In this Q&A, our Founder & CEO, Ben Mushlin, LCSW, explores why supporting the whole family, not just the individual, is central to helping adolescents and young adults build real, lasting resilience.
Ben discusses the rising prevalence of behavioral addictions like sports betting, gambling, and gaming, and how today's digital environment is creating new challenges for young people and the people who love them. Throughout, his message stays grounded in the values that guide our work at Searchlight: meeting people where they are, addressing the roots of addiction rather than only its symptoms, and equipping families with practical tools for the long road of healing.
In this episode from How Did You Get Here? hosted by Maya Kruger, Ben Mushlin, LCSW shares his journey from addiction to recovery, exploring the complexities of his identity as an adopted individual and the impact of generational trauma. He discusses the challenges of healing the inner adolescent, the importance of community in recovery, and the ongoing process of self-compassion. The conversation delves into the nuances of addiction as a coping mechanism and the significance of understanding one’s past to build a healthier future.
In this segment from NBC News Former Whippets Addict Gives Warning About Dangerous Drug Trend which aired in February of 2025, Ben Mushlin, LCSW, gives expert opinion on the dangers of Nitrous Oxide use, the rise of Galaxy Gas and brands like it, and the effect that Whippets are having on individuals