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Opposite of Addiction

THE OPPOSITE OF ADDICTION:

What is the opposite of addiction? If you posed this question to a random group of people, I would venture a guess that the vast majority would say that the opposite of addiction is sobriety. In other words, as long as you are abstaining from drug use, you are the opposite of addicted. I would argue that this stance is short-sighted and only partially true.

In addiction recovery, there is a common phenomenon referred to as “white knuckling.” “White knuckling” is when someone is not drinking or using their drug of choice by sheer willpower. They make a conscious decision to no longer drink or use drugs, which often leads to preventative measures like throwing out all the booze or drugs they have stashed around their home or deleting their drug dealer’s number from their phone. Although these are important behavioral strategies to employ in recovery, it is an incomplete take on recovery. As “white knuckling” suggests, the addict is clamping down, barely holding on to their own sobriety. To truly engage in the recovery process, the individual must delve deeper. They must examine underlying emotional components that lead them to use. One common driver of use across the board is loneliness.

So, let’s return to the question at hand, what is the opposite of addiction? Well, writer Johann Hari argues that the opposite of addiction is not sobriety. The opposite of addiction is connection. That’s not to say that sobriety is not important to recovery, it absolutely is. But importantly, so is connection.

In his TedTalk, Hari references a study conducted with lab rats that offers compelling evidence for this conclusion. In one trial, a researcher placed a single rat in a sterile cage with two bottles. One bottle had water in it, and the other had water infused with drugs. Unsurprisingly, the rat chose the bottle with the drugs and became addicted.

In a second trial, the researcher placed rats in a cage called “Rat Park.” This cage had both the water bottle and drug-infused bottle, as well as plenty of food, wheels for exercise, toys, and other rats to socialize and have sex with. This time, however, none of the rats chose the drug-infused bottle. None became addicted. Drawing on these results, the researchers concluded that positive social connection was the single most important predictor in whether someone will struggle with and recover from addiction.

Examining recovery programs, such as AA, NA, or CA twelve-step programs, it is no surprise that there is so much emphasis on group programming. Interpersonal connection is an essential human need, and these types of programs offer connection with other individuals in recovery. So, in your own recovery process, it is important to focus on sobriety, but also imperative that you focus on building a positive network of social support. How can we work to build our own version of “Rat Park?”

 

By Jonathan Fricke, MA

Accommodation and Addiction

ACCOMMODATION AND ADDICTION:

Typically, accommodation is considered a good thing. It is usually associated with being polite, caring, and respectful of someone else’s wants, wishes, or needs. We are often praised for being selfless or kind when we accommodate someone else’s preferences. This praise feels good, thus, reinforces and encourages us to continue with our accommodative ways. However, I will make the argument that, while this way of being has positive qualities, if taken to an extreme, it is not ultimately beneficial to ourselves. Let’s look at an example of how this could play out.

I want you to imagine that you are hosting a dinner party and one of your guests is lactose-intolerant. As such, there can’t be any dishes with dairy. Although you love cheese, you recognize that it is only one night, and you can live without it for a meal. Not so bad, right? Your guest will be appreciative, and you’ll feel good about yourself for accommodating your their dietary restriction. Everybody goes home happy.

Well, let’s imagine that this guest starts coming over for dinner several times a week. Although you like them quite a bit, you notice that it is starting to feel like there’s no room for your preferences. You want something with cheese but also don’t want your guest to be hungry or ill. As such, you continue making dishes without dairy. Your guest may still be appreciative, but you begin to resent them. What started as a considerate gesture has grown and changed, such that you are no longer able to eat the dinner you want to.

Although this is a somewhat silly example, it highlights the dynamic of what’s called “pathological accommodation.” Pathological accommodation is when an individual regularly prioritizes others’ preferences above their own to gain admiration, affection, and praise. It is not about accommodating others once or twice; it is a compulsion. Typically, people who pathologically accommodate are well-liked, which reinforces the accommodative tendencies. However, like with all things, it is not that simple.

