Telehealth Login

|

What are the Different Types of Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Did you know that medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has been shown to reduce the risk of fatal overdose in individuals struggling with opioid addiction? This statistic, backed by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, underscores the life-saving potential of MAT.

Medication-assisted treatment is a comprehensive approach that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. This integrative method addresses the complex nature of substance use disorders and helps individuals achieve long-term recovery.

We want to explore along with you the different types of medication-assisted treatment, how each one works, and the unique benefits they offer. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, we at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery can help you take that first vital step toward addiction recovery.

What-are-the-Different-Types-of-Medication

Understanding Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a holistic approach that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. This method addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, providing a comprehensive pathway to recovery.

How MAT Works

  • Medications: MAT utilizes medications to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and stabilize body functions. The medications used in MAT do not substitute one addictive substance for another; instead, they help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.
  • Counseling and Behavioral Therapies: Alongside medications, MAT includes counseling and behavioral therapies to address the psychological aspects of addiction. These therapies help individuals develop coping strategies, improve their mental health, and build a support system.

Benefits of MAT

  • Reduces Cravings and Withdrawal Symptoms: MAT medications help alleviate the intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms that often lead to relapse.
  • Improves Treatment Retention: Individuals receiving MAT are more likely to stay in treatment compared to those who do not.
  • Enhances Overall Recovery Outcomes: By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, MAT improves the chances of long-term recovery and reduces the risk of overdose.

Types of Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) encompasses a variety of medications, each designed to aid in recovery from substance use disorders. Here, we explore the different types of medication-assisted treatment, detailing all you need to know in order to make an informed decision.

Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex, Sublocade)

Overview: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that can be prescribed by certified physicians and dispensed at pharmacies, offering more flexibility than methadone.

How Buprenorphine Works:

  • Buprenorphine binds to opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing significant euphoria.

Suboxone:

  • Contains: Buprenorphine and naloxone.
  • Benefits:

Subutex:

Sublocade:

Naltrexone (Vivitrol)

Overview: Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist used to treat both opioid and alcohol addiction, available in both pill form and as a monthly injection (Vivitrol).

How Naltrexone Works:

  • Naltrexone works by blocking opioid receptors, preventing the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol.

Benefits and Considerations:

  • Benefits:
    • Non-addictive and has no potential for abuse.
    • Reduces cravings for alcohol and opioids.
    • Monthly injection (Vivitrol) improves adherence.
  • Considerations:
    • Requires detoxification before starting treatment.
    • Not suitable for individuals with liver issues.

Disulfiram (Antabuse)

Overview: Disulfiram is used to treat chronic alcoholism by causing unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed.

How Antabuse Works:

  • Antabuse works by inhibiting the enzyme involved in metabolizing alcohol, leading to an accumulation of acetaldehyde and causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and headaches when alcohol is consumed.

Benefits and Considerations:

  • Benefits:
    • Acts as a deterrent to alcohol consumption.
    • Supports abstinence in highly motivated individuals.
  • Considerations:
    • Requires strict adherence to avoid accidental alcohol consumption.
    • Can interact with other substances containing alcohol.
MAT-types-of-medication

How to Choose the Right Medication-Assisted Treatment

Selecting the most suitable Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a vital step in achieving successful recovery from substance use disorders. With several options available, it is important to consider various factors and work closely with healthcare providers to determine the best fit. Let’s examine the most important factors:

Type of Substance Use Disorder

  • The specific substance being abused (e.g., opioids, alcohol) can influence the choice of medication.
  • For opioid addiction, medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone may be considered.
  • For alcohol addiction, naltrexone and disulfiram (Antabuse) are commonly used.

Severity of Addiction

  • The intensity and duration of the addiction can impact the effectiveness of different MAT options.
  • For severe opioid addiction, methadone may be preferred due to its long-acting properties.
  • For less severe cases, buprenorphine or naltrexone might be more appropriate.

Medical History

  • Existing medical conditions, such as liver disease, can affect the choice of medication.
  • Some medications, like naltrexone, may not be suitable for individuals with liver issues.

