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What Are the Benefits of Medication Assisted Treatment?

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) has emerged as a game-changer in the battle against substance use disorders, offering a lifeline to those struggling with opioid and alcohol addiction. But what are the benefits of Medication Assisted Treatment that make it so effective? For instance, individuals who engage in MAT for opioid use disorder are up to 50% less likely to experience a fatal overdose compared to those who undergo detoxification alone.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we believe that every individual’s journey to recovery is unique. That’s why we integrate MAT into our holistic treatment programs, ensuring that each person receives the personalized care they need to reclaim their lives from addiction. Whether you or a loved one are considering treatment, understanding the benefits of MAT could be the first step towards a healthier, more fulfilling future.

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Brief Recap: How Medication-Assisted Treatment Works

What exactly is MAT, and why has it become such a pivotal component of addiction treatment? At its core, MAT is an evidence-based approach that combines the use of FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to address the complex nature of substance use disorders. Unlike traditional methods that rely solely on abstinence, MAT acknowledges the biological and psychological facets of addiction, offering a more comprehensive and compassionate path to recovery.

Types of Medications Used in MAT

Opioid Use Disorder:

  1. Buprenorphine: A partial opioid agonist, Buprenorphine offers similar benefits to Methadone but with a lower potential for misuse. It helps individuals manage withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings, making it easier to focus on recovery.
  2. Naltrexone: Unlike Methadone and Buprenorphine, Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, meaning it blocks opioid receptors in the brain. This prevents the euphoric effects of opioids, making it an effective tool in preventing relapse for individuals who have already detoxed from opioids.

Alcohol Use Disorder:

  1. Disulfiram: Disulfiram works by creating a highly unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and headache. This deterrent effect helps individuals resist the urge to drink.
  2. Naltrexone: Naltrexone is also used for alcohol use disorder by blocking the rewarding effects of alcohol. This reduces the urge to drink and supports long-term abstinence.

Individualized Treatment Plans

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand that each person’s path to recovery is unlike any other. We prioritize crafting treatment plans that cater to the unique needs of every patient. These plans consider factors such as their medical background, the complexity of their addiction, and any concurrent mental health issues. Through personalized treatment, we aim to provide each individual with the best-suited blend of medication and therapy to aid their recovery.

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Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment

Recognizing what are the benefits of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is crucial for individuals facing challenges with substance use disorders, especially those tied to opioid and alcohol dependencies. By integrating medication with behavioral therapies, MAT offers a holistic approach that greatly improves the possibility of attaining and sustaining long-term recovery. Here are some of the most important benefits:

1. Reduction in Overdose Risk

One of the most significant benefits of MAT is its ability to reduce the risk of overdose. For individuals with opioid use disorder, medications like Methadone and Buprenorphine help stabilize brain chemistry and reduce cravings, which can lower the likelihood of a fatal overdose. Naltrexone, by blocking the effects of opioids, also plays a crucial role in preventing relapse and subsequent overdoses. This reduction in overdose risk is a critical factor in improving overall survival rates among those battling opioid addiction.

For instance, a study published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that individuals receiving Buprenorphine as part of MAT were up to 50% less likely to die from an opioid overdose compared to those who were not receiving MAT. This significant reduction in overdose risk is primarily due to the way these medications stabilize brain chemistry and manage withdrawal symptoms, which in turn reduces the compulsion to misuse opioids.

Further supporting this, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized MAT, specifically with Methadone and Buprenorphine, as an essential strategy in combating opioid overdoses globally. According to WHO, these medications not only reduce the risk of overdose but also enhance retention in treatment programs, which is critical for long-term recovery​

Moreover, The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) highlights that Naltrexone, another medication used in MAT, effectively blocks the effects of opioids, making it impossible for individuals to experience the euphoria associated with opioid misuse. This blocking effect is a powerful deterrent against relapse, which in turn reduces the likelihood of overdose​.

2. Improved Retention in Treatment

One of the key benefits of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is its ability to improve retention in treatment programs. Retention is essential for successful recovery, as longer engagement in treatment is strongly correlated with better long-term outcomes.

A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that individuals who were prescribed medications as part of their MAT were more likely to remain in treatment compared to those who did not receive these medications. The study noted that patients on MAT were significantly less likely to drop out of treatment, which is a critical factor in achieving sustained recovery​.

Additionally, research from the American Journal of Public Health indicates that MAT not only improves retention but also enhances overall treatment effectiveness. The study highlighted that retention rates for individuals receiving MAT are higher because the medications help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, making it easier for patients to focus on their recovery goals without the constant distraction of physical discomfort​.

