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5 June 2025

Lisa Centeno Honored by NJAMHAA | Care Plus NJ

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Care Plus NJ

Lisa Centeno | NJAMHAA Award

For Immediate Release:

Care Plus NJ’s Lisa Centeno Honored by NJAMHAA For Advancing Support for Co-Occurring Disorders

Lisa Centeno | NJAMHAA Award

Paramus, N.J. (May 12, 2025) — Care Plus NJ, a leading nonprofit provider of integrated Behavioral Health, substance use disorder, and primary care services,] proudly announces that Lisa Centeno, Senior Vice President of Integration and Access to Care, has been awarded the Transformative Leadership for Co-Occuring Disorders Treatment Award by the New Jersey Association of Behavioral Health & Addiction Agencies (NJAMHAA). Centeno received the award at the NJAMHAA 2025 Spring Conference on April 8th for her commitment to [advancing integrated care and eliminating obstacles for individuals living with co-occurring disorders.

Centeno spearheaded the formation of Care Plus NJ’s C.L.I.M.B. (Courage, Love, Insight, Motivation, Belief) Program, an innovative and integrated approach to personalized substance use disorder treatment. The C.L.I.M.B. program takes a unique approach to addiction treatment by offering individuals ages 13 and older greater choice and autonomy in the services they receive and the schedule in which they participate. Clients are empowered with a treatment menu that allows them to explore topics and behaviors that support their recovery journey and mental wellness. Centeno designed the program to empower individuals with personalized care, flexible support, and improved access to meet people where they are on their recovery journey.

Building on that commitment to available, client-focused care, Centeno also led the expansion of Care Plus NJ’s Open Access Walk-In Behavioral Health Centers in Bergen and Essex Counties. These centers provide immediate access and comprehensive care for adults, children, and families experiencing worsening Behavioral Health and addiction-related symptoms, ensuring individuals and families can easily access the support they need. Services include rapid evaluations, psychiatric assessments, individual and family therapy, crisis intervention services, medication management, school and behavioral support, peer support and case management, and referrals to specialized services.

“Integrated care isn’t just a model, it’s a lifeline for individuals facing the complex challenges of substance use and Behavioral Health conditions,” said Centeno. “At Care Plus NJ, we’re breaking down obstacles through programs like C.L.I.M.B. and expanding open-access centers to provide immediate, compassionate, and comprehensive care. I’m grateful to the Care Plus NJ team for helping advance our mission of delivering high-quality affordable behavioral health and social support programs to individuals and families at every stage of life. Thank you to NJAMHAA for this recognition. I’m proud to stand alongside so many dedicated professionals committed to individualforming behavioral healthcare in New Jersey and beyond.”

To learn more about Care Plus NJ, the C.L.I.M.B or the Open Access Walk-In Behavioral Health Centers, please visit https://careplusnj.org/

About Care Plus NJ

Care Plus NJ is a leading nonprofit provider of integrated Behavioral Health, substance use disorder, and primary care services for adults and children across northern New Jersey. As one of the first Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers in the U.S., Care Plus NJ sets the gold standard in delivering available, high-quality care regardless of diagnosis or insurance standing. With over 80 specialized programs, the organization serves nearly 14,000 individuals annually, offering a full continuum of behavioral health and social support services that empower people to reach their full potential. Committed to fairness and innovation, Care Plus NJ works to remove obstacles to care and improve the overall well-being of the communities it serves.

For more information, visit Care Plus NJNJ.org.

Media Contact:
Heather Dickerson
R&J Strategic Communications
hdickerson@randjsc.com
201-874-3859

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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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