Understanding exactly what to expect at a MAT program during your first visit helps eliminate uncertainty and reduces the anxiety of the unknown. Your initial appointment is designed to be an informational conversation rather than an immediate, binding commitment.
During this session, a specialized medical team walks you through clinical intake paperwork, performs a routine medical screening, completes basic labs, and outlines potential prescription paths.
This transparent process at CMAR ensures you are fully in control of your recovery timeline before any clinical treatment begins.
Breaking Down the First Visit: A Step-by-Step Look
The initial appointment follows a predictable, highly structured format to ensure your physical safety and comfort. Rather than facing unexpected medical hurdles, you will progress through four distinct phases designed to map your care as follows.
Process Phase
Clinical Actions and Expectations
Timeframe and Structure
1. Initial Appointment
Clinicians evaluate medical requirements, identify appropriate medications, and resolve all patient queries.
Completed during the introductory diagnostic visit.
2. Medical Induction
Patients complete a necessary urinalysis and receive their initial stabilization dose in a private room.
Lasts anywhere from 90 minutes to four hours.
3. Comprehensive Therapy
Integration into regular medical care check-ins, case management, and group therapy sessions.
Scheduled dynamically around your daily routine.
4. Care Progression
Weekly required treatment hours gradually decrease as physiological and behavioral benchmarks are fulfilled.
Determined collaboratively by you and your provider.
Understanding Your Medication and Stabilization Options
The primary goal of a comprehensive medication-assisted treatment in Denver is to stabilize brain chemistry quickly. By introducing target prescriptions under strict medical supervision, clinicians can safely neutralize intense physical cravings and manage protracted withdrawal distress.
During the consultation phase, your provider will explain the science behind specific medical options available for alcohol and opioid recovery:
Customized Matching: Medications are selected entirely based on your substance use history, physical health, and personal recovery goals.
Informed Choice: Clinicians outline how specific options, such as utilizing vivitrol for alcohol use disorder, block target receptors in the brain to prevent relapse.
Dosing Safety: Providers explain exact induction timelines and clarify how medications are safely introduced to prevent adverse interactions.
Symptom Alleviation: The focus remains on keeping you physically comfortable so that you can actively engage in long-term behavioral therapies.
An Informational Conversation, Not a Binding Commitment
A major barrier that prevents individuals from taking that next step from what to expect at a MAT program and the following intake appointment is the fear of being forced into a rigid treatment track. It is vital to recognize that your first visit is fundamentally a diagnostic evaluation and a collaborative discussion.
Maintained Autonomy: You retain complete control over your healthcare choices throughout the entire session.
No Forced Decisions: Reviewing a professional medication-assisted treatment plan does not obligate you to sign long-term care contracts on day one.
Honest Communication: The clinical team serves as an educational resource, openly answering technical questions about side effects, costs, and programmatic schedules.
Removing Pressure: If you decide the program layout does not fit your current lifestyle, the data gathered remains a private medical record to use whenever you feel ready.
Lowering the Barriers to Sustainable Recovery
Taking the initiative to learn about clinical stabilization options is a major milestone in reclaiming your long-term health. The medical hurdles of early sobriety become much easier to manage when you have a dedicated clinical team handling your physical comfort and safety.
Accessing specialized, evidence-based care through Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery provides the clear direction and compassionate expertise required to transition smoothly into a stable, healthy routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to start medication on the exact same day as my first appointment?
No, you do not have to begin taking prescriptions immediately during your intake visit. The initial appointment focuses heavily on evaluating your baseline health, reviewing your history, and discussing medical options. While some stabilization plans can begin quickly if clinically appropriate, the final decision to start is always a coordinated choice between you and your provider.
What kind of lab work is required during the MAT intake?
Standard intake lab work generally includes routine blood panels and a standard toxicology screening. These diagnostic tests are used solely to ensure your organs are functioning properly before introducing any new medications. The data allow physicians to accurately customize prescription types and dosages, avoiding potential liver or cardiovascular complications.
Will my insurance cover the initial MAT assessment appointment?
Most commercial insurance plans offer comprehensive coverage for professional addiction screenings and medical assessments. Because medical stabilization is recognized as essential healthcare, major providers routinely cover intake appointments, laboratory tests, and subsequent physician consultations. Checking your benefits with our team ahead of time clears up specific coverage parameters.
