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Ann Marie Zihal, MS, LMFT, LPC, ACS

Senior Vice President, CCBHC Strategies & Innovations

Ann Marie Zihal is a seasoned behavioral health executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience advancing access, quality, and innovation in community-based care. As Senior Vice President of CCBHC Strategies & Innovation at Care Plus NJ, Inc., she leads strategic planning, program development, and system transformation efforts that strengthen the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) model across New Jersey and nationally.

Ann Marie brings deep expertise in operations, advocacy, and financial performance, with a proven track record of managing programs, driving sustainable growth, and implementing evidence-based, data-informed practices. She works closely with executive leadership and public partners to shape policy, secure funding, and expand integrated behavioral health services for all. A recognized leader in the CCBHC movement, Ann Marie serves as an Advisory Board Member for the National Council for Mental Wellbeing’s CCBHC Expansion Technical Assistance Center and has contributed to national white papers and vision-setting initiatives. She is also a frequent presenter and mentor, supporting behavioral health organizations across the country in CCBHC implementation and best practices.

Throughout her career at Care Plus NJ, Ann Marie has held progressive leadership roles spanning clinical services, revenue cycle operations, and program creation and management. Her work has consistently focused on improving care coordination, strengthening workforce development, and aligning clinical excellence with financial sustainability.
Driven by a commitment to quality, innovation, and community impact, Ann Marie continues to advance systems that ensure individuals and families receive high-quality behavioral health care when and where they need it most.

Ann Marie is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Approved Clinical Supervisor in New Jersey. She holds a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seton Hall University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Scranton.

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Belief

Belief refers to the confidence, faith, and conviction that individuals have in their ability to overcome addiction, make positive changes in their lives, and maintain long-term recovery. In substance use recovery learning self efficacy (self-belief), challenging negative beliefs, creating a positive mindset, and investing in new values gained from addressing one’s substance use disorder and Behavioral Health issues – improves oneself, relationships, and the future.

Every patient at Care Plus NJ has access to Behavioral Health professionals, including psychiatrists, and psychologists. In addition, each is assigned a case manager, drug and alcohol counselor, and peer recovery specialist who play a pivotal role in the treatment process.

As a Behavioral Health professional, they guide education, group therapy and support groups and other Behavioral Health services as indicated based on each persons needs.

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Motivation

Motivation refers to the internal drive, desire, and commitment of an individual to initiate and sustain positive changes in their behavior, lifestyle, and overall well-being. It is a crucial factor in the C.L.I.M.B. recovery process, as overcoming addiction often requires significant effort, perseverance, and a genuine commitment to change.

Motivated individuals in recovery set clear and realistic goals for themselves. Utilizing the stages of change model, Care Plus NJ walks patients through various stages of a substance use disorder, including precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and relapse prevention. Understanding these stages helps individuals navigate their unique recovery journey.

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Insight

Insight refers to a deep and clear understanding of oneself, one’s behaviors, and the factors contributing to substance abuse. It involves gaining awareness into the root causes of addiction, recognizing patterns of behavior, and developing a clearer understanding of the impact of substance use on various aspects of one’s life. Insight is a critical component of the recovery process as it provides a foundation for positive change and sustained recovery.

Insight involves exploring the underlying issues that may contribute to drug abuse, such as past severe psychological distresss, Behavioral Health issues, or unresolved emotional challenges. Addressing these root causes is essential for long-term recovery.

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Courage

Courage in the context of recovering from drug addiction, refers to the ability to confront and overcome the challenges and fears associated with the recovery process in a person’s life. It involves facing one’s vulnerabilities, acknowledging the need for change, and taking positive steps toward a healthier and drug-free life.

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Love

Love plays a significant and multifaceted role in the process of recovery from drug and substance abuse. Having a network of supportive and understanding family members, friends, or partners is immensely valuable during the recovery journey. Community, fellowship and support groups emphasize the importance of connection with others who understand the challenges of addiction. Repairing relationships damaged by substance use often involves acts of love, forgiveness, and rebuilding trust.

In essence, love in the context of substance use recovery encompasses self-love, support from others, understanding, accountability, community, rebuilding relationships, and a renewed appreciation for life.

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