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What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an approach to addiction treatment that involves the use of FDA-approved medications to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. These medications aren’t meant to treat addiction alone but work best in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies. Medication-assisted treatment can help to reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and decrease the overall severity of opioid and alcohol use disorder symptoms. Medication-assisted treatment can help individuals regain control of their life, reduce potential harm from using drugs or alcohol, and ultimately help them reach sobriety.

This therapeutic approach can be especially helpful for those who have struggled to achieve sobriety through an abstinence-based program. If you’re ready to begin treatment that could change your life, reach out to CMAR at 833.448.0127 today.

Medications Used in Medication-Assisted Treatment

There are several medications that have been approved to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. These medications can be used in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies for an effective treatment approach.

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a synthetic opioid medication that is commonly used to treat opioid use disorder. This medication helps to reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and ease withdrawal symptoms. It works by binding to certain opioid receptors in the brain, producing a milder effect than other opioids. While some medications contain only buprenorphine, others contain a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, such as Suboxone.

Naltrexone

Naltrexone is an opiate antagonist that works in the brain to prevent the effects of illicit or prescribed opiates. When taken, a person may no longer have the desire to use opiates. Unlike other types of MAT, naltrexone can also be used in helping a person who is in recovery from alcohol addiction.

Naloxone

In some cases, people return to using opioids even after entering treatment. In that event, they may try to use the same level of opioids as they did before treatment, which can lead to overdose and possible death. Those who are taking naloxone, however, will be less likely to suffer an overdose due to the drug’s opioid-blocking effects. Naloxone is available in both injection and nasal spray forms and is most often used by first responders or family members in the event of an opioid overdose.

Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment

One of the most common misconceptions about MAT is that a patient is transferring their addiction from substance to another. However, this is not the case. Doctors prescribe MAT as a short-term solution, not a replacement for opioids. This approach can actually make it easier for those in recovery to focus on long-term goals such as maintaining employment or finding stable housing. Additionally, MAT can help to reduce the risk of relapse and decrease symptoms related to opioid or alcohol use disorder.

Benefits of MAT include:

  • Reduced cravings – Since addiction medications can help reduce cravings, they can make it easier to focus on recovery goals.
  • Increased safety – By providing relief from withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, it is less likely that individuals will turn to harmful substances.
  • Increased stability – Medication-assisted treatment can provide patients with the stability that they need to focus on their recovery and make lasting lifestyle changes.
  • Decreased risk of overdose – By providing opioid-blocking effects, naloxone can help to prevent overdoses in those who relapse.
  • Increased retention in treatment programs – MAT has been shown to increase the chances of staying in treatment programs, which can lead to better recovery outcomes.

When you first start your treatment for addiction, a specialist will assess your addiction and any co-occurring disorders you may have. From there, they can decide if you need MAT and what type is best for you. Treatment can begin as early as detox and continue through rehab. The goal of MAT is to help you stay sober and provide you with the resources and support needed to maintain a successful recovery.

Breaking the Stigma Surrounding MAT

Unfortunately, there is still a stigma associated with medication-assisted treatment. Many people do not understand the purpose of using medications to treat addiction and assume that a person is simply replacing one addiction with another. Fortunately, more and more people are beginning to see the value in MAT as an effective treatment for opioid and alcohol use disorder.

It is important to remember that MAT is just one part of a comprehensive treatment program. When used in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT can be a powerful tool in helping individuals manage their addiction and find lasting sobriety.

Learn More About Medication-Assisted Treatment at CMAR

Learn more about MAT at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. We offer medication-assisted treatment as a part of our addiction treatment therapies in Colorado. Contact us at 833.448.0127 or reach out online to get started.

Finding a Treatment Center for Alcohol Addiction in Thornton, CO

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, you are in good company. Millions of Americans grapple with this form of substance abuse. Matters are complicated by the fact that alcohol is legal, easy to obtain, and its use is broadly socially accepted. Sadly, the chemical reality of alcohol is that it is also extremely habit-forming and has numerous serious impacts on physical, emotional, and mental health.

The good news is that, since alcohol addiction has been a widespread concern for decades and even centuries, doctors understand it well. Effective treatment is available to you or your loved one if you’re looking for help regaining sobriety and control of your life. Call 833.448.0127 or contact us online to speak to a staff member from Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. We’re located in Thornton, Colorado, on Fox Drive just north of West 88th Avenue. Reach out today for help finding alcohol addiction treatment near you.

Alcohol Poses an Especially Great Danger on Adams County Highways

As a recent news release by the Colorado Department of Transportation makes clear, problematic alcohol use is taking a major toll statewide. According to the Department, deaths due to drunk driving are especially troubling. In 2021, 255 lives were lost in accidents occurring involving DUI. Sadly, that number climbed to 271 in 2022. Adams County, where Thornton is located, ranked highest among all Colorado counties.1

While the state is, fortunately, addressing the prevalence of DUI through a stricter enforcement period, the core of the issue is, of course, the disease of alcohol use disorder itself. It’s thus key for those living with alcohol dependence to seek professional help through an accredited recovery program like the one at Colorado Medication Assisted Treatment. Through proper care, and safe, monitored recovery, Coloradans can and must bring down the state’s traffic fatality numbers as well as other tragic impacts of alcohol use.

