Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) in Long Beach

It isn’t easy to recover from an alcohol or opioid addiction alone. Fortunately, our team at Willapa Behavioral Health & Wellness in Long Beach offers medically assisted substance use treatment (MAT) that is covered by Medicaid and most insurances so you can get back to your best life as quickly as possible.

What is it?

If any of these situations match your experience, MAT may be a good option for you:

You are unable to maintain sobriety because the cravings are too strong.
You are scared to quit because you know the withdrawals will make you sick.
No matter how hard you try, you can’t quit.
Your substance use is interfering with your life and relationships.
Legal consequences are motivating you to quit, but it is hard.
You find yourself lying, stealing, manipulating or doing other things to hide your substance use.
If you have a history of opiate use, are suffering pain symptoms, and you are afraid you will start using again.

Is It Right for You?

If any of these situations match your experience, MAT may be a good option for you:

You are unable to maintain sobriety because the cravings are too strong.
You are scared to quit because you know the withdrawals will make you sick.
No matter how hard you try, you can’t quit.
Your substance use is interfering with your life and relationships.
Legal consequences are motivating you to quit, but it is hard.
You find yourself lying, stealing, manipulating or doing other things to hide your substance use.
If you have a history of opiate use, are suffering pain symptoms, and you are afraid you will start using again.

What Should You Expect In a Treatment Session?

In your 30-minute session, you speak with a provider specializing in MAT. They will start by evaluating your current mental health and history of drug usage to ensure you are a good candidate for this treatment option. Then, you will perform a urine analysis. If your provider believes you are a good fit for this treatment, they will determine which medication will be most effective for you, what dosage you need, and the potential side effects.

What Types of Medications Are Popular for Treatment?

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone for opioid and alcohol addiction. All of these effectively treat addictions safely when combined with therapy. That said, we use a variety of medications, such as Suboxone, Vivitrol, and Antabuse, to ensure that each provider can select the best option for their patients.

Vivitrol / Naltrexone

Vivitrol is essentially long-lasting Naltrexone. Naltrexone works by blocking the opioid receptors in the brain, which reduces the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol. By reducing the rewarding effects of these substances, naltrexone can help to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.

Naltrexone can be administered in a variety of ways, including oral tablets, injections, or implants. Our providers work with our clients to determine the most appropriate form of naltrexone for their individual needs.

Subutex/ Buprenorphine

The main active ingredient of Subutex is Buprenorphine. Buprenorphine works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, without producing the same level of euphoria as other opioids.

Buprenorphine is available in several forms, including sublingual tablets, sublingual film, and long-acting injections. Our providers work with our clients to determine the most appropriate form of buprenorphine for their individual needs and preferences.

Suboxone

Suboxone contains a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, which work together to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Buprenorphine, the main active ingredient in Suboxone, binds to the opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, without producing the same level of euphoria as other opioids. Naloxone is added to Suboxone to discourage misuse and abuse, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms if injected.

Suboxone is available in the form of sublingual tablets or films and is typically taken daily. Our providers work with our clients to develop an individualized treatment plan that includes ongoing support and therapy to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Antabuse

Antabuse works by blocking the breakdown of alcohol in the body. This causes a buildup of acetaldehyde, which can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, headache, and flushing if alcohol is consumed. These physiological responses work to break reward cycles and ultimately, change behavior long-term.

Antabuse is typically administered in the form of an oral tablet, taken once daily. It is important to note that Antabuse should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes ongoing therapy and support like that offered here at Long Beach location of Willapa Behavioral Health & Wellness. We provide a range of evidence-based treatments, including therapy and counseling, to ensure that our clients receive the most effective care possible.

Acamprosate

The active ingredient in acamprosate is called acamprosate calcium. Acamprosate works by normalizing brain activity that has been altered by long-term alcohol use, reducing cravings and helping to prevent relapse. It is taken regularly over a period of several months to help maintain abstinence from alcohol.

How Long Will Your Treatment Last?

Your provider will work closely with you to evaluate whether tapering or sustained use is the best option for you. Some people may receive MAT for a short period of time, while others need life long MAT support.

What’s Stopping You From Seeking Help?

It is our goal to offer the best MAT care in Long Beach. This means that your provider will take the time to get to know you so that they can provide you with an exceptionally personalized experience. Our team is dedicated to helping you reach recovery from your addiction. Aside from our clinic in Long Beach, we also provide MAT services at our Raymond location. You can reach our Long Beach office at (360) 642-3787 or by contacting us online.