About Us
About Valley Spring Recovery Center
Family-owned outpatient mental health, substance use disorder, and psychiatric medication management services in Norwood, New Jersey. Serving adults 18+ across Bergen County and the tri-state area.
Our Story
Founded on Local Recovery
Valley Spring Recovery Center was founded on August 17, 2020, by Brian Cellary, an Allendale, New Jersey native with more than a decade of personal recovery and more than a decade of professional experience in substance use disorder treatment. The organization was originally launched under the name Psyclarity Health NJ and was later renamed Valley Spring Recovery Center to reflect the restorative, growth-oriented nature of the work delivered at the facility.
From the outset, the organization was built around a single conviction: that recovery happens best when people stay connected to their community, their families, and their purpose. Valley Spring developed its treatment model around individualized clinical care, evidence-based therapy, and a whole-person approach that integrates mental health, substance use, and psychiatric medication management under one outpatient roof.
Today, Valley Spring operates as an intimate, community-anchored outpatient facility distinguished by its 8:1 maximum staff-to-patient ratio, evening Intensive Outpatient programming designed for working professionals, and neuroscience-informed Health and Wellness curriculum built on five clinical pillars.
Licenses & Accreditations
Local Recovery That Saves Lives
Valley Spring Recovery Center stands as more than a treatment facility, the organization functions as a cornerstone of the tri-state recovery ecosystem. Each year, Valley Spring raises funds to support recovery organizations, including Run for Recovery, Alumni in Recovery, and the Black Poster Project.
Valley Spring serves as the recurring partner for the New York Yankees Mental Health Awareness Night, helping bring conversations about mental health, substance use disorder, and recovery into one of the largest public platforms in the region.
Unlike national treatment centers that fly clients in from across the country, Valley Spring focuses exclusively on serving its local communities throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Union, and Somerset counties in New Jersey, and Rockland, Westchester, and Putnam counties in New York.
What Drives Us
Our Core Values
Six values that guide clinical decision-making, staff conduct, and daily patient experience across every level of care.
01
Integrity First
Valley Spring does the right thing regardless of convenience or cost. Clinical recommendations are based on what the patient needs, not on what is easiest to bill, fastest to discharge, or most profitable to deliver.
02
Relentless Work Ethic
The Valley Spring team works to make patients' lives measurably better. The expectation is consistent effort, ongoing clinical refinement, and a commitment to outcomes over output.
03
Service Over Self
Clinicians, case managers, medical providers, and program coordinators at Valley Spring serve each other and patients with humility. Program Coordinators are trained to engage patients as people first, before paperwork.
04
Respect Always
Every patient and every family member is treated with dignity. Every perspective is valued. Valley Spring's intimate scale is designed specifically to make respect a structural feature of treatment.
05
Purpose-Driven Excellence
Valley Spring works with intention and holds itself to a high clinical standard. CARF accreditation, dual New Jersey state licensure, and recognition as the #1 treatment center in Best of NJ reflect that standard.
06
Team Above Ego
Collaboration and unity guide Valley Spring's clinical success. The Wednesday treatment team meeting model builds team-based decision-making rather than individual provider preference.
Clinical Team
Our Team
Valley Spring Recovery Center employs a multidisciplinary clinical team combining licensed therapists, psychiatric medical providers, case managers, program coordinators, and recovery support specialists. The clinical staff includes Licensed Clinical Social Workers, master-level therapists, and counselors with specialized training in addiction, dual diagnosis, trauma, and mental health treatment.
Medical oversight is provided by Dr. Michael Olla, who serves as Valley Spring’s Medical Director, alongside a team of psychiatric medical providers, including psychiatric nurse practitioners delivering on-site medication management.
Many Valley Spring team members combine professional clinical credentials with personal recovery experience, creating a treatment environment characterized by clinical excellence and an authentic, lived experience understanding of the recovery journey.