Signs that Alcohol Addiction May Be Present

Alcohol use disorder is a formal diagnosis with several specific requirements and different levels of severity. It’s worth noting that people may also struggle with alcohol dependence, informally called alcoholism, which may not warrant a formal diagnosis. In these cases, some form of treatment may still be advisable. Looking at alcohol use disorder specifically, a patient must have experienced at least two of the following symptoms for at least a year to receive the diagnosis:

  • Rising tolerance to alcohol with increases in the amount consumed to reach the same effect
  • Withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and nausea when alcohol is absent for even a short period of time
  • Inability to reduce the amount of alcohol one consumes
  • Drinking a greater volume or for a longer period of time than intended
  • Experiencing extended illness as a result of excessive drinking
  • Loss of concentration because of alcohol cravings
  • Damage to everyday functioning, such as inability to succeed at school, keep a job, or provide for a family
  • Ongoing drinking in spite of issues it causes with family and friends
  • Reduced engagement with activities and hobbies that one used to enjoy
  • Getting into dangerous situations, such as unsafe sexual encounters or drunk driving, due to intoxication
  • Drinking even when one realizes it is worsening another health condition or creating negative symptoms like anxiety, blackouts, or depression

What Happens in Alcohol Addiction Treatment?

In a treatment program, alcohol addiction recovery may begin with medically assisted detox. In this first step of recovery, patients benefit from a doctor’s direct supervision and personalized care while their body purges the harmful substance and adapts to functioning without it. Doctors may administer medication that helps patients manage painful withdrawal symptoms during this period.

Next, those receiving alcohol addiction treatment typically engage with a range of services. Peer support can provide accountability and community, give patients concrete examples of how to cope with stress and triggers, and provide a sounding board for how to make amends with those whom their addiction has harmed. Coupled with family therapy, this social therapeutic model can help to heal relationships damaged by alcohol addiction and create a framework for lasting support in sobriety.

Patients coping with alcohol addiction can also strongly benefit from one-on-one therapy. Approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical-behavioral therapy help patients identify their triggers and learn to reframe negative thoughts. Creating a specific relapse prevention plan can also be a game-changer in the work of individual therapy for addiction recovery. Finally, individual therapy can provide vital dual diagnoses. This means it can identify and address underlying mental health disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder that may be present along with alcohol addiction.

Begin Healing from Alcohol Addiction Today at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

If you or a loved one is living with alcohol use disorder or another form of alcohol dependence, there’s no need to suffer alone. This health concern, while serious, is also common, and many effective treatments exist. Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Treatment today to learn about our effective programs. Our center is located just north of Denver in Thornton, CO, conveniently close to the Thornton Park-n-Ride. Our telehealth options may make it easier still to prioritize your recovery. Call 833.448.0127 or reach out online to learn more about our accredited alcohol treatment center and other programs.

Source:

1. Colorado Department of Transportation – Today CDOT kicks off first DUI enforcement period of 2023

3 Benefits of Family Therapy

On the journey to recovery, support is key. Addiction isolates—it isolates the individual from loved ones, from themselves, and from a life of joy. Every member of the family can also be impacted by addiction. Family therapy is a powerful tool that helps families to heal and recover together, creating strong and healthy relationships—essential for long-term wellness.

Family therapy works to address the underlying issues that contribute to addictive behaviors and mental health challenges. By working through family dynamics and interactions, it works to heal relationships and restore trust. It can also help families develop better communication skills, improve boundaries, and provide support for recovery.

If you’re looking for effective treatment, whether in the form of a dual diagnosis treatment program, women’s rehab program, or men’s rehab program near me, Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers care that includes family therapy to give you the best chance of sustained recovery.

What to Expect in Family Therapy

Family therapy can be a powerful tool for addiction and mental health treatment. It will involve everyone in the family, as well as any close friends or partners. The therapist will work with the family to identify the root causes of addictive behaviors, the role of each family member, and how to move forward in recovery.

The therapist may also address issues such as codependency, enabling of addictive behaviors, trauma, and communication. Family therapy can be done in a variety of formats, such as individual sessions with each family member, group sessions, and joint or family sessions.

The Benefits of Family Therapy

Family therapy has many benefits. Here are three primary benefits:

1. Improved Communication

Addiction can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and resentment which can cause communication breakdowns between family members. Through family therapy, families learn how to communicate more effectively, listen to each other, and resolve conflicts.

Some of the strategies you might learn in family therapy to improve communication include:

  • Reflective listening – This involves listening carefully and responding back with understanding, without judgment or defensiveness.
  • I-statements – This involves expressing thoughts and feelings by using “I” statements.
  • Direct requests – This involves expressing one’s needs and expectations clearly with direct requests.

As you learn these strategies and put them into practice, your family relationships will become more open and honest.

2. Empowerment and Support

Family therapy helps to create an environment of emotional safety and empowerment. The therapist will help empower family members to set healthy boundaries, support each other, and understand each other’s perspectives.

The therapist will also help the family to develop a plan for recovery that works for everyone. This plan will include setting goals, creating a support system, and developing healthy strategies to cope with triggers or stress.

3. Strengthened Relationships

Addiction has the power to damage relationships beyond repair. Some family members may feel resentment and anger, while others may feel guilty or ashamed. Through family therapy, these feelings can be addressed and released, allowing for a deeper understanding of each other.

The therapist will help each family member to understand the impact that their behavior has had on others and how to make amends. The therapist will also help the family to develop empathy and forgiveness for each other.

Discover the Power of Family Therapy at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

If you’re working to overcome addiction, Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery can help. Our treatment program includes family therapy to give you the best chance of sustained recovery. Through our team of experienced, compassionate therapists, you’ll learn how to communicate effectively, strengthen relationships, and create an environment of support.

