Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an individualized approach to treating substance use disorders that utilizes a combination of counseling, behavior therapy, and FDA-approved medications. This combination of interventions helps address the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects of addiction that can be triggering. MAT is mainly used to help treat opioid addiction but can be effective for alcohol addiction as well.
While withdrawal from opioids is often very uncomfortable, withdrawal from alcohol can be pretty severe. The best outcomes for any detox will be from those that are medically supervised. The fear of withdrawal symptoms during detox is often a barrier to seeking treatment. Medication-assisted treatment can make the detox process much more comfortable. To learn more about the benefits of MAT, contact Westwind Recovery® at 855.340.8832.
Benefits of MAT for Addiction Treatment
Medication-assisted treatment relieves the symptoms of withdrawal in the early stages of addiction treatment. MAT also prevents or reduces the psychological cravings that cause chemical imbalances in the brain. When MAT is used properly under clinical and medical supervision, it enables people to step down from opioid or alcohol use safely by providing a controlled level of medication.
Here are three other compelling reasons to consider medication-assisted treatment:
- It decreases the rates of illicit opioid use and relapse and reduces the risk of overdose.
- It increases the retention in treatment and supports a long-term recovery plan.
- It helps restore the physical and psychological stability needed to participate in substance abuse treatment fully.
Medication-assisted treatment is not meant to be used on its own. Counseling and behavioral therapy are integral to the success of MAT. Through the tailored use of approved medications such as buprenorphine and naltrexone to control cravings, clients can focus on examining and gaining insight into the underlying issues contributing to their addiction. At Westwind Recovery®, we offer a wide array of holistic and evidence-based therapies such as:
- Adventure therapy program
- TMS therapy program
- Family therapy program
- Music therapy program
- Trauma therapy
We understand the importance of having opioid-dependent clients remain in treatment through the completion of their prescribed program. Medication-assisted treatment allows these clients to feel safe in treatment and promotes long-term recovery by enabling individuals to engage in treatment without the threat of physiological triggers. If you have questions about MAT, call 855.340.8832 to speak with a Westwind Recovery® specialist.
The Stigma of Medication-Assisted Treatment
In recent years, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has gained recognition as a successful method of treating opioid and alcohol addiction. It is an evidence-based therapy endorsed as an effective treatment modality by public health agencies like the National Institutes of Health and the American Medical Association. Still, there is a negative stigma attached to MAT.
Advocates of the abstinence-based approach to addiction treatment argue that MAT simply replaces one addiction for another. While it is true that the medications used in MAT have the potential for misuse or abuse, clients who participate in the medication-assisted treatment program at Westwind Recovery® are carefully supervised and monitored for signs of abuse or dependence. Further, we recognize that not everyone needs or can benefit from MAT. Our team of addiction specialists completes a thorough assessment to determine if medication-assisted treatment is indicated as part of your individualized treatment plan.
Contact Westwind Recovery® To See If MAT Is The Right Substance Abuse Treatment For You
Medication-assisted treatment for addiction recovery is a highly effective but significantly underused treatment modality. MAT is often mistakenly viewed as substituting one addiction for another. At Westwind Recovery®, we are dedicated to helping improve the reputation of medication-assisted treatment by providing constant support and guidance for clients participating in MAT to ensure their medications remain at a therapeutic level.
If you have questions about medication-assisted treatment at Westwind Recovery® or want to find out if MAT can assist you in your recovery, contact us at 855.340.8832.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