8:1 Staff Ratio
Maximum staff-to-patient ratio
CARF Accredited
Gold standard for behavioral health
NJ State Licensed
SUD + Mental Health licenses
Dual Experience
Clinical + personal recovery backgrounds
Leadership & Clinicians
Meet the Valley Spring Team
Brian Cellary, CEO
Chief Executive Officer
Brian Cellary founded Valley Spring Recovery Center in Norwood, Bergen County, New Jersey, bringing over 14 years of personal recovery experience to his leadership role. He previously held executive positions at multiple treatment centers focusing on market development, payor relations, and program development. Cellary serves as a board member of Alumni in Recovery and was honored as 'Businessman of the Year' by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), presented by New York State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins. He speaks at local high schools sharing his recovery story and operates from a patient-first philosophy, collaborating with clinical and medical teams to develop comprehensive treatment programs. His mission extends beyond addressing addiction, aiming to help clients succeed across family, work, and educational domains.
Dr. Michael Olla, MD
Medical Director
Dr. Michael Olla serves as Medical Director at Valley Spring Recovery Center, overseeing clinical operations and patient care standards. He specializes in substance use disorder treatment and maintains licensure in both New York and New Jersey. Dr. Olla earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Miami and his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine (2011). His professional approach emphasizes holistic healing and evidence-based treatment methodologies for mental health and substance use conditions. Beyond direct patient care, Dr. Olla contributes to the organization's editorial oversight and participates in research within the addiction medicine field. His leadership focuses on integrative care and compassionate treatment approaches for individuals pursuing recovery.
Michael O'Sullivan, COO
Chief Operations Officer
Michael O'Sullivan brings extensive experience in healthcare marketing, business development, and strategy to his role overseeing Valley Spring's financial and operational functions. Previously serving as Chief Marketing Officer, he contributed to the organization's growth as a leading substance use and mental health outpatient provider. A Forbes Business Council member, Michael brings strategic insight to the evolving healthcare landscape, with particular focus on making addiction treatment costs accessible and transparent. His background includes expertise in crafting personalized treatment approaches and nurturing a culture of accountability and support. He describes his work as his life's mission, stating, 'It's my life's mission, because I wouldn't have the life I do today if someone hadn't done it for me.'
Noelle Mathew, LCSW, LCADC, CASAC-M
Clinical Director
As Clinical Director at Valley Spring Recovery Center, Noelle Mathew oversees the Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health programs, bringing 10 years of experience across multiple levels of care. She holds a Master of Social Work and a Bachelor of Social Work from Ramapo College of New Jersey, with a minor in Substance Use Disorders, and an Associate of Science from Bergen Community College. Noelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor – Master Level (CASAC-M), and is also a Certified School Social Worker in New Jersey. Noelle works primarily with adults navigating mental health concerns and substance use disorders, including co-occurring conditions, with additional experience supporting adolescents, individuals with eating disorders, families, and first responders. Her practice is grounded in trauma-informed, person-centered, and strengths-based care, drawing on CBT, DBT-informed interventions, ACT, motivational interviewing, and trauma-focused approaches that she tailors to each client's needs, goals, and readiness for change. Noelle is driven by a deep belief in her clients' resilience and considers it a privilege to support people through some of the most vulnerable, transformative moments of their lives. Outside of work, she recharges with family time, reading, and creative projects with her kids.
Caitlin Dow, LAC, LCADC
Clinical Manager of SUD & Mental Health
Caitlin Dow is a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with 6 years of experience in behavioral health and addiction treatment. She currently serves as the Clinical Manager of Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Services at Valley Spring Recovery Center, overseeing Partial Care and Intensive Outpatient Programming for both SUD and mental health populations. Caitlin has worked across multiple levels of care, including methadone maintenance, detoxification, residential, and outpatient treatment. Her professional journey — from behavioral technician and case manager to counselor — reflects her dedication to supporting clients through every stage of recovery. She works primarily with adults, families, veterans, and first responders, providing compassionate and individualized care that supports long-term recovery and emotional wellness. Her clinical philosophy is rooted in trauma-focused and person-centered care. Caitlin believes in meeting clients where they are and creating a therapeutic environment grounded in empathy, accountability, collaboration, and respect. She incorporates trauma-informed approaches, including principles from Seeking Safety, while helping clients explore and heal childhood wounds and better understand the connection between trauma, substance use, and mental health. Caitlin recognizes that recovery is not one-size-fits-all and tailors her approach to each individual's unique experiences, strengths, challenges, and goals. Caitlin earned her Master's Degree in Counseling with an Addictions Concentration from Montclair State University and completed her undergraduate studies at Ramapo College of New Jersey. She is motivated by the opportunity to help individuals rediscover hope, build resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives. Outside of work, she recharges by going for walks with her dog, spending time with loved ones, and maintaining balance through personal wellness practices.
