The Sharing the Hope Family Support Center is dedicated to providing free support for family members who have a loved one with a substance use disorder.
Family members may be referred by an outside entity or may self-refer. To get connected to support, please contact Amy Hicks at ahicks@njprevent.com or contact the appropriate advocate as listed below.
- No barriers; family support advocates are available via phone, text, email or Zoom
- One-on-one and weekly virtual support groups
- Quarterly virtual Naloxone trainings
- 100% confidential
NEVER GIVE UP HOPE. HELP IS A PHONE CALL AWAY…
If you are a family member who has a loved one with substance use disorder, we are here for you. Our family support center advocates have lived experience and understand the heartache, confusion, anger and fear.
We offer resources to families seeking information on substance use disorders and treatment. Resources include assessing information and navigating the confusing behavioral health system. We promote tools of self-care to cope with the negative emotions and address feelings of isolation.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN WHEN I CALL?
An appointment, convenient to you, will be made to discuss your situation regarding your family member. The advocate will assess your situation, and recommend a plan of action.
Remember, all calls and conversations are strictly confidential. Day and evening hours are available. Call the advocate below based on the county where you live.
Services:
- Provides peer services to family and other loved ones supporting individuals in active use or recovery.
- Family support advocates available via phone, text, email. and video call – no barriers!
- One-on-one and weekly virtual support groups
- Naloxone (Narcan) trainings and free kits!
- Self-care events
- Utilizes the CRAFT model (Community Reinforcement and Family Training)
Meet the Team!
Cieran Carthy
Family Support Manager
Family Support Advocate for Union County and Middlesex County
Email: ccarthy@njprevent.com
Call: 908-484-6437
Renee Consalazio
Harm Reduction Advocate &
Family Support Advocate
Hunterdon County
Email: rconsalazio@njprevent.com
Call: 908-540-0131
Pam Bianco, CPRS
Family Support Advocate for Somerset County
Email: pbianco@njprevent.com
Call: (908) 842-0176
Deidre Krok, CPRS
Family Support Advocate for Monmouth County
Email: dkrok@njprevent.com
Call: (908) 546-6327
Marlene Alvarado
Family Support Advocate for Mercer County (Habla español)
Email: malvarado@njprevent.com
Call: 908-315-3814
Frequently Asked Questions
We utilize the CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) method which is an evidence-based model with three specific goals. Reducing the loved ones’ substance use, influencing the person to seek treatment and improving the functioning of the family members by making positive life changes.
Family members or caregivers who have a loved one with a substance use disorder.
The services are free and available as long as needed. This could be simply a phone call or ongoing supportive help.
CRAFT teaches family members how to care for themselves and in turn they may be able to help their loved one. Research studies have shown that family members benefit by reducing their depression, anxiety, anger and physical symptoms.
