MILIKA CENTER FOR THERAPY & RESILIENCE
Teen Therapy in Encino, CA
Empowering Teens to Overcome Challenges and Thrive.
In-office sessions in Encino and online across California.
Navigating Adolescence with Confidence: Discover Support and Healing at MILIKA
Navigating adolescence can be a challenging journey, filled with ups and downs as teens face unique stressors and emotional hurdles. Whether your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer relationships, academic pressure, or family conflict, our clinicians are here to help.
At MILIKA Center Therapy & Resilience, we are committed to supporting teens in cultivating resilience, coping skills, and emotional well-being.
Now offering in-office sessions in Encino and online across California.
Signs That Your Teenager Is Struggling
While each teen is unique, common indicators of mental health challenges include:
Persistent Mood Changes: Fluctuations in mood, such as prolonged sadness, irritability, or mood swings, may signal underlying emotional distress.
Withdrawal or Isolation: Teens may withdraw from social interactions, lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, or isolate themselves from friends and family
Changes in Sleep Patterns: Insomnia, excessive sleeping, or changes in sleep patterns can be indicative of underlying mental health issues.
Academic Decline: Struggling academically, poor concentration, or a decline in school performance may suggest psychological distress affecting teens' ability to focus and learn.
Engagement in Risky Behaviors: Teens may engage in risky behaviors such as substance abuse, self-harm, or reckless driving as a way to cope with emotional pain or seek relief from distress.
Physical Complaints: Unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue may be manifestations of underlying mental health concerns.
TESTIMONIALS
"Dr. Kanchi and her team are life savers...
As a UCLA provider, I need trusted referral sources for my most vulnerable patients. The MILIKA Center provides patient-centered, comprehensive, and evidence based care for youth and families who are facing medical stress and/or anything else that life throws our way. Look no farther this private practice. They will work with your family, patient and/or team and provide ACTUAL GOOD MENTAL HEALTH CARE!! Worth every penny!"
- Dr. Natacha Emerson | Clinical Psychologist, Ph.D.
Co-Director for UCLA Pediatric Psychiatry Consultation-Liaison (C/L) Service at UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center and the Pediatric Psychology C/L Service at UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital
"The therapists and team at MILIKA are fantastic...
As a pediatric neurologist i see many patients who would benefit from mental health care for school related anxiety, stress over college applications, difficulty coping with a chronic illness, and various other reasons. I never hesitate to refer patients to MILIKA. And all my patients who have worked with MILIKA therapists report a wonderful and beneficial experience. I also like that MILIKA will work with patients' insurance companies to reduce out of pocket costs."
100% recommend the MILIKA Center!
- Dr. Lauren Waldron | UCLA Pediatric Neurologist, M.D.
"Dr. (Kanchi) Wijesekera has been a trusted expert in trauma therapy, offering evidence-based approaches that foster deep healing...
Milika Center for Therapy and Resilience is a testament to her commitment to providing compassionate, cutting-edge care. With a team of skilled professionals and a welcoming environment, the center specializes in trauma recovery through innovative techniques that are family focused, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed. Whether for individual healing or community support, this center is a beacon of hope for those seeking to reclaim their well-being. Highly recommended!"
- Dr. Blanca Orellana | Ph.D. | Co-Director UCLA Stress, Trauma & Resilience Clinic
"I've had the pleasure of referring patients to Dr. Kanchi and her team at the MILIKA Center...
...and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive! As a psychiatrist, I'm always on the lookout for top-notch resources to support my patients' mental health journeys. Their comprehensive therapy and resilience training programs for children, teens, and adults have made a tangible difference in the lives of my patients. I highly recommend the MILIKA Center!"
-Linslee Egan, M.D. | Board Certified Psychiatrist
"Dr. Kanchi and her team at MILIKA have been phenomenal!
They have gone above and beyond in caring for the patients I have referred."
-Dr. Juan Alejos | MD
Medical Director of UCLA Pediatric Heart Transplant/Cardiomyopathy Program. The Director of the UCLA Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension program.
"Dr. Kanchi is one of the most gifted therapists that I have ever worked with...
Dr. Kanchi Wijesekera is one of the most gifted therapists I have ever worked with. Not only is she aware of the latest evidence-based modalities, but she has the secret ingredient of being able to attune to her patients in such a meaningful way. She truly is an absolute gem of a human and I would trust her to treat any one of my family members."
