Detox is the critical first phase in the recovery process for individuals struggling with substance use. Yet, for many, the physical and emotional symptoms of withdrawal can feel overwhelming—leading to early drop-out, relapse, or medical complications. At Evoke Wellness, we believe in a better, safer path: Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).
MAT is not just about comfort—it’s a clinically proven tool that allows individuals to stabilize physically and emotionally so they can begin meaningful recovery. Whether you’re entering an Intensive Inpatient Treatment Program, transitioning to a Partial Hospitalization Program, or preparing for a Residential Mental Health Treatment Program, MAT may be a key component of your personalized care plan.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) uses FDA-approved medications—combined with counseling and behavioral therapies—to treat substance use disorders. It is primarily used for opioid, alcohol, and benzodiazepine detox and long-term recovery support.
MAT helps:
- Ease the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms
- Reduce cravings
- Stabilize brain chemistry
- Lower the risk of relapse
- Improve engagement in therapy and treatment programs
At Evoke Wellness, MAT is integrated into our medical detox protocols and continued through the recovery process where clinically appropriate. Our approach is grounded in research, personalized care, and compassion.
Medications Commonly Used in MAT for Detox
Opioid Detox
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone®): A partial opioid agonist that relieves withdrawal and reduces cravings without producing a high.
- Methadone: Often used in more severe opioid dependence; dispensed under strict medical supervision.
- Naltrexone: Used post-detox to block opioid receptors, preventing the “high” associated with use.
Alcohol Detox
- Benzodiazepines (like Ativan®, Librium®): Manage agitation, prevent seizures, and reduce the risk of delirium tremens.
- Naltrexone: Helps reduce alcohol cravings during early recovery.
- Acamprosate (Campral®): Supports brain function post-detox and helps sustain abstinence.
- Disulfiram (Antabuse®): Used in long-term relapse prevention by creating an aversive reaction to alcohol consumption.
Benzodiazepine Detox
- Tapering protocols using longer-acting benzodiazepines like diazepam to prevent seizures and rebound anxiety.
All medications are prescribed and monitored by medical professionals in our Behavioral Health Treatment Center, ensuring maximum safety and effectiveness.
How MAT Enhances the Detox Experience
Detoxing without medical support is not only uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. Common withdrawal symptoms like vomiting, insomnia, seizures, hallucinations, and suicidal ideation can escalate quickly. MAT reduces these risks by easing the body’s transition away from dependency, allowing individuals to:
- Remain in treatment longer
- Engage more fully in therapeutic work
- Avoid early relapse
- Regain emotional balance and sleep
- Begin long-term healing with a clearer mind
In short, MAT increases both safety and success during the most vulnerable stage of recovery.
MAT as Part of a Whole-Person Approach at Evoke Wellness
At Evoke Wellness, we treat more than the symptoms—we treat the whole person. MAT is never used in isolation. Instead, it’s integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that may include:
- Individual and group therapy
- Family counseling and education
- Trauma-informed care
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Holistic wellness therapies like yoga, meditation, and nutrition support
Whether you’re receiving care through our Intensive Inpatient Treatment Program, Partial Hospitalization Program, or Residential Mental Health Treatment Program, MAT supports long-term healing by creating a more stable foundation for therapeutic work.
Long-Term Benefits of MAT Beyond Detox
While many associate MAT strictly with detox, its benefits often extend into long-term recovery.
Sustained Sobriety
Individuals who continue MAT after detox have higher success rates, lower relapse rates, and better retention in long-term treatment programs.
Improved Mental Health
Substance use and mental health disorders frequently co-occur. By stabilizing brain chemistry, MAT makes it easier to manage depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder—especially when paired with our Mental Health Treatment Programs.
Supports Rebuilding of Life Skills
Once withdrawal is under control, clients can focus on rebuilding important areas of life—such as relationships, employment, or education—without being derailed by cravings or physical instability.
Flexible, Individualized Tapering Plans
MAT isn’t necessarily lifelong. Many clients work with our medical team to gradually taper off medications as they gain strength and confidence in recovery.
Reduced Risk of Overdose
For opioid use disorder, MAT drastically reduces the risk of fatal overdose. Medications like buprenorphine and methadone are considered life-saving when used as part of a long-term plan.
Addressing the Stigma: MAT Is Recovery
One of the biggest barriers to MAT is stigma. Unfortunately, some people still believe that “real recovery” means abstinence from everything—including medically necessary treatments.
Here’s the truth:
- MAT is evidence-based, medically valid, and often life-saving
- It does not create a high when properly administered
- It increases the likelihood of long-term recovery
- It can be tapered off over time under medical supervision
At Evoke Wellness, we help clients and families understand the science behind MAT and empower them to make informed, judgment-free decisions about their recovery.
Why Choose Evoke Wellness for MAT and Detox?
At Evoke Wellness, we believe detox should never be defined by suffering—it should be a gateway to healing. We combine medical excellence, trauma-informed care, and personalized support to ensure that your first step toward recovery is safe, supported, and effective.
Here’s why clients and families across the country trust us:
Comprehensive, Individualized Care
We understand that no two recovery journeys are alike. Our use of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is tailored to your specific needs, substance use history, and mental health profile—ensuring you receive the right care at the right time.
Expert Medical Supervision
Our detox services are led by licensed physicians, psychiatric providers, and experienced nursing staff who monitor your progress 24/7. MAT is administered safely and responsibly as part of our evidence-based protocols.
Seamless Continuum of Care
Detox is only the beginning. With on-site access to Intensive Inpatient Treatment Programs, Partial Hospitalization Programs, and Residential Mental Health Treatment Programs, we ensure that you have every level of care you need under one trusted roof.
A Stigma-Free, Supportive Environment
We reject shame-based narratives and instead empower our clients through education, respect, and non-judgmental support. At Evoke Wellness, MAT is viewed not as a shortcut, but as a scientifically supported bridge to meaningful recovery.
Whole-Person Healing
Our treatment approach combines MAT with behavioral therapies, mental health care, family support, and holistic wellness practices to address every aspect of your healing—mind, body, and spirit.
Conclusion
The journey to recovery is never easy, but it can be made safer, more comfortable, and more successful with the right tools. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) isn’t just about easing withdrawal—it’s about giving individuals the strength and stability they need to take back control of their lives.
At Evoke Wellness, we walk beside you from day one. Whether you’re beginning with detox, entering a higher level of care, or continuing your progress through one of our Behavioral Health Programs, our team is here to support your healing with expertise and compassion. There’s no shame in needing help. And there’s incredible power in accepting it. Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at 866.429.2960 today or reach out online.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is the use of FDA-approved medications in combination with therapy to treat substance use disorders. At Evoke Wellness, MAT is safely administered during detox to reduce withdrawal symptoms and support recovery.
Which substances can MAT help with?
MAT is most commonly used for opioids, alcohol, and benzodiazepines. Medications like buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone can relieve cravings and withdrawal symptoms to stabilize patients during detox.
Is MAT used in all detox cases?
Not always. MAT is recommended based on the substance involved, severity of use, and individual health needs. At Evoke Wellness, each client receives a customized care plan developed by our clinical team.
Does MAT mean I’ll be on medication forever?
Not necessarily. Many individuals taper off MAT as they stabilize in recovery. The length of MAT use is personalized, and clients are supported every step of the way by our team of addiction specialists and behavioral health professionals.
How does MAT fit into the larger treatment plan?
MAT is used during detox and often continued through our Intensive Inpatient Treatment Program, Partial Hospitalization Program, or Residential Mental Health Treatment Program. It is integrated with therapy, holistic care, and relapse prevention to support long-term recovery.
