expectations before admission. We do not accept Medi-Cal or Medicare.
Yes. Many families come to BNI with teens who have complex diagnoses, treatment-resistant depression, severe anxiety, self-harm history, or previous hospitalizations. Our clinical leadership regularly treats high-acuity cases and provides specialized expertise for them.
Absolutely. We use established, research-backed modalities including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, psychiatric medication management, experiential therapies, family systems work, and integrative approaches such as mindfulness, yoga, and expressive arts.
Our residential and outpatient programs are located in private, secure homes in Agoura Hills and Calabasas. These areas are known for their safety, privacy, and access to nature—ideal for focused healing and recovery.
Yes. BNI is trusted by the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine as a training rotation site for physician fellows to learn best practices in adolescent mental health—an acknowledgment of our clinical quality and leadership in teen psychiatry.
What We Treat
Primary Mental Health
Primary Mental Health
Our primary mental health program offers an integrative wellness model that offers high-quality treatment designed for success.
Behavioral Issues
Behavioral Issues
Our program for teens & adolescents with behavioral issues will help teach your teen healthy coping skills to build a foundation for their future.
Dual-Diagnosis
Dual-Diagnosis
The dual-diagnosis program at BNI Treatment Centers provides our clients with a foundation for long-term healing & recovery.