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6 April 2016

Care Plus NJ Welcomes Former Freeholder to the Board of Trustees

Written by

Care Plus NJ

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Former Chairman of the Bergen County Board of Chosen Freeholders, John D. Mitchell, officially joined the Care Plus NJ, Inc. (“Care Plus NJ”) volunteer Board of Trustees this February.

Care Plus NJ is a local non-profit Behavioral Health organization that provides services to individuals and families throughout Northern New Jersey. The continuum of care includes crisis response, outpatient programs, substance abuse services, a full spectrum of children and family services, and many more programs that help with prevention, wellness and recovery.

The Care Plus NJ Board of Trustees governs the organization and consists of professionals and supporters that contribute a variety of skills and knowledge. The dedicated time and efforts of the Board members allows for Care Plus NJ to grow, which results in better serving the local community.

“We are very excited to have John as our newest CPNJ Trustee,” stated William Weiss, Chairman of the Board. “His life and work experience brings a truly impressive depth of service to individuals and society.”

During his time as Freeholder Chairman, Mitchell recognized that the funding for local Behavioral Health agencies should not be cut. His understanding would not only benefit those organizations, including Care Plus NJ, but also the taxpayers. Effective Behavioral Health care has the potential to save taxpayer money by reducing costly ambulatory utilization and expensive hospitalizations.

During his time as a Freeholder, he also served as Finance Chairman, which resulted in two consecutive years of budget reduction while maintaining and enhancing Bergen County services for taxpayers.

Mitchell also achieved taxpayer cost savings of over $25 million through innovative management, energy and environmental practices. He was then appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Energy to replicate those cost savings on a national level.

“By any measure, he embodies those special attributes Care Plus NJ and Rotary International both expound, ‘Service Above Self’,” added Weiss.

There are a number of other organizations that Mitchell has served and continues to serve. He is currently the Assistant Governor for his Rotary district; President, Finance Committee Chairman, Lector and Eucharistic Minister of the Epiphany Parish Council; former Chairman of the Heroes to Heroes Foundation, former Vice President on board member of the Visiting Neighbors; and much more.

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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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