We believe in the power of family, and we’re committed to helping you create a healthier, more positive environment where everyone can thrive. Contact us today at 833.448.0127 to learn more.

Finding an Outpatient Treatment Program near Henderson, CO

Henderson, CO has seen a rise in the need for addiction treatment. With the prevalence of opioid and other drug use at an all-time high, it is more important than ever to make sure people in Henderson, Denver, Aurora, and beyond have access to quality addiction treatment services. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR) offers top-notch outpatient treatment programs for those struggling with addiction in the Henderson area.

When selecting an outpatient treatment program near you, there are certain factors that should be considered when making your decision. You want to look for a center that specializes in medication-assisted recovery and that offers a range of evidence-based therapeutic strategies.

Ready to begin an outpatient treatment program in Thornton, CO, conveniently located close to Henderson? Contact us today at 833.448.0127 to discover the CMAR difference.

The Need for Addiction Treatment in Henderson, CO

In Adams County, which includes Henderson, CO, there were nearly 500 drug-related deaths between 2014 and 2018. Overdose deaths related to prescription opioids made up 48.6% of those deaths in 2018, a sharp increase from previous years.1 It’s clear that effective, evidence-based addiction treatment options are needed in the Henderson area.

What to Look For in an Addiction Treatment Center

When selecting an outpatient addiction treatment center near you, there are certain factors that should be taken into consideration when making your decision. You want to make sure the facility offers evidence-based therapeutic strategies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, individual and group counseling, and medication-assisted treatment.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

This type of therapy helps individuals identify, challenge, and change negative patterns of thought and behavior. The principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy can also be used to help people develop healthy coping strategies and gain insight into the underlying causes of their addiction.

Individual and Group Counseling

Individual counseling provides an opportunity for patients to work one-on-one with a therapist on topics such as managing cravings, developing relapse prevention strategies, and understanding triggers. Group counseling helps participants build a sense of community and accountability among peers who have similar experiences.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-assisted treatment is when medication is used in conjunction with behavioral therapies to help treat substance use disorders. Medications such as buprenorphine and naltrexone can help reduce cravings and prevent relapse.

Signs You Would Benefit from Addiction Treatment

Do you think you may be struggling with addiction? If so, there are a few signs that can help you determine if an outpatient treatment center near Henderson, CO is the right choice for you:

  • You have tried to quit or cut back on your substance use multiple times without success.
  • You feel like you are struggling to keep up with your daily responsibilities and activities due to substance use.
  • You have been using increasingly larger amounts of the substance in order to create the desired effect.
  • You experience withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance, such as headaches, nausea, irritability, anxiety, or depression.
  • You have noticed changes in your relationships due to your substance use.

If you are experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to reach out for help. Treatment can help you build healthier coping strategies and gain insight into the underlying causes of your addiction.

Reach Out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Today

If you are looking for an outpatient treatment program near Henderson, CO, reach out to CMAR today. We provide evidence-based therapeutic strategies and medication-assisted treatment to help you on your journey to recovery. Our experienced team of clinicians and practitioners are dedicated to helping you develop the skills and resources needed to achieve long-term sobriety. Contact us today at 833.448.0127 to discover the CMAR difference. Together, we can help you take back control of your life.

Footnotes:

1. Tri-County Health Department – Adams County, Colorado: A Health Update from Tri-County Health Department

3 Signs Your Loved One Is Addicted to Heroin

Knowing what heroin addiction signs to look for is important to know if you suspect a friend or family member is abusing this dangerous and illegal substance. Heroin can cause a serious addiction that can cause permanent damage and serious medical conditions that can lead to death if not properly treated. For those who are struggling with heroin addiction, a heroin addiction treatment program can ease the withdrawal process and help patients reach their recovery goals.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we support individuals who are ready to make a positive change in their lives and stop their heroin abuse. Our outpatient treatment programs are ideal for those who can abstain from taking more drugs with minimal supervision and can meet with therapists at regularly scheduled times. Patients will participate in group and private therapy sessions while receiving medication to minimize withdrawals and cravings. To learn more about our heroin addiction treatment program, reach out to our compassionate team today at 833.448.0127 to schedule an appointment.

Why Is Heroin Addiction so Dangerous?

Spotting heroin addiction signs in a friend or loved one can go a long way toward stopping their heroin use before it causes serious physical and mental harm. Heroin is a synthetic opioid made from the poppy plant Papaver somniferum. It is a fast-acting narcotic that causes a massive release of dopamine that your body can never produce on its own. With continued use, the body begins to crave more of the drug, which causes the natural production of dopamine to cease.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for making you feel happy. It also helps manage coordination, learning, emotional regulation, and other vital functions. After your last dose of heroin, it can take several weeks before your body returns to normal and starts producing dopamine again. During that time, you can experience painful withdrawal symptoms and strong cravings for more heroin.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our team has experience treating heroin addiction and the underlying causes that are fueling it. Patients will participate in medication-assisted treatment to minimize withdrawals and cravings while talking with a therapist in private and group settings.

3 Heroin Addiction Signs That Point to a Growing Problem

Heroin addiction is a serious mental health illness that can kill if not properly treated. It creates personality and behavioral changes and can tear apart families, and make children more susceptible to addiction.

