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Rebecca Oelkers, MSW, LCSW

Vice President, Clinical Services

Rebecca Oelkers, LCSW is the Vice President of Clinical Services at Care Plus NJ, where she provides strategic and operational leadership within the Clinical Services Division, guiding initiatives focused on access to care, integrated service delivery, and data-informed quality improvement. With more than 25 years of experience in behavioral health and organizational leadership, Rebecca’s approach combines strong cross-functional collaboration, innovation, and compassionate care to improve person-centered outcomes.
Previously, Rebecca served as Regional Vice President of Operations for Sage Alliance Schools, where she led a complex post-acquisition integration initiative and implemented program enhancements that increased referrals, improved retention, and strengthened operational performance. Prior to that, as Executive Director of New Alliance Academy, she played a key role in the development and expansion of a specialized high school serving adolescents with complex psychiatric and emotional needs, creating programs that integrated clinical support, academic achievement, and family engagement.
Her earlier leadership at Bergen Regional Medical Center included directing inpatient psychiatric services for children, adolescents, and adults, where she led interdisciplinary teams, strengthened crisis intervention practices, and implemented protocols that improved safety and operational outcomes.
Rebecca brings a strong clinical foundation to her leadership role. Her work is grounded in the belief that effective systems of care are built through collaboration, innovation, accountability, and a deep commitment to developing programs and services that promote long-term wellness and meaningful community impact.
Rebecca earned her Master of Social Work from New York University and is licensed in New Jersey and New York.

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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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