Stephen LaTourette, Pharm.D., RPh, CADC Intern
Primary Therapist & Health and Wellness Leader
Stephen LaTourette serves as Primary Therapist and Health and Wellness Leader in Valley Spring Recovery Center's PHP program, bringing 4 years of experience in behavioral health alongside an extensive clinical and pharmacy background. He holds a Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Rhode Island and is a licensed pharmacist (RPh), Certified Personal Trainer, and CADC Intern completing certification through County College of Morris. His additional credentials include Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers, CPR/AED, APhA Medication Therapy Management, and Certified Pharmacist Immunizer status. Stephen works with adults and families, grounding his practice in a holistic, person-centered philosophy. He meets clients where they are and works collaboratively with them to build sustainable, healthy routines alongside their clinical treatment. Stephen is motivated by helping people create lives they can truly flourish in. Outside of work, he stays grounded through his involvement in AA, his church and community, and regular exercise, including boxing.
James Sands, B.S.
Vice President of Business Development
James 'Jimmy' Sands serves as Vice President of Business Development at Valley Spring Recovery Center, bringing 10 years of experience in behavioral health and addiction treatment to the organization's outreach and business generation efforts. He holds a Bachelor of Science, with studies at St. John's University and SUNY Empire State College, and is working toward his CASAC-T (Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor – Trainee) credential. Jimmy believes every individual deserves compassionate, evidence-based care and the opportunity to achieve lasting recovery and mental wellness. Working primarily with adults, he takes the time to understand each person's unique needs and goals, ensuring they're connected with the most appropriate treatment and support services available. Jimmy is motivated by helping people access life-changing treatment and recovery support. Outside of work, he recharges with family time, staying active, and enjoying the outdoors.
Cameron Kennedy
Director of Operations
Cam Kennedy serves as Director of Operations, overseeing Operations and Health and Wellness at Valley Spring Recovery Center, with 2 years of experience in the field. Cam holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, having studied at the University of Delaware, William Paterson University, and Capella University. Cam also holds a Certification in Personal Training. Cam believes in going the extra mile for every client, a commitment that sets Valley Spring apart and reflects how much the team cares about each person who walks through its doors. Cam's approach centers on meeting clients where they are and serving as a resource not only for treatment-related needs, but for the everyday circumstances that come with life in recovery. Cam is motivated by knowing the work makes a real difference in clients' lives, calling it an incredibly rewarding field. Outside of work, Cam recharges through working out, hiking, trips to the beach, gardening, and time with friends and family.
Our Programs
Our Outpatient Treatment Programs
Four progressive levels under the RAAT model. Step up or step down without changing facilities or rebuilding rapport with new providers.
Clinical Approach
Our Approach to Treatment
Valley Spring delivers integrated outpatient treatment through evidence-based therapeutic modalities, neuroscience-informed wellness programming, dual diagnosis psychiatric care, and the four-stage RAAT progressive treatment model.
The clinical team employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address maladaptive thought patterns and behavioral responses. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provides emotional regulation skills and distress tolerance techniques. EMDR therapy, delivered by licensed clinical social workers, addresses underlying trauma contributing to substance use and mental health symptoms. Motivational Interviewing fosters intrinsic motivation for behavioral change through collaborative, client-centered dialogue.
