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Laurie DeSimone-Celuch, MA, MS, LPC, LCADC, ACS, CCS

Associate Vice President, Crisis & Community Services

Laurie DeSimone-Celuch is the Associate Vice President of Crisis and Community Services at Care Plus NJ, where she oversees programs providing case management and clinical services to adults and youth throughout northern New Jersey. Her work includes supporting individuals living with serious mental illness, those involved in the justice system, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Laurie earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rutgers College in 2004, a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 2007, and a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Monmouth University. A licensed clinician and certified clinical supervisor, Laurie has more than 15 years of experience in mental health and substance use disorder treatment. She has worked across a wide range of settings, including criminal justice and correctional environments, outpatient behavioral health programs, community mental health services, and substance use disorder treatment programs. Throughout her career, Laurie has held numerous leadership positions overseeing clinical teams, supervising staff, and supporting organizational operations. She has also served as a system administrator for electronic health record platforms within provider agencies and has led initiatives focused on improving service delivery and operational effectiveness. Laurie is committed to building strong teams and supporting staff in delivering high-quality, person-centered care. She actively participates in committees and workgroups dedicated to strengthening the behavioral health system across New Jersey. She currently serves as co-chair of the NJAMHAA ICMS Practice Group and serves on the Executive Leadership Board for the Bergen County Continuum of Care (CoC). In addition to her clinical and leadership work, Laurie has taught psychology courses as an adjunct instructor at Bergen Community College and Essex County College. She enjoys continuous learning, professional development, and taking on new initiatives that advance behavioral healthcare services.

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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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