Lifestyle and Preferences

  • The patient’s daily routine and lifestyle can influence treatment adherence.
  • Medications like Sublocade, which require monthly administration, may be more convenient for some individuals.

Role of Healthcare Providers

At CMAR, we truly understand the importance of healthcare providers in guiding individuals to the right MAT. Through comprehensive assessments, we take the time to delve into each patient’s unique medical history, addiction severity, and individual preferences. We even make sure there the insurance verification process goes as smoothly as possible. This allows us to create personalized treatment plans that offer the best possible chance for successful recovery.

Individualized Treatment Plans

Creating personalized treatment plans is crucial as they cater to the specific needs and circumstances of each person. These plans frequently integrate the different types of medication-assisted treatment with behavioral therapies and counseling, offering a holistic approach to recovery. By prioritizing the overall well-being of each individual, we at CMAR can develop tailored plans that enhance treatment adherence and long-term results. This approach ensures that each person receives the best possible care for their unique situation.

mat-for-opioid-use-disorder

Combining MAT with Behavioral Therapies

While medication-assisted treatment (MAT) addresses the physical aspects of addiction, combining it with behavioral therapies provides a comprehensive approach to recovery. This integrated method not only helps manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings but also addresses the underlying psychological factors contributing to substance use disorders.

How Does Behavioral Therapy Work in MAT

Behavioral therapies are designed to modify attitudes and behaviors related to drug use, enhance life skills, and support other forms of treatment. These therapies play a crucial role in helping individuals understand the root causes of their addiction and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Benefits of Combining MAT with Counseling and Therapy

  • Holistic Treatment: Combining MAT with behavioral therapies addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction, providing a more holistic treatment approach.
  • Improved Coping Strategies: Behavioral therapies help individuals develop effective coping strategies to deal with stress, triggers, and cravings.
  • Enhanced Motivation: Counseling sessions can boost motivation, helping individuals stay committed to their recovery goals.
  • Relapse Prevention: Therapies teach skills to manage triggers and prevent relapse, increasing the likelihood of long-term recovery.

Effective Behavioral Therapies Used with MAT

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Contingency Management (CM)

  • Overview: CM uses positive reinforcement to encourage sobriety and adherence to treatment.
  • Benefits: Provides tangible rewards for meeting treatment goals, which can enhance motivation and engagement.

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

  • Overview: MI is a client-centered counseling style that enhances motivation to change.
  • Benefits: Helps individuals resolve ambivalence about recovery and strengthens their commitment to positive behavioral changes.

Family Therapy

  • Overview: Family therapy involves family members in the treatment process to improve communication and support.
  • Benefits: Strengthens family dynamics, provides a support system, and addresses any familial factors contributing to addiction.

12-Step Facilitation Therapy

  • Overview: This therapy encourages participation in 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
  • Benefits: Provides a structured approach to recovery with peer support and a sense of community.

Your Next Steps

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is incredibly important in providing support to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. By combining FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies, MAT offers a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, providing a pathway to complete recovery. Unfortunately, many people still do not have access to this vital form of treatment. This emphasizes the critical need to comprehend the different types of medication-assisted treatment in order to effectively provide support to those in need.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, it’s crucial to seek professional support. Medication-assisted treatment can provide the necessary help to overcome addiction and lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Take the first step toward recovery today by reaching out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to offering personalized, compassionate care to help you or your loved one achieve lasting recovery. Don’t hesitate to take charge of your life. Begin your journey toward a brighter, healthier future. Our caring team is here to assist you every step of the way.

How Trauma Influences Addiction

Trauma can have a profound impact on mental health, even if the symptoms are not apparent for years. Trauma and addiction are often related. However, many addiction treatment programs don’t take past trauma into account. That’s why, if you’re looking into addiction treatment programs, you should look for one that offers trauma-informed care. Addiction and trauma recovery can happen at the same time when trauma is addressed in a safe, supportive way. Trauma-informed care includes therapies and approaches that are sensitive to the impact of prior traumatic experiences and seek to create a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we will enroll you in a trauma-informed care program that will treat the mental aspect of the trauma along with your addiction treatment. Call 833.448.0127 today for more on trauma-informed care in Colorado.

