Mark Farrell O'Brien, MS, LCPC, CADC

For many young men, the path into adulthood no longer unfolds automatically. High school ends. College begins. Careers start. Independence increases. Yet confidence, direction, and momentum do not always follow. Many capable young men find themselves stuck — not because they lack intelligence or potential, but because mental health challenges, substance use, or loss of structure begin interfering with forward movement. Parents may see motivation decline. Young men may feel increasing pressure, uncertainty, or quiet frustration with themselves. What looks like procrastination, disengagement, or “failure to launch” is often something else: A developmental transition without the right support. I specialize in helping young men whose mental health or substance use is getting in the way of adulthood. This practice exists for one purpose: Helping young men build confidence, direction, and momentum into adult life. The transition into adulthood requires skills rarely taught directly: -emotional regulation -self-discipline -decision-making -identity formation -independence without isolation -managing freedom responsibly When anxiety, depression, or substance use enter this stage, progress slows. High School Transition Pressure around performance, identity, and future expectations increases. Executive functioning skills are still developing. Avoidance quietly replaces effort. Confidence drops after setbacks. College Years Structure decreases while independence expands. Sleep, academics, social life, finances, and health must suddenly be self-managed. When mental health struggles or substance use emerge, routines collapse and motivation fades. Early Adulthood Comparison intensifies. Career uncertainty, burnout, relationship stress, and financial responsibility create internal doubt. Many young men privately question their direction despite outward functioning. Momentum stalls not because ability is missing — but because support systems no longer match developmental demands. A Specialized Approach for Young Men This is not general therapy. This is launch-focused developmental treatment. My work integrates: -mental health stabilization -substance use intervention -accountability and structure -executive functioning development -identity and direction clarification -practical life momentum You are not coming to therapy simply to talk about problems. You are coming to build a plan. Together we identify: -what is working -what is interfering -what needs to change -and how to move forward consistently Sessions are structured, practical, and goal-oriented. Clients leave knowing what they are working toward and how progress will be measured. The goal is not perfection. The goal is forward movement. Expertise Without Judgment As a Substance Use Specialist and Addiction Counselor, I provide expertise when alcohol or drug use begins interfering with development — without treating clients as if they belong in rehab or crisis care. Substance use is addressed as a developmental disruptor, not an identity. Many young men do not need intensive treatment. They need informed intervention early enough to prevent derailment. This integrated perspective allows therapy to address the full picture: mental health, behavior, motivation, and life direction. For Parents Seeking Help You may recognize that your son is capable but struggling. You may notice: -withdrawal or irritability -academic or career stalls -increasing substance use -loss of direction or confidence You want to help without pushing him away. My role is to support autonomy while restoring momentum. Parents often experience relief knowing their son is working with a specialist who understands young men developmentally — not just diagnostically. The Outcome Clients typically work toward: -restored stability -improved motivation -healthier habits -increased independence -clearer identity and direction -renewed confidence in adulthood This is not open-ended therapy. It is a structured process designed to help young men move forward. Begin With a Consultation The first step is a brief consultation call. We will discuss: -what is happening now -what has already been tried -what progress would realistically look like -and whether this approach is the right fit You do not have to navigate this transition alone. Momentum starts with a plan.