Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people benefit from talk therapy alone, while others need more support to manage cravings and avoid relapse. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a proven method that combines medication with therapy to help people safely recover from opioid or alcohol addiction. At Woodland Recovery Center in Mississippi, MAT is one of the ways we help clients take back control of their lives.
If you’re unsure if MAT is the right choice, connect with an admissions consultant to explore your options and find the best path forward through our comprehensive addiction treatment programs.
What is medication-assisted treatment?
MAT is a treatment approach that uses medication and behavioral therapy together. It’s most commonly used to treat opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. The medicines work to reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and lower the risk of relapse, while therapy helps clients understand the emotional and mental parts of addiction.
MAT is approved by the FDA and supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). It’s not about replacing one substance with another—it’s about helping your brain and body heal while you build new habits in recovery.
How does MAT work alongside therapy?
While medication can ease the physical symptoms of addiction, therapy helps you work through the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that keep the cycle going. At Woodland Recovery Center, MAT is combined with addiction therapies such as:
- Group therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Motivational interviewing (MI)
This combination helps clients build skills for long-term recovery. Therapy provides space to talk, learn from others, and gain tools to handle stress in healthy ways. MAT gives your body time to adjust while you focus on healing your mind.
What medications are used in MAT for opioid or alcohol addiction?
There are different medications available depending on the substance being treated. Each one works in a unique way to support recovery. Our team at Woodland Recovery Center offers:
For opioid use disorder
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone and Subutex): Reduces cravings and withdrawal
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol): Prevents the “high” if opioids are used again
For alcohol use disorder
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol): Lowers the urge to drink
Each client is evaluated to find the safest, most effective option. We take time to answer all your questions and explain how these medications support your treatment plan.
How long does MAT last?
The length of medication-assisted treatment depends on each person’s needs. Some clients may use MAT for a few months to stabilize early in recovery, while others may benefit from longer-term support. There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline—what matters most is what helps you stay safe, healthy, and on track.
At Woodland Recovery Center, your treatment team will check in with you regularly and adjust your plan as you grow. Whether MAT is short-term or long-term, you’ll have an expert team by your side to make sure your treatment plan suits you.
What if a person relapses while on MAT?
Relapse can happen, even with MAT. It doesn’t mean treatment failed—it just means more support or changes may be needed. Recovery is a journey, and setbacks are part of the process for many people. We help clients learn from relapse instead of feeling ashamed. Our team can adjust your treatment plan, provide additional therapy, and explore new tools to help you stay on track. The goal is progress, not perfection.
What are the benefits of MAT?
MAT offers many benefits, especially in the early stages of recovery when withdrawal and cravings can feel overwhelming. Here’s how MAT can help:
- Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Improves treatment retention and lowers relapse risk
- Helps clients stay focused and feel more stable during therapy
- Can be used while attending work, school, or caring for family
- Builds a strong foundation for long-term recovery
Many clients find that MAT helps them feel “normal” again, making it easier to rebuild a healthy routine.
Are there any concerns or myths about MAT?
Yes, and it’s important to talk about them. Some people believe that MAT means they’re just swapping one drug for another, but that’s not true. The medications used in MAT are prescribed by licensed professionals and taken as part of a structured treatment program. They don’t create a high and are not addictive when used correctly.
Another myth is that MAT is a “last resort.” In reality, MAT is often a smart first step for people who’ve struggled with cravings or relapse. It helps people feel more balanced so they can fully engage in therapy and recovery work.
If you have concerns, our admissions team can walk you through your options and explain how MAT fits into your unique recovery plan—call us today at 662.222.2989.
Why are efforts to increase access to MAT important?
Expanding access to MAT helps save lives. For people struggling with opioid or alcohol addiction, MAT can reduce the risk of overdose and improve long-term recovery outcomes. Unfortunately, many communities—especially in rural areas like parts of Mississippi—still face barriers like limited providers, stigma, or cost.
When more people can access MAT, they have a better chance of staying in treatment and rebuilding their lives. It also helps reduce the impact of addiction on families, workplaces, and local communities. Expanding access to MAT offers individuals a genuine opportunity for recovery, stability, and renewed hope for a brighter future.
Can I work while in a MAT program?
One of the most significant advantages of our MAT services is the ability to continue working while in treatment. Woodland Recovery Center offers flexible group therapy and day program schedules, so you don’t have to choose between your recovery and responsibilities.
Many of our clients live near our center in Mississippi and attend treatment while working or going to school. With the right support, you can take care of your health and your future at the same time.
How do I know if MAT is right for me?
MAT may be helpful if:
- You’ve relapsed after trying to quit cold turkey
- You feel overwhelmed by cravings or withdrawal symptoms
- You’ve tried therapy but still struggle with staying sober
- You need a flexible treatment option that fits into your daily life
Woodland Recovery Center believes everyone deserves a treatment plan that works for their life. Our team will listen to your needs and help you decide if medication-assisted treatment is the right option.
Comprehensive addiction care at Woodland Recovery Center
Our medication-assisted treatment in Mississippi is designed with flexibility and compassion in mind. We understand that life doesn’t stop when you start recovery. That’s why we offer other addiction care options like:
- Suboxone, Subutex, and Vivitrol treatment
- Group therapy that fits around your work or school schedule
- Day programs with structure and support
- Trauma therapy for those with PTSD or past emotional wounds
- Veteran-specific care
- Sober living for clients in active treatment
- Relapse prevention strategies and aftercare support
Whether you’re starting fresh or returning after a relapse, our team will support you every step of the way.
How can I get started with MAT in Mississippi?
If you’re ready to explore MAT, getting started is easier than you think. Here’s what to do:
- Call our admissions team to talk through your situation
- Schedule a confidential assessment
- Work with us to create a personalized treatment plan
You don’t have to figure it out alone. We’re here to guide you with kindness, expertise, and the tools you need to succeed.
Call Woodland Recovery Center and find out if MAT is the right choice for your recovery plan
Medication-assisted treatment at Woodland Recovery Center offers more than just a prescription—it provides a path to healing, structure, and hope. Whether you’re struggling with opioid use, alcohol addiction, or both, our team can help you build a recovery plan that fits your life and goals. Give us a call at 662.222.2989 or reach out through our online contact form to begin your journey toward lasting recovery.