How Does Past Trauma Affect Addiction?

When someone experiences a traumatic event, it affects the brain in multiple areas. If the trauma happens at an early age, it can affect brain development as the trauma can suppress growth in some regions of the brain. Some trauma treatment programs can help cope with a current trauma, but often this is ignored or covered up by other mental issues, like substance addiction.

There are three areas of the brain that trauma can affect:

  • The hippocampus – This part of the brain is important for forming memories, and it can be suppressed after experiencing trauma.
  • The amygdala – This area of the brain is responsible for fight-or-flight responses, and trauma can cause it to become overactive.
  • The prefrontal cortex – This part helps with decision making, and trauma can make it harder to think clearly.

When you experience a traumatic event, your brain goes into a hyperactive state that suppresses your memory and impulse control. Many people enter a state of shock and cannot react normally, often freezing up and seemingly unable to speak. They are overwhelmed by the event and trying to cope.

Types of Trauma

Trauma can take many forms, from abuse of any kind to the death of a loved one. It can be caused by physical, emotional, or sexual violence; natural disasters; or even witnessing a traumatic event. It’s also possible to experience trauma through indirect means, like hearing about a loved one’s death or bearing witness to a traumatic event without directly experiencing it.

Any kind of trauma can have an effect on mental health and, as a result, addiction. Trauma can lead to feelings of fear and helplessness that drive a person to use drugs or alcohol to cope with the emotions associated with the trauma. If not addressed, this can lead to addiction and other mental health issues. Addiction develops as a result of the brain’s attempt to cope with the impact of trauma, and it can form a vicious cycle.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

In a trauma-informed care program, clients will work with a team of professionals to address the issues caused by trauma. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and focus on addressing the underlying issues rather than just the addiction. The goal of trauma-informed care is to create a safe, supportive environment and guide clients through the healing process.

Therapies used in a trauma-informed care program can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and even family therapy. These therapies will help clients understand their trauma, address any triggers, and learn coping skills to manage symptoms.

In a trauma-informed care program, you will see the impact trauma can have on addiction treatment and the need to focus on more than just one area of concern. With time, the participant will begin to feel the positive effects of a comprehensive treatment.

When you first come in and discuss your addiction and trauma treatment, your therapist will sit down with you and go over the best programs to treat your mental health so you can get over your past trauma and learn to control your addiction.

Find the Right Trauma-Informed Care for You at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand how trauma can affect your addiction and will work with you or your loved ones in their addiction recovery. We provide a safe and encouraging environment that considers the difficulties traumatic events can have on addiction and where you will feel comfortable discussing the trauma driving your addiction.

If you or someone you know is suffering from trauma-related addiction, please call 833.448.0127 or reach out to our team online today and schedule an appointment with one of our therapists.

When to Seek Individual Therapy for Addiction

One of the main reasons people do not seek out addiction treatment is because they think they have everything under control. It is only after an accident or significant loss that they realize they have a problem. Individual therapy for addiction can help you better understand your addiction and how you can avoid future triggers and cravings.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our individual therapy programs can help with addiction recovery through our flexible outpatient and telehealth services and behavioral therapy that will give you your best chances at recovery. If you or a loved one is ready to get control of their addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about our addiction therapy programs.

Why Individual Therapy Is Beneficial for Addiction Recovery

The main goal of individual therapy for addiction is to better understand how your addiction has changed your thought processes and chemical makeup to where you need the substance to function. Through multiple therapy sessions, you will begin to see where your addiction stems from and create healthy coping skills that will keep your cravings at bay.

