Medicated-Assisted Treatment

Medicated-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid therapy is one of the most effective methods for achieving long-term sobriety after opioid abuse. It combines FDA-approved medications, such as Suboxone, with regular counseling, helping clients manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings while addressing the underlying causes of their addiction. MAT integrates medication with behavioral therapies, enhancing treatment effectiveness and supporting sustained recovery. Additionally, it helps prevent or reduce opioid overdose and has been shown to decrease the need for inpatient detox services. MAT offers a tailored approach that meets each patient’s specific needs.

The ultimate goal of the New Pathways clinic is full recovery, including the ability to live a self-directed life. This treatment approach has been shown to:

• Increase treatment retention rates among patients

• Improve patient safety and survival

• Decrease illicit opiate use and other criminal activity

• Increase the patient's ability to gain and maintain employment

• Improve birth outcomes among women who have substance use disorders

New Pathways specializes in out-patient MAT.  Our supportive, nonjudgemental approach to evidence-based whole-person health care is affordable, realistic, and supportive throughout the entire recovery process.

A Bilateral Approach to Opioid Addiction

Suboxone, or other Buprenorphine-based medications, is used in the medication component of MAT to alleviate physical withdrawal symptoms and cravings by partially activating opioid receptors in the brain. When properly dosed, these medications do not negatively impact patients' emotional, intellectual, or physical functioning.

The counseling aspect of MAT encourages patients to address the mental health and behavioral issues linked to their addiction. The effectiveness of MAT increases when counseling and behavioral health therapies are integrated, providing a comprehensive, whole-person approach. Research indicates that combining medications with therapeutic support enhances patients' ability to:

• Recognize the behaviors that lead to addiction

• Learn to choose healthy behaviors 

• Develop and repair meaningful relationships

• Encourage and motivate yourself to stick to your treatment plan.

• Recognize the cause of cravings and learn to manage behavior

• Learn effective stress management techniques

• Develop and learn relapse prevention strategies 

This dual approach to opioid use disorder treatment is supported by medical and behavioral health groups, including the American Society of Addiction Medicine and the National Council for Behavioral Health, patient advocate groups, and federal entities including the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and the U.S. Surgeon General.

For those who wish to learn more, The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) has created a guide that explains the foundations of MAT treatment programs.

New Pathways MAT Services

Enrollment - You can learn more information about enrolling in New Pathway's addiction therapy treatment plan by calling (251) 298-7458.  You will consult with an experienced enrollment coordinator in a private setting to learn more about you, your addiction history, and your overall health goals.

Initial Appointment - During your first visit, your provider will assess whether your treatment needs can be met. If admitted, you will collaborate with your provider to develop a care plan that considers your complete medical history and specific goals.

Induction - Once a personalized care plan is established, you will begin your induction on Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone). A tailored medication care plan will be created specifically for you, which will be monitored and adjusted to meet your individual needs. Most new patients will receive buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) during their initial visit.

Treatment - Our providers will meet with you monthly to monitor your care plan throughout your treatment. A monthly drug test will be conducted to ensure compliance. During your regular appointments, your Suboxone prescription will be refilled, and it can be submitted electronically to a pharmacy near you. The New Pathways team will support you at every step, providing encouragement and information along the way.

Counseling - Self-help programs and mental health services are vital parts of a comprehensive addiction treatment plan. New Pathways partners with various counseling programs to help you find the therapy that best suits your needs. A study by the National Institutes of Health found that counseling provides motivation for patients to remain committed to their recovery and supports positive behavioral changes.

Recovery - New Pathways offers comprehensive recovery support services throughout your recovery journey. These include counseling, group therapies, and connections to community organizations designed to engage and assist patients after treatment. Our support team helps navigate care systems, removes barriers to recovery, and promotes ongoing engagement in the recovery process. Individuals who utilize substance use disorder treatment and recovery support services generally experience better long-term recovery outcomes.