Welcome to our new website!

14 September 2026

Care Plus NJ’s Lisa Centeno Recognized by Influential Women

Written by

Care Plus NJ

Care Plus NJ is proud to recognize Lisa Centeno, Executive Senior Vice President of Integration & Access to Care, for being featured by Influential Women, highlighting her more than 20-year career in behavioral health and her work to strengthen services for individuals, families and communities.

Throughout her career, Centeno has focused on identifying gaps in the behavioral health system and developing practical solutions to help people connect with the support they need. At Care Plus NJ, she has played an important role in developing and expanding programs that respond to changing community needs.

Among the initiatives highlighted in her Influential Women profile are The CLIMB, which provides open access to mental health and substance use services, and Care Plus NJ’s School-Based Access to Care model, which brings behavioral health support directly into school communities.

The profile also explores the experiences that have shaped Centeno’s career and leadership style, including her belief in listening to the people closest to the work, building strong teams and creating programs with lasting impact.

Her recognition reflects a career dedicated to finding new ways to strengthen behavioral health services and better serve communities throughout New Jersey.

Read Lisa Centeno’s full Influential Women profile to learn more about her career and leadership: https://influentialwomen.com/connect/lisa-centeno.

Donate today to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Support our Mission

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.

CLOSE

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.

CLOSE

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.

CLOSE

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.

CLOSE

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.

CLOSE