LAKEWOOD – While Ocean County continues to combat a rising opioid epidemic, a new facility is expected to open its doors nearby that could help fight the problem.
Ocean County residents can expect to see Turning Point, a drug and alcohol treatment facility, open up shop in Lakewood soon, adjacent to the RWJ Barnabas Monmouth Medical Southern Campus.
Turning Point is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that aims to assist “patients cope with drug and alcohol addictions, and we also work to help them develop the necessary tools and coping mechanisms required to manage the difficulties and daily challenges of life,” according to their website.
The organization already has locations in Passaic, Essex, and Hunterdon Counties. Turning Point’s new location in Ocean County will be especially beneficial, as Ocean County has been ranked second in the state for the highest number of drug overdoses, according to the New Jersey Coordinator for Addiction Responses and Enforcement Strategies.
“Turning Point chose to bring its successful Intensive Outpatient/ Outpatient program to Ocean County because there is a dire need there,” explained Robert Detore, Turning Point CEO. “Turning Point offers a full continuum of care, our professionals have years of experience working with those combating drug and alcohol addictions.”
Ocean County saw 7,244 substance abuse admissions in 2016, joining the ranks of Monmouth County among the highest in substance abuse across the state, according to to the New Jersey Department of Human Services.
“Given the large number of Ocean County residents who utilize Turning Point’s detox and short-term residential services, having an outpatient facility in Ocean County will allow those individuals to seamlessly transition through the continuum of care,” stated Lindsay Dunnells, LCSW, LCADC, director of outpatient services. “We look forward to working in collaboration with key stakeholders in the community to ensure we provide innovative and integrated services for our clients throughout their recovery journey. Together, we can help mitigate the addiction crisis in our community.”
For more information, visit Turning Point’s website at TurningPointNJ.org.