3. Better Long-Term Outcomes

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is widely recognized for its effectiveness in improving long-term outcomes for individuals struggling with opioid and alcohol use disorders. A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that individuals receiving MAT had significantly better long-term outcomes compared to those who did not receive MAT. The study highlighted that MAT not only reduces the risk of relapse but also improves overall health, social functioning, and quality of life over the long term.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also emphasizes the importance of MAT in achieving better long-term outcomes. According to NIDA, MAT not only helps stabilize brain function but also allows individuals to focus on rebuilding their lives, making it easier to reintegrate into society, maintain employment, and restore relationships. NIDA’s research indicates that when MAT is combined with counseling and behavioral therapies, the likelihood of achieving and sustaining long-term recovery increases significantly .

4. Enhanced Quality of Life

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) not only helps individuals overcome substance use disorders but also significantly improves their overall quality of life. By managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, MAT allows individuals to regain control over their lives and engage more fully in daily activities, work, and relationships.

A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that individuals receiving MAT reported significant improvements in their quality of life, including better physical health, mental well-being, and social functioning. The study highlighted that MAT helps individuals stabilize their lives by reducing the chaos and health complications associated with active substance use​.

Additionally, research from the American Journal of Psychiatry demonstrated that individuals in MAT programs experienced notable enhancements in their emotional and psychological well-being. These improvements were largely attributed to the reduction in substance use, which allowed patients to focus on personal growth, rebuilding relationships, and pursuing meaningful activities without the constant burden of addiction​.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also recognizes the impact of MAT on quality of life. WHO reports that individuals receiving MAT are more likely to maintain employment, restore family and social relationships, and achieve overall life satisfaction compared to those who do not receive treatment. MAT’s ability to alleviate the physical and psychological distress caused by substance use disorders plays a critical role in these positive life changes.

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Addressing Common Misconceptions about MAT

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) can be a life-changing part of recovery, but it’s common to have concerns or misunderstandings about how it works. Addressing these concerns is essential to making informed decisions about your treatment journey.

Is MAT Just Replacing One Addiction with Another?

One of the most prevalent misconceptions about MAT is the belief that it simply substitutes one addiction for another. This misunderstanding arises from the fact that medications like Buprenorphine are opioids, leading some to think they perpetuate dependency. However, this view overlooks the significant differences between medically supervised MAT and substance misuse.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the goal of MAT is not to replace one addiction with another but to stabilize the individual, enabling them to engage in therapy and other supportive treatments. These medications are carefully prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective use. Additionally, medications like Buprenorphine have a “ceiling effect,” meaning their opioid effects plateau at a certain dose, reducing the risk of misuse and dependency.

How Long Will I Need to Be on MAT?

Another common concern is the duration of MAT. Many people wonder how long they will need to remain on these medications and whether they will ever be able to stop taking them. The duration of MAT varies depending on the individual and their specific needs. Some may require MAT for a few months, while others may benefit from long-term treatment.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long someone should stay on MAT. For some, discontinuing medication after a certain period is possible, while others may need to continue MAT for years to maintain recovery. The decision to taper off or continue MAT should be made collaboratively between the patient and their healthcare provider, based on progress in recovery and individual circumstances.

Are There Side Effects?

Like any medication, MAT can have side effects, and understanding these is important for those considering this treatment. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, and drowsiness, though these often diminish as the body adjusts to the medication. Naltrexone, on the other hand, can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

However, according to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), the benefits of MAT far outweigh the potential side effects, especially when used under medical supervision. The risk of overdose, for example, is significantly reduced when MAT is part of a comprehensive treatment plan, making it a safer option than untreated addiction.

With these concerns in mind, let’s now look at some practical questions about how MAT can fit into your recovery.

MAT-Treatment-plans

Frequently Asked Questions about MAT

When considering Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), it’s natural to have questions about how it works and what to expect. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, providing clarity and helping you make informed decisions about your treatment.

Is MAT Covered by Insurance?

Yes, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires insurance providers to offer coverage for substance use disorder treatment, which includes MAT. However, the specifics of coverage can vary depending on your state and the particular insurance plan.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand that navigating insurance coverage can be challenging. That’s why we offer an Insurance Verification service to help you determine your coverage options. By verifying your insurance with us, you can gain clarity on what treatments are covered, including MAT, and receive guidance on the next steps.

Can MAT Be Used with Other Treatments?

Absolutely. MAT is most effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies. While MAT addresses the physical aspects of addiction, counseling and behavioral therapies tackle the psychological and emotional challenges, providing a more comprehensive treatment approach. This integrated method helps individuals develop the skills needed to maintain long-term sobriety and improve overall well-being.

