Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-Assisted Treatment is the use of certain medications to treat opioid dependency and substance addiction. We offer several different FDA-approved medications to relieve withdrawal symptoms and psychological cravings that cause chemical imbalances. Counselors, providers, and nurse practitioners work together to provide evidence-based individual treatment options that allow for more focus on recovery.
- Alcohol
- Codeine
- Fentanyl
- Heroin
- Hydrocodone
- Hydromorphone
- Morphine
- Oxycodone
- Opium
- Tobacco
Medication-Assisted Treatment FAQs
What is medication-assisted treatment?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is not a standalone treatment. It combines medications with behavioral therapy, psychosocial supports, and other wraparound services, leading to the best outcomes. MAT provides a “whole-patient” approach to treat addiction to opioids such as heroin or prescription pain relievers. MAT can also be used to support treatment for alcohol use disorders.
What types of addiction/disorder does it treat?
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) - By helping normalize brain chemistry, blocking the euphoric effects of opioids, and relieving physical cravings, without the negative effects of the drug.
Alcohol Use Disorder - By blocking the euphoric effects of alcohol intoxication. The goal of the specific medication is to help individuals disassociate alcohol from pleasurable feelings and experiences. Ultimately, this interaction encourages the individual to maintain his/her commitment to recovery.
What medications are used for alcohol treatment?
Medications include Acamprosate, Naltrexone, Disulfiram, and Gabapentin
What medications are used for opioid treatment?
Options include Buprenorphine, Naloxone, and Naltrexone
How long does MAT treatment take?
MAT treatment is individualized for each client.
Does a person with the addiction just need to take the prescribed medication?
No - Medication is one tool in the recovery toolbox. Clients will receive behavioral therapies and psychosocial support.
Are you just replacing one drug with another?
No, non-prescription medications are replaced by prescribed and appropriately dosed FDA-approved medication.
Are these medications safe?
Yes, all medications are FDA approved and prescribed by trained and licensed providers.
Can I use insurance?
Most insurances do cover MAT.
What is the process to become a MAT client?
- Clients will complete a substance abuse intake with an assigned Substance Abuse Counselor.
- The Substance Abuse Counselor will establish a level of care and make a referral to a Medication Manager.
- The Medication Manager will assess the client and advise the client regarding treatment options, induction timing, precipitated withdrawal, and the role of therapy in treatment.
- The client will sign a treatment agreement and be willing to follow all treatment recommendations, all follow-up appointments are critical to the long-term success of recovery.