About Us

Who We Are

At Polaris Teen Center, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care for adolescents struggling with mental health challenges. As a leading residential treatment center for teens, we offer a safe, nurturing environment where teenagers can heal, grow, and rediscover hope. Polaris was founded on the belief that every teen deserves the tools and support to overcome life’s challenges and build a brighter future.
polaris our mission

Our Mission

Our mission is to guide teens and their families through the healing process with expertise, understanding, and unwavering support. At Polaris, we take a whole-person approach to treatment, addressing the emotional, behavioral, and psychological needs of every adolescent we serve. By combining evidence-based therapies, experiential programs, and compassionate care, we empower teens to build resilience, confidence, and lasting wellness.

A Place for Hope and Healing

Located in beautiful southern California, Polaris Teen Center provides an environment of comfort and safety. Our thoughtfully designed homes offer teens the space they need to feel secure while receiving the highest level of clinical care. From on-site chefs and relaxing outdoor amenities to 24/7 support, we’ve created a welcoming, teen-friendly treatment center where adolescents can thrive.

Our Leadership

Our team of experienced clinicians, therapists, and specialists brings compassion, expertise, and dedication to every aspect of treatment. Get to know the leaders who are committed to guiding teens and families toward a brighter, healthier future.
ari brown polaris teen

Ari Brown

FOUNDER / C.E.O.

Ari Brown is founder of and currently serves as CEO for POLARIS® Teen Center. Ari is a Licensed Administrator with the State of California Department of Social Services and has served as Administrator for The Ness Counseling Center, Inc. for 12 years. Ari stands supported by his years of administrative assignment and staff management of Licensed Therapists and Clinicians, Certified and Qualified substance abuse professionals and technical support staff. Duly noted is his daily personal contact and interactions with the human side of treatment which is where his dominate passion for being part of the world of recovery was born. “I have carried the dream for years of how I would be able to create something special that would cater to the needs of adolescents; this is what we offer at Polaris.”

michelle waters butler polaris teen center

Michelle Waters -
Butler, PSYD

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Dr. Michelle Waters-Butler is a mental health professional who has spent nearly twenty years serving both administrative and therapeutic roles in the treatment of mental health disorders. As a behavioral healthcare leader, she has built a wealth of knowledge that translates across many disciplines.

Dr. Waters-Butler holds a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and has fulfilled various roles at the highest profile treatment centers in the country. As both a clinician and administrator, she has developed a comprehensive understanding of the residential treatment culture. Michelle has spent years providing group counseling, individual and family therapy, crisis management and intervention, relapse prevention, and multidisciplinary treatment planning. As co-creator of the Polaris® program, she is dedicated to providing the best clinical care and environment for families and teens to heal.

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If you’re seeking a trusted adolescent treatment center for your teen, Polaris is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and take the first step toward hope and healing.

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