How long does the first appointment typically take?
The first comprehensive intake and medical evaluation typically lasts between sixty and ninety minutes. This window provides ample time to complete essential history forms, undergo routine physical screenings, and discuss medication strategies without feeling rushed. The clinical team structures this time carefully to ensure all your questions are answered.
Detoxing from alcohol completely alone at home is rarely safe due to the unpredictable risk of severe medical complications like seizures or delirium tremens. Safe detoxification requires a formal professional screening to accurately evaluate your physiological risk level.
While mild withdrawal can occasionally be managed remotely under strict medical supervision, moderate to severe cases require immediate professional intervention, such as from Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery.
A brief ten-minute phone assessment with a clinician is the only reliable way to determine if a home-based outpatient approach is safe for your situation.
The Clinical Risks of Unsupervised Withdrawal
When evaluating whether you can detox from alcohol at home, you must look at the underlying medical science rather than unverified internet advice. Abruptly stopping alcohol causes immediate central nervous system hyperexcitability, which can lead to severe physical complications.
Sudden Escalation: Mild symptoms like anxiety and insomnia can rapidly transform into full-body seizures within hours.
Severe Physical Strain: Unmanaged withdrawal causes dangerous spikes in blood pressure and heart rate, increasing acute cardiac risks.
Delirium Tremens: This critical condition causes profound confusion, vivid hallucinations, and dangerous body temperature fluctuations.
Unpredictable Timelines: Knowing how long alcohol withdrawal lasts helps map the general window, but tracking days from home cannot prevent acute neurological stress.
CMAR Treatment Programs
Choosing the appropriate level of clinical care is vital to maintaining physical safety. Rather than attempting a hazardous cold-turkey detox, individuals can access structured professional programs tailored to their specific medical risks and schedules.
Dual diagnosis care managing psychiatric conditions alongside addiction recovery.
Individuals experiencing co-occurring mental health disorders like anxiety or depression.
Safe and Accessible Outpatient Medical Supervision
Modern medical protocols remove the primary barriers to professional addiction care, providing a secure clinical alternative to inpatient hospitalization.
The Clinical Middle Ground: Using a professional outpatient detox framework allows you to maintain medical accountability during the day while sleeping in your own bed.
Neurological Stabilization: These programs systematically utilize professional medication-assisted treatment denver models to counter the chemical imbalances caused by dependency.
Financial Accessibility: Outpatient care is significantly more affordable because you do not pay for overnight residential facility boarding, hospitality staffing, or institutional meals.
Immediate Risk Assessment: A simple 10-minute phone consultation with an intake specialist clears away confusion, giving you an evidence-based answer about whether a home-based medical plan is safe for your body.
Balancing Personal Autonomy with Clinical Safety
Making the decision to stop drinking is a significant step toward recovery, but physical safety must always remain your top priority. Unsupervised withdrawal presents serious, unpredictable medical risks that are entirely preventable with structured professional support.
Choosing a personalized outpatient program or a specialized medication-assisted framework allows you to stabilize safely while maintaining your daily life. Comprehensive, individualized guidance is available through Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery to help you determine the safest possible next step for your health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alcohol Detoxification
Can you stop drinking alcohol cold turkey without medical help?
Stopping alcohol cold turkey without professional oversight introduces severe medical vulnerabilities. Abrupt cessation forces immediate central nervous system hyperexcitability, which frequently leads to dangerously high blood pressure, extreme cardiac strain, or life-threatening grand mal seizures.
What medications are used during outpatient alcohol detox?
Outpatient medical detox protocols utilize specific, evidence-based prescription medications to control uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and neutralize severe health risks. Medical directors frequently prescribe long-acting benzodiazepines to control neurological tremors and eliminate seizure activities, while simultaneously implementing specialized medications to reduce ongoing psychological cravings and stabilize vital signs during early sobriety.
How do I know if my alcohol withdrawal symptoms are severe?
Severe alcohol withdrawal is distinguished by profound cognitive confusion, visual or auditory hallucinations, extreme physical agitation, and sudden generalized seizures.
Is outpatient detox more affordable than inpatient rehab?
Outpatient detoxification models significantly reduce the financial barriers to professional addiction care by eliminating the substantial costs associated with overnight hospital beds, residential facility boarding fees, and round-the-clock non-medical staffing.