Motivational Interviewing

Motivational interviewing is a form of therapy where the therapist walks you through understanding your addiction and recognizing the whys and hows behind it. Instead of being told what’s happening, you discover the reasons through support and encouragement from the therapist, creating a stronger belief in your ability to recover.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT can help individuals recognize their negative thoughts and behaviors and how they are driving their addiction in a never-ending loop. This bad habit started a long time ago, and with the help of your therapist, you can learn how to break your bad habit and create new ones that don’t have you reaching for your substance of choice.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT focuses on changing the individual’s behavior and their home life to make sobriety easier for them. It teaches them several new skills to help manage emotions, create a sense of mindfulness, and help improve broken relationships due to their addiction.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our addiction treatment therapies include motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, and many more options, including:

  • Group therapy
  • Family counseling
  • Neurofeedback therapy
  • Case management
  • Peer support

We want to help you in the best way possible. As you progress through your therapy, your therapists will continuously update your treatment to ensure positive results.

When It’s Time for an Individual Therapy Program

If you think you are using addictive substances without causing harm to yourself or others, that can be a sign of addiction and dependency. There are several signs to help you recognize that you are not as functional as you might think:

  • You are using more to reach the same high
  • Work and school performance suffers
  • Withdrawing from your friends and family
  • Poor sleep
  • Intense cravings that you cannot ignore

If you are struggling with any of these signs, it is time to call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery to help with your addiction treatment.

Addiction Treatment Therapies for Your Recovery at CMAR

Understanding that you need help is just the first step toward recovery. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery can help you with the second, third, and continuing steps with our addiction treatment therapies and medication-assisted therapy if necessary.

When you come in for your evaluation, one of our therapists will sit down with you, go over your motivation behind your recovery, and determine the best course of action for your addiction treatment. We have flexible treatment options available, including outpatient and telehealth services for those who cannot take time off of work.

When you are serious about your addiction recovery or know someone who can benefit from our programs, call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about our addiction therapy programs and how they can help you toward a sober life.

What Kinds of Therapy Are Good for Addiction?

Addiction affects each person differently as it is both a mental health issue and a social one. Peer pressure pushes many of us to smoke or drink well before the legal age, and our society seems to find this acceptable. Addiction therapy programs are available to help you regain control of your life when addiction has taken over. But which program is right for you?

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our addiction therapy programs will help you break free from addiction through individual and group therapy programs that will teach you how to recognize your triggers and develop positive coping skills to help you stay on your sober path. Call 833.448.0127 today to speak with our caring team members and learn more about our beneficial addiction therapy programs.

Finding the Right Addiction Therapy Programs for You

Addiction is a mental and physical health issue that affects the mind by changing the brain chemistry so that it requires the substance of choice to maintain functionality. When you try to quit, your body starts going into withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms can be as minor as a headache and a slight craving to as severe as uncontrollable shivering, muscle pain, vomiting, and much more that will not cease until you satisfy that craving.

Effective addiction treatment therapies will focus on the physical and mental aspects of addiction to help you get a better understanding of your addiction.

Behavior Therapy

The best way to understand addiction is by better understanding your actions and what led to the start of your addiction, and how your thinking patterns and thought processes are affected.

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – CBT helps you recognize your negative thoughts and develop new thinking patterns and positive coping skills to maintain your sobriety.
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) – DBT focuses more on the harmful effects of addiction like suicide and self-harm. DBT can help you accept your negative feelings and begin to change the way you perceive these feelings, and develop positive coping skills.
  • Neurofeedback therapy – This therapy directly affects the brainwaves and tries to normalize them through positive stimulation. Addiction changes your brain chemistry and thought processes, and neurofeedback therapy is very effective in treating addiction.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our certified therapists use these and other forms of behavioral therapy in our addiction treatment therapies to give you a better chance at maintaining your sobriety.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Drugs and alcohol have a physical effect on your brain. The substance you are taking changes your brain chemistry so that it stops producing naturally occurring endorphins that are responsible for your happiness, motor functions, and much more. When you stop, even for a few hours, your body can start craving the substance and will go into withdrawal until satiated.

These withdrawal symptoms can be very debilitating and may include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Shivering
  • Mood swings
  • Painful muscle cramps
  • Poor sleep
  • Hot flashes
  • Suicidal thoughts

When withdrawal symptoms get in the way of your recovery, medication-assisted therapy can help. These are FDA-approved drugs that can limit painful symptoms, stop your cravings, and reduce the pleasurable effects of your substance of choice.