People who pathologically accommodate also feel helpless. They have their own urges, needs, and feelings that they don’t know how to relate to. They have spent so much time prioritizing others’ needs that they don’t know what to do with their own. As such, they may turn towards behaviors that enable them to connect with these feelings in a “safe” way, free of the burden of accommodation. Two relatively common behaviors for pathological accommodators are isolating and using alcohol and/or drugs.

With isolation, the individual can sit in their own experience without feeling any pressure to respond to someone else’s needs. With substance use, the individual attempts to escape those painful feelings of loneliness. Further, the act of drinking or using drugs creates a sense of autonomy or control to make decisions over one’s own life.

While I am in no way arguing that accommodating others’ is necessarily a bad thing, I encourage you to reflect on the frequency and nature of your accommodations. Eating dairy-free for a meal here and there is fine. But every day? I don’t think so. We all need cheese every now and then.

 

By Jonathan Fricke, MA

Vivitrol Treatment Covered by Aetna Insurance near Denver, CO

A Vivitrol treatment program is very beneficial in helping men and women get through their withdrawal symptoms with a significant reduction in relapsing. Vivitrol treatment is part of a medication-assisted treatment program that coincides with therapy through an inpatient or outpatient treatment program. Aetna and other insurance companies include Vivitrol treatment as part of their substance abuse insurance coverage.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our medication-assisted treatment includes Vivitrol treatment covered by Aetna and other insurance providers. Our facility is in-network for Aetna, and our seamless verification process will give you an accurate and easy-to-understand summary of your coverage. Many of our patients have zero out-of-pocket costs. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and want help with their recovery, call 833.448.0127 today for more information about our Aetna Vivitrol Coverage.

What Is Vivitrol Treatment?

Vivitrol is the brand name for naltrexone, an opiate antagonist that effectively treats addiction to opioids and alcohol. It affects the same cell receptors that release dopamine and other neurotransmitters that are responsible for euphoria and pain relief. Instead of flooding your body with dopamine, it blocks the release and stops the euphoric feeling, and breaks your body’s reliance on your substance of choice.

Vivitrol is an injection that is given once a month as part of a medication-assisted treatment program. This program uses a mix of medications to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings for patients participating in an addiction treatment program. Medical staff will administer your medication and monitor you for any adverse reactions.

Medical staff will continue to update your medication to give you the maximum benefits with minimal side effects. Inform them if you have ever had liver or kidney disease or hemophilia, as Vivitrol may not be safe for you. You should not start Vivitrol treatment if:

  • You have used opioids within the last 7–14 days
  • You’ve used methadone or buprenorphine in the last 14 days
  • You have used medicine to treat a cough, cold, or diarrhea in the last 7–14 days

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our medical staff will determine the right medications to help with your addiction recovery. Our medication-assisted treatment aims not to replace one drug with another but to have you 100% drug-free by the end of your program.

Is Vivitrol Treatment Covered by Aetna?

Aetna provides substance abuse and mental health treatment benefits to help cover the costs of several treatment programs. Medication-assisted treatment is proven to be effective in helping patients with their recovery, and Vivitrol treatment is covered by Aetna.

Aetna insurance coverage includes many addiction treatment programs such as:

  • Detox
  • Residential/Inpatient treatment program
  • Partial hospitalization program
  • Intensive outpatient program
  • Continuing care program
  • Alumni program

Aetna Vivitrol coverage is included in all of their coverage levels. Each level has different copays and coinsurance payments, and maximums. Aetna also verifies the facility’s treatment programs meet the clinical criteria of care to ensure you are getting the best treatment for your recovery.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Provides Safe and Effective Vivitrol Treatment to Benefit Your Addiction Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our outpatient addiction treatment programs use Vivitrol treatment to help patients through their recovery. When you first arrive, therapists and medical staff will perform a complete evaluation to determine the right treatment program and medications to benefit your recovery the most.