Psychiatric medication management is delivered on-site by Medical Director Dr. Michael Olla and psychiatric nurse practitioners. Available medications include Suboxone, Vivitrol, Brixadi, Naltrexone, Topamax, and the full buprenorphine range for substance use disorders, along with antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and anxiety treatments for co-occurring mental health conditions.
Why Choose Us
Why Choose Valley Spring Recovery Center?
Valley Spring holds CARF accreditation, dual New Jersey state licenses (SUD #200887 and MH #70420104), an A+ BBB rating, and was recognized as the #1 treatment center in Best of New Jersey. The clinical team is led by Medical Director Dr. Michael Olla and includes licensed therapists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, case managers, and recovery support specialists, many combining professional credentials with personal recovery experience.
The 8:1 maximum staff-to-patient ratio and the cap of 10 patients in morning process groups are deliberate clinical commitments that preserve treatment depth. Weekly Wednesday treatment team meetings match each patient to the therapist best aligned with their clinical presentation. A comprehensive case management assessment within 72 hours of admission resolves outside stressors, workplace, legal, housing, so patients can focus exclusively on treatment.
Valley Spring is one of fewer than ten facilities in New Jersey with a credentialed sleep specialist on staff, addressing what the clinical team identifies as the primary driver of stress, anxiety, and post-acute withdrawal in early recovery. The organization integrates holistic wellness practices including yoga, Reiki, sound baths, ice baths, mindfulness, and nutrition alongside traditional evidence-based therapy.
CARF Accredited
Gold standard for behavioral health quality
Sleep Specialist on Staff
One of fewer than 10 NJ facilities with this credential
Holistic Wellness Integration
Yoga, Reiki, sound baths, ice baths, mindfulness, nutrition
Wednesday Team Meetings
Full clinical team matches patients to best-fit therapist weekly
72-Hr Case Management
FMLA, disability, legal, and housing resolved from day one
Family for Life, Thrive
Monthly alumni meetings, quarterly outings, lifelong community
People Who Recovered
What Bergen County, NJ Says About Valley Spring Recovery
“It cannot be more clear the profound impact that Sean has made in my recovery journey. Finding someone who can balance the weight of recovery with genuine humor is rare, and he embodies that perfectly.”
Daisy McCloud
“Valley Spring Recovery Center truly changed my little brother Jordan's life. From the moment he entered the program, he was treated with respect, care, and real compassion. The staff went above and beyond to support him, not just in his recovery, but in every aspect of his life.”
Deshaya Williams
“Valley Spring Recovery Center saved my son's life. The staff is amazing. I'm so grateful for the exceptional care he received. The support and encouragement by the staff and the rest of the Valley Spring Community is so meaningful.”
Lana Roeser
“Valley Spring Recovery Center is absolutely exceptional. Brian and Mike have created a truly beautiful establishment, both in appearance and in spirit. The clinical setting is world class, blending professionalism with genuine compassion.”
Christopher Ferry
“Everyone treated me like family, I felt like I was born into this family. The welcoming I received was incredible. Valley Spring changed my life in ways I never thought possible.”
Tr3 Weee
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Location
How to Find Valley Spring Recovery Center in Norwood, NJ
Valley Spring Recovery Center is located at 830 Broadway, Norwood, NJ 07648 in Bergen County, 20 minutes from the George Washington Bridge via the Palisades Parkway, accessible from the Garden State Parkway and the New York State Thruway. On-site private parking is available.
The facility serves clients throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Union, and Somerset counties in New Jersey, and Rockland, Westchester, and Putnam counties in New York, designed for community-anchored access, not destination treatment.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Valley Spring Recovery Center
What insurance plans does Valley Spring Recovery Center accept?+
Valley Spring is in-network with 17 major insurance contracts, including Horizon Blue Cross, NYSHIP, Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, AmeriHealth, Oscar, Meritain, Fidelis, United Healthcare, UMR, Tricare, ComPsych, Highmark, and Magellan. The admissions team handles insurance verification during pre-admission, determining coverage details and financial responsibility. Most clients pay only their copay, coinsurance, or deductible. Flexible payment options and financing are available for uninsured clients.
