Former Northern Highlands Quarterback Honored as Businessman of the Year by New York Senator for His Work in Addiction Recovery

Brian Cellary recognized by Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins for his dedication to community and transformative work in the recovery field.

Bergen County, NJ—Brian Cellary, a Bergen County native and former quarterback and captain of the Northern Highlands High School football team, has been honored as the NCADD (National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence) Businessman of the Year by New York Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins. This prestigious award highlights Cellary’s unwavering commitment to his community and his impactful work in the field of addiction recovery.

Cellary's personal journey is one of resilience and transformation. After a football injury during his freshman year of college, he became addicted to opioids—a struggle that many young athletes face in the wake of sports-related injuries. Now, with over a decade of sobriety and experience under his belt, Cellary has returned to Bergen County to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar challenges.

“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized by Senator Stewart-Cousins and the NCADD,” said Cellary in a recent interview. “I’ve been there—hopeless and without a real direction to turn. Too many of my friends have passed away. My goal has always been to create a safe haven for individuals struggling with substance use disorders, and this recognition reinforces the importance of the work we’re doing.”

Cellary is the founder of Valley Spring Recovery Center, a facility that has quickly become a beacon of hope for many. The center combines evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapies, addiction medicine, and peer support with personalized and innovative programs, including unique music therapy and experiential activities.

Valley Spring Recovery Center boasts a world-class team of professionals, including Medical Director Dr. Michael Olla, a leading addiction psychiatrist, and Clinical Director Rick Moses, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, ACS. Rick Moses is a dually-licensed therapist specializing in addiction, co-occurring disorders, and various mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and self-esteem issues.

“We’ve made a consistent effort to contract with all major insurance providers to make treatment affordable, accessible, and cost-effective,” Cellary noted. “We will continue to expand access to care in New Jersey through initiatives like telehealth services which have been extremely well received.”

The impact of Valley Spring Recovery Center is reflected in their testimonals, Frank L., a former, shared: “I personally had an amazing experience at Valley Spring Recovery Center. Every staff member I met seemed like a friend with vast amounts of advice and knowledge to help me in my treatment process. Very upscale inpatient building making for comfortable groups every day. Would give 10 stars if I could.”

Another reviewer Ian M, stated: “This place has given me the opportunity to take my life back from the dreaded substances I was misusing. They gave me the tools and knowledge on how to deal with the problems I was facing. I was able to put the work in and turn things around for the better. I can’t thank the team here enough.”

Recently Under Cellary’s leadership, the center was granted a provisional mental health license, allowing it to treat expand into treating adolescents and individuals with primary mental health diagnoses. Cellary plans to open ten additional locations throughout Northern New Jersey, Rockland County, and Westchester, further extending the reach of their transformative programs.

Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins praised Cellary’s contributions during the award ceremony: “Brian’s dedication to helping others overcome addiction is truly inspiring. His personal journey and professional accomplishments serve as a powerful example of how one person can make a significant difference in the lives of many.”

About Valley Spring Recovery Center

Valley Spring Recovery Center is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for individuals struggling with substance use disorders and mental health challenges. Through a combination of evidence-based therapies and personalized programs, the center strives to empower patients on their journey to recovery. Valley Spring Recovery Center is licensed by the state of New Jersey and is accredited through CARF.

Company Name
Valley Spring Recovery
830 Broadway Norwood, New Jersey, 07648. United States
201-781-8812

https://valleyspringrecovery.com/
Media Contact
Michael O’sullivan
[email protected]