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Adam J. Sagot, D.O., FAPAChief Medical OfficerPreferred Behavioral Health Group February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. To avoid treating this month as simply a symbolic observance, we must use it as a reminder that relationship violence often begins early, frequently goes unrecognized, and carries lasting mental health consequences.  Data highlighted by the American Academy of Pediatrics show that approximately one in three adolescents in the United States experiences physical, emotional, or sexual abuse in a dating relationship. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry further emphasizes what we see each day in our work, that teen dating violence is associated with depression, anxiety, substance use, academic decline, and increased risk of future victimization. These are not isolated behavioral issues, but they are developmental and public health concerns.  If we are serious about prevention, we must adopt a trauma-informed approach. That begins with a mindset shift. Instead of asking what is wrong with a teen, we ask what may have happened to them. Irritability, secrecy, declining grades, social withdrawal, or risk-taking behaviors may represent coping responses to coercion, fear, or shame.  At PBHG, we approach every case with a trauma-informed lens.    A trauma-informed response prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment.  Current data recommends creating private, nonjudgmental space for adolescents to talk. Teens are unlikely to share about abuse if they anticipate punishment, disbelief, judgment or loss of autonomy. Simple statements such as, “I am glad you told me,” or “You do not deserve that,” reduce isolation, provide validation of emotional experience and reinforce dignity. Listening without immediately taking over the situation helps restore a sense of control that abuse often strips away.  Education is equally critical. We encourage direct conversations about consent, boundaries, respect, and digital behavior. Many teens normalize jealousy, constant texting to monitor whereabouts, password sharing, or pressure for sexual activity. These behaviors are often mislabeled as signs of closeness. They are not. They are warning signs.  The National Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health America both stress that emotional abuse is real abuse. Humiliation, threats of self-harm used as manipulation, isolation from friends, and persistent monitoring can be profoundly destabilizing. As adults, we must learn to recognize subtle shifts in mood, unexplained injuries, sudden loss of friendships, or a partner who insists on constant contact.  For parents, educators, and community members, prevention begins with modeling healthy relationships. Teens cannot do this alone; they need guidance and for their “village” to step-up and show-up.  Demonstrate conflict resolution without intimidation. Ask open ended questions, such as, “How do you handle disagreements?” Make sure teens know where to seek help, whether through school counselors, pediatricians, or crisis resources.  Connection is the strongest protective factor. Surveillance and control are not substitutes for trust. When adolescents feel respected, heard, and supported, they are more likely to identify unhealthy dynamics and seek help early.  Remember, the strongest predictor of happiness later in life is the quality of relationships in their life.  We must protect our teens and educate them on the risks of unhealthy or unsafe relationships.    Teen dating violence is preventable. Awareness is the first step. Informed, trauma sensitive engagement must follow. 