Our outpatient facility can help with addiction to a number of substances, including:

  • Alcohol
  • Cocaine
  • Opioid and opiates
  • Heroin
  • Oxycontin
  • Percocet

To learn how our Vivitrol treatment program can benefit your recovery, call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our compassionate staff. Vivitrol treatment covered by Aetna can make a difference as you work towards sustainable sobriety.

Suboxone Treatment Covered by Aetna Insurance near Denver, CO

Getting through withdrawals alone can be a dangerous prospect if you are not careful. Addiction withdrawal symptoms can create painful physical side effects and powerful cravings that are near impossible to resist. Suboxone treatment uses medication to reduce withdrawal symptoms and allow patients to detox from opioid pain medication and illicit opioids safely. A Suboxone treatment program is an essential part of any addiction treatment program that combines behavioral therapy and medication-assisted treatment for the best chance at recovery.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we offer Suboxone treatment covered by Aetna and other top insurance providers. This medication is very effective at the beginning of treatment and as you continue through the program until it is no longer necessary. To learn more about how our Suboxone treatment program can benefit your recovery, call 833.448.0127 today for more information.

How Can Suboxone Treatment Help?

Suboxone is the brand name for medication that combines buprenorphine and naloxone to reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms. It comes in either a sublingual tablet or film that you let dissolve under your tongue or cheek. Dosage amounts can vary depending on which stage of treatment you are in. You should not start taking Suboxone for at least six hours since your last opioid use.

When combined with other medications as part of a medication-assisted treatment program, patients have an easier time getting through withdrawal symptoms and are able to better focus on their recovery.

Some of the withdrawal symptoms that Suboxone can relieve include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Muscle aches
  • Bone pain
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Irritability

One of the active ingredients in Suboxone is buprenorphine, which is an opioid, and there is a small risk of forming an addiction if misused. That is why Suboxone treatment is only administered by medical staff. They will monitor your reaction to the medication and make adjustments to your dosage to give you the maximum benefits with minimal risk.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we provide safe and effective addiction treatment for men and women in Denver and surrounding areas. Before starting Suboxone treatment, let us know if you are taking any of the following medications as they are known to cause complications:

  • Acetaminophen
  • Cholesterol-lowering medications
  • Fluoxetine
  • HIV-treatment drugs
  • Niacin
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Verapamil

Understanding Aetna Suboxone Coverage

Aetna provides coverage for substance abuse and mental health treatment programs. They offer several insurance plans with different levels of coverage and caps on coverage. Aetna understands that many patients will need additional treatment to help with lifelong recovery and base their plans on a patient’s needs instead of capping coverage after a certain amount of days.

Aetna Suboxone coverage includes substance abuse and mental health treatment programs that can include:

  • Detox
  • Partial hospitalization program
  • Intensive outpatient program
  • Continuing care program
  • Alumni program

Some programs will require pre-certification to ensure the program meets Aetna’s clinical criteria for coverage. To help with any out-of-pocket expenses, Colorado offers several grants and federal assistance programs.

Choose Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for Suboxone Treatment

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we provide safe and private care for men and women struggling with addiction or other mental health illnesses. We take the time to get to know your unique situation and develop a treatment plan that best suits your recovery goals.

We provide Colorado residents with several treatment options that include:

  • Medication-assisted treatment
  • Separate men’s and women’s rehab
  • Alcohol addiction treatment
  • Opioid addiction treatment
  • Prescription drug addiction treatment

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and are ready to make a positive change, reach out to our team at 833.448.0127 today to speak with our compassionate staff about our Suboxone treatment covered by Aetna.

Does Aetna Cover Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Colorado?