Does Valley Spring Recovery Center provide detoxification services?+
Valley Spring does not offer outpatient detoxification or methadone services. For patients requiring detox, the admissions team coordinates referral to an appropriate inpatient detox partner and then re-engages clients at the Partial Care level. Valley Spring does offer comprehensive Medication-Assisted Treatment for opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder, including Suboxone, Vivitrol, Brixadi, Naltrexone, Topamax, and the full range of buprenorphine formulations, delivered on-site by the psychiatric medical team led by Medical Director Dr. Michael Olla.
What should I bring to treatment at Valley Spring Recovery Center?+
Valley Spring is an outpatient program, patients return home each day. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, your insurance card, a list of current medications (or the medications in original pharmacy bottles for review by the medical team), and comfortable clothing for therapy and Health & Wellness programming. Cellphones and laptops are permitted during Partial Care. A short two-week blackout period applies only to patients living in partner sober living during Partial Care.
Can family members visit during treatment?+
Valley Spring emphasizes family involvement throughout treatment as a core clinical component. Family therapy is available with client consent at weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly frequency. Valley Spring also delivers the Family Program, a free, six-month, six-session program open to families of all Valley Spring patients and to the public, covering the disease model, Narcan training, CRAFT-informed boundaries, codependency, relapse prevention, and family wellness planning.
How long does treatment last at Valley Spring Recovery Center?+
Treatment duration varies based on individual clinical needs, progress, and insurance authorization. Partial Care averages 4–6 weeks. The Intensive Outpatient Program averages 6–8 weeks at 3 or 5 evenings per week. The Virtual IOP runs 8–12 weeks. Outpatient runs 1–2 nights per week ongoing. The Thrive alumni program runs indefinitely as a lifelong recovery community. Advancement between RAAT stages is based on measurable clinical progress and readiness, not arbitrary timelines.
What is a typical day like at Valley Spring Recovery Center?+
Partial Care clients attend Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM–3:00 PM: morning process groups capped at 10 patients, a psychoeducational group, catered lunch, the Health & Wellness pillar group, and an elective group. IOP clients attend 6:00 PM–9:00 PM Monday–Friday with process groups, psychoeducation, Health & Wellness programming, and Life Skills curriculum. All levels integrate CBT, DBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care. Programming also incorporates holistic practices including yoga, Reiki, sound baths, ice baths, mindfulness, and nutrition.
What makes Valley Spring Recovery Center different from other treatment facilities?+
Valley Spring is a family-owned, community-anchored outpatient facility with the four-stage RAAT model, an 8:1 maximum staff-to-patient ratio, morning groups capped at 10, evening IOP for working professionals, a neuroscience-informed Health & Wellness curriculum, and a credentialed sleep specialist on staff, one of fewer than 10 NJ facilities with this resource. CARF accredited, dual NJ state licensed (SUD #200887 and MH #70420104), BBB A+, and recognized as the #1 treatment center in Best of New Jersey. Unlike national centers, Valley Spring focuses exclusively on its local communities across Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Union, and Somerset counties in NJ.
How do I start the admissions process?+
The admissions process begins with a confidential call to Valley Spring's 24/7 admissions line at (855) 924-5320 or an online inquiry. Admissions specialists conduct an initial screening covering substance use patterns, mental health history, insurance coverage, and clinical history. Insurance verification is handled during pre-admission. The clinical team approves appropriateness within approximately one hour. Upon approval, the admissions team calls back within 24 hours to schedule intake, with same-day and next-day intake available. On the first day, clients complete orientation, intake paperwork, urine drug screening, and a one-hour biopsychosocial assessment.
Reach Out to Valley Spring
Our admissions team is available 24/7. Call (855) 924-5320 to speak with someone now. Same-day intake when criteria are met.
HIPAA compliant · Confidential · No obligation