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15 June 2020

Care Plus NJ President & CEO Joe Masicandaro Named to Governor Murphy’s Restart and Recovery Advisory Council

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Care Plus NJ

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President and CEO Joe Masciandaro has been named to the New Jersey Restart & Recovery Advisory Council. Earlier this month, Governor Murphy announced the formation of a council of statewide leaders to advise on the state’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Established by Governor Murphy to provide a comprehensive public health and economic response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the goal of the New Jersey Restart & Recovery Advisory Council (The Council) is to convene leaders from varied industry groups and community organizations across the state in order to advise state leadership on economic matters impacted by the crisis. Comprised of nine subcommittees, The Council will be co-chaired by New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education, Dr. Zakiya Smith Ellis, New Jersey Economic Development Authority CEO Tim Sullivan, and Choose New Jersey President and CEO Jose Lozano.

Subcommittees include: Facilities and Construction; Government; Health Care; Main Street; Manufacturing and Supply Chain; Professional Services; Social Services and Faith; Tourism and Entertainment; and Transportation and Infrastructure. The advisory council will focus on the state’s COVID-19 recovery on a microeconomic scale, determining the more granular challenges that each sector faces. The Council will remain in place to advise the Governor on the state’s recovery for as long as needed.

“I am honored to have been selected to serve on the Governor’s Restart & Recovery Advisory Council,” said Joe Masciandaro, President and CEO, Care Plus NJ. “Our state is in the midst of not only a public health crisis but a Behavioral Health crisis. From the significant emotional toll on our first responders and healthcare workers to those who are unemployed, and still others who are mourning the sudden loss of loved ones due to the virus, we have collectively experienced a great severe psychological distress and must prepare for COVID-19’s long-term impacts on our state’s Behavioral Health. I look forward to convening with the Health Care Subcommittee to address these issues and help develop a roadmap to safely and effectively reopen the state while prioritizing integrated primary and behavioral health care.”

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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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