Adam J. Sagot, D.O., FAPAChief Medical OfficerPreferred Behavioral Health Group A teenager skips dinner and says they already ate. A college student trains for hours after consuming very little. A parent notices shrinking portions, oversized clothing, increasing irritability, and mounting anxiety around meals. These moments often appear subtle, but do not let them go unaddressed as they may represent the early stages of a psychiatric illness.  National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, observed in late February, calls attention to a group of serious mental health conditions that affect both adolescents and adults. The American Psychiatric Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry all recognize that these illnesses are common, complex, and potentially life threatening. NAMI and Mental Health America continue to emphasize that eating disorders carry among the highest mortality rates of any psychiatric condition, driven by both medical complications and suicide.  The term “eating disorder” does not describe one single problem. It encompasses a range of unhealthy relationships with food and body image. For some individuals, disordered eating often centers on severe restrictions and fear of weight gain. For others, it involves recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food followed by attempts to compensate, sometimes by forcing them to vomit. Some struggle primarily with binge eating without purging. Others avoid large categories of food because of fear, anxiety, or sensory sensitivity. Increasingly, we are also seeing unhealthy reliance on weight loss medications, including off label use of GLP 1 agonists, in ways that mask or reinforce disordered eating patterns.  These behaviors do not arise in a vacuum. Eating disorders often serve a psychological function. For some, controlling food intake becomes a way to exert control when other areas of life feel chaotic. For others, disordered eating may develop in the aftermath of trauma. In some cases, it is intertwined with depression, anxiety, obsessive thinking, or other medical and psychiatric conditions. Body image dissatisfaction, social comparison, and cultural pressures frequently amplify vulnerability. There is rarely a single cause. Biological predisposition, environmental stressors, and psychological coping patterns intersect.  Physical signs still matter. Rapid weight loss, failure to grow as expected, dizziness, cold intolerance, menstrual changes, and fatigue signal physiologic strain. In individuals who induce vomiting, clinicians may observe Russell’s sign, redness or callusing over the knuckles from repeated contact with the teeth. Dental enamel erosion, electrolyte disturbances, bradycardia, and cardiac rhythm abnormalities can develop silently. These are not cosmetic issues. They reflect systemic compromise.  Treatment works best when it is coordinated. Current recommendations support multidisciplinary care that integrates medical monitoring, psychiatric oversight, psychotherapy, and nutritional rehabilitation. For adolescents, family-based treatment has strong evidence and actively engages caregivers in restoring nutrition. Registered dietitians with eating disorder expertise are essential. Communication among providers is not optional, it is critical.  Nutritional restoration requires vigilance. Refeeding syndrome is a well-documented risk in malnourished patients. Rapid shifts in insulin and electrolytes, particularly phosphate, can precipitate cardiac and neurologic complications. Careful reintroduction, or titration, of caloric intake, frequent laboratory monitoring, and close clinical observation reduce risk. In medically unstable patients, inpatient or residential treatment may be necessary before outpatient therapy is safe.  Families should resist the urge to wait for clarity. Significant weight change, behavioral rigidity around food, or medical symptoms more than justify asking the question or seeking out a medical consultation. Early intervention improves outcomes and reduces chronicity.  Awareness week should sharpen our clinical lens and our sense of urgency. Eating disorders are complex, biologically influenced, and treatable illnesses. They demand coordinated care, sustained follow-through, and informed advocacy from the families and communities who recognize the warning signs first. 

Preferred Behavioral Health Group (PBHG) is proud to welcome Karen Campi to its Board of Trustees in 2026. Karen brings more than two decades of leadership in healthcare operations, community engagement, and mental health advocacy, along with a deep commitment to advancing whole-person care across New Jersey. For 25 years, Karen has been a driving force behind Campi Dental, a family-founded practice established in 1933. Her leadership has guided the practice’s continued growth through innovative digital marketing, strategic communications, event planning, and operational oversight. Equally important, she has prioritized team development and meaningful community partnerships, helping position Campi Dental as both a trusted healthcare provider and a respected community resource. Karen offers a uniquely valuable perspective to PBHG’s mission through her work at the intersection of oral health and mental health. She is a passionate advocate for equipping dental professionals to recognize early indicators of mental health challenges in adolescents, elevating dental practices as critical and often overlooked partners in youth suicide prevention. Her advocacy has helped expand the role of non-traditional healthcare settings in identifying and responding to emerging behavioral health needs. As a community leader, Karen spearheads Campi Dental’s Campi Cares initiatives, including the Sponsor a Student back-to-school supply drive, the Annual Candy Buy-Back Program benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, and Operation Sleigh Bells, which provides holiday gifts to children and teens in need. She also leads the practice’s internship and scholarship programs in partnership with organizations such as Monmouth County Habitat for Humanity, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County, Mary’s Place By the Sea, and Preferred Behavioral Health Group. These efforts earned Campi Dental the 2021 Jersey Shore Chamber Golden Osprey Award. Karen’s leadership and impact have been widely recognized. She is a recipient of the NJBIZ Leading Women in Business Award, the MODC Silver Gull Award, and the 2025 Preferred Impact Award, presented by PBHG in recognition of her compassion, advocacy, and commitment to addressing mental health challenges in real time. Through grassroots outreach, philanthropic leadership, and community mobilization, Karen exemplifies how healthcare organizations can serve as pillars of community wellness—an approach that closely aligns with PBHG’s values and strategic vision. Beyond Campi Dental, Karen serves as a Board Member, Executive Committee Secretary, and Vice Chair of Marketing for the Monmouth-Ocean Development Council; Director of Strategic Development on the Executive Board of WEforum; and Sponsorship Chair for SPTS’s Women of Wellness and Wonder Luncheon. A New Jersey native, she began her career in public relations at AT&T Wireless. Karen’s appointment to the PBHG Board of Trustees reinforces the organization’s commitment to innovative, community-centered approaches to behavioral health. PBHG looks forward to the insight, leadership, and strategic perspective she brings as the organization continues to expand access to equitable, high-quality behavioral health services across New Jersey.

