At Rebirth Recovery, we understand the complexity of addiction and provide a cutting-edge, supportive environment for those seeking a successful recovery path through MAT. Our team of experienced professionals is trained to prescribe medication and monitor its effects, while also offering counseling and therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction.
MAT is particularly effective in treating opioid use disorder by helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery journey. Methadone, for example, is a long-acting opioid agonist that helps to stabilize brain chemistry, while Buprenorphine works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as opioids, but with less euphoric effects. Naltrexone, on the other hand, blocks the effects of opioids and alcohol, reducing the risk of relapse.
It is important to note that MAT is not a one-size-fits-all approach and a good MAT program should be tailored to each individual’s specific needs and circumstances. The combination of medication and therapy addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, increasing the likelihood of long-term recovery success. By providing a comprehensive treatment plan, MAT offers a holistic approach to addiction recovery, supporting individuals in rebuilding their lives and achieving sustainable sobriety.
Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment
- Reduces risk of relapse: Medication assisted treatment helps to reduce the risk of relapse by addressing both physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
- Increases retention in treatment: By easing withdrawal symptoms, MAT improves a person’s ability to stay in treatment for longer periods. This increases the chances of a successful recovery.
- Improves overall health and well-being: By using FDA-approved medications, MAT helps individuals to manage their addiction and improve their overall health and well-being. MAT has also been shown to lower the risk of overdoses and decrease the transmission of infectious diseases, such as HIV and Hepatitis C.
- Allows for individualized treatment: Medications used in MAT can be tailored to an individual’s specific needs, making it a highly personalized form of treatment. This allows for a more effective and targeted approach to recovery.
MAT’s success in improving treatment retention, reducing the risk of relapse, and promoting overall health makes it a vital component of modern substance abuse treatment programs. Further, MAT seamlessly integrates with other rehabilitation aspects, and effectively bridges the divide between physical dependencies by easing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Individuals can therefore focus on their recovery without the distraction of physical discomfort.
How Does MAT Work?
One key aspect of medication-assisted treatment is that it is not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Different medications may be used depending on the type of substance use disorder being treated. For example, methadone is commonly used for individuals struggling with opioid addiction, while acamprosate may be prescribed for those dealing with alcohol use disorder. The choice of medication is based on factors such as the individual’s medical history, the severity of their addiction, and their treatment goals.
Furthermore, MAT is most effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies. These additional components help individuals address the underlying issues contributing to their substance use, develop coping strategies, and learn essential life skills. By integrating medication with therapy, MAT provides a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of substance abuse.
Types of Medications Used in MAT
Methadone is an opioid agonist that works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as other opioids, such as heroin or prescription painkillers. By doing so, it helps prevent withdrawal symptoms and reduces the euphoric effects of these drugs.
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that also binds to opioid receptors in the brain, but with less intensity compared to full agonists like heroin. This means it can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the same level of euphoria.
Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain. Unlike methadone and buprenorphine, naltrexone does not activate opioid receptors but instead inhibits them. Naltrexone is available in both oral and injectable forms, offering patients different options based on their preferences and treatment needs.
Who Meets the Eligibility Criteria for MAT?
It’s important to note that MAT, or medication-assisted treatment, is a comprehensive approach to addressing opioid addiction that combines the use of medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. The medications used in MAT, such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, work to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the negative effects of the abused drug. However, it is not a cure for addiction, and long-term maintenance will be necessary for some individuals.
Furthermore, MAT is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and eligibility for this treatment approach is typically determined on a case-by-case basis. Factors that may influence eligibility include the severity of the addiction, medical history, mental health status, and previous treatment experiences.
The Role of Counseling and Behavioral Therapies in MAT
Our team of experienced professionals at Rebirth Recovery is well-equipped to provide individual and group counseling, as well as a range of behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and contingency management.
Integrating MAT with Other Treatment Approaches
- Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions with a therapist to address underlying issues, develop coping strategies and set achievable goals for recovery.
- Group Therapy: Supportive group therapy sessions offer individuals the opportunity to share experiences and learn from others who are also on the journey to recovery.
- Moral Reconation Therapy: This behavioral therapy approach aims to reduce immoral thinking patterns and behaviors associated with addiction.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy: For individuals with trauma histories, this therapy addresses the emotional and psychological impact of past traumatic events on their addiction.
The treatment approaches at Rebirth Recovery are tailored to each individual’s unique needs, ensuring that their recovery pathway is both effective and sustainable. Factors such as the type and severity of addiction, co-occurring mental health disorders, and personal circumstances are thoroughly assessed to develop a customized treatment plan. This means that your treatment plan may differ from others, as we recognize that each person’s journey to recovery is unique.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about MAT
MAT is an individualized treatment approach, and its duration varies depending on the patient’s needs. Some individuals may require short-term treatment, while others may benefit from long-term maintenance therapy.
Like any medication, MAT medications may have side effects. However, these side effects are generally well-managed and outweighed by the benefits of treatment. It is important to discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional.
In some cases, MAT can be combined with other medications to address co-occurring mental health conditions or other medical needs. It is essential to inform healthcare providers of all medications being taken to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Success Rates and Effectiveness of MAT
- Patients on methadone have fewer opioid-positive drug tests and are more likely to stay in treatment.
- Incorporating buprenorphine has shown to reduce treatment failure rates.
- When prescribed Naltrexone, treatment retention rates increase.
The use of MAT has been associated with reduced illicit drug use, improved retention in treatment, and decreased mortality rates. However, it’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and ongoing support is crucial for long-term success.
Ongoing Support at Rebirth Recovery
Our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers intensive, structured treatment for up to 6 hours a day, 5 days a week. This program is ideal for individuals who have completed detox and require more support than regular outpatient services.
Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides a structured and supportive environment while allowing individuals to maintain their daily routines. IOP typically involves several hours of therapy and counseling multiple times per week, with a focus on relapse prevention, coping strategies, and addressing underlying issues.
Our standard Outpatient Program (OP) is designed for individuals who require less intensive support but still need regular check-ins and therapy sessions. This flexible program allows patients to attend counseling sessions around their work or school schedules, with a reduced commitment compared to IOP.
At Rebirth Recovery, we understand the complex relationship between substance abuse and mental health disorders. Our dual diagnosis treatment addresses both conditions simultaneously to ensure a holistic approach to recovery. This program ensures that individuals with a co-occurring mental health condition receive comprehensive support for all aspects of their recovery journey.
Medication-Assisted Treatment at Rebirth Recovery
Interested in learning more about MAT and exploring your options for drug and alcohol rehab in New Jersey? Contact us at Rebirth Recovery today to discover how we can help you reclaim your life.
Marguerite Mullan is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 13 years of experience in mental health and substance use disorders. She holds a master’s degree in Nursing Education from Chamberlain University and a post-master’s certificate as a PMHNP from Monmouth University. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults and children. Marguerite follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. She has treated individuals with emotional and mental health needs, including depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, and sleep disturbances. She has experience treating individuals in all levels of care, including inpatient and outpatient settings. With compassion and understanding, Marguerite’s comprehensive approach to mental health treatment is based on mindfulness and positive self-expression.