What If MAT Doesn’t Work for Me?

MAT is a highly effective treatment, but like any medical intervention, it may not work for everyone in the same way. If one medication or approach isn’t working as expected, it doesn’t mean that MAT won’t work at all; it might just require adjustments. For example, some individuals may respond better to one medication over another. It’s crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs. Switching medications or adjusting dosages can often lead to better outcomes.

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MAT as a Path to Recovery with CMAR

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) offers a transformative approach to overcoming substance use disorders, especially for those facing opioid and alcohol dependencies. As highlighted in this article, MAT provides several key benefits:

  • Reduced Risk of Overdose: MAT medications like Methadone and Buprenorphine help stabilize brain chemistry, significantly lowering the risk of fatal overdoses.
  • Improved Retention in Treatment: Individuals on MAT are more likely to stay engaged in their treatment programs, leading to better long-term outcomes.
  • Better Long-Term Outcomes: MAT supports sustained recovery by reducing cravings, preventing relapse, and allowing individuals to rebuild their lives.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: By managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing substance use, MAT helps individuals regain control over their lives and improve their overall well-being.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we’re dedicated to helping you or your loved ones achieve lasting recovery. Our holistic approach, which highlights what are the benefits of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), integrates MAT with counseling and behavioral therapies, ensuring that each person receives the care and support they need.

Next Steps:

Taking the first step towards treatment can be a difficult but important decision. We are here to support you and help you move towards a healthier, more fulfilling future.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

If you’re looking into addiction treatment options, it’s likely that you’ve come across the term “medication-assisted treatment.” What is medication-assisted treatment? This is an approach to addiction treatment that combines medication, counseling, and other support services. It’s typically a part of treatment for opioid addiction, but certain medications can also help those working to overcome alcohol addiction. As part of a comprehensive treatment plan, medication-assisted treatment helps individuals struggling with substance use disorder manage their cravings, reduce withdrawal symptoms, and make progress toward recovery.

Learning more about what medication-assisted treatment is can help you understand why it’s an important part of the recovery process. Along with help from a dual diagnosis treatment center and other evidence-based treatment methods, a MAT program can provide a chance for patients to build a foundation for lasting recovery.

Call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 or connect with us online today to get started on your own journey to recovery.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

The early days of recovery can be challenging. Withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and thoughts of relapse can make it difficult to make progress. That’s where medication-assisted treatment comes in. This approach utilizes FDA-approved medications to help provide relief from the symptoms of withdrawal and reduce cravings. This helps patients focus on their recovery plan instead of worrying about how to get through the day.

Medications used in this level of care can include:

  • Buprenorphine – This medication is used to help reduce cravings for opioids and can also be effective in treating withdrawal symptoms.
  • Naloxone – This medication helps to reverse the effects of opioids and can help prevent overdoses.
  • Naltrexone – This medication helps to block the effects of opioids, alcohol, and other substances from affecting the brain.

Suboxone and Vivitrol are two brand-name medications that use these compounds. The type of medication that’s prescribed and the dose will depend on the individual’s needs.

How Medication-Assisted Treatment Fits Into Recovery

It’s important to note that medication-assisted treatment is not a stand-alone approach to recovery. In order for it to be effective, it must be used in conjunction with other evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and support groups. These therapies provide an opportunity for individuals to recognize the underlying causes of their addiction, develop healthy coping skills, and work on building a foundation for long-term recovery.

Breaking Down the Stigma of Medication-Assisted Treatment

Unfortunately, there is still a stigma associated with medication-assisted treatment for addiction. Many people think that taking medications to recover from an addiction means that you’re not really in recovery. This couldn’t be further from the truth—MAT is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to substance use disorder treatment. It provides relief from withdrawal symptoms so that individuals can focus on the other aspects of their recovery.

In addition to MAT, many patients also find relief in alternative therapies such as yoga, acupuncture, and mindfulness meditation. These additional treatments can help to reduce stress, improve mental health, and provide a sense of calm during the early days of recovery. By combining multiple approaches to treatment—including medications—patients can build a stronger foundation for recovery and gain the skills they need to stay committed to sobriety.

The Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment

Some of the benefits of medication-assisted treatment include:

  • Reduced cravings – The medications used in this level of care function as either opioid agonists, which act in place of opioids, or opioid antagonists, which block the effects of opioids. Opioid agonists are not considered to be addictive and can help reduce the cravings that normally trigger relapse.
  • Fewer withdrawal symptoms – Medication-assisted recovery helps patients manage the withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid addiction, such as sweating, nausea, anxiety and depression.
  • Increased ability to focus on recovery – With fewer cravings and fewer withdrawal symptoms, patients can focus on their recovery plan and building a foundation for long-term sobriety.
  • Improved physical and mental well-being – Withdrawal symptoms can take a toll on both a patient’s physical and mental health. Medication-assisted treatment can help reduce the intensity of these symptoms and help promote better overall health.

MAT should be combined with treatment for any co-occurring mental health concerns, as well as counseling that involves loved ones. This multifaceted approach to recovery can help people gain the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage triggers, cravings, and other relapse risks.

Discover the Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand the complexities of addiction and provide comprehensive treatment plans that include medication-assisted treatment. Our experienced team of medical professionals, therapists, and counselors is committed to helping you find the path to lasting recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at 833.448.0127 or reach out to our team online today to get started.

Breaking the Stigma Associated with MAT

A medication-assisted treatment program can help patients suffering from addiction withdrawal symptoms to begin the road to recovery. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and behavioral therapy are the one-two punch needed for an effective recovery program for addiction treatment for opioid, alcohol, and other substance use disorders.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our medication-assisted treatment programs will help your recovery with our outpatient and telehealth services. Call 833.448.0127 today to learn more about how you or a loved one can break free from the stigma associated with MAT and receive the help you need to get on the road to recovery.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment programs use specific FDA-approved drugs to help individuals who are going through withdrawal or who are working to reach a place of stability. The medications counteract some of the impact drugs or alcohol has on the body by:

  • Normalizing brain chemistry
  • Stopping the pleasurable effects of these substances
  • Reducing physiological cravings
  • Relieving withdrawal symptoms

There are different drugs available to treat different types of withdrawal symptoms.

Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction can have harmful effects on your body, including liver damage, increased risk of cancer, and shrinkage of the frontal lobe. Acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone help with alcohol addiction and abuse and allow patients to continue their daily lives while working through addiction treatment. They help take the cravings away and reduce severe withdrawal symptoms.

Opioid Addiction

Drugs like heroin, codeine, morphine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone are all opioids that can have debilitating side effects when abused. The medications used in a medication-assisted treatment program help counteract the side effects and can be taken for several months during treatment without any harmful side effects. These drugs include:

  • Buprenorphine
  • Methadone
  • Naltrexone

Opioid Overdose

If an opioid overdose occurs, naloxone can immediately counter the severe effects of an overdose, including death. Having a naloxone injection nearby can give you the time needed for medical attention to arrive.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand the trepidation you may feel about enrolling in a medication-assisted treatment program. Our compassionate therapists will answer any questions about MAT programs and how they can assist you or a loved one in their addiction recovery.

How Medication-Assisted Treatment Program Can Benefit Your Recovery

To enroll in a medication-assisted treatment program, you must also go through behavioral therapy to get to the original cause of your addiction and help you develop the tools needed to help you along in your recovery.

Behavioral therapy teaches you to change negative habits and stop the triggers that make you crave your substance of choice. Along with MAT, each patient will have a custom-made behavioral treatment program to help them with their recovery.

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Family therapy
  • Individual and group therapy
  • Psychodynamic therapy

Medication-assisted treatment helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms as you work to discover the reasons behind your addiction. Studies have shown that when you do not treat the physical and mental issues that are associated with addiction at the same time, your chances of a relapse increase.

Break the Stigma at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At CMAR, our addiction treatment programs include medication-assisted treatment and behavioral therapy to give you the best chances of recovery. Why let the stigma of medication-assisted treatment keep you from getting the help you need in your addiction treatment when it is the best option for treating addiction? Addiction is a disease that requires treatment, just like any physical illness.

Our addiction treatment programs take a “whole-person” approach in dealing with addiction treatment. We ensure that our patients feel safe and welcome as we work with them on the road to recovery. Call 833.448.0127 today and verify your insurance to learn more about how a medication-assisted treatment program can help you get control of your life.

What to Expect in Recovery-Oriented Suboxone Treatment

A Suboxone treatment program offers help for individuals struggling with opioid addiction issues. Suboxone, used as part of a medication-assisted treatment program, offers a variety of benefits for patients.

Medication-assisted treatment, or MAT, helps make the recovery process more comfortable for people that want to regain control over their life and to successfully complete treatment for their addiction issues.

Many people know about addiction treatment programs and have heard of Suboxone treatment for opioid use disorder. There are likely questions that people have about entering a treatment program, including what they should expect when they enter into a Suboxone recovery center program.