If you suspect a friend or loved one is struggling with heroin abuse, here are three signs of heroin addiction to look out for:

  1. Behavioral changes—Addiction causes self-destructive habits that make the person feel like the only solution to their problem is more heroin. This will cause behavioral changes such as becoming more argumentative or irritable, lying about where they’ve been or who they are with, stealing, and threatening violence. Their desire for more heroin will consume every aspect of their life until they take more.
  2. Physical changes—Depending on how they take heroin, some of the physical signs of heroin addiction include scabs or bruising on the skin, needle marks in between fingers and toes, and extreme weight loss. Other physical signs to look for include burnt spoons, discarded needles, and glass pipes or bongs around the house.
  3. Medical conditions—Heroin abuse can lead to serious medical conditions that include HIV, hepatitis B or C, chronic pneumonia, stroke, heart attack, Septicemia, seizures, and respiratory depression.

Recognizing what heroin addiction signs look like is very important to know if you suspect someone is abusing heroin or other dangerous drugs. Talking to them about their use can show them the harm they are causing to themselves and others and convince them to get help.

Begin to Heal with Heroin Addiction Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our addiction treatment facility welcomes all people who are struggling with an addiction to heroin, meth, alcohol, or other harmful substances. We create an atmosphere of trust and open communication with each patient, so they feel comfortable talking about the issues that led to the addiction and begin to heal. Patients will participate in a number of therapies, such as:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Neurofeedback therapy
  • Trauma therapy
  • Medication-assisted treatment

If you or a loved one is struggling with heroin abuse, call 833.448.0127 or fill out our online contact form today to speak with our caring team about treating heroin addiction.

3 Group Therapy Activities You Should Know About

Treating addiction, depression, and other mental health disorders require a unique approach to dealing with the wide-ranging symptoms and causes of most mental health disorders. Activities in a group therapy program allow individuals to work with their peers in a supervised environment where they practice coping skills and form supportive relationships with others in the group. When combined with other therapies, a group therapy program gives patients the skills and confidence they need to live their best lives.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we help individuals who are struggling with addiction caused by a traumatic event, borderline personality disorder, or other conditions. We take the time to get to know each patient and create a program tailored to their individual symptoms. Patients will participate in group and private therapy sessions while receiving medication to minimize withdrawal symptoms and cravings. To learn more about our group therapy programs and how they can benefit your recovery, call 833.448.0127 or use our online form to send us a message today, and we will get back to you within 24 hours.

The Benefits of Group Therapy Activities

There are many benefits of enrolling in an addiction treatment program that includes motivational group therapy activities, individual therapy, and medical support. Because addiction is such a complex disease, it takes a multi-pronged approach to treat all aspects of the addiction.

During group therapy, patients will meet with their peers in a safe space with a certified behavioral therapist running the session. They will participate in activities that promote healing, improve coping skills, and increase self-esteem and confidence in their abilities to say sober and happy. Just some of the benefits of group therapy activities include the following:

  • Patients listen to valuable feedback from their peers, who will offer advice from their unique life perspectives. Group therapy can show patients how addiction affects everyone, regardless of their background or personal beliefs.
  • Creates a bonding opportunity with their peers that can turn into strong relationships that will support a healthy lifestyle long after therapy has ended.
  • Introduces patients to new hobbies and interests that promote healthy living.
  • Group therapy can increase the desire to continue with therapy for as long as necessary.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our outpatient treatment programs include group and individual therapy sessions. We offer in-patient and remote treatment options for individuals who can abstain from drugs or alcohol with minimal supervision and have a strong desire to maintain a sober lifestyle.

3 Motivational Group Therapy Activities for Treating Addiction

Treatment centers offer various programs and activities to benefit the recovery process that are unique to the facility. When searching for an addiction treatment program, ask about the different types of activities and therapies they offer to see if they are right for you.

Here are three group therapy activities for treating addiction:

1. Role-Playing Activities

Putting yourself in another person’s shoes is a great way to see another perspective. Therapists will assign roles to individuals and have them act out different scenarios. Role reversal is a healthy way to understand others’ feelings and perspectives and gain insight into how their actions are perceived by others.

2. Family Therapy

Involving parents, spouses, and children in the recovery process is important to restore family relationships and create a supportive home environment. Families will learn about the dangers of addiction and how it impacts everyone in the family, including childhood development.

3. Music Therapy

Music can have a positive effect on the recovery process. Certain sound frequencies are proven to have a positive physical and mental impact and can improve a person’s happiness and motivation. Group music activities include playing in a drum circle, dancing, singing, and writing songs.

Participating in motivational group therapy activities as part of a well-rounded treatment program can significantly improve a person’s chance of reaching their recovery goals with fewer missteps or relapses.

Group Therapy Activities for Healing at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we support men and women from all walks of life who are struggling with addiction to alcohol, cocaine, heroin, or other dangerous substances. We combine various types of therapies with medical support to give patients the best chances of recovery in a safe and private space.

Just some of our group therapy activities include:

  • Group discussions with peers led by a certified therapist
  • Activities and games to practice and fine-tune coping and communication skills
  • Adventure/nature walks
  • Art/music therapy
  • Family therapy

Discover all of the benefits of group therapy by calling 833.448.0127 today to meet with our team and enroll in our addiction treatment program. You can also fill out our online form and let us get back to you.

Why Is Trauma Informed Care Important?

Why is trauma-informed care important for addiction recovery? Men and women who experience past or recent trauma can struggle with their feelings which can lead to depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addiction if left untreated. In some cases, the patient will have a co-occurring condition of addiction and other mental health concerns. Trauma-informed care provides those in recovery with a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their feelings created by a single or reoccurring traumatic event and any depression or addiction symptoms related to it.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we work with individuals from all walks of life who are coping with trauma and any addiction or other mental health concerns. We take the time to connect with each patient to create an atmosphere of trust and open communication. In addition, we offer medication-assisted treatment to minimize any symptoms that are causing a disruption to their recovery. Continue reading to learn why is trauma-informed care important, then call 833.448.0127 or fill out our online form today to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff.

