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Lisa Centeno, MA, LCADC, CCS

Executive Senior Vice President, Integration & Access to Care

Lisa Centeno is an accomplished behavioral health executive with over 20 years of experience leading integrated care systems, advancing addiction recovery services, and strengthening access to community-based treatment. As Executive Senior Vice President of Integration & Access to Care at Care Plus NJ, Inc., Lisa provides strategic leadership to expand and align behavioral health, primary care, substance use treatment, and social services across the continuum of care.

In her role, Lisa oversees outpatient clinical operations and multidisciplinary teams, driving initiatives that promote coordinated, client-centered, and outcome-driven care. She is instrumental in developing system-wide strategies that improve access, enhance quality, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Lisa works closely with executive leadership to align clinical innovation with financial sustainability, while also leading program development, budget oversight, and key community partnerships with healthcare providers, schools, and justice systems.

Previously, Lisa served as Senior Vice President of Addiction Recovery Services at Care Plus NJ, where she led multi-program operations, strengthened quality assurance frameworks, and implemented data-driven performance improvements. Prior to joining Care Plus NJ, she held senior leadership roles at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, where she advanced integrated care models, led large-scale substance use treatment programs, and supported statewide initiatives such as the Opioid Overdose Recovery Program.

Lisa began her career in direct clinical care and has remained deeply committed to mentorship, workforce development, and advancing evidence-based practices. She is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) and Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS), bringing both clinical expertise and executive leadership to her work.

Lisa holds a Master’s degree in Counseling from New Jersey City University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Massachusetts.

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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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