Addiction is a chronic mental health condition requiring long-term care and support. At The Canyon, the staff understands that seeking addiction treatment is a courageous step towards a better life. Our center has provided comprehensive outpatient addiction treatment to Santa Monica and surrounding communities for years. The Canyon specializes in intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), designed to suit each client’s treatment needs. Some of these IOPs also include medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Contact The Canyon at 424.465.5182 to learn more about IOPs and MAT at our center in Los Angeles.
What Is MAT?
You may be wondering, “What is medication-assisted treatment for addiction?” MAT is an evidence-based treatment method for addiction that combines medication with counseling sessions. It helps people in recovery manage their cravings and withdrawal symptoms while focusing on making lifestyle changes that can help them maintain long-term sobriety.
MAT is primarily used to treat opioid and alcohol addiction. By combining medication with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT addresses addiction’s physical and psychological aspects. Medications alone cannot cure addiction, but they can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for people to focus on their recovery.
How Does MAT Work for Addiction Treatment?
MAT works by activating the same receptors in the brain that drugs or alcohol activate. During MAT, medications such as the following can be used:
- Methadone – A long-acting opioid agonist used to treat severe opioid addiction.
- Buprenorphine – Used for both treating and managing withdrawal symptoms of opioid addiction.
- Naltrexone – An opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids on the body and reduces cravings.
However, medications used in MAT do not produce the same effects as addictive substances. Instead, they work to stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and block the euphoric effects of the addictive substance. MAT has been shown to improve the chances of a successful recovery, reduce the risk of overdose, and prevent relapse.
Who Needs Medication-Assisted Treatment?
MAT can be a powerful tool in addiction treatment for individuals who:
- Show signs of physical dependence on opioids or other addictive substances – MAT can help stabilize a person’s brain chemistry and reduce cravings.
- Have difficulty staying sober – Medication can reduce cravings and block the effects of the addictive substance, making it easier to remain abstinent.
- Are suffering from withdrawal symptoms – MAT can help ease those symptoms, making it easier for people in recovery to focus on their treatment goals.
- Have a long history of opioid or alcohol addiction – MAT can help reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms while a person focuses on their recovery.
- Have tried other forms of addiction treatment – If traditional treatments have not been successful for you, MAT may be an option worth considering.
- Have relapsed after attempting abstinence from drugs or alcohol – MAT can help a person to stay sober and prevent relapse.
- Are committed to recovery – People who are willing to work hard to achieve sobriety and maintain long-term recovery can benefit from MAT.
However, MAT is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The Canyon works closely with each client to determine the proper course of treatment based on their specific needs. The Canyon offers a wide range of addiction treatment programs and therapies, including MAT. The IOPs are flexible and tailored to your schedule, allowing you to attend treatment while maintaining your daily routine. The Canyon also offers group therapy, family therapy, holistic therapy, and depression treatment to address addiction’s psychological and emotional aspects.
Find MAT for Addiction in Los Angeles at The Canyon
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, The Canyon is here to help. The Canyon is a compassionate outpatient addiction treatment center. We are here to provide comprehensive care and support to help you or your loved one achieve lasting recovery. Contact The Canyon at 424.465.5182 to learn more about medication-assisted treatment for addiction in Los Angeles.