Why Is Trauma-Informed Care Important?

A traumatic event is anything that causes significant emotional or mental distress. It can affect children, teens, and adults and impact their ability to lead normal, healthy lives. When trauma happens, some people can experience painful feelings, memories, or nightmares that they are unable to handle without help. In some cases, patients may experience flashbacks which make it seem like the trauma is happening again.

Common types of traumatic events include:

  • Emotional or physical abuse by a parent or loved one
  • Car accidents
  • Bullying
  • COVID-19
  • Natural disaster
  • Sexual assault
  • Current affairs
  • Death of a parent or loved one

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we work closely with each patient to understand their condition and create a beneficial treatment program. We will go over each step of the recovery journey with you and answer any questions you have about what trauma-informed care is and how what types of treatments are available.

The Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma-informed care is an essential treatment program for those who have experienced a traumatic event that impacts their mental health. It teaches them to face their trauma in a safe environment and discover the power within them to make positive changes.

Just some of the benefits of trauma-informed care include:

  • Therapists work one-on-one with each patient to build trust and rapport while helping them feel safe. They talk through the trauma while developing coping skills for managing their symptoms and triggers.
  • Therapists work with them in private to teach them how to stop negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive thoughts about themselves and the world around them.
  • Patients will have an opportunity to bond with their peers during group therapy as they practice coping skills and talk about their struggles and triumphs. They listen to peer feedback and gain new perspectives on how trauma affects all people, no matter where they come from.
  • Patients will also participate in family therapy to help parents, siblings, and spouses. They learn all about how the trauma is impacting the entire family and how to make healthy changes at home to support their recovery.

Why is trauma-informed care important? If any past or recent trauma is not properly addressed, it can negatively impact your mental health and create worsening depression, anxiety, and potentially death by suicide or accidental overdose.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery: Providing Trauma-Informed Care for Addiction Recovery

What is trauma-informed care? Trauma-informed care helps those in recovery cope with past or recent traumas in a safe and encouraging environment. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we will answer all of your questions about your treatment program and what to expect during the program. If you or a loved one is struggling with their mental health due to a traumatic event, call 833.448.0127 today for more information about our addiction treatment center.

What Is Pain Management?

What is pain management? People who are recovering from surgery, were in an accident, or who suffer from chronic pain often rely on pain medication to allow them to continue their day with minimal pain. Pain management uses medication and other therapies to reduce pain levels for people living with acute or chronic pain. An addiction and pain management program focuses on reducing pain levels safely while dealing with any depression or anxiety symptoms that often correspond with living with chronic pain.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we offer outpatient treatment programs for men and women who are struggling with addiction due to abusing opioid pain medication. Our team of behavioral therapists and medical staff work together to create a treatment plan that includes medication-assisted treatment to reduce pain and withdrawal symptoms. We also provide telehealth services for patients whose schedule makes it difficult for them to attend therapy in person. Reach out to our compassionate staff today by calling 833.448.0127 for more information about our addiction and pain management programs.

What Is Pain Management?

Pain management is not just about taking the right combination of pills to reduce pain. It includes physical therapies such as exercises, massage, and hydrotherapy. It can also include relaxation techniques, meditation, behavioral therapy, and other holistic treatments. The goal of any pain management program is to have you 100% pain-free and no longer needing medication.

Some of the most commonly prescribed opioid pain medications that come with a risk of addiction include:

  • Hydrocodone
  • Oxycodone
  • Morphine
  • Codeine
  • Fentanyl

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we help men and women who need help with managing pain and addiction to opioid pain medication. When you first arrive at our facility, we will go over your treatment program fully and answer any questions you have about what is pain management and how it can benefit your health and wellbeing.

Types of Medication Used for Addiction and Pain Management

It can be very easy for patients to become addicted to opioid pain medication if they use alcohol to increase the euphoric effects or take more than they are prescribed. Most opioid pain medication is only prescribed for three to seven days, but can doctors can prescribe it for longer in cases of severe pain. Long-term use will significantly increase your risk of addiction, and when you stop taking the medication, it will cause painful withdrawal symptoms that can cause some people to abuse more and potentially overdose.

Some of the medications used to treat addiction and pain management through medication-assisted treatment include:

  • Naloxone – An FDA-approved medication used to rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It is an opioid antagonist and blocks the effects of opioids such as heroin, morphine, and oxycodone.
  • Buprenorphine – This medication reduces chronic pain and is used to treat opioid use disorder. It comes in a sublingual tablet or film that is placed under the tongue to dissolve.
  • Suboxone – Suboxone is the brand name for medication that includes naloxone and buprenorphine. It is used to treat addiction to opioids and offers some pain relief.
  • Lucemyra – This is a type of non-opioid prescription medication used to treat symptoms of opioid withdrawal. It blocks the release of norepinephrine, a hormone that contributes to opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery: Your Top Resource for Addiction and Pain Management

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we treat men and women who are struggling with opioid use disorder due to acute or chronic pain. Our pain management program will work with your individual pain levels and find the right combination of medications to reduce your pain and stop any further opioid abuse. Along with our medication-assisted treatment, we offer a variety of beneficial therapy programs, such as:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Group and individual therapy
  • Neurofeedback therapy

If you or a loved one is abusing opioid pain medication or other narcotics, now is the perfect time to get help. Call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our compassionate staff about enrolling in our outpatient addiction treatment facility.

