Speakers - AWC 2026

Biography

Ben’s path to becoming a psychotherapist began with his own journey of healing from years of substance use, personal turmoil, and struggles with trauma. He was fortunate to receive selfless support from others along the way, which guided him toward hope, happiness, and a sense of freedom. Inspired by the transformative impact of those who helped him, Ben dedicated his life to offering the same guidance and compassion to others. Before becoming a psychotherapist, Ben worked extensively in the field of substance use recovery across New York City, beginning in sober living residences and progressing to roles as a Recovery Coach and Case Manager. His passion for helping others deepened as he led a New York City Department of Health opioid overdose response team. Ben went on to pursue a Master of Social Work degree at the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. After completing his social work training, he practiced as a psychotherapist in an outpatient substance use treatment program and later became the director of a transitional living program for adults with co-occurring disorders. Following that, he served as Clinical Director at a premier outpatient treatment program in New York City, specializing in the treatment of adolescents, young adults, and their families. Ben founded Searchlight Therapy, a Group Psychotherapy Practice based in New York City, to provide high quality and evidence based treatment to Adolescents, Young Adults, and their Families. Searchlight takes a strong family approach to treatment by including the family in Family Therapy and Clinical Parent Coaching as he believes that to address and help heal the individual, you must address the whole of the family system.