Adam J. Sagot, D.O. FAPAChief Medical Officer As we settle into February, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the resolutions we set just one month ago. Whether your goal was to drink less, eat better, manage stress, or simply take better care of yourself, sustaining momentum can feel harder than starting. From a mental health perspective, consistency is less about perfection and more about building sustainable habits that support both body and mind. Set reasonable goals. Staying active is not just about hitting a number on a fitness tracker. It is about moving in ways that fit your life, reduce stress, and contribute to long-term health. Some of our worlds most successful athletes and entrepreneurs aim to improve just 1% per day. A great reminder that minor changes really do matter. A recent study in The Lancet suggests that “small and realistic increases in [physical activity] of 5 min/day might prevent up to 6 % of all deaths.”  This insight is so powerful because it reframes physical activity as something accessible, not intimidating. If five extra minutes of moderate effort can make a measurable difference in population health, imagine what happens when those minutes become habits that build week after week. Ask yourself, how can you make yourself 1% better today? The benefits of staying active extend well beyond mortality statistics. Regular movement supports cardiovascular health, helps regulate mood and anxiety, improves sleep quality, and strengthens metabolic function. It can be a low-cost, high-impact strategy for managing chronic conditions like hypertension or type 2 diabetes. Activity also plays a key role in cognitive health across the lifespan. Exercise stimulates the release of positive endorphins, reinforcing a sense of agency over your well-being. These changes can even enhance be a vehicle for social connection when done in group settings or with friends. It is important to acknowledge that maintaining a physical activity routine is not always easy. Common barriers include time constraints, competing responsibilities, physical discomfort or injury, lack of motivation, or simply not knowing where to begin. The strategy that works best is to start with what you can do. Perhaps that means an extra five-minute walk after lunch, a brief stretch break between meetings, or choosing stairs instead of elevators. Remember that small steps that add up and build confidence. If your February resolution feels like it is slipping, be kind to yourself and remember that consistency grows from tiny actions repeated over time. You don’t have to run marathons to reap the benefits of being active. Start where you are, honor the small gains, and let those early wins fuel your forward progress. With that mindset, staying active becomes a sustainable part of your life, not just a New Year’s goal. PBHG is available to every individual looking to improve their overall wellbeing, particularly their psychological and behavioral health.

