Recovery is most effective when people have the right support at the right time. Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines medication with counseling and recovery supports to treat substance use disorders.
MAT is most commonly used to treat opioid use disorder, including addiction to heroin or prescription pain medications. In some cases, it may also be used to support recovery from alcohol use disorder.
At Citizen Advocates, MAT is provided as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include therapy, care management and peer support services.
Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) uses FDA-approved medications to help stabilize the body and brain so individuals can focus on recovery. MAT can help:
MAT is not “substituting one drug for another.” It is a medically supported treatment that is proven to save lives.
Before starting MAT, individuals complete an assessment with a member of our care team. This helps determine the safest and most appropriate treatment options.
If your need is urgent, please visit one of our 24/7/365 Behavioral Health Campuses in Malone, Ogdensburg or Watertown.
A psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner will evaluate symptoms, substance use history and recovery goals. If MAT is appropriate, medication may be prescribed and monitored over time.
MAT requires regular follow-up appointments. These visits help your care team:
Buprenorphine (such as Subutex®, Suboxone® or Sublocade® injection) is used to treat opioid use disorder. It can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms and lower the risk of overdose.
Buprenorphine has a “ceiling effect,” meaning higher doses do not produce stronger effects. This helps reduce misuse risk and allows many individuals to receive treatment through outpatient care.
Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication used for opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. It may be taken as a daily pill or as a once-monthly injection (Vivitrol®).
Naltrexone works by blocking opioid receptors, which can reduce cravings and prevent the euphoric effects of opioids. It has no misuse or diversion potential.
Medication is one part of recovery. Counseling, peer support and a strong treatment plan can help individuals build skills, strengthen coping strategies and create lasting change.
At Citizen Advocates, we support the whole person—not just symptoms—so individuals can work toward stability, health and long-term recovery.
If you are seeking medication support for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD or other mental health concerns, you may benefit from mental health medication management.
To learn more about Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) or to schedule an appointment, contact your local Citizen Advocates clinic.
Just as medication is used for physical health, medication for mental health treatment may be part of a person-centered treatment plan. Medications as part of a treatment plan can help manage symptoms, and help individuals engage and focus on those things that matter most.
Youth medication management services for children and adolescents combine psychiatric evaluation, careful monitoring and family collaboration to support mental health and daily functioning.
At Citizen Advocates, we work as a team to provide the best individual, person-centered services to the people we serve. Care coordination assists clients with identifying and accessing the services that will best address the problems they are experiencing. Our goal is to help them achieve a higher quality of life.
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