Benefits of an Addiction Therapy Program

When you begin an addiction therapy program at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, you will soon feel all of the amazing benefits of your addiction recovery, such as:

  • A growing sober network that you can rely on
  • A better understanding of yourself and your addiction
  • Fewer emotional outbursts
  • A better outlook on life
  • A growing number of healthy coping skills
  • Better control of your triggers and craving
  • A new sober life

Learn More About Addiction Treatment Therapies at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

When you are ready to get serious about your addiction recovery, or if you know someone who can benefit from our addiction therapy programs, call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Don’t waste any more time suffering needlessly. Call 833.448.0127 today.

Peer Support Can Hold You Accountable to Your Recovery

Peer support for addiction recovery can be successful in helping those suffering from addiction when individual therapy is not enough. Participants will feel more comfortable around others who have gone through similar struggles and feel more inclined to share their stories. Your deeper connection with others in your peer support group will keep you accountable as they will be encouraging you toward success and help you on bad days.

If you are interested in learning more about peer support for addiction recovery at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, call 833.448.0127 to speak with a therapist and learn how peer support can help you or your loved ones.

Why Does Peer Support for Recovery Work so Well?

We tend to stay close to those who we feel are similar to us. Positive people attract other positive people, just like those who view the world negatively will attract others who share their pessimistic views. Peer support is successful because everyone involved has lived with addiction, including the moderator.

It allows for a more encouraging atmosphere and builds on the participant’s strengths and overall well-being, helping them stay motivated in their recovery.

Peer support can help with a variety of other mental health and social issues, including:

  • Opioid addiction recovery
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Death of a loved one
  • Relationship issues

When you begin your addiction recovery at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, your program will include a combination of individual therapy, peer support therapy, and case management to make sure you are getting the most out of your recovery.

Peer Support Can Keep You Accountable During Your Recovery

When working with your peers in addiction recovery, you will feel more compelled to stay on track. The other participants can give you advice on your recovery and encourage you to stick with the program. You will have more faith in their words as they are living proof that recovery is possible.

Your addiction will only be successful if you are willing to do what’s needed to recover. When first starting peer support therapy, you may feel uncomfortable sharing with others. But as you listen to them tell their stories, you will begin to relate with them and feel comfortable sharing. The more you are around them, the easier it will be to open up and get to the bottom of your addiction.

Benefits of Peer Support

When you are involved with peer support groups to help with your recovery, you will begin to feel the positive effects of working with someone that understands your addiction, including:

  • A better sense of well being
  • Learning how to trust others
  • A better circle of friends
  • Improved self-esteem
  • Learning important coping skills

Although there is no cure for addiction, with a supportive group of peers who understand, recovery and long-term sobriety is possible.

Get Involved to Help Others With Their Addiction Recovery

As the need for peer support for addiction recovery grows, the best leaders will be those who have survived their addiction through peer support and now want to help others in their recovery.

By getting involved with helping others, you are helping yourself build your self-esteem, confidence, and other coping skills. The joy you will feel knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life is a powerful motivator.

Learn How Peer Support Can Help You at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Peer support can be very beneficial to those who are struggling with their addiction recovery. Better case management may be required. Adding peer support therapy can be a suitable form of treatment that you or a loved one needs to recover from their addiction successfully.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand the value of peer support for addiction recovery and will assist you in your addiction recovery to ensure life-long health and wellness. Call 833.448.0127 today to speak with one of our therapists about starting your road to recovery.

CBT Program in Colorado

Many people who struggle with addiction and co-occurring mental health issues like depression or anxiety can benefit from a cognitive-behavioral therapy program (CBT). This type of therapy has helped many get back to living healthy and productive lives. The stigma of needing therapy is long gone as millions in the US suffer from stress and anxiety, leading to more severe problems like depression and suicide.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we offer CBT programs to help you get back on your feet and build healthy coping skills for sustainable recovery. Our certified therapists will work with you to get to the root cause of your addiction and help you stop turning to drugs and alcohol. When you are ready to help yourself or a loved one with their addiction, call 833.448.0127 today to learn more.

What Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a form of psychological treatment with proven results in helping patients deal with a wide range of behavioral issues. These include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Substance abuse
  • Eating disorders
  • Marital troubles
  • Social anxiety

If someone is suffering from addiction, it is from an underlying issue and not simply because they want to drink or smoke. The temporary high is a big draw for those looking for an escape. Therapy programs that treat physical addiction often fail because they only treat one side of the addiction.

Benefits of CBT

Through a combination of individual therapy and group sessions, your therapist will work you through finding that first moment that started your addiction by looking at what drove you to this coping device. You might have experienced trauma in the past or might have turned to drugs and alcohol to feel relief from mental health conditions.

When you begin a cognitive-behavioral therapy program and begin dealing with what is driving your addiction, you will start feeling many positive benefits. These include:

  • New coping mechanisms
  • A calmer self
  • Improved communications skills
  • Improved mental clarity
  • New supportive friends that you can count on

The goal of any CBT program is to help you find ways to deal with triggers in a healthy way. These coping skills are helpful tools that you will use throughout your life.

Is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Right for You?

Finding the right therapy program can be difficult if you don’t know the underlying issue. You try to quit on your own, only to fail a few days or even months later, sometimes with challenging results as a relapse tends to try and make up for lost time. Your tolerance levels have dropped, but you still think you can handle as much as you once did.

Other treatment centers only focus on the addiction itself and isolate you from your regular life, but don’t do anything to find the root cause of the issue. Their method is to treat the addiction, then send you off to treat the underlying reason for the addiction. This type of single-sided treatment often leads to a half-baked approach to your therapy.

A cognitive-behavioral therapy program will treat both the physical side of addiction and the mental side.

Finding the Right Therapy Program at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

When you are ready to help yourself, a friend, spouse, or family member with their addiction, Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is available to assist in your recovery. With specialized programs that deal with addiction and mental illness, we can get you healthy and back to a productive life with a cognitive toolkit that will be a powerful shield against the outside world.

We offer telehealth options for those who are unable or uncomfortable leaving their homes, as well as in-person and outpatient programs. If you or someone you care about is suffering from addiction and mental illness, please call 833.448.0127 today and speak with a supportive therapist.

Finding an OxyContin Treatment Program Right For You

Addiction to OxyContin takes an incredible toll on people and their families. The risk of addiction to this pain reliever affects many thousands of people. Sources show that there are continuing risks to addiction and overdoses related to OxyContin. An OxyContin treatment program offers hope and the opportunity to recover from addiction to OxyContin.

What Are the Risks of an OxyContin Addiction?

Oxycontin was first approved several decades ago for the relief of moderate to severe chronic pain. It is still today recommended for the management of moderate to severe pain. It is considered to be an effective and efficient medication for millions of people across the country who suffer from chronic pain each year.

It did not take long for researchers and medical professionals to realize that there were issues with the misuse and addiction to OxyContin. People that take more of the drug than their prescribed dose, that share the medication with other people, or that sell it to others all risk addiction to the drug. Additionally, it is an abused drug that people often obtain in the streets. When this happens, it is likely as a result of the many people that become addicted to OxyContin and run out before they are able to obtain another prescription or people that were never prescribed OxyContin and take it strictly for illicit purposes.

Studies and surveys show that many people admit to taking OxyContin that was never prescribed to them. They stated that they took it solely to get high on the drug. Millions of people admit to taking OxyContin that was not prescribed for them or that was prescribed for them but that they took more than the dosage instructions.

There are several dangerous effects of OxyContin addiction, including:

  • Decreased respiration
  • Experiencing hypothermia
  • Experiencing a euphoric effect
  • Changes in the brain
  • Coma or death

People take OxyContin in ways other than swallowing the whole pill. Some people snort the drug, while other people inject it or combine it with alcohol or other drugs.