Colorado continues to see increasing numbers of addiction rates and overdose deaths year after year. Between April 2020 and April 2021, over 100,000 men and women died from a drug overdose in the U.S. Aetna drug and alcohol rehab can help Colorado residents struggling with addiction who want to regain control of their lives. Depending on your plan, Aetna rehab insurance can cover 70–85% of your drug and alcohol rehab.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we work with Aetna and other major insurance companies to provide you with safe and compassionate drug and alcohol rehab. Our support staff will gather your information and process your insurance paperwork on your behalf. Our seamless verification process will show you a summary of your individual coverage and any out-of-pocket costs for which you will be responsible. Many of our patients are able to get the care they need with zero out-of-pocket costs. To learn more about our Aetna drug and alcohol rehab, call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our knowledgeable staff.

Drug and Alcohol Rehab Programs Covered by Aetna

With varying deductibles, co-pays, and maximums, Aetna and other insurance providers cover many substance use disorder and mental health treatment programs. You will know exactly what your insurance will pay at the start of your treatment and any out-of-pocket costs you are responsible for.

The types of programs your Aetna insurance coverage will cover include:

  • Detox – Detoxing includes medication-assisted treatment to reduce withdrawal symptoms and allow patients to get through withdrawals with less risk of relapsing safely. Patients will continue to receive medication to benefit their recovery throughout their treatment program.
  • Partial hospitalization program – This program is a step down from a residential program or can be a starting point for patients whose withdrawal symptoms are not so severe. They spend six to eight hours a day at a treatment center participating in behavioral and other types of therapy. Patients then return to their homes or sober living environment each night.
  • Intensive outpatient program – Patients begin spending more time at home and continue therapy for as much time as necessary to maintain their sobriety. Patients will typically spend four to eight hours a week to continue their recovery for as long as necessary.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our Aetna drug and alcohol rehab programs are essential for patients ready for a real change in their lives. We work with your Aetna rehab coverage and can help you find other ways to pay for your portion of care. Colorado offers many grants and state assistance programs to cover some of the rehab costs.

Understanding Your Aetna Insurance Coverage

Aetna insurance coverage offers several types of plans to help you cover the cost of your addiction treatment. These plans are supported by the National Network of Providers and include:

  • Open access plans – This plan lets you choose your own doctor and does not require a primary care physician. Plus, you do not need to get a referral to see a specialist.
  • Copay-only plans – With this plan, you will only be responsible for your co-pays once your deductible is met.
  • High-deductible plans – These plans will have a higher deductible that you are responsible for but comes with lower monthly payments. You also get a health savings account where money can be automatically deposited, and you are not taxed on the money you put into your HSA.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery: Your Best Choice for Compassionate Aetna Drug and Alcohol Rehab

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery provides safe and private Aetna drug and alcohol rehab that gives patients a real chance at turning their lives around. Our addiction treatment programs can help with addiction to many different substances, including:

  • Alcohol
  • Opioids and opiates
  • Prescription drugs
  • Heroin
  • Oxycontin
  • Percocet

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our compassionate staff about our Aetna drug and alcohol rehab programs.

Step 4 in the 12-Step Process

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]“Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.”

In the first three steps of the twelve-step program, we are asked to recognize that our lives have become unmanageable, to identify and believe in a Power greater than ourselves, and to decide to turn our will over to this higher Power. In step four, however, we begin to engage in deep, intentional self-reflection. In essence, we ask, ‘Who am I?’

At first glance, this question is seemingly simple. We might answer with such things as where we live, what our name is, how old we are, our ethnicity, heritage, race, religion, and hobbies, among others. While these pieces of our identity are an important part of us, it is not exactly what step four is asking of us. Step four focuses on taking a moral inventory.
In a moral inventory, we reflect on our lives, assessing for and recording our perceived character deficits, strengths, and weaknesses. Topics that typically arise in moral inventories include resentments, anger, fears, pride, self-will, self-pity, guilt, shame, relationships, and sex. The purpose of this exercise is to gain more clarity and awareness on who we are, such that we can develop an awareness of how our understanding of ourselves both contributes to our problematic substance use and may aid us in the recovery process.

