Referral Process at
Hillside Horizon for Teens

Supporting Teens. Empowering Futures.

We understand the urgency and importance of finding the right care for teens in need of mental health support. Our referral process is designed to be efficient, straightforward, and supportive – because timely intervention matters.
Teen girl in therapy session at Hillside Horizon for Teens. Mental health referral page image showing teen counseling.

How to Refer a Teen?

For hospitals, doctors, and providers looking to refer a teen to Hillside Horizon for Teens, follow these simple steps:
Fax a Clinical Packet to 949-284-7703, including all relevant clinical details.
01
Ensure your contact information is included on the cover sheet.
02
Our Clinical Director will review the referral and respond within as little as one hour.
03
If the teen meets our criteria, we’ll proceed with the admissions process immediately.
04
If we determine that our program is not the best fit, we will assist in providing alternative referrals to ensure the family receives the right care.
05
Fax a Clinical Packet to 949-284-7703, including all relevant clinical details.
01
01
Ensure your contact information is included on the cover sheet.
02
Our Clinical Director will review the referral and respond within as little as one hour.
03
If the teen meets our criteria, we’ll proceed with the admissions process immediately.
04
If we determine that our program is not the best fit, we will assist in providing alternative referrals to ensure the family receives the right care.
05

How to Refer a Teen?

For hospitals, doctors, and providers looking to refer a teen to Hillside Horizon for Teens, follow these simple steps:
Fax a Clinical Packet to 949-284-7703, including all relevant clinical details.
01
Ensure your contact information is included on the cover sheet.
02
Our Clinical Director will review the referral and respond within as little as one hour.
03
If the teen meets our criteria, we’ll proceed with the admissions process immediately.
04
If we determine that our program is not the best fit, we will assist in providing alternative referrals to ensure the family receives the right care.
05
Fax a Clinical Packet to 949-284-7703, including all relevant clinical details.
01
Ensure your contact information is included on the cover sheet.
02
Our Clinical Director will review the referral and respond within as little as one hour.
03
If the teen meets our criteria, we’ll proceed with the admissions process immediately.
04
If we determine that our program is not the best fit, we will assist in providing alternative referrals to ensure the family receives the right care.
05

Why Partner With Hillside Horizon for Teens?

We recognize that social workers, nurses, and physicians are on the front lines of adolescent mental health every day. At Hillside Horizon for Teens, our goal is to alleviate the burden of placement by offering:

Referral page: Smiling young man in group therapy. Diverse support group setting, positive mental health referral program.

Who We Treat

Hillside Horizon for Teens specializes in comprehensive mental health care for teens, offering support for:

About Hillside Horizon for Teens

Located in Orange County, California, Hillside Horizon for Teens provides a safe, compassionate, and structured environment where teens can heal. Our evidence-based therapies and individualized treatment plans focus on fostering resilience, self-awareness, and long-term success.
If you have questions about our referral process or would like to discuss a case, contact our admissions team:
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At Hillside Horizon for Teens, we create a safe, supportive environment where healing and personal growth thrive, empowering teens to build resilience and regain control of their mental well-being.

Together, we can guide teens toward healing, stability, and a brighter future.
We’re Here To Help!
Contact Us Today for a Free Confidential Assessment and Insurance Verification.
© 2025 Hillside Horizon for Teens. All Rights Reserved.
Katherina M Hillside

Katherine Mendoza

Licensed Vocational Nurse LVN

I began my professional journey in the United States Navy as a Nuclear Engineer where I developed a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and service. Driven by a desire to continue making a meaningful impact, I transitioned into nursing, focusing on providing compassionate care to those in need. Over time, my passion for supporting others led to specialize in mental health, recognizing the vital role it plays in overall well-being. At Hillside Horizon for Teens, I dedicate myself to helping adolescents navigate life’s challenges and build healthier futures. My commitment to fostering growth, resilience, and healing continues to be the cornerstone of my career.

Aaron 1 Hillside Horizon

Aaron Earnest

Admissions Manager

Aaron has been working in the mental health field for over 13 years and has a passion for helping people. Previously he worked with adults for a long time and then realized he may have a greater impact with teens and made the switch a little while ago. He understands the importance of being families first voice they hear at Hillsidie Horizon and takes that role very seriously. Driven by his own issues as a kid, Aaron understands the importance of getting help and how tough the decision can be for families.

Justin C Hillside Horizon

Justin Collins

Program Director

Justin is a seasoned mental health professional with over 15 years of experience empowering adolescents through innovative behavioral health and sports programs. He began his career in Los Angeles as a CIF coach for underprivileged youth, helping lead his team to a CIF football runner-up title. In Murrieta, he took on leadership roles at Oak Grove/Jack Weaver, where he oversaw STRTP and Advanced Autism School Day Programs, managed 20+ staff, and trained teams as a certified CPI instructor. He later held key roles in the Palm Springs Unified School District. Now serving as Program Director at Hillside Horizon, Justin is known for his visionary leadership, commitment to quality care, and passion for transforming young lives.

Victor Hillside Horizon

Victor Hamaker

Program Director

With a strong commitment to supporting individuals with special needs, and at risk youth, I have built a career dedicated to advocacy and behavioral health. My journey began as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in group homes and for the local school district for both adults and adolescents with special needs, behavioral challenges, and at-risk youth. I then transitioned into behavioral health, serving as a Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) at Hillside Horizon, where I worked closely with at-risk youth and individuals with complex behavioral needs. I later advanced to Lead BHT and then Operations Manager. Currently, as the Program Director at Hillside Horizon, I oversee program development, staff training, and client care, ensuring high-quality services for individuals with behavioral and developmental challenges. Additionally, I support the local school district as a special needs advocate, working to enhance resources and support for students and families.

Jessica F Hillside Horizon Headshots

Jessica Flores

Director of Outreach

Driven from my own personal experience, I have found purpose in what I do in the Behavioral Health field. I started working in the industry over ten years ago as a driver and a tech. I have worked multiple roles and understand the complexities of all levels of care and positions. I continued my education and completed my Alcohol and Drug Counseling Certification from Saddleback College and received my bachelor’s degree in Community Advocacy and Social Policy from Arizona State University last May. I am currently the Director of Outreach at Hillside Horizon for Teens. From answering questions about the program to connecting families with resources, I enjoy being apart of our clients journey to healing!

Dr. Arlene Waldron

Clinical Director PsyD, LMFT

Dr. Arlene Waldron is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and our Clinical Director with over fifteen years of experience serving adolescents, children, and families. She holds a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and has led residential, school-based, and community mental health programs with a strong focus on quality care and program development. Dr. Waldron works closely with multidisciplinary teams and community partners to deliver trauma-informed, effective services. A fluent Spanish speaker and motivational leader, Dr. Waldron is deeply committed to the growth and well-being of individuals and families. She believes strong programs create meaningful change and leads Hillside Horizon’s Clinical program with a focus on excellence, accountability, and compassionate care.