Vivitrol is a once-monthly injection of naltrexone that reduces alcohol cravings and blocks much of the reward drinking produces. It is not addictive; it does not make you sick if you drink, and it is one of the most evidence-backed medications for alcohol use disorder.
It is also widely misunderstood, which is why so many people spend months researching it without ever making a call.
In this article, Michael Damioli, MSW, CSAT, Chief Clinical Officer at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, walks through what he wants every patient to know before the first appointment: who Vivitrol is for, what the first injection involves, and what the first 30 days feel like.
If you are comparing treatment options for drinking right now, this is the conversation you would have if you called us.
What Is Vivitrol and How Does It Work for Alcohol?
Vivitrol is the extended-release, injectable form of naltrexone. One shot from a medical provider lasts about four weeks, which removes the daily decision of whether to take a pill.
Naltrexone is an opioid blocker. That sounds strange for an alcohol medication until you know how drinking works in the brain: alcohol triggers a release of natural endorphins, and those endorphins land on opioid receptors to produce the warm, rewarding part of being buzzed. Vivitrol sits on those receptors and blocks them. According to SAMHSA, the result is reduced craving and reduced reward, which is exactly the combination that helps people stop.
What Vivitrol does
What Vivitrol does not do
Reduces alcohol cravings
Does not make you sick if you drink (that is Antabuse)
Blocks most of the euphoric reward of drinking
Does not prevent intoxication or impairment
If a relapse happens, tends to shorten it and reduce how much is drunk
Does not create dependence, a high, or abuse potential
One shot covers about four weeks
Does not work as a standalone cure without counseling
That third row on the left is the part Damioli highlights most with patients. In his words, if somebody does relapse on Vivitrol, the drinking tends to be shorter and lighter, because the payoff is not there, and people come back to treatment sooner. The medication does not just help prevent the slip. It shrinks the slip.
The evidence backs the approach: in the clinical trial behind Vivitrol’s FDA approval, patients receiving Vivitrol with counseling had 25 percent fewer heavy drinking days per month than patients receiving placebo with counseling.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Vivitrol?
In our assessments, the patients who tend to do well share a few things:
They have decided they want to stop or seriously reduce drinking, and cravings are the thing sabotaging that decision
They can get through a short alcohol-free window before the first shot
They prefer a monthly appointment over remembering a daily pill, or they know from experience that they stop taking daily medications
They are willing to pair the medication with counseling, because the shot handles cravings, not the reasons behind the drinking
There are two hard medical requirements. First, you need to stop drinking before starting: the FDA approved Vivitrol for people who are alcohol-free at the start of treatment, typically about a week.
If you are still drinking daily, that window can feel impossible, and this is where CMAR is different from a standalone Vivitrol clinic: our outpatient detox program can manage alcohol withdrawal medically, with daily monitoring and comfort medications tapered over several days, so the path from drinking to first injection is supervised rather than white-knuckled. If you are wondering what that gap looks like, we break down the timeline in how long does alcohol withdrawal last.
Second, you must be fully opioid-free, usually 7 to 14 days, including painkillers. Because Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors, starting it with opioids in your system triggers immediate, severe withdrawal. This is screened carefully at intake.
One more caution from the transcript of our clinical conversations: anyone with existing liver damage needs clearance from their liver specialist first, since naltrexone is processed by the liver. Outside of that, Damioli is direct: most people tolerate Vivitrol very well, and we encourage most patients with alcohol use disorder to at least consider it, following an assessment with our medical provider.
Wondering whether you would clear those requirements? That is a ten-minute phone conversation, not a research project. Call CMAR at (833) 448-0127 and ask. No commitment comes with the question.
Is Vivitrol Just Trading One Drug for Another?
This is the concern Damioli hears most, and his answer starts with a distinction: dependence is not addiction.
“A diabetic is dependent on insulin, but nobody says they’re addicted to it. There’s a difference between a drug that’s causing issues in your life and a medication that’s helping you be more functional in your life.” Michael Damioli, MSW, CSAT
With Vivitrol the concern dissolves even further, because there is nothing to trade to. Naltrexone is a blocker, not an activator. It produces no high, no euphoria, no withdrawal when you stop, and no street value. It is not a controlled substance. You cannot become addicted to a medication whose entire job is to keep receptors quiet.