The Side Effects of OxyContin Use

Misuse of OxyContin may lead to several side effects that vary from one person to another person that has an OxyContin addiction issue. Some side effects include:

  • Dizziness or confusion
  • Increased sensitivity to pain
  • Increased sleepiness or drowsiness
  • Profuse sweating or severe itching
  • Feelings of depression

Over time, OxyContin use and abuse can lead to tolerance, where an individual needs to use more to feel the same effects. One way that an OxyContin treatment program can help you heal is by

Reach Out to Colorado Medication-Assisted Treatment Today

People that think that they can suddenly just stop taking OxyContin are likely in for a surprise. When a person suddenly stops taking a drug that they are addicted to they may experience unpleasant and even dangerous effects of trying to overcome addiction on their own. Going through an addiction treatment program offers those struggling with addiction the best chance at long-term recovery.

OxyContin addiction treatment requires professional staff that have experience in therapy and medication-assisted treatment programs. Treating an addiction to OxyContin also requires qualified addiction treatment specialists that help patients through their personalized treatment program. Services and therapies like case management and cognitive-behavioral therapy may also be included in the treatment program.

Starting the recovery process is not without challenges. When you have the support and treatment options from a comprehensive treatment center, you have the opportunity to have a successful recovery. Reach out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today to learn more about OxyContin addiction treatment or any of our addiction treatment programs. Contact us today at 833.448.0127 or connect with us online to get started now.

Does Vivitrol Cure Drug or Alcohol Addiction?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) gives rehab centers the ability to provide clients with a treatment option that can help sustain recovery. While it’s mainly used to treat drug addiction, it can also benefit individuals battling an alcohol addiction. Vivitrol treatment involves giving clients an extended-release form of naltrexone. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery believes in the benefits of MAT therapy using Vivitrol.

How Does Vivitrol Work?

Vivitrol is a brand-name version of the medication naltrexone. Clients in MAT programs can take the medication as an injectable or in tablet form. Your system must be free of opioids, alcohol, or other toxins before you can start MAT with Vivitrol. That will keep you from experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they begin taking the medication.

People end up attracted to substances for different reasons. Opioids create euphoria feelings by stimulating the opioid receptors in your brain, while alcohol functions as a depressant to your central nervous system. Vivitrol blocks the receptors that typically respond to these substances, so they can’t produce the highs and other expected sensations typically produced when you consume drugs or alcohol.

How Can Vivitrol Help With Drug and Alcohol Addiction?

The FDA first approved the use of Vivitrol for alcohol addiction treatment back in 2010. Individuals who take the drug as part of MAT typically experience fewer cravings, which can help them avoid relapsing. It does the same for individuals working to overcome opioid addiction. The net effect is that people tend to stay in rehab longer, allowing them to absorb the lessons taught in therapy and apply them to their regular life.

Again, your body must be completely free of other substances if you want to experience the full benefits of Vivitrol. If you’re already taking buprenorphine, then the Vivitrol would interfere with the effects of that drug, which might make your withdrawal symptoms worse. Vivitrol stops opioid receptors from bonding with endorphins produced by opioids, making it extremely effective for treating opioid addiction.

Can Vivitrol Cure an Alcohol or Drug Addiction?

Once you become addicted to drugs or alcohol and become sober, you must remain in recovery mode for the rest of your life. While Vivitrol helps clients get through the rehab process with fewer cravings and withdrawal symptoms, it doesn’t cure your addiction issues.

Vivitrol treatment typically works as a complement to other therapies in a client’s treatment plan. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery looks to treat all aspects of a client’s addiction issues. You also get the opportunity to participate in sessions consisting of dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, both of which have benefited clients who come in to treat an addiction.

Many who come to us for help may have underlying mental health disorders. People often turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of self-medicating the symptoms. They may not realize that issues like depression, anxiety, and PTSD could exacerbate their addiction problems.

That’s why the staff at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery takes the time to understand our clients so that we understand the full scope of their issues. That allows us to come up with individualized treatment plans to address every aspect of your illness.

Get Help For Addiction at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

While we can’t make promises of miracle cures at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we can promise to be there for you during every step of your sobriety journey. The comfort and safety of our clients are one of our top concerns. We work hard to provide you with the resources necessary to live a life free of drug and alcohol addiction.

