Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction is an evidence-based approach to treatment that remains misunderstood. Many traditional or step-based programs believe that using medications as part of addiction treatment is like trading one addiction for another. While it is true that these medications can have the potential for abuse, when used properly, they are highly effective. At Westwind Recovery®, we believe that addiction is a disease and that utilizing medication for treatment is no different from other chronic illnesses. Our medication-assisted treatment program provides highly supervised care by a multidisciplinary treatment team who are leaders in the field of addiction.
MAT is not for everyone. If you have questions about whether or not MAT is suitable for you, call 855.340.8832 to speak to one of our intake specialists and to learn about all of our treatment options.
Why Use Medication for Opioid Cravings?
A large part of why it is so challenging to overcome opioid addiction is because it rewires the brain to focus almost exclusively on the need for the drug of choice, producing extreme cravings and withdrawal symptoms. In using MAT to help reduce cravings and symptoms of withdrawal, you or your loved one can stop constantly thinking about the drug, giving room to be open to the treatment that will help overcome your addiction.
At the Westwind Recovery® medication-assisted treatment program, we use FDA-approved medications in the difficult early days of recovery and beyond, where indicated. We know from research and our own experience that the use of MAT fosters longer stays in addiction treatment programs and produces better long-term recovery outcomes. Following are some of the other benefits of using MAT for opioid cravings:
- Facilitates safer detox
- Reduces the risk of overdose and death
- Increases commitment to and participation in treatment
- Decreases illicit drug use and the potential consequences
- Prevents relapse when used in conjunction with other treatment modalities
- It helps normalize body chemistry over time
MAT is endorsed by agencies like the American Medical Association and the National Institutes of Health for its effectiveness in treating substance use disorders, primarily opioid and alcohol addictions.
Comprehensive Addiction Treatment Involving Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
A significant misconception about medication-assisted treatment is that it is used as a singular approach to addiction treatment. On the contrary, MAT is used as part of an individual’s comprehensive, integrated addiction treatment plan. Individual, group, and behavioral therapy sessions are essential to the effectiveness of a MAT program. MAT is best utilized in medically supervised detox and inpatient drug rehab centers where clients are closely monitored for progress and possible adverse effects. At Westwind Recovery®, we maintain low client-to-staff ratios to ensure that our clients receive the individual attention they deserve.
When you choose Westwind Recovery® for addiction or mental health treatment, you receive a thorough assessment from our multidisciplinary treatment team, who will then work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Other evidence-based therapies we offer include, but are not limited to:
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Interpersonal therapy
- 12-step programs
- Group therapy
- Trauma therapy
We strongly believe that successful treatment for addiction and co-occurring disorders should be designed to heal the mind, body, and spirit. Further, clients who are comfortable and can experience fun in treatment are more fully engaged in the process. To that end, we offer world-class amenities and holistic treatments such as:
- Yoga and meditation
- Nutritional assessment and meal planning
- Adventure therapy
- Art therapy
- Music therapy
- Spiritual care
Call Westwind Recovery® to Learn More About Our MAT Program
At Westwind Recovery®, we know that medication-assisted treatment (MAT) significantly reduces opioid cravings, making clients feel safe in treatment longer, leading to better treatment outcomes and lasting recovery. We are committed to helping reduce the stigma and misinformation about the use of MAT.
If you have questions about our medication-assisted treatment program and whether or not you are a candidate for MAT, call 855.340.8832. Start your journey to freedom from opioid addiction at Westwind Recovery® today.
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.