You can become a person whose cravings no longer run the schedule. That is the trade.
What Happens the Day of the First Injection?
Patients are often surprised by how ordinary the first day is. At CMAR, it looks like this:
Intake and assessment. You meet our medical provider for a full assessment and physical workup, including your drinking history, medications, and liver health. Labs are drawn if needed.
Opioid screening. We confirm you are opioid-free before the shot is cleared, because safety here is non-negotiable.
The injection itself. Vivitrol is a single intramuscular shot in the upper buttock, given by our medical team. It takes a few minutes.
The plan for the month. Before you leave, your counseling and group schedule is set, because the medication is one half of the treatment, not the whole of it.
Soreness at the injection site for a few days is the most common complaint. Some people have nausea or stomach upset in the first days, which typically settles. You come back in about four weeks for the next shot, and our team checks in well before then.
What Do the First 30 Days Feel Like?
For most people: quieter. The background noise of craving turns down, sometimes dramatically, and the evening hours stop being a negotiation.
Some patients describe the first few weeks as flat, like nothing is quite as enjoyable. Damioli takes that seriously rather than waving it off. Part of it can be the medication settling in, and part of it is early recovery itself: a brain that has leaned on alcohol for reward needs time to remember how to generate its own. Either way, it is usually temporary; it is worth telling your provider about, and it is exactly the stretch where group support carries people, because everyone in the room has felt some version of it.
The first 30 days are also where counseling stops being a formality. Vivitrol handles the chemistry of craving. It does nothing about the stress, the habits, the 6 p.m. trigger, or the relationships around the drinking. That is what the therapy is for, and it is why the manufacturer itself states the medication must be paired with a recovery program to work.
If the flat stretch, the trigger hours, or the first month in general is what worries you, that is a good sign you are taking this seriously. Talk it through with our team before you decide anything: (833) 448-0127, or start with our Vivitrol program page.
What Does Success Look Like at 90 Days?
Not just a sobriety streak. Abstinence, or a major reduction in drinking, is the first indicator we look for, but Damioli calls it the simple one. The markers that tell us Vivitrol and treatment are actually working are broader:
Fewer and weaker cravings, and less mental energy spent fighting them
Better sleep, better physical health, more energy
Relationships at home improving
Showing up more consistently at work
Engagement with the recovery community, in whatever form fits
There is a moment Damioli describes seeing over and over, where the lights come on for somebody: they walk in one day and you can tell something changed in how they meet the world. Recovery takes time, the brain takes time to heal, and new habits take time to form.
But when the cravings are chemically quieted while that healing happens, people get to that moment more often, and sooner.
How CMAR Builds Treatment Around Vivitrol in Denver
Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is built on a simple position: medication and therapy are two sides of the same coin, and using both increases your odds. As a dedicated provider of medication-assisted treatment in Denver, we combine:
Medical care: assessment, the monthly Vivitrol injection, and outpatient detox when you need medical support to get alcohol-free before starting
Therapy and groups: structure, accountability, and support, the core of how we treat, with individual counseling addressing what drives the drinking
Practical help: insurance verification on the first call, and case management for the real-life barriers that derail treatment
Most people researching Vivitrol have already decided something needs to change. The medication question is really a fit question, and fit is determined in an assessment, not a search bar.
Ask a Clinician: Michael Damioli on Vivitrol for Alcohol
When someone comes in interested in Vivitrol, what do you want them to know before they walk in the door?
“That it’s appropriate for most people. Most people tolerate it very well and have minimal side effects, such as some GI distress in the first few days. The main exceptions are anybody currently on opioids, and anybody with existing liver damage, who needs to work with their hepatologist first. Outside of those situations, we really encourage most people to consider it, following an assessment with our medical provider.”
How do you answer someone who says Vivitrol is just replacing one addiction with another?
“I explain the difference between dependence and addiction. A diabetic is dependent on insulin, but that doesn’t mean they’re addicted to it. There’s a difference between a drug that’s causing issues with your family and your life, and a medication that’s helping you be more functional in your life. And with Vivitrol specifically, there’s no high in it at all. There’s nothing there to be addicted to.”
What actually makes it work for alcohol?
“It reduces cravings, and if somebody does have a relapse, it reduces the amount they drink and how long they drink, because it blocks a lot of the euphoric experience they’re looking for. So people come back to treatment and back to recovery sooner. It takes the power out of the slip.”