5 Surprising Benefits of a Mens Rehab Center

A men’s rehab center offers a gender-neutral environment where men can focus on the issues that are disrupting their lives. In a co-ed recovery environment, the presence of the opposite sex can often prevent true healing. Men and women can have difficulty being themselves around each other, which can interfere with being honest about their feelings. Additionally, a co-ed group doesn’t take into account the unique challenges that men can face in recovery.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we help men and women from all walks of life who are struggling with addiction, depression, or other mental health disorders. We offer separate men’s rehab programs led by a male behavioral therapist who takes the time to get to know you and the problems you are facing. If you are interested in learning more about our men’s rehab center, call 833.448.0127 or fill out our online form today, and we will get back to you within 24 hours.

Why Do You Need a Men’s Rehab Program?

Men are under pressure to live up to certain expectations in the eyes of society. Trying to live up to those expectations can cause a lot of stress and anxiety and lead to substance abuse, depression, and other mental health disorders. In addition, men who struggle with relationship issues, gender confusion, or get anxiety when talking to women will often turn to drugs and alcohol instead of talking about their feelings.

A men’s rehab program offers a space where men can focus on the issues that are important to them, such as:

  • Maintaining a certain status among co-workers, friends, and their spouse
  • Understanding changing gender roles and respecting different cultures and opinions
  • Discuss financial and personal goals and aspirations
  • Talk about any lack of self-esteem or confidence without worrying about appearing weak in front of women

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we give men the support they need through our outpatient men’s rehab program. We understand how difficult life can be at times and offer men a safe space to talk about their feelings without the distraction of a coed environment.

Five of the Biggest Benefits of a Men’s Rehab Center

The benefits of a men’s rehab center go far beyond treating their addiction. It gives men a positive new outlook on life and can greatly improve their relationship and socializing skills.

Here are five additional benefits of enrolling in a men’s rehab center:

  1. Peer support from other men – One major benefit of men’s rehab is the relationships men form with their peers. These relationships are built on mutual respect and trust and help you in the future.
  2. A gender-neutral environment – Men can talk about the issues that are important to them and receive peer feedback from men experiencing the same issues. This can go a long way toward teaching men that it is OK to talk about their feelings.
  3. A more comfortable therapy experience – Men will naturally feel more comfortable opening up to other men. It creates an environment that allows for open communication, growth, and freedom to express themselves without fear of judgment.
  4. Breaking societal norms – A men’s rehab program teaches men that they do not have to live up to society’s expectations of them but to live up to their own expectations and not let others’ opinions discourage them.
  5. Communication skills – Men’s rehab gives them a chance to improve their communication skills in a controlled environment.

Join Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for Our Men’s Rehab Program

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our men’s rehab center helps men from all walks of life struggling with substance abuse or depression due to societal or relationship pressure. We offer in-person and telehealth outpatient treatment for men in an environment that helps them open up about their feelings and learn that it is better to talk about them. If you would like to enroll in our men’s rehab program, call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our friendly staff about making a positive change in your life.

What to Look For in a Colorado Counseling Center

Whether you are battling a substance use disorder, struggling with a mental health problem, or both, a counseling center is the best place to seek help. Through counseling and other forms of talk therapy, you can get an insight into the causes of your condition before embarking on recovery. The program’s primary objective is to help participants manage addiction or overcome toxic and overwhelming feelings for the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Colorado counseling centers can give you the tools and resources you need to change your life for the better. Learn more about what to look for in a counseling center to ensure you’re getting the help you need. Through addiction treatment therapies that focus on your unique needs, you can develop healthy coping mechanisms to deal with any challenges that come your way.

Look for a Colorado Counseling Center That Offers Privacy and Confidentiality

Although people have varying needs and goals when attending counseling sessions, everyone values privacy and confidentiality. It is essential to choose a Colorado addiction treatment center that can handle your condition discreetly for a desirable outcome.

Every center underscores the essence of privacy during counseling. Most individuals who need counseling battle issues that they wish to keep private for fear of embarrassment or judgment. An ideal center should assure its clients of the highest level of privacy during and after rehab, according to The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

The information that you share with your therapist should not be accessible to third parties. When selecting a counseling center, you need assurance that your information will be kept private.

Accessibility of the Counseling Center

Some counseling sessions, especially during addiction and mental health treatment, may require you to spend some time at the facility for close monitoring. Otherwise, you may need to schedule frequent appointments with your therapist. The latter option requires you to stay where you can manage to make it in time for medical appointments, as suggested by the healthcare provider.

Always consider your needs and whether they align with the location of the counseling facility.

If you are a resident of Colorado, looking for easily accessible Colorado addiction treatment therapies is the right decision. However, traveling from out-of-state to attend counseling in Colorado can also suffice if the rehab center you are going to provides specialized care that you cannot get in your local area.

The Kind of Programs on Offer

The types of programs that the rehab center can offer is another crucial element to consider. Remember, some rehabs do not provide all the programs that you may require for managing your condition. For example, some facilities do not offer outpatient treatment, whereas others lack medication-assisted treatment programs. As such, inquire about the treatment options that a facility has before enrolling.