In taking a moral inventory, we will surely encounter negative thought patterns, destructive self-talk, overwhelming emotions, and value incongruent behaviors that have fueled the continuance of our addictions. In so long as we keep our shame, regrets, anger, and resentments secret, our problematic substance use will persist in efforts to cope with these unpleasant feelings. As uncomfortable and painful as it may be to connect with these feelings, studies have shown, time and time again, that reflecting upon and sharing these feelings with a trusted individual (i.e. sponsor, therapist, partner, friend) can be incredibly healing. Positive effects on an individual’s mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health, are ultimately to be expected. The moral inventory is an essential component of recovery.

In step four, we gain a better understanding of who we are, how our affective experiences and behavioral patterns contribute to our addiction, and how our strengths may aid us in recovery.

We begin to take accountability for our problematic use as we redirect our blame for others towards curiosity about ourselves.

By Jonathan Fricke, MA[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Step 5 in the 12-Step Process

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]“Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.”

I want you to think of a time that you kept something secret. Maybe it was a bigger secret, such as an affair or a time that you hurt someone, or maybe it was a smaller secret, such as a time that you were embarrassed. Whatever the case is, I want you to remember that secret. I want you to think about what drove you to keep this thing under wraps. I want you to reflect on how doing so impacted you. Really, take a moment to reflect before reading on.

Often times, we keep secrets in efforts to protect our egos. We think that if others were to know what it is we have done, they would see us as the person that we so desperately fear becoming. For example, if a partner were to find out about an affair, we fear they will see us as untrustworthy. If a friend were to find out about how we spoke ill of them behind their back, we fear they will see us as a bad person. Or, if a parent were to find out about our struggles with substance use, we fear they will see us as flawed. Therefore, we may elect to keep actions, feelings, and thoughts to ourselves in hopes that others will not see us in the same negative light we fear seeing ourselves in.

Makes sense, right? I mean, if we can hold onto our secrets, thus preventing others from knowing us fully, what is the problem?

Well, unfortunately secrets come with a toll. A toll that tethers irritability, anxiety, remorse, and depression, among others, to our lives. When we hide our wrongdoings from the world, we decide that we will carry the burden alone. We keep others away and place ourselves on an island where no one can get to us; we isolate. When we isolate, we do not even give others the chance to respond to our secrets. We cut off any possibility for compassion or love before we even have the opportunity to receive it. We cement in ourselves the very wretched feelings that we had hoped to avoid. For the addict, the toll means continued substance use or relapse.

Fortunately, there is another path to take. This is the path of connection, admission, and confession to another. Instead of putting ourselves on the island of isolation, we draw upon our moral inventory to share our secrets and wrongdoings with a trusted individual, whether that be a sponsor, friend, or therapist. In doing so, we share ourselves. We allow ourselves to be seen and understood. We open up the doors for compassion and love to enter. Often, we then begin to experience ourselves differently. Not as flawed creatures, but as a human beings.

Although this path is not a cakewalk, it is essential. It is perhaps the most important part of recovery.

By Jonathan Fricke, MA[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Physical Effects of Opiate Addiction

Opiates are naturally derived opioids that come from the poppy plant. Natural opiates include pain medication such as morphine and codeine, as well as illicit drugs like heroin. They are very effective in treating pain but come with a high risk of addiction. The effects of opiate addiction are different for each patient, and symptoms can become so severe that they lead to death. Opiate addiction treatment can help patients struggling with opiate addiction before their symptoms completely consume them.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we provide discreet outpatient treatment for men and women struggling with addiction to opiates or other substances. We will perform a thorough physical and mental evaluation to provide the most effective treatment for your unique symptoms. If you or a loved one struggles with opiate addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about our programs.

The Physical Effects of Opiate Addiction

Opiates can have a significant effect on your physical and mental health. Long-term use of opiates or taking more than the recommended amount can quickly lead to addiction and serious physical harm. As you take more, your body will crave more of the drug, even to the detriment of your health.

