Welcome to our new website!

14 October 2015

Care Plus NJ Leads the Way in Integrated Primary and Behavioral Health

Written by

Care Plus NJ

|

Based on the approval of the New Jersey State Plan Amendment (SPA) on March 12, 2015, Care Plus NJ, Inc. (Care Plus NJ) is the first state-certified agency to provide integrated Behavioral Health care services to individuals residing in Bergen County with severe mental illnesses through their Behavioral Health Home (BHH) model.

This public support activities effort makes health care services more affordable and available to those individuals with serious mental illness that need the services and might not otherwise be able to afford them.

“Bergen County was selected as the first county for this initiative,” explained Joe Masciandaro, CEO at Care Plus NJ. “We are proud that the Care Plus NJ BHH model is the first in the state to be recognized.”

Care Plus NJ has been a leader in the integrated mind and body approach to wellness since 2010 when the agency was awarded a grant from the Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Through that funding, Care Plus NJ was able to develop proven integrated treatment care regimens that produced favorable outcome measures including: normal blood pressure, reduction of emergency room visits, participation in wellness programs, and a positive perception of care.

“Being a pioneer isn’t new for us at Care Plus NJ,” Masciandaro continues, “we have also spearheaded the county-wide Stigma-Free Initiative in local communities. Care Plus NJ has taken a strong role in developing the foundation for this initiative, and we are taking the action to further these efforts through our dedication to providing the most optimal service for those who live with Behavioral Health challenges.”

The State funded BHH model only provides coverage to a select group of individuals affected by serious mental illness. What distinguishes Care Plus NJ is the newly formed Health Management Solutions team that is looking to leverage this model to the outliers of state coverage including commercial insurers, managed care organizations (MCOs), and ACOs.

Care Plus NJ Health Management Solutions is developing the capacity to ensure that any individual who may benefit from coordinated physical and behavioral healthcare will have access. These efforts will help to improve health outcomes and quality of life. Services include a professional team of medical and behavioral health experts that work together to best serve the individual and their recovery.

If you work with someone who may benefit from these services, please contact the Health Management Solutions Team:  Jessica Shea at (201) 796-9479, Sean Sundberg at (201) 478-4162, or Kathy Bianco at (201) 986-5032.

 

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