The treatment of addiction-related disorders is classified into several modalities based on the clear cases that the program can treat. Therefore, you should be able to access various evidence-based programs, such as:

  • Trauma-informed care program – This modality is designed to help people suffering from PTSD or other forms of trauma.
  • Depression treatment program – This program helps individuals with depression to identify and manage the triggers of their condition.
  • Telehealth programs – Convenient, remote access to care for patients who may have difficulty traveling to a counseling center.
  • Medication-assisted treatment program – This program uses FDA-approved medications in combination with behavioral therapies to treat addiction.
  • Addiction and pain management – Chronic pain and addiction often go hand-in-hand, so this program focuses on helping people manage both conditions.
  • Dual diagnosis treatment program – Co-occurring addiction and mental health disorders require specialized care, which this program provides.

Therapists often combine several therapy programs when creating a customized treatment plan for your condition. This treatment should lead you to lasting recovery.

Find Effective Counseling Services at CMAR Today

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we pride ourselves in consistently providing reliable counseling services to our clients. If you are looking for the right Colorado counseling center, do not hesitate to reach out to our professionals for all inquiries about your condition. We utilize scientific evidence to offer different forms of treatment for addiction and mental health conditions.

Call 833.448.0127 today to get started on your road to recovery.

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Cortland Mathers-Suter

MSSA
Managing Partner

Cortland Mathers-Suter entered the treatment space after his own battle with addiction. He first worked as a peer mentor, before starting clinical work while completing his Masters of Science in social administration from Case Western Reserve University where he focused on policy and direct practice. Cortland moved to Colorado in 2015 to start his first addiction treatment program, AspenRidge Recovery. Under his tenure, AspenRidge Recovery became a two-location, nationally accredited organization. He has since spent the last two years researching and developing what is now Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR).

According to Cortland, “Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is the most important organization I have had the honor to help build. We’re offering a service that seeks to not only improve the lives of our patients but also evolve how we look at medication-assisted treatment in Colorado entirely. Most individuals receiving medication-assisted care only receive medication and urinalysis. Sure you can call that ‘treatment,’ but you can’t call that ‘recovery.’ Our model is about adding the missing recovery component, and thus affords an opportunity to achieve lasting change for each patient and the industry.”

Cortland and his treatment programs have received numerous honors. These include Colorado Business Magazine’s “GenXYZ” award, the 2020 “Titan 100” award, and his program AspenRidge Recovery was both a finalist for “Best Healthcare Company” and named in the “Company’s to Watch” by Colorado Business Magazine as well. He has been interviewed and quoted by numerous publications for his “addiction expertise”, including News Week, 5280 Magazine, the Denver Post, Elephant Journal, Colorado Biz Mag, and TheRecoverySource.org.

Tyler Whitman

Compliance/HR Administrator

Tyler is originally from Omaha, Nebraska. He worked in manufacturing administration for 18 years until he chose to pursue recovery from alcohol addiction, which led him to Chicago, Illinois. Since then, Tyler gained experience in retail, retail pharmacy, and healthcare as a vaccine coordinator for a local Colorado clinic. At the clinic, Tyler discovered that healthcare was the career change he had been looking for. His newfound passion for healthcare, combined with his lived experience with addiction, brought him to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery as an Office Administrator.

In his free time, Tyler enjoys cooking, hiking, and skiing. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Health Services Administration from Regis University.

Simmeren Boanvala

BA
Outreach and Admissions Representative

Simmeren comes to CMAR after several years working admissions in inpatient psychiatry and addiction. A first-generation Colorado Native, Simmeren attended CU Boulder, where she earned a BA in psychology. Simmeren is currently completing her CAC III while working toward her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy.

According to Simmeren, “I joined CMAR because I believe in the quality and importance of the program whole-heartedly. My goal at CMAR is to guide each prospect who calls CMAR to find the best possible pathway to their recovery”. Simmeren currently lives in her hometown with her dog and cat.

Tyler Hale

Tyler Hale

Community Partnership Lead

Tyler Hale began his career in addiction treatment following a decades-long fight with his own substance abuse issues. Since achieving long-term recovery, Tyler has held various positions in direct care, client services, admissions and outreach departments at various addiction treatment organizations. From sober living program director to outreach director to admissions director at a drug and alcohol treatment program, Tyler consistently finds himself in leadership roles within the addiction treatment space.

Tyler is originally from Chicago, IL, where he graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Bioethics. Thereafter, Tyler built a successful career in the tech industry, before finding sobriety and a subsequent calling to help others. Tyler joined the team at CMAR because he believes in the efficacy of comprehensive and patient-centered outpatient treatment. In his free time Tyler enjoys camping, hiking and spending time with his newborn son.

Kirstin O’Carroll

MSW
Engagement and Relations Director

Kirstin O’Carroll started her career in addiction and mental health services 23 years ago after graduating with an MSW from The Oho State University. Hired directly from an internship program, she served as a case manager and vocational specialist on a community treatment team in Columbus, OH, working to help severely mentally ill adults remain at home and in a community setting. Within the same organization, she later transitioned to clinical assessment and crisis intervention services with children, adolescents, and adults. Through these experiences, she learned the importance of providing empathetic, high-quality care and the need to “start wherever the patient is” with regard to finding the best treatment & solutions for her patients.

After seven years, Kirstin made a career change to diagnostic sales and worked for several Fortune 500 companies as an acute care sales specialist. She is delighted to return “home” to her passion for helping others and believes her new role as community engagement coordinator for CMAR is the perfect alignment of both her clinical and sales skills. When not promoting CMAR, she can be found reading, running, hiking, watching movies, and spending time with her husband Dennis and senior canine son Reggie.

Thomas Mazzarella

LAC
Primary Therapist

Thomas is a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) in the State of Colorado and a Licensed Addictions Specialist (LCAS) in the State of North Carolina with particular expertise in the treatment of chronic Substance Abuse Addiction and Dependency.