Some of the more severe physical effects of opiate addiction include:

  • Respiratory failure – Opiates reduce pain and slow breathing down to induce relaxation. Higher doses of opiates can cause oxygen deprivation, leading to brain damage, organ failure, and death.
  • Gastrointestinal damage – Opiate abuse affects the stomach muscles in your digestive system and slows the digestive process. It can lead to a condition known as opiate bowel dysfunction that causes chronic constipation, nausea, bloating, ileus, and severe stomach pain.
  • Liver damage – Some opiates contain acetaminophen, and high doses of this chemical can damage the liver and lead to acetaminophen toxicity.
  • Epidermis damage – Patients who inject opiates like heroin will face painful skin lesions, abscesses, gum disease, and scarring.

The physical effects of opiate addiction can be devastating and can lead to irreversible damage and death. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we offer private outpatient opiate rehab in Colorado for those who are ready to make a positive change in their lives.

Advantages of an Opiate Addiction Treatment Program

An opiate addiction treatment program can help you in many ways. It can give you a temporary break from the daily stresses of life and offers a safe and encouraging space to work on your recovery. Plus, it will significantly reduce the risk of relapse as your cravings and withdrawal symptoms are more manageable when you get help from opiate rehab in Colorado.

Other benefits of an opiate addiction treatment program include:

  • Medication-assisted treatment to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
  • Behavioral therapy to cope with negative thinking and habits that led to your addiction and any co-occurring mental health disorder.
  • Family support to rebuild relationships, provide mental health support for all family members, and develop a stronger family bond.
  • Increased self-esteem and confidence in your ability to lead a sober and productive life.
  • A wide network of support that includes peer and family support.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery: Opiate Rehab in Colorado

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we provide safe and effective outpatient treatment for men and women struggling with opiate addiction. Our opiate addiction treatment program can help reduce the effects of opiate addiction through various programs that include:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • Medication-assisted treatment
  • Family therapy and support
  • Group therapy

Our opiate rehab in Colorado offers therapy that works around your schedule and can include in-person day and evening programs, including telehealth services. For more information about our opiate addiction treatment program and how it can help you break free of opiate addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our supportive and knowledgeable staff.

How Case Management Can Help You Navigate Recovery

Providing effective care for addiction treatment takes multiple therapy and treatment options. Because addiction affects each person in unique ways, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan. Addiction case management provides effective care that works with your changing needs and updates your care accordingly. A case management program offers support for all aspects of your care from start to finish.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we offer outpatient treatment for men and women struggling with addiction or other mental health disorders. To ensure you get the maximum benefits from your treatment, our case management program will monitor your progress and make adjustments if something is not working. If you or a loved one struggles with addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our knowledgeable staff about addiction case management.

What Is Case Management and How Can It Help with Your Addiction?

Addiction case management allows therapists and staff to work together to help with your individual needs for addiction recovery. It is a coordinated effort between therapists and medical staff to build an effective treatment plan that combines different behavioral and holistic therapy along with medication-assisted treatment. It can also help with services such as employment searches, transportation, and getting involved with the addiction community.

Your case manager will work with you, your family, and all staff involved with your care. They will advocate for you and speak on your behalf when you are unable to do so due to your addiction. Your addiction case management team will:

  • Gather all personal information
  • Assess your physical and mental health
  • Develop and monitor all treatment and case planning
  • Linking patients with other programs and services
  • Monitor your progress and follow up with therapists and staff
  • Provide advocacy and support

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we provide recovery case management for men and women ready to beat their addiction and make a positive change in their lives. Your case manager will work on your behalf to ensure you have everything you need and you are progressing through your program according to your agreed-upon timeline.

Four Levels of Recovery Case Management

There are four levels of recovery case management. Each level builds on the other to provide a more effective treatment program.