Eatontown — Preferred Behavioral Health Group (PBHG), a leading nonprofit provider of mental health, recovery, and prevention services, today announced a slate of new leadership appointed to its Board of Trustees: Michael Kokes, who will serve as Board Chairman; Jennifer Godoski, who will serve as Board Vice Chair; and Board of Trustee members Catherine M. Cunningham, MD and Pamela A. Major.  Together, these trustees bring exceptional expertise in business leadership, behavioral health, community empowerment, and systemwide innovation to PBHG’s mission of improving the lives of individuals and families throughout New Jersey. “We are thrilled to welcome this new leadership team to our Board of Trustees,” said Dr. Tara Chalakani, CEO of Preferred Behavioral Health Group. “Each brings extraordinary talent, passion, and leadership that will help us advance our mission of delivering high-quality, compassionate behavioral health services. Their collective expertise will guide PBHG through its next chapter of growth and innovation.” Michael Kokes, Board Chairman A third-generation real estate developer, Michael Kokes is the founder and President of Kokes Properties, where he oversees strategic planning and daily operations. Prior to launching Kokes Properties, he served as Vice President of The Kokes Organization, managing multiple construction projects and leading the successful divestiture of the family assets. Mr. Kokes brings deep industry knowledge, operational acumen, and a long-standing commitment to community development. A current member of the Board of Trustees, Michael is replacing outgoing Chairman Randy Minniear. “PBHG plays a vital role in strengthening the mental health and well-being of our communities,” said Kokes. “I am honored to serve as Board Chairman and work alongside such dedicated professionals to support and expand the organization’s mission.” Jennifer Godoski, Board Vice Chair Jennifer Godoski currently serves as Director of Policy and Government Affairs for New Jersey Resources.  A respected leader in state government and public policy, Godoski previously served as Chief of Staff to the New Jersey Department of Transportation and worked for several Governors, members of Congress, and state legislators. A graduate of the College of New Jersey, Godoski’s service to the public and her community is extensive.  She serves as the Governance Chair of Crossroads of the American Revolution, as a trustee of NJSEED, and Co-Chair of the Monmouth County Chapter of Alliance for Action.  Jennifer is also a Board member of the Jersey Shore Partnership and serves as the Government Relations Committee Chair of the Monmouth Ocean Development Council. “I’m excited to serve as Vice Chair of Preferred Behavioral Health Group, an organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of so many New Jerseyans,” said Jennifer Godoski. “I look forward to working with PBHG as they continue to set the gold standard for behavioral services in Central Jersey and beyond.” Catherine M. Cunningham, MD, Board of Trustees Member Dr. Catherine M. Cunningham is the Vice President & Chief Medical Officer at Hackensack Meridian Health Carrier Clinic. A board-certified psychiatrist with specialized training in perinatal mental health, she completed her residency at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and serves as an Assistant Professor at the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. “I am proud to join the PBHG Board during such a pivotal time for behavioral health,” said Dr. Cunningham. “PBHG’s commitment to accessible, patient-centered care aligns closely with my own values, and I look forward to helping advance innovative solutions that meet the needs of individuals and families across New Jersey.” Pamela A. Major, Board of Trustees Member A coach, author, vision strategist, and playwright, Pamela A. Major has dedicated her career to building community capacity and empowering individuals. While working within the Monmouth County Human Services Division, through the Behavioral Health Division, she founded the Monmouth County Stigma Free Coalition and led efforts to increase awareness of mental health, domestic violence, and sexual assault. Ms. Major is a trained ACE Interface speaker and the author of I Am a Diamond and The Comfort for the Body and Soul. She holds master’s degrees in teaching and in human services counseling/life coaching. “PBHG’s work is transformative, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to an organization that uplifts, educates, and empowers,” said Major. “Together, I believe we can build stronger, more resilient communities and help individuals realize their full potential.” ABOUT PBHG Preferred Behavioral Health Group (PBHG) is at the forefront of behavioral healthcare in New Jersey, offering comprehensive services since 1978. Committed to fostering healing and hope, PBHG provides top-tier mental health, substance use, and prevention services with a focus on trauma-informed care and inclusivity. With a dedication to innovation and personalized care, PBHG empowers individuals, families, and communities to embrace well-being and attain optimal mental wellness. Explore PBHG’s transformative programs and services, grounded in trauma-informed care practices, at preferredbehavioral.org.

