New Focus Substance Abuse Program

NJB offers "The Reality of Hope" with the HIV/AIDS New Focus Substance Abuse Program, under the guidance of program coordinators Lori Pellino, CDA, Susan Stoveken, CADC, and Emil Vitale, LCADC.

For more information on our substance abuse programs, or to schedule a screening, call (201) 489-2900. Transportation is available.

Why HIV Specific? Substance abusers who are also HIV positive often have needs that require specialized services.

Buddies has been a leading provider of services to the HIV/AIDS community of Bergen/Passaic counties since 1985. As such, in addition to being able to provide treatment and counseling for substance abuse, we are also able to address numerous other needs of our clients which are so critical to their success. These include providing access to medical and dental services, case management, housing, transportation, nutritional services, and support groups.

Our staff is experienced and recognized for addressing the full spectrum of needs to the HIV/AIDS community. The New Focus Treatment Program was created and funded specifically with the HIV client in mind. Their recovery is enhanced and supported through the stabilization of all their living needs.

Accepting Referrals from: Ryan White providers; rehab programs; county drug court; methadone programs; probation/parole; DYFS; Board of Social Services; walk-ins

Eligibility Criteria: Bergen/Passaic county resident; HIV positive; substance abuse; drug-free or methadone-compliant

Format: outpatient modality; 12-step model; 6 focused components; individual couseling is scheduled weekly

Course of Treatment: 6 month program; 3 groups per week; 3 hour sessions; 6 month aftercare component

Treatment Focus: addiction/recovery goals; knowledge of disease concept; enhancing life skills; identifying relapse triggers; integrating to continued support system; abstinence