Ep13: How Riley Cochran leads treatment-resistant youth therapy without burning out

Treatment-resistant youth therapy is more than a label—it’s a mission. 

In this episode, Dan King speaks with Riley Cochran, founder and executive director of Resolute Counseling Centre, about engaging adolescents and young adults where they are—clinically and practically. Riley describes how his team combines in-home, community-based, and trauma-informed approaches to support youth aged 12–25 who are often considered “treatment-avoidant.”

You’ll hear how Riley’s personal journey influenced his focus on working with young men dealing with fatherhood abandonment and attachment wounds—and why anger often becomes the “safe” emotion that masks sadness, guilt, and shame. He shares a practical framework for boosting emotional intelligence, reframing anger, and building trust without forcing it.

For group practice owners, Riley provides a frank look at cultural alignment: how to hire for a niche, where expansion can weaken your mission, and why some clinicians only thrive when they own their specialty identity. He also shares his own experience of burnout, what occurs when a founder becomes a reluctant manager, and the simple leadership shift that transformed everything—hiring systems-minded people and empowering them to lead.

 Takeaways:

• A field guide to engaging “treatment-resistant” youth with empathy and structure

• How to recruit and develop clinicians who truly fit your niche

• Practical ways to prevent burnout by identifying what replenishes your energy

• A leadership model that distinguishes vision, culture, and systems—allowing each to thrive

 Hear how Resolute is making a lasting impact for youth and families, and discover ways to develop a values-oriented practice without compromising your true self.

Transform Your Group Practice

Actionable insights for practice owners and clinicians who want to lead, grow, or exit with purpose. This is the podcast shaping a stronger mental health system — one practice at a time.

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About the Host

Dan King is a lawyer turned private equity founder with a passion for fixing burnout in mental health. With a background in M&A, Shark Tank deals, and psychology, he now leads Fireside Strategic — investing in group practices that put people first.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking
• Website: firesidestrategic.com