Call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 if you’re ready to move your life in a more positive direction.

The Necessity of Peer Recovery to Successful Addiction Recovery

Long term recovery isn’t something we can achieve by ourselves. In fact, major addiction treatment studies have found a causal link between peer accountability and long-term recovery. Yet most people recovering from addiction (especially opioid-addiction), don’t have access to a peer group that can help them stay the course and remain clean through trying times. Literally 90% of addiction treatment clinics, addiction psychiatry and medicine practices fail to provide even a sing peer-support group. Since these programs and providers are driven to treat from more of a public health perspective, where the singular goal is to reduce harm and increase a single quality of life measure, survival! At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we offer an evidence-based alternative, which empowers each of our patients to truly recover. Not to simply “survive” but to fully thrive!

 

Peer support generates community between those who share the common bond of being in recovery from chemical dependence, which in turn facilitates the development of meaningful, accountable long-term connection.

 

Learn more at www.Colorado-Recovery.com or call (720) 778-2627.

How Do You Find A Good Addiction Treatment Program

Finding a good addiction treatment program for you or your loved one can be an overwhelming process. Due to the time, money, and energy an individual and or a family channel toward substance use disorder treatment, it’s crucial to find the right treatment. With so many addiction treatment programs and rehab to choose from, it can be challenging to choose one that provides the highest quality of care or suits your needs or that of your loved one. However, if you do your research and ask the right questions, you can find the right addiction center in Colorado. For more information about an acceptable addiction treatment center, contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127.

Why Drug Rehab Accreditation Matters

A good outpatient treatment program will be accredited by external regulatory bodies such as The Joint Commission or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities(CARF). The regulatory bodies subject addiction treatment facilities to rigorous vetting to ensure that they meet a certain level of evidence-based care. For this reason, accreditation serves as quality assurance and a level of protection to consumers of an addiction center.

Team of Qualified Staff

An addiction treatment program needs to incorporate a multi-disciplinary addiction treatment staff to help deal with issues from different angles. Having a mix of professionals in an addiction program can be handy. It allows you and the treatment team to create an individualized treatment plan to help uncover and address a wide array of issues.

A multi-disciplinary team may consist of:

  • Chemical dependency counselor
  • Medical doctor
  • Nurse
  • Psychiatrist
  • Psychologist
  • Nutritionist
  • Wellness specialist
  • Spiritual care counselor

In addition, all team members should be licensed and accredited to practice in a particular discipline. When the clinical staff has adequate credentials and licenses, it is an indication that they meet the nationally recognized standards of professional practice.

Thorough Assessment and Treatment

A good addiction treatment center begins with a reliable and thorough screening. The screening can identify the specific substance use disorders and other underlying physical and mental health conditions. What follows is a comprehensive analysis of substance use history and any related disorders. The team does this all to uncover the interrelated factors that may affect the functioning of the patients. It is also instrumental in assessing the readiness of the patient to change. A comprehensive analysis will be able to address all aspects of someone’s life, which otherwise would compromise their recovery process.

Integrated Treatment Approach

Once the clinical staff has identified any co-occurring disorders following the screening, a good program incorporates a holistic approach. This treatment approach addresses these concerns. As such, this program aims at treating the patient as a whole, which improves the likelihood of substance use disorder recovery and minimizes the chances of relapse. A comprehensive addiction program should, at least, include:

Addiction is a condition that affects the entire family. Therefore, it becomes important for families to heal. With family therapy, they learn how to overcome the chaos they had to go through, develop healthy boundaries, and build trust. When families are engaged in the addiction treatment program, patients tend to have better recovery rates.

Find the Right Addiction Treatment Program at CMAR

Addiction treatment therapies mark a pivotal mark in an addict’s life. Therefore, it is crucial to find a program that helps them build a solid foundation for their recovery. Our Colorado addiction treatment program utilizes clinically driven healthcare treatment. Throughout and after the treatment, we provide a caring and supportive recovery community for our recovering patients.

Let’s help you lay a foundation for lifelong recovery with our comprehensive addiction treatment program. Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127 to learn more about the programs we offer.

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.