  • Intake – This first step is where your case manager will find out about your needs and goals and gather all personal information. This includes health insurance, medical history, and other necessary information to provide the appropriate level of care.
  • Needs assessment – Taking all of the information from intake along with assessing your physical and mental health, your case manager will discuss your treatment plan and what to expect. They will discuss the risks involved and answer any questions you have about the process. As you progress through the program, they will continue to monitor you and update your treatment as necessary.
  • Service planning – Your case manager will identify your specific goals and objectives and implement a plan to begin your treatment. They will create a timeline for each phase of your recovery with specific metrics you need to meet to move to the next level of your recovery.
  • Monitoring and evaluating – Your case manager will monitor your progress and update your plan if they feel it is not the best treatment for your recovery. This includes working with medical staff to update medications to help reduce withdrawals and cravings. Plus, working with therapists to ensure you are progressing per the goals and timeline created in level three.

For Effective Addiction Case Management, Choose Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Our addiction case management program at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery helps patients progress through their recovery based on their individual needs and goals. To learn more about and how it can benefit you on your road to recovery, call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our compassionate staff.

Best MAT Program near Westminster, Colorado

The physical effects of drug addiction often require medication to help reduce the physical and mental withdrawal symptoms of drug addiction. A medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program near Westminster, Colorado allows patients to begin working on their recovery immediately instead of waiting seven to 21 days for their withdrawal symptoms to diminish. Discover how a medication-assisted treatment program near Westminster can help your addiction recovery at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery.

Our addiction treatment center specializes in medication-assisted treatment along with behavioral therapy for a whole-person approach to treating your addiction. We help patients who are ready to make a change in their lives while still keeping up with life responsibilities through our outpatient and telehealth services. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our friendly staff about our MAT program near Westminster, Colorado.

What Is a MAT Program?

Medication-assisted treatment or MAT program is a form of addiction treatment that uses FDA-approved medications to block fast-acting opioids and alcohol from releasing dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for making you feel pleasure. Currently, there are several types of medications proven to help with addiction, including:

  • Buprenorphine
  • Suboxone
  • Naltrexone
  • Methadone

A medication-assisted treatment program will use one or multiple medications to get you the most benefits for your addiction recovery. Medical staff will monitor your progress throughout the program to minimize side effects and reduce the risk of forming an addiction to the medication.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers the best medication-assisted treatment program near Westminster, Colorado. Our medical staff and behavioral therapists will work together to create the most effective addiction treatment plan for your individual symptoms. They will help make you safe and comfortable while working on your recovery.

How Can a Medication-Assisted Treatment Program Benefit You?

If you are struggling with addiction and have tried quitting on your own, you understand how difficult it can be to get through the physical withdrawal symptoms. The difficulty in quitting makes many men and women feel helpless against their growing cravings. When they give in, they are at risk of overdose and death if they use the same amount without regard to their reduced tolerance.

A medication-assisted treatment program reduces the severity of your withdrawal symptoms so you can focus on your recovery. Patients who receive medication through an addiction treatment program and behavioral therapy form healthy coping skills that will help them maintain their sobriety. Other benefits of a medication-assisted treatment program include:

  • Controls cravings and withdrawal symptoms for a safer detox
  • Significantly decreases the risk of death by overdose
  • Improves the patient’s desire and ability to continue treatment
  • Decreases risky behavior that is associated with drug abuse
  • Improves chances of finding/maintaining employment
  • Work on rebuilding broken relationships

A MAT program near Westminster, Colorado, allows patients to continue their work and personal lives while working on their addiction recovery. When you begin your treatment program, your current physical and mental state, plus the seriousness of addiction, will determine the best form of treatment for you.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Offers the Best MAT Program near Westminster, Colorado

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we give Colorado residents relief from their withdrawal symptoms through our MAT program. To keep our patients from relapsing, we closely monitor their progress and update any medication accordingly. As you improve, your reliance on the medications will diminish until you no longer need it to maintain your sobriety.

Along with our medication-assisted treatment, your treatment program may include:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • Group and individual therapy
  • Neurofeedback therapy
  • Family counseling
  • Case management and peer support

For the best MAT program near Westminster, Colorado to help with your addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about our medication-assisted treatment program near Westminster, Colorado.

VERIFY INSURANCE

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.