-Dr. Misty Richards | MD
Co-Founder and Medical Director of UCLA Perinatal Psychiatry for the Maternal Outpatient Mental Health Services (MOMS) Clinic |
Associate Medical Director of the UCLA Maternal Mental Health Partial Hospitalization Program|
How Can Therapy Help With My Teen's Mental Health?
Through empathetic listening and validation, clinicians help teens feel understood, accepted, and supported, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
We Can Support Your Teen With
ABOUT US
Why Work With Milika Center For Therapy & Resilience
Here at Milika Center for Therapy & Resilience, we understand that seeking help for mental health concerns is a courageous and transformative step.
Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, depression, significant life changes, or are on a quest for personal growth, know that you are not alone. Our team is here to offer support and expert guidance every step of the way. Together, we can work towards building unshakable resilience, fostering self-awareness, and unlocking the potential for positive change.
As the MILIKA Founder and Clinical Director, I am committed to fostering a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can embark on their journey towards healing and personal growth.
Thank you for choosing us as your partner in your mental wellness journey. We are so honored and excited to be here for you and help you unleash your inner resilience!
Warmest Regards,
Dr. Kanchi
Meet The Team
Clinical Director
Kanchi Wijesekera, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychotherapist
Lindsay Merrill, LMFT.
Clinical Psychologist
Venus Mirbod, Psy.D.
Associate Clinical Therapist
Jasmine Chow, AMFT.
Clinical Psychotherapist
Estela Cabrera, LCSW.
Doctoral (Psy.D.) Clinical Trainee
Kurtis Vu, M.A.
Doctoral (Psy.D.) Clinical Trainee
Isabella Vigna, M.A.
Care Coordinator
Andrea Reji
Yoga Instructor
Laily Gallo
Addressing Social Media Challenges in Teen Therapy
Today's teens live in an interconnected world where social media plays a significant role in their daily lives. While these platforms offer unique opportunities for connection and self-expression, they can also present complex challenges that impact mental well-being. At Milika Center, we understand these modern pressures and offer targeted support to help teens thrive both online and offline.
The Rise of Social Media Challenges
Many teens grapple with various issues stemming from social media use, including:
- Social Comparison & Body Image: The curated "highlight reels" on platforms can lead to unrealistic comparisons, fueling feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and negative body image.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Constantly seeing what others are doing can create intense anxiety about being left out or not living up to perceived social standards.
- Cyberbullying & Online Harassment: Digital spaces can, unfortunately, become arenas for bullying, rumors, and unkind interactions, which can have profound and lasting emotional impacts.
- Sleep Disruption & Decreased Focus: Excessive screen time, especially before bed, can interfere with crucial sleep patterns and attention span, affecting academic performance and overall health.
- Addictive Patterns: The "likes" and notifications can trigger dopamine rushes, making it difficult for teens to disengage, sometimes leading to compulsive usage that interferes with real-life activities and relationships.
How Therapy Helps: Gaining Perspective and Building Healthy Boundaries
We help teens recognize how their social media usage might be impacting their mood, self-esteem, sleep, and relationships, fostering self-awareness.
Empowering Parents with Tools
We recognize that parents also play a critical role in navigating the digital landscape. Our approach includes guidance for parents on:
- Open Communication: Fostering dialogue with your teen about their online experiences and challenges.
- Setting Family Boundaries: Collaboratively establishing screen time limits, device-free zones, and modeling healthy digital habits as a family.
- Understanding Digital Citizenship: Providing psychoeducation to parents on online safety, privacy settings, and how to support their teen through cyber issues.
At Milika Center, our goal is to empower teens to use social media mindfully, fostering a balanced relationship with their digital lives so they can thrive emotionally and socially.
Related Links:
Therapy Solutions for Every Californian
Online/Virtual Sessions Across California
Online sessions offer excellent flexibility in accessing therapy in a timely manner and help skip the LA traffic! Online sessions are delivered on a secure and HIPPA-compliant platform, and they can be accessed on a mobile device, iPad, laptop, or desktop with camera access.
If you are a resident anywhere in California, this is a great option for you!
In-Office Sessions in Encino
In-office sessions can be scheduled in Encino CA.
Our office suites offer bright, airy, and cozy therapeutic spaces with private waiting rooms and breathtaking, serene views. Both offices are steps away from restaurants and shops where you can stop before or after for a quick recharge.
Phone Sessions Across California
Per client requests, sessions can be delivered over the phone when needed.
Ready to get started?
Ready to get started? Start your journey towards resilience and mental well-being today by contacting us to schedule a consultation.