Parenting
THC and mushroom edibles are packaged to look like real candy. Learn how to spot them, what a bad reaction looks like, and how to talk to your teen about it.
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Jennifer Rodriguez
Director of Nursing
Jennifer leads the nursing team that cares for teens around the clock, from medications to everyday health questions.
About Jennifer Rodriguez
Jennifer Rodriguez brings more than two decades of healthcare experience to her role as Director of Nursing at Lotus Behavioral Health. She began her career in 1998 in Emergency Medical Services, building a strong foundation in acute and critical care.
Her nursing career spans emergency and behavioral health settings, including 14 years in the Emergency Department and 6 years in behavioral health, growing from Nurse Extern to leadership roles including Nurse Supervisor. That background shapes her calm, clinically focused and compassionate approach.
At Lotus, Jennifer leads the nursing team with a commitment to teen-centered care, safety and continuous quality improvement. She values family involvement as an important part of healing and works to promote dignity, trust and resilience for every young person in care.
Education and Credentials
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing, University of Miami (2007)
- Emergency Medical Services, since 1998
- Former Nurse Supervisor, emergency and behavioral health settings
Her Role at Lotus
- Leads 24-hour nursing care
- Gives and monitors medications with the psychiatric provider
- Health check at admission
- Keeps parents informed about health needs
Articles by Jennifer
Drugs in Chocolate Bars and Gummies: What Parents Actually Need to Know Teen Kratom and 7-OH Use: Signs of Dependence and Withdrawal ParentingKratom and 7-OH act like opioids and can hook teens fast. Learn the signs of dependence, what withdrawal looks like, and when to get clinical help.
Read moreHow Sexual Trauma Increases the Risk of Substance Use in Adolescents Mental HealthSexual trauma triples a teen's risk of substance misuse. Learn the signs trauma may be underneath, and what trauma-informed treatment actually looks like.
Read morePlaces Where Teens Hide Drugs: Insights for Parents ParentingLearn where teens hide drugs and vapes, the warning signs that matter more than hiding spots, and how to talk to your teen. Find support for Florida families
Read moreWhy Are My Teen’s Eyes Always Red? ParentingRed eyes in teens can mean allergies, late nights, or weed. Learn the warning signs worth watching, and how to talk to your teen without a fight.
Read moreWhat Drugs Does Narcan Work On? A Teen Rehab Guide Substance UseDiscover what drugs Narcan works on and learn how this powerful opioid antidote can reverse overdoses effectively. Read more now!
Read moreConsequences of Teenage Vaping Vaping & NicotineTeen vaping poses serious health risks, including addiction and lung damage. Learn the dangers, warning signs, and how to help your teen quit.
Read moreExercise Benefits in Recovery Treatment & RecoveryDiscover the benefits of exercise in addiction recovery. Learn how physical activity boosts mental and physical health, aiding long-term sobriety.
Read moreImportance of Sleep During Recovery Treatment & RecoveryDiscover why sleep is crucial during recovery. Learn how proper rest improves mental clarity, reduces stress, and helps your body heal during recovery.
Read moreWhat is the "Benadryl Challenge" Substance UseLearn about the Benadryl Challenge and the dangers of misusing the drug. Understand why this viral trend is harmful and how to keep your teens safe.
Read moreSymptoms of Vaping in Adolescents Vaping & NicotineLearn about the symptoms of vaping in teens. Recognize the signs early to protect your child from the risks associated with vaping and nicotine addiction.
Read moreCan Drugs Cause Heart Attacks? Substance UseLearn how drugs can lead to heart attacks. Explore the impact of substance abuse on cardiovascular health and why it’s important to avoid these risks.
Read moreIbuprofen and Alcohol Interaction Substance UseUnderstand the risks of mixing ibuprofen and alcohol. Learn about the potential side effects and why combining these substances can harm your health.
Read more12 Benefits When You Stop Drinking Alcohol Substance UseExplore the benefits of quitting alcohol. From improved health to mental clarity, discover the positive changes that come when you stop drinking.
Read moreBloating after Quitting Alcohol: How to Prevent it? Substance UseFind out why bloating occurs after quitting alcohol. Explore the factors contributing to bloating and discover tips for managing this withdrawal symptom.
Read moreDoes Drinking Alcohol Really Cause Acne & Skin Breakouts? Substance UseLearn how drinking alcohol can contribute to acne. Discover the relationship between alcohol consumption, skin health, and tips for preventing breakouts.
Read moreAddiction and Injuries: The Connection in Between Substance UseLearn how addiction is linked to an increased risk of injuries. Understand how substance abuse affects physical coordination and leads to accidents.
Read moreHow Long Does it Take Alcohol to Leave Your System? Substance UseLearn how long alcohol stays in your system. Discover factors that influence alcohol metabolism and how long it takes to fully detox from alcohol.
Read moreDrinking Alcohol Every Day: Effects of Alcohol Consumption Substance UseLearn about the risks of drinking alcohol every day. Discover how daily alcohol consumption impacts teen's health and how to reduce reliance on alcohol.
Read moreThe Role of Alcohol in UTI Development: Can Alcohol Cause UTIs? Substance UseExplore the connection between alcohol consumption and UTIs. Learn how alcohol can contribute to urinary tract infections and the risks involved.
Read moreAlcohol Intolerance: Symptoms & Health Risks Substance UseExplore the symptoms, impact, and causes of alcohol intolerance. Learn about how it differs from an allergy and tips for managing symptoms effectively.
Read morePhysical Cocaine Addiction Symptoms Substance UseLearn to recognize the physical signs of cocaine addiction in teens and how early intervention can support recovery and overall health.
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