Welcome to our new website!

6 April 2018

Care Plus NJ to Honor County Executive Tedesco for Leading the Change

Written by

Care Plus NJ

||

PARAMUS, NJ – Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III is being recognized for his dedication to the Behavioral Health community and his commitment to individualforming New Bridge Medical Center into a national model for integrated healthcare. The honor will be presented at the Care Plus NJ Foundation’s 20th Annual Courage Awards Gala on Wednesday, June 6 at the Venetian in Garfield.

As the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, the Gala celebrates those who tirelessly representative on behalf of the Behavioral Health community.

“Care Plus NJ has set the bar for integrated care, and County Executive Tedesco shared that vision for New Bridge Medical Center. Under his leadership, NJ’s largest hospital is being individualformed,” explained Mary Ann Uzzi, co-chair of the 2018 Courage Awards Gala. “This experience could evolve into a national model of care… another opportunity for Bergen County to Lead the Change.”

Tedesco is also a major representative for the Stigma-Free Initiative, which works to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness and encourage Behavioral Health treatment without judgment. As a county Freeholder, he was instrumental in having Bergen County designated as the country’s  first Stigma-Free County and continues to representative with all Bergen County municipalities to implement this initiative.

“As the Stigma-Free initiative started to blossom, his support helped to fuel the momentum. Without his involvement, it’s hard to believe that we would have spread the message so far and wide in our communities,” continued Uzzi.

Under Tedesco’s leadership, Bergen County has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as the first county in New Jersey to end homelessness among veterans. HUD has also recognized Bergen County as the first community in the nation to eliminate chronic homelessness.

Proceeds from the Courage Awards Gala fund: educational scholarships for those enrolled in Care Plus NJ services, housing and medication assistance, substance abuse services, outpatient treatment and therapy for children and adults, as well as public support activities and community education.

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