Equinox RTC, a residential treatment center for teen boys ages 14-18, is excited to welcome Primary Therapist Ben O’Brien. 

Ben is a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) dedicated to working with clients to address and improve mental health concerns. He received a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Carolina University.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ben to our clinical team,” says Executive Director John Moore.  “He is a perfect fit for Equinox and has a unique approach to working with students on Relational Trauma. I know he’ll be a great addition!”  

With a passion for understanding and helping others, Ben’s career in the behavioral health field began as a clinical research assistant at the Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC.  While at Duke, Ben co-authored several published articles on ADHD and Substance Use Disorders.    

Prior to Equinox, Ben served as an outpatient clinician for adolescents and adults with significant behavioral health challenges.  Ben welcomes and affirms all expressions of identity and True to the Equinox relational model, Ben uses a variety of evidence-based practices that are specially tailored for each individual’s experience, gifts, and challenges. These approaches include but are not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, solution-focused, acceptance, and commitment therapy. Ben believes in creative collaboration to allow clients space for developing new coping strategies and better problem-solving skills.

In his free time, Ben enjoys backpacking, running with his dog, and spending time with family and friends.

About Equinox RTC

Equinox RTC is a leading residential treatment center for boys ages 14-18. Equinox is unique in its focus on Relational Trauma, which includes grief, loss, and attachment. Trauma, Loss, and Attachment, providing clinically intensive treatment for boys struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use and abuse, learning disabilities, and other emotional and behavioral needs. Equinox offers a combination of clinically sophisticated support with a whole-person approach including adventure therapy, a health and fitness program, and a whole foods diet. Equinox provides a fully accredited school, with broad course selections taught by licensed teachers in a college-preparatory environment.