Teens, Technology and Taboos: Navigating the Challenges of Teen Tech Use

Aja Chavez, AMFT is the National Executive Director of Mission Prep, AMFM
Healthcare’s premier adolescent residential program. In this role, she drives the
development and execution of behavioral and mental health programs for
adolescents nationwide. Aja is instrumental in fortifying the organization’s
infrastructure, leading a dedicated team, and ensuring compliance with all
organizational and regulatory standards. She also plays a key role in business
development, admissions, utilization review, and finance.

Aja launched her career in 2012 with Newport Academy, where she excelled as a
residential and outpatient provider for adolescents. Fueled by her commitment to
making a difference, she founded her private practice in Newport Beach, CA, in
2016. Aja is a highly skilled EMDR-trained Associate Marriage and Family
Therapist (AMFT), Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC), and
Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC).

Hailing from upstate New York, Aja earned her bachelor’s degree in education
from the College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. She began her professional
journey as an educator before transitioning to roles in higher education at the
State University of New York. She later achieved her Master’s degree in
Counseling from California State University, Fullerton.

Michelle Murphy, LCSW is the Clinical Director at Mission Prep Virginia. She brings over two
decades of experience and expertise to her work with child, adolescent, and adult mental health. She combines compassion with evidenced-based practices to provide holistic care to her
clients. With a deep understanding of the complexities of adolescent psychiatric disorders,
Michelle is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to navigate their challenges and
foster resilience. Her commitment to ongoing learning and professional development ensures
that she stays at the forefront of advancements in the field, offering her clients the highest
quality of care possible. She is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where
adolescents feel empowered to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies, while
supporting them on their journey to wellness and fulfillment.

Michelle is originally from Newfoundland, Canada and completed her Bachelor of Social Work
from the University of Windsor. After 15 years of experience working in a variety of helping
professions (Child Protection, Aging & Disability and the Director of Social Services), she later
went on to complete her Master of Social Work from the University of New England. Michelle
has spent the last 7 years in a hospital setting, working with patients suffering from severe
mental health issues. Michelle is excited for the opportunity to provide clinical care and
leadership in a residential setting, where she can integrate elements of CBT and DBT into her
treatment approach, tailoring interventions to each individual’s unique needs and goals. She has a special interest in experiential therapy and family centered care.