What does the treatment around the shot look like at CMAR?
“The medication is one pathway, and we want people using as many pathways as possible, because that’s what increases the odds. So at CMAR, Vivitrol sits inside the full program: our medical provider handles the injection and monitoring, outpatient detox gets someone safely alcohol-free first if they need it, and our counseling and groups do the work the medication can’t, the coping skills, the triggers, the life around the drinking. Medication and treatment are two sides of the same coin. We don’t hand out one side.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you drink on Vivitrol?
You will not get sick, and you can still become impaired, but most of the pleasurable reward of drinking is blocked. Many people find drinking simply feels pointless. Continued heavy drinking on Vivitrol is a signal to adjust the treatment plan, and it adds strain on the liver, so tell your provider.
How long do you have to be sober before the Vivitrol shot?
For alcohol, you should be alcohol-free when treatment starts, typically about a week. You must also be fully opioid-free, usually 7 to 14 days, or the shot can trigger severe withdrawal. CMAR’s outpatient detox can bridge that window with medical supervision instead of willpower.
How long does one Vivitrol shot last?
About four weeks. The extended-release injection maintains a steady level of naltrexone throughout the month, and then you return for the next shot. That monthly rhythm is the main advantage over daily naltrexone pills, which only work on the days you remember and choose to take them.
Is Vivitrol addictive?
No. Naltrexone is an opioid blocker, not an activator. It produces no euphoria, no high, and no withdrawal when stopped, and it is not a controlled substance. It carries none of the trade-offs people worry about with other medications used in addiction treatment.
Does Vivitrol make everything feel flat?
Some patients describe the first weeks as emotionally muted. Part of that can be the medication, and part is early recovery itself, as the brain relearns to produce reward without alcohol. It is usually temporary and worth reporting to your provider; it is also one reason group support matters most in the first month.
The acute phase of alcohol withdrawal typically lasts between five and seven days, with symptoms reaching their most intense point between 24 and 72 hours after your last drink.
While the physical timeline follows a set medical path, using medication-assisted treatment in Denver ensures that the most difficult phases are managed safely and with much less discomfort. When you’re wondering how long alcohol withdrawal lasts, it’s a week-long process of your body finding its balance again.
Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR) offers the expert outpatient support needed to navigate this timeline without the fear of facing it alone.
The First 24 Hours: The Body Starts to Recalibrate
The first day after you stop drinking is often when the brain begins to react to the absence of alcohol. Because alcohol has a sedative effect, your central nervous system can become hyperactive when it’s removed all of a sudden.
Most people start feeling the first signs of withdrawal within 6 to 12 hours.
You might notice shaky hands, a racing heart, or a sudden spike in anxiety.
Common issues during this window include trouble sleeping and an upset stomach.
Having a medical team check your vitals early can help prevent these symptoms from getting worse.
Early support is so important because your brain is dealing with a significant shift in chemistry. As you look into how long alcohol withdrawal lasts, remember that the first 24 hours are the foundation for the rest of your week.
Our Denver team focuses on keeping you stable and comfortable so you can move into the next phase with confidence.
The 48 to 72 Hour Peak: Managing the Critical Window
The period between the second and third day is usually the most challenging part of the entire process. This is when the risk of serious medical complications is at its highest, which is why professional supervision is so vital.
You may experience a spike in blood pressure or a faster heart rate during this time.
Serious risks like seizures or delirium tremens (DTs) most often occur in this 48 to 72-hour window.
Mental confusion or even mild hallucinations can happen as the brain tries to find its footing.
This is the phase where most people require the most frequent clinical check-ins to stay safe.
This peak is the primary reason why doctors advise against quitting “cold turkey” at home. The physical intensity is much easier to handle when you have a medical safety net. Our outpatient detox protocols are designed to dampen these symptoms, making the hardest days of the week manageable and safe.
Days 5 Through 7: Moving Toward Stability
By the five-day mark, the most intense physical symptoms usually begin to fade. Your body has worked hard to clear the alcohol, but your brain chemistry is still adjusting to the change.
Most physical tremors and nausea typically settle down by the end of the first week.
While the “acute” physical crisis is over, you might start feeling more irritable or tired.
Some people begin to notice Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) at this point.
These lingering psychological effects, like mood swings or cravings, can last for a few weeks.