As Chief Medical Officer of Preferred Behavioral Health Group, I see Dry January as more than a New Year’s resolution or social media trend. For many people, it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and better understand how alcohol fits into their lives. From a behavioral health perspective, even a short period of abstinence can provide valuable insight you’re your mental health, stress management, and overall well-being. When approached without judgment, Dry January can be a practical and empowering step toward healthier decision-making around alcohol use. Clinically, the benefits of abstaining from alcohol—even for 30 days—are often noticeable, and quickly at that. Many individuals report better sleep and more consistent energy, which can significantly affect mood and focus. Others experience reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms once alcohol’s depressant effects are removed, or simply more overall mood stability in their day. Emotionally, people often find they are more patient, resilient, and better able to manage stress. Physical health improves as well, particularly liver function and metabolic balance. Perhaps most importantly, a month without alcohol can bring clarity—helping individuals recognize patterns of use and identify whether alcohol has become a primary coping strategy. That said, maintaining a Dry January commitment is not always easy. Common challenges include social pressure in settings where drinking is expected, using alcohol to manage stress or difficult emotions, and long-standing habits tied to daily routines. Some people struggle with the misconception that taking a break from alcohol means they “have a problem,” while others simply lack support or healthy alternatives during stressful moments. These barriers are common and understandable—and they highlight why education, coping skills, and access to behavioral health services matter.  Always remember, while it may not be easy, that it is ok to say “no.” When Dry January is approached with intention and self-compassion, it can be a meaningful reset rather than a rigid test of willpower. For some, it’s a wellness check-in; for others, it may be the first step toward longer-term change. At Preferred Behavioral Health Group, we encourage people to view this month through a behavioral health lens—one that prioritizes awareness, mental health support, and evidence-based substance abuse treatment when needed. Wherever you are in your journey, taking a pause can be a powerful place to begin.

Preferred Behavioral Health Group is proud to announce that Dr. Adam J. Sagot, D.O., FAPA, Chief Medical Officer, has been named one of the Top 10 Healthcare Executives Transforming USA 2025 by TradeFlock Magazine. This prestigious national honor recognizes visionary leaders who are advancing systems of care, driving innovation, and expanding access for the communities they serve. For Dr. Sagot, this award reflects not only exceptional professional achievement but a deeply rooted commitment to elevating mental health care.  A Leader Transforming Systems of Care Throughout his career, Dr. Sagot has focused on expanding access to high-quality psychiatric services, particularly for children, adolescents, and underserved populations. His leadership has helped Preferred Behavioral Health Group strengthen its clinical programs, enhance collaboration among providers, and build operational frameworks that support both patient well-being and clinician success. In his TradeFlock feature, Dr. Sagot discussed the urgency of addressing the nation’s growing mental health needs. He emphasized the importance of building systems where patients receive comprehensive, compassionate care—and where clinicians have the support necessary to thrive despite the complexities of today’s behavioral health landscape. This award is a meaningful acknowledgment of his impact in shaping those systems.  A Leadership Philosophy Rooted in Mentorship, Advocacy, and Integrity A significant part of Dr. Sagot’s success stems from the guidance he received early in his career. Mentorship helped him understand the responsibilities of leadership and the importance of advocating not just for patients, but for the clinical teams who care for them. These principles now guide how he leads: creating a culture where every clinician’s voice is valued, collaboration is encouraged, and compassionate care is the standard. In the interview, Dr. Sagot highlighted how vital it is to support clinicians through the emotional intensity of mental health work. He stressed that leadership means modeling self-care, recognizing signs of burnout, and building an environment where staff feel respected, prepared, and appreciated. His commitment to nurturing teams is central to his success—and to the success of the organization. Championing Innovation and the Future of Behavioral Health Dr. Sagot has long believed that the future of mental health care lies at the intersection of clinical excellence, modern technology, and equitable access. In the TradeFlock feature, he spoke about the transformative role of telehealth, which has allowed clinicians to reach families directly in their home environments and gather insights that traditional settings cannot always capture. He also discussed the growing impact of artificial intelligence and digital tools—innovations that are reshaping how mental health care is delivered. Dr. Sagot views technology not as a replacement for human connection, but as an enhancement of precision, efficiency, and patient-centered treatment. A Well-Deserved National Honor Being named one of the Top 10 Healthcare Executives Transforming USA 2025 is a significant recognition of Dr. Sagot’s leadership, integrity, and commitment to advancing the field of mental health. It honors his dedication to patient care, his advocacy for system-level improvements, and his vision for a future where mental health services are more accessible, innovative, and compassionate. Preferred Behavioral Health Group celebrates this achievement and the continued impact Dr. Sagot brings to the organization, the community, and the broader field of behavioral health.

