Northstar Recovery Center provides comprehensive, personalized substance abuse treatment in Massachusetts. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment. It can be used for people with some types of substance use disorders. People sometimes have questions about what MAT is or want to learn more about how it can support the treatment process. This page will define MAT and its benefits, how it’s used in our programs, and go over frequently asked questions about the treatment approach.
What is MAT Addiction Treatment?
What is MAT addiction treatment? MAT refers to the usage of FDA-approved medications for substance use disorder alongside therapy and other forms of support. People with substance use disorders, like opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder, are sometimes prescribed these medications because of the benefits they have. MAT can help:
- Reduce drug cravings.
- Normalize brain chemistry.
- Block the effects of drugs and alcohol.
- Diminish the effects of withdrawal symptoms.
These medications can prevent relapse, aid treatment retention (help people stay in treatment), and increase survival rates. They can also support people in getting and maintaining employment, improve birth outcomes in those with substance use disorders who are pregnant, and decrease illicit activity.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) at Northstar Recovery Center
Clients receiving medication-assisted treatment (MAT) at Northstar Recovery Center will work with a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is available for medication management services. If you are a good candidate for MAT, we will help you find the right prescription for you. If you need to make any changes to your medication regimen (e.g., stopping or changing medications), we’ll be here to support you through the process.
Clients receiving MAT at Northstar may participate in any of the following therapy programs:
Addiction Day Treatment Programs
Our addiction day treatment programs in Massachusetts provide highly structured care six days per week. Clients in day treatment at Northstar come to our centers from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM Monday through Friday and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. We offer group therapy, 12-step, niche recovery groups, individual therapy sessions, medication management, yoga, family therapy, and other treatments (e.g., trauma-focused therapies). All clients get personalized treatment plans.
Intensive Outpatient Program
Our intensive outpatient program in MA uses the same effective, individualized approach as our day treatment program. However, clients participating in an intensive outpatient program (IOP) at our centers participate in sessions lasting for just three hours per treatment day. This provides increased flexibility, making it possible to balance obligations like work with treatment. Multiple IOP schedules are available, including mornings, afternoons, and evenings.
Evening IOP Programs
Our evening IOP programs operate on two schedules:
- 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM in West Springfield.
- 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Southborough.
This program is ideal for clients who have daytime obligations that might otherwise prevent them from seeking help, or who prefer evening sessions for any other reason.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Many people who benefit from MAT services have both a substance use disorder and one or more additional mental health conditions. For example, depression, anxiety disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Northstar provides dual-diagnosis treatment in Massachusetts, which involves treating addiction and mental health concerns simultaneously.
Virtual Addiction Treatment
In addition to our in-person programs, Northstar is proud to offer virtual addiction treatment in Massachusetts. This includes our virtual PHP, virtual IOP, and hybrid scheduling (a combination of in-person and online therapy sessions).
Call Northstar Recovery Center for Comprehensive Substance Abuse Treatment in Massachusetts
Northstar Recovery Center is a trusted drug and alcohol rehab center with locations in West Springfield and Southborough. We know that no two clients are alike. The variety of programs, services, and treatment options available at our centers reflects this. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that you or your loved one gets the caring, personable care they deserve. Call Northstar Recovery Center for comprehensive substance abuse treatment in Massachusetts today at (833) 853-8153.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is MAT addiction treatment covered by insurance?
Yes. Medications used to treat addiction are typically covered by health insurance plans, as they are evidence-based treatments for substance use disorders. However, the extent of your coverage may vary, and you may need to make a co-pay. Northstar Recovery provides MAT addiction treatment, covered by insurance. Our team is here to answer your questions about treatment costs or help out with anything else you need.
How long do people use MAT addiction treatment for?
Good question. Everyone has different needs when it comes to addiction treatment, and this extends to how long medication is used for. Some people take medications for substance use disorders for a short time during the drug and alcohol detox process. Other people benefit from taking medications for addiction long-term to support sustained recovery. Overall, this is up to the person taking the medication and their needs. We can help you make the right decision for you.
How much does MAT cost?
There are different medications used to treat substance use disorders. Cost may vary based on factors like the specific medication you take, whether a generic version of the medication is available, and your current health insurance plan. Coupons can sometimes help people lower the cost of their prescriptions. You can ask a pharmacist about your options if you would like to use a coupon to help with medication costs.
Who is a good candidate for MAT?
Some people wonder if they are a good candidate for MAT. We’re here to help you explore your options and determine if MAT is the right fit for you.
You might be a good candidate for MAT if you:
- Have alcohol use disorder or opioid use disorder.
- Have a history of relapse or are at a high risk of relapse.
- Have not maintained sobriety with addiction therapy alone.
- Are pregnant and need help sustaining sobriety.
People interested in MAT must be willing to participate in a comprehensive plan. Medications for substance use disorders are most effective if they’re combined with therapy and counseling.