Continuing outpatient support helps you stay on track as physical symptoms subside.
Understanding how long alcohol withdrawal lasts means looking at the full picture. While the first week focuses on physical safety, the following weeks focus on emotional health.
We help our Denver clients through this transition by providing the tools they need to handle the mental shifts that follow a successful detox.
Comparing Withdrawal Stages and Clinical Needs
This table gives a general overview of what to expect as you move through the different phases of the withdrawal process.
Phase
Timeframe
What it Feels Like
Medical Risk Level
Early Stage
6 – 24 Hours
Anxiety, tremors, and trouble sleeping
Low to Moderate
The Peak
24 – 72 Hours
High heart rate, seizure risk, confusion
High (Critical)
Stabilization
3 – 7 Days
Physical symptoms start to ease up
Moderate
Long-term
1 Week+
Cravings and changing mood patterns
Maintenance
Why a Denver Recovery Plan Makes a Difference
Trying to time the withdrawal process on your own can be stressful and dangerous. Accessing specialized care right here in Colorado gives you a structured way to get through the week safely.
A clinical assessment can help you decide whether outpatient detox is the right fit for your medical history.
Using medication-assisted treatment in Denver helps calm the brain and reduce the intense urge to drink.
Outpatient care means you can stay in your own home while checking in with your medical team daily.
Data from SAMHSA shows that having a medical plan greatly increases the chances of finishing detox.
Our team at CMAR builds a plan that looks at both your physical vitals and your personal comfort.
We know that every person’s body reacts a bit differently. While the answer to how long alcohol withdrawal lasts follows a general rule, your experience is unique.
We provide the personalized medical monitoring needed to ensure you aren’t just getting through the week, but starting a whole new way of living.
Ready to talk about a safe way forward?
The fear of how long alcohol withdrawal lasts is one of the biggest reasons people put off getting help. You don’t have to face that 72-hour peak by yourself. Our medical team is here to provide the safety net you need to get through the week and start feeling like yourself again.
You don’t need to wait for things to get worse before you reach out. A quick, confidential conversation can help you understand which level of support is right for you. Take the first step toward a safe, comfortable recovery with a simple conversation with CMAR at (855) 281-5588. Let’s start that path to recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does alcohol withdrawal last for a heavy drinker?
For someone who has been drinking heavily for a long time, the physical symptoms usually last about seven days. However, the psychological cravings and “brain fog” can stick around for several months. It’s really important for heavy drinkers to have medical support to prevent dangerous complications like seizures during that first week.
Can you safely quit drinking at home in Colorado?
Quitting “cold turkey” at home can be life-threatening because of the risk of seizures and delirium tremens. However, a supervised outpatient detox allows you to live at home while receiving medical care. Using medication-assisted treatment in Denver is the safest way to manage withdrawal symptoms without staying in a hospital.
When is the hardest part of withdrawal over?
Most people find that the first 72 hours are the most difficult. Once you pass the three-day mark, the risk of serious medical emergencies drops significantly. After the first week, you’ll likely feel much better physically, though you may still experience some emotional ups and downs.
What happens after the first week of no alcohol?
After seven days, your body is mostly clear of alcohol, and your physical health starts to improve. This is often when the “mental” work of recovery begins. You might feel extra tired or have trouble focusing, but continued outpatient therapy can help you work through these feelings as your brain chemistry balances out.
Outpatient detox is safe for individuals with mild to moderate alcohol dependence who have a stable home environment and no history of severe withdrawal complications. When researching “what is outpatient detox”, you’ll find it involves medical supervision and medication-assisted treatment in Denver to manage symptoms while you live at home.
This approach allows you to maintain your professional and personal responsibilities while receiving clinical support to clear your system.
Safety at CMAR is ensured through a comprehensive clinical assessment that determines your physical and psychological readiness for this level of care.
Clinical Criteria for Outpatient Eligibility
Medical directors use specific criteria to ensure that a patient can safely detox without 24-hour residential supervision. These guidelines are based on the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) standards for levels of care.
Low risk of severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures or delirium tremens.
Absence of acute co-occurring medical conditions that require hospital monitoring.
A supportive and drug-free living environment in the Denver metro area.
Reliable transportation to attend daily or frequent clinical check-ins.
High level of motivation and a clear understanding of the detox protocol.
