Blake Recovery Center Tops Newsweek’s 2024 List of Best Addiction Treatment Centers in New Jersey

Hackensack Meridian Health, New Jersey’s largest and most comprehensive health network, is pleased to announce that Newsweek Magazine has ranked Blake Recovery Center No. 1 on its new list of Best Addiction Treatment Centers in New Jersey.

Nearly 1 in 5 Americans struggle with mental illness and substance use disorder, yet many diagnosed with clinical-level conditions do not get treatment.

“I am proud of the team at the Blake Recovery Center for consistently delivering the best care to patients with substance use disorder,” said Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, chief executive officer of Hackensack Meridian Health. “In the spirit of Hackensack Meridian Health, the team at Blake brings world-class skills and deep compassion to the patients in their care, and support to their loved ones. At Blake, countless patients have learned coping skills, envisioned a better tomorrow for themselves, and attained a fulfilling quality of life.”

This is the fourth time Blake, which admitted 481 patients in 2023, has been No. 1 in the state since Newsweek published its inaugural list in 2020. (In 2022’s list, it was ranked No. 2 in New Jersey.)

“Addiction affects thousands of individuals in our state, as well as their families and communities,” said Kenneth Esser, Carrier Clinic’s Acting President and Chief Hospital Executive and Executive Vice President, Behavioral Health CTS for Hackensack Meridian Health. “It robs those in the throes of it of becoming their best selves–as a partner, an employee, a father, a mother, a son, a daughter, or a sibling. We’re proud that Newsweek again has recognized that the Blake Recovery Center stands above others in the addiction treatment industry in the state for the way they help hundreds each year understand this disease and begin the journey to recovery.”

“The team knows that truly effective treatment does not end with a patient’s discharge, but is made more impactful by offering them support and reassurance after they return home. The team also runs successful family support meetings twice a week. It’s that comprehensive, visionary dedication to helping those with substance use disorders that makes this recognition so well-deserved.”

Nearly 30 million people in the United States ages 12 and older had an alcohol use disorder, according to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. In addition, 24 million people were classified as having a drug use disorder, said the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Most did not receive any treatment.

“This incredible achievement is a testament to the tireless efforts of every single member of the Blake Recovery Center team and Carrier Clinic,” said Michele Scasserra, Blake’s Director of Substance Use Counseling Services. “From the compassionate counselors to the dedicated nurses and technicians, everyone plays a vital role in creating a haven of healing and hope for those struggling with addiction.”

“I can't help but feel a surge of immense pride knowing that Blake Recovery Center carries this prestigious title. It's a beacon of light, attracting patients and their families seeking the best possible care. The care they receive here is truly exceptional.”

“It takes great courage for a person to admit they cannot stop using alcohol and other drugs on their own,” said Rachel Wallace, Senior Director of Substance Use Counseling Services Blake Recovery Center/Retreat & Recovery At Ramapo Valley. “When they enter treatment, they deserve the best care in order to begin their healing journey. The continued recognition as the best addiction treatment program in NJ is a reflection of the commitment, compassion and best practices demonstrated by our entire team of dedicated professionals.”

Newsweek’s ranking system is based on a national online survey of more than 4,000 medical professionals in the addiction treatment field and data by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The system evaluated facilities based on SAMHSA accreditation data, survey responses by medical professionals and administrators and patient experience reflected in Google reviews.

“There is hope for Americans struggling with substance abuse disorders: 71 percent of adults who perceived that they have ever battled one identified as recovered or in recovery in 2022,” wrote Newsweek’s Global Editor in Chief Nancy Cooper in the introduction to the list. “Getting the right help is crucial. But there are more than 17,000 substance abuse facilities in the United States, according to data intelligence platform Statista. Finding the right one can be a challenge.”

“To help patients and their loved ones find the most suitable places to begin their recoveries, Newsweek partnered with Statista for the fifth edition of America's Best Addiction Treatment Centers.”