Thomas is dedicated to Individual, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling and Therapy for individuals with Substance Use and Mental Health issues and concerns.

James Jackman

CAS
Primary Therapist

James Jackman is a Certified Addiction Specialist and has been practicing addiction treatment in Colorado since 2015. James is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Metropolitan State University Denver. James is a traditional CBT therapist specializing in childhood events that lead to adult addictions.

James has received special training in Family Systems, Inner Child, Maladaptive Schemas, and Adverse Childhood Experiences. James has worked in many treatment settings throughout his career and uses a client-centered treatment approach to help one recover from destructive patterns that facilitate addiction. In addition, James enjoys working with rescue animals and advocates for several local rescue organizations outside of work.

Outside of the office, Megan enjoys spending time with her two German Shepherds and her cat. She is passionate about fostering animals through various local rescues to find adoptive homes for dogs and cats in need.

Megan Hanekom

LPC, LAC, NCC
Therapist & Clinical Compliance Officer

Megan is a licensed counselor who has worked in various mental health and addiction treatment environments. She practices cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing and believes in pulling from various therapeutic approaches to best support each individual. Megan received her bachelor’s in psychology and Spanish from Concordia College. She relocated from North Dakota to Colorado where she earned a master’s in counseling psychology from the University of Denver.

Outside of the office, Megan enjoys spending time with her two German Shepherds and her cat. She is passionate about fostering animals through various local rescues to find adoptive homes for dogs and cats in need.

Maggie Coyle

MA, LPC
Primary Therapist

Maggie Coyle, MS, MA, LPP, LPCC has worked in the mental health and addictions counseling field for the past six years. She has extensive experience in working in the varying levels of mental health and addictions treatment as well as with diverse populations.

She practices cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy as primary intervention methods. She has earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology as well as a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling both from Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD. She has also earned a master’s degree in addictions counseling from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, SD. Maggie moved from South Dakota to Colorado in June 2020 and is excited to be a part of the CMAR team.

Michael Damioli

LCSW, CSAT
Clinical Director

Michael Damioli has been passionately working in the fields of addiction treatment and mental health since 2012. He has held a variety of different roles within the addiction recovery space, ranging from peer support to direct clinical practice. Notably, Michael was part of a leadership group that developed a small therapy practice into a nationally branded addiction treatment program, which offers multiple levels of care to recovering professionals. Michael is a strong believer in the family disease model of addiction and has focused much of his clinical work and training on supporting families impacted by addiction. He also specializes in treating individuals suffering from co-occurring chemical and process addictions.

Michael is honored to be leading the clinical care team at CMAR and believes that excellent clinical care begins by simply treating a patient with dignity and respect. Michael is a strong advocate for ethical reform within the addiction treatment field and is excited to promote CMAR as an ethical and thought leader throughout the treatment & recovery industry. Michael earned his master’s degree in social work from the University of Denver and is independently licensed as a clinical social worker with the state of Colorado. He holds an advanced post-graduate certificate in marriage and family therapy from the Denver Family Institute as well as an advanced certificate in sexual addiction counseling from the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals.

Dwight-Duncan

Dwight Duncan

Psy.D
Psychologist

Dr. Duncan was born and spent most of his early life in California. He received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Denver in 1987. He is a licensed psychologist as well as a licensed addiction counselor. He has had extensive training and experience throughout his professional career in medical psychology, mindfulness, integrated behavioral healthcare, and substance abuse.

Dr. Duncan is married and has one daughter, a neurologic physical therapist in Los Angeles.

Susan-Miget

Susan Miget

NP
Medical Provider

Susan has been in healthcare for more than 20 years. She was an ICU nurse for nine years, then returned to school and completed her master of nursing and family nurse practitioner degree at the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 2007. She practiced pain management for many years before developing her current passion for addiction treatment.

Susan has transitioned her practice to focus entirely on addiction treatment. She has worked in residential treatment, partial hospitalization (PHP), and intensive outpatient (IOP) programs. Susan most enjoys working with patients one-on-one in a private office to protect their confidentiality and ensure top-rate care. Knowing that addiction can affect anyone, anywhere, and at any time, Susan continues to strive to make treatment more accessible and confidential.

Whitney-Grant

Whitney Grant

MSN, FNP-BC, ARNP, RN, CPN
Medical Provider

Whitney Grant is an experienced family nurse practitioner with experience and expertise in medication-assisted treatment. Whitney earned her BSN at the University of Miami before moving on to achieve a master of science in nursing degree there as well, becoming a nurse practitioner immediately thereafter.

Whitney has since achieved board certification from the ANCC as a family nurse practitioner. After spending her entire formative and educational years in South Florida, Whitney moved to Denver in 2018 to pursue a career as a provider in family practice, sub-specializing in addictions medicine. Whitney has worked under the guidance of Dr. Nathaniel Moore, CMAR’s medical director, since moving to Denver.

Nathaniel Moore

MD
Medical Director

Dr. Nathan Moore is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Moore attended Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA for his undergraduate work and then attended Duke University School of Medicine and obtained his M.D. in 1995. Dr. Moore then came to Colorado and completed his residency in family medicine at the University of Colorado’s Family Medicine Program at Rose Medical Center.

Dr. Moore practices primarily at our Aurora location. He provides comprehensive family medicine services and has a special interest in addiction medicine, treating patients with opioid use disorder as well as alcohol addiction.

Dr. Moore is married with three children. He enjoys mountain biking, running, and golf.