Understanding the “what is outpatient detox” question requires recognizing that it’s a medical intervention, not just a lifestyle choice.
Our clinicians at CMAR prioritize your safety by conducting a thorough review of your substance use history.
This ensures that every patient we admit into our outpatient program is medically suited for the environment.
The Components of a Clinical Assessment
Before starting a program, you’ll undergo a detailed evaluation to map out your specific medical needs. This process is the foundation of any safe outpatient detox plan.
Comprehensive physical exam to check vital signs and overall organ function.
Detailed history of substance use, including frequency, duration, and past quit attempts.
Mental health screening to identify any underlying anxiety or depression.
Blood tests to assess liver and kidney function before prescribing medications.
Review of current medications to prevent any dangerous drug interactions.
This assessment is designed to remove uncertainty by providing a clear medical roadmap. It allows our team to tailor the outpatient detox process to your body’s unique chemistry and withdrawal patterns.
By focusing on the individual rather than a generic template, we enhance the safety and effectiveness of the withdrawal phase.
Why Medication-Assisted Treatment in Denver Enhances Safety
Medication is a critical tool in managing the discomfort and risks associated with alcohol withdrawal. Utilizing medication-assisted treatment in Denver allows clinicians to stabilize your brain chemistry during the most difficult first few days.
Prevents the dangerous neurological rebound that can lead to withdrawal seizures.
Reduces intense physical cravings that often lead to early relapse.
Manages secondary symptoms such as insomnia, nausea, and tremors.
Increases the likelihood that a patient will successfully complete the detox phase.
Provides a bridge to long-term therapeutic recovery programs.
This clinical approach ensures that the “stop signal” in the brain is supported by science rather than just willpower.
It transforms the detox experience from a painful struggle into a managed medical process.
Our Denver-based medical team monitors your response to these medications closely to ensure optimal dosing and safety.
Comparing Detox Settings and Safety Levels
The choice between inpatient and outpatient care depends entirely on the severity of the dependence and your medical history. The following table provides a general comparison of how these services are delivered.
Outpatient detox is only the first step in a larger recovery journey, and safety depends on what happens after the initial withdrawal. Constant monitoring during the first week ensures that any unexpected symptoms are addressed immediately.
Daily vital sign checks to monitor heart rate and blood pressure levels.
Regular updates to the medication plan based on symptom severity.
Immediate access to medical staff if withdrawal symptoms escalate.
Coordination with therapists to begin addressing the psychological roots of use.
Scheduled breathalyzer or toxicology screens to maintain accountability.
By staying connected to a professional team in Colorado, you reduce the risks associated with trying to stop alone.
This structure provides the necessary safety net for those who want to reclaim their health while staying integrated in their daily lives. It combines the clinical excellence of a hospital with the comfort of your own home.
Is Outpatient Detox the Right Move for You?
The transition to a sober life begins with a single, informed decision about your safety. If you are ready to stop but aren’t sure which setting is appropriate, a professional evaluation can provide the answer. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the most effective and least restrictive environment for your needs.
There is no reason to guess when it comes to your medical safety and long-term health. A quick phone assessment can tell you which setting is right for your situation, and it is completely free. Take the first step toward reclaiming your authority by calling CMAR at (855) 281-5588 to discuss our Denver-based programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is outpatient detox compared to inpatient?
Outpatient detox allows you to live at home while visiting a clinic for medical check-ins and medication management. Inpatient detox requires you to stay at a facility for 24-hour monitoring. When asking what outpatient detox is, it’s important to remember that it is designed for those with low to moderate medical risks who have high support at home.
Is medication-assisted treatment in Denver covered by insurance?
Most major insurance plans, including many Colorado-based providers, cover medication-assisted treatment as it is considered an essential health benefit. This helps make recovery more accessible and reduces the financial burden on the patient. Our team can help you verify your benefits to see how they apply to our Denver services.
How do I know if I am safe for outpatient detox?
A licensed medical professional must determine your safety through a formal clinical assessment. They look at your drinking history, previous withdrawal experiences, and current physical health. If you have a high risk of seizures or a history of delirium tremens, they will likely recommend an inpatient setting for your protection.
Can I work while doing an outpatient detox?
Yes, many people find they can continue working or attending school if their withdrawal symptoms are managed effectively. However, your medical director may suggest a few days of rest during the peak withdrawal window to ensure your safety. The flexibility of outpatient care is one of its primary benefits for busy professionals.