What Is Suboxone Treatment?

Thousands of overdoses and deaths related to opioid addiction occur every year throughout the U.S., according to statistics from several sources.

Suboxone treatment is a medication-assisted treatment that helps to make recovery more comfortable for individuals that want to change their lives and learn to live without the devastating effects of opioids. Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. It is easily administered and known to have been the subject of many studies. Researchers have looked at Suboxone as an effective means of reducing opioid use. Some other factors related to Suboxone, based on research and study results include:

  • Suboxone reduces opioid use disorder-related symptoms such as drug cravings
  • Suboxone helps to reduce the opioid withdrawal symptoms
  • It is shown to be effective in reducing relapse incidents
  • Studies show that individuals involved in Suboxone treatment programs are less likely to leave treatment
  • It is proved to be more effective than detox alone

Research shows that Suboxone treatment has been shown to be substantially more effective for many patients compared to when patients receive counseling alone, or when they engage only in counseling that is combined with detox.

What to Expect in a Recovery-Oriented Suboxone Treatment Program

The professional staff at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery understands the difficulties associated with trying to stop the use of opioids and fears associated with entering treatment. We do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. The treatment staff bases your treatment and other services, such as addiction treatment therapies based on your own individual needs.

The benefits include that participants are less likely to use not only opioids but also cocaine and some other types of drugs. It has also proved safer than some other treatments to manage and reduce withdrawal symptoms.

Learn how to slowly taper off opioids with the benefits of Suboxone. It is important to note that treatment with Suboxone is not substituting one type of opioid for another type of highly addictive opioid. This may be a belief that circulates in some circles, leaving some people to wonder what they can expect in a Suboxone program. Patients receive treatment in a controlled setting that focuses on their own addiction issues and needs as they learn to take back their life and learn to live an opioid-free lifestyle.

Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Today to Learn More

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery focuses on getting their patients through detox, medication-assisted treatment, and into long-term recovery. Our highly-qualified treatment team is experienced in facilitating Suboxone treatment for people that are in need of treatment for their addiction to opioids.

The highly effective Suboxone therapy prepares patients for their long-term recovery, getting them ready for a personalized approach to therapy. We offer ongoing support from our professionals, understanding that Suboxone treatment combined with counseling and continued support offers the best chance for recovery.

Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127 to learn more about Suboxone treatment, to learn about addiction treatment therapies, and to get started on your journey to recovery.

Press Release: CMAR’s Clinical Director Featured in The Mighty

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CMAR’s Clinical Director Featured in The Mighty

Denver, CO: Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery’s clinical director Michael Damioli has been featured in a recent article from The Mighty.

In their article “Why ‘Harm Reduction’ Could Be a Tool for Managing and Minimizing Drug Addiction,” Damioli offers his perspective on the role of harm reduction and injection sites in addiction treatment. In injection centers, individuals who use illicit drugs like heroin can inject them safely, with medical care and life-saving medications on hand if necessary. These centers are a type of harm reduction, which minimizes pain and risks for those who use various substances. 

In Damioli’s view, injection centers and other harm reduction services should be a larger part of the landscape of addiction treatment. His view is that “treating drug users like human beings is the answer to the epidemic and safe injection sites is one step in that direction.” At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, harm reduction techniques are used to help patients on the path to sustainable recovery, and will likely be found in more addiction treatment centers in the future.

About Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery: CMAR is Colorado’s only licensed outpatient addiction treatment center that offers integrated medical, clinical, and pharmaceutical services. To learn more, reach out to their treatment center at 855.454.4003 today.

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Cortland Mathers-Suter

MSSA
Managing Partner

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

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

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

Tyler Whitman

Compliance/HR Administrator

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

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

Simmeren Boanvala

BA
Outreach and Admissions Representative

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

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

Tyler Hale

Tyler Hale

Community Partnership Lead

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

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

Kirstin O’Carroll

MSW
Engagement and Relations Director

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

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

Thomas Mazzarella

LAC
Primary Therapist

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

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

James Jackman

CAS
Primary Therapist

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

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

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

Megan Hanekom

LPC, LAC, NCC
Therapist & Clinical Compliance Officer

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

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

Maggie Coyle

MA, LPC
Primary Therapist

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

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

Michael Damioli

LCSW, CSAT
Clinical Director

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

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

Dwight-Duncan

Dwight Duncan

Psy.D
Psychologist

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

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

Susan-Miget

Susan Miget

NP
Medical Provider

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

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

Whitney-Grant

Whitney Grant

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

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

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

Nathaniel Moore

MD
Medical Director

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

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

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