We’re proud to share that Dr. Sagot was recently highlighted by LEADAFI, the leadership-focused publication dedicated to showcasing transformative figures in health, business, and public service — a strong testament to his impact on mental health care. (Leadafi) Being featured in LEADAFI isn’t just an honor — it underscores how Dr. Sagot’s career blends clinical expertise, executive leadership, advocacy, and innovation in ways that align perfectly with PBHG’s mission.  Why the LEADAFI Spotlight Matters  What This Means for PBHG and Our Community Having a leader recognized externally by a respected publication like LEADAFI signals to clients, families, stakeholders — and potential collaborators — that PBHG is led by someone whose vision, integrity, and expertise are acknowledged on a national stage. It reinforces our commitment to: Looking Ahead As Dr. Sagot continues to lead PBHG under the eyes of both our communities and national audiences like LEADAFI, we expect that spotlight to amplify — drawing attention to the vital work PBHG does, inspiring trust, and helping us build partnerships that enhance access, care quality, and advocacy.

Take A Big-Picture View Of Financial Resources A tight and uncertain economy is a good opportunity to take a look at all aspects of your financial resources. Is your bank giving you the best interest rates? Can you find a bank with less fees and better terms? Establishing a line of credit as a bridge for when cash flow is tight is also good to have in your back pocket. – Tara Chalakani, Preferred Behavioral Health Group In unpredictable financial times, stability is rooted in adaptability. At Preferred Behavioral Group, we’ve always believed in combining heart-centered care with strategic vision. Here’s what leaders in the nonprofit sector—including our own Dr. Tara Chalakani—recommend for building a diversified, resilient financial foundation. Dr. Tara Chalakani embodies this philosophy—combining “a for-profit brain with a nonprofit heart” to guide Preferred Behavioral Health Group through every financial challenge and opportunity. To read the original article and Dr. Tara’s feature, visit the Forbes website here.

In a recent segment on NJ Politics, Dr. Tara Chalakani, CEO of Preferred Behavioral Health Group, shed light on an issue that is quickly becoming a crisis for communities across New Jersey: the direct impact of federal and state budget cuts on vital social service programs. While discussions about the political climate can often feel distant or abstract, the reality is that legislative decisions are about to hit home for many of our neighbors. Dr. Tara explained that looming budget reductions will significantly affect school-based prevention and intervention services and therapeutic programs for individuals with state insurance benefits. These programs are more than line items in a budget — they are lifelines for children, families, and individuals who depend on consistent, quality support. The challenge ahead is clear: as government funding shrinks, community organizations like ours will face unprecedented pressure to maintain essential services. Without alternative sources of support, many of these programs risk being scaled back or disappearing entirely. Even in the face of these challenges, there is reason for optimism. Dr. Tara believes that the strength of our community lies in its people; neighbors who care for one another and step forward in times of need. By giving of our time, talent, and resources, we can work together to ensure these vital programs remain available for those who depend on them most. Every act of generosity, no matter the size, makes a difference. Whether it’s a donation, volunteering, sharing information, or advocating for support, your involvement helps keep our community strong and resilient. Now is the time to act. Because when the future of essential services is uncertain, our shared commitment can keep them strong.