Meet

The

Team

Ruben Abreu

Chairman

Ruben Abreu is the Chairman of CURA, Inc., a leading organization dedicated to the treatment and recovery of individuals affected by substance use disorders. With over 30 years of experience in addiction counseling and behavioral health, Ruben brings visionary leadership, deep clinical knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to serving communities in need.

He has held senior roles across New Jersey’s healthcare system, including 24 years as Program Coordinator of the Evergreen Treatment Center at Bergen Regional Medical Center. His background also includes clinical positions at Beth Israel Hospital, St. Michael’s Medical Center, and counseling work with the New Jersey National Guard.

Ruben holds degrees in counseling and chemical dependency and is certified as a Master Addiction Counselor by NAADAC, as well as by the State of New Jersey and national credentialing boards. His professional affiliations include the American Counselor Association, National Association of Alcohol & Drug Addiction Counselors, and the International Association of Addiction and Offender Counselors.

As Chairman of CURA, Inc., Ruben continues to lead with a strong focus on culturally competent care, evidence-based practices, and lasting recovery for the individuals and families the organization serves.

Miguel Mateo

President & CEO

Miguel is a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC #37LC00141600) and a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) with extensive experience in the substance use disorder field, particularly within Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs), also known as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).

Throughout his career, he has been at the forefront of addressing the opioid use disorder crisis, working extensively in Newark, NJ—one of the hardest-hit areas in the nation. This vital work has allowed him to support individuals struggling with alcohol and substance use disorders and the many complex challenges that come with them. He is deeply committed to providing culturally competent care and has worked with clients from diverse cultural, linguistic, and religious backgrounds across multiple treatment modalities.

His leadership journey includes serving as Executive Director at American Habitare & Counseling, Inc. (AHC), one of the largest methadone clinics in Northern New Jersey. He previously held the same role at Sunrise Clinical Services, Inc. (SCS). In these positions, he has overseen both medical and counseling departments, ensuring effective, comprehensive services and the successful supervision of multidisciplinary teams. Under his guidance, AHC recently achieved a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)—the highest level possible—demonstrating his unwavering commitment to quality care and operational excellence.

Passionate, dedicated, and driven by the belief that recovery is possible for everyone, Miguel continues to make a meaningful impact in the fight against substance use disorders, helping individuals and families reclaim their lives and build healthier futures.

Irma Gonzalez

Deputy Director

Irma Gonzalez has been a dedicated member of the CURA, Inc. family for over 30 years. She believes that serving others—no matter the role—is a privilege that deserves one’s full commitment and effort.

Irma continues to live by the belief that nothing is impossible when you put your faith into action and lead by example.

One of her guiding principles comes from the book "Strength Based Leadership":
"Leaders stay true to who they are—and then make sure they have the right people around them."