Vivitrol is an extended-release form of naltrexone, a medication approved by the FDA to help people recover from alcohol use disorder. It’s delivered as a monthly injection and works by blocking the pleasurable effects of alcohol in the brain. For many, it’s a powerful tool in relapse prevention.
But a common and important question is: What happens if you drink while on Vivitrol?
At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR), we help people understand not just how Vivitrol works, but how to use it safely and effectively as part of a comprehensive, outpatient recovery plan.
What Vivitrol Does to Alcohol’s Effects
If you drink while on Vivitrol, you won’t feel the usual effects of alcohol, no “buzz,” no euphoria, no sense of relaxation. That’s because Vivitrol blocks opioid receptors in the brain, which are partly responsible for alcohol’s rewarding sensations.
But this doesn’t mean you won’t feel anything.
Here’s what you can expect:
You may still feel physically impaired (e.g., motor coordination issues)
You won’t get the high that usually drives continued drinking
You may experience frustration or disappointment, which can trigger other emotional responses
Some people report trying to “override” the medication by drinking more. This can be dangerous and lead to alcohol poisoning, as the body absorbs more alcohol without the person feeling intoxicated.
However, drinking while on Vivitrol is not safe for several reasons:
1. Higher Risk of Alcohol Poisoning
Because you won’t feel drunk in the same way, you may drink more than usual. This increases your risk of alcohol-related harm, including liver damage, blackouts, or even alcohol poisoning.
2. Psychological Consequences
Drinking on Vivitrol can feel like failure to some, which may trigger feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness. At CMAR, we help patients view relapse as a learning opportunity, not a reason to give up.
3. Undermining Your Recovery Plan
Vivitrol is most effective when used in conjunction with behavioral therapy, counseling, and peer support. Drinking while on the medication may delay your progress, making it harder to build a sober, stable life.
Can You Still Feel Alcohol’s Physical Effects?
Yes, Vivitrol doesn’t block all the physical effects of alcohol. While the emotional reward is muted, people may still experience:
Slurred speech
Impaired coordination
Nausea or headache
Fatigue or drowsiness
That’s why it’s still possible to get into accidents or make unsafe decisions even if the high is gone.
What to Do If You Slip Up While on Vivitrol
Relapse can happen. If you’ve consumed alcohol while on Vivitrol, you’re not alone, and you’re not beyond help. At CMAR, we use a trauma-informed approach to understand what triggered the relapse and help you develop new coping strategies.
Here’s what we recommend:
Contact your care team at CMAR immediately
Be honest about how much you drank and why
Stay engaged in therapy and peer support groups
Reassess your treatment plan to adjust for future triggers
Why Vivitrol Works Best as Part of a Full MAT Program
At CMAR, we do more than prescribe medication; we build individualized treatment plans that integrate Vivitrol with therapy, mental health care, and real-world support.
Dual-diagnosis support for co-occurring mental health conditions
Peer recovery coaching
Telehealth options and flexible scheduling
This combination allows clients to reduce cravings, address underlying trauma, and develop sustainable sobriety tools, all while staying active in their work, school, or family life.
Is Vivitrol Right for You?
Vivitrol may be an ideal option if:
You want to stay sober but struggle with intense cravings
You’ve completed alcohol detox and are medically stable
You want a once-monthly treatment with minimal side effects
You’re committed to participating in therapy and check-ins
We’ll help you determine eligibility through a comprehensive assessment at our Thornton clinic.
If you or a loved one is considering quitting alcohol, it’s important to understand what to expect physically and mentally in the early days of recovery. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, and once your body has become dependent on it, stopping use can trigger withdrawal symptoms.
This guide will walk you through the stages of alcohol withdrawal timeline, what symptoms can appear, when they show up, and why medical supervision during detox is often critical for safety and success.
At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR), we provide outpatient detox programs that support individuals through withdrawal and into long-term recovery, with care that’s compassionate, clinical, and customized.
Breaking Down the Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline
While each individual’s experience can differ, here is a general breakdown of the alcohol withdrawal stages by time:
Stage 1: 6–12 Hours After Last Drink
Mild symptoms begin
Shaking or tremors
Headaches
Nausea or upset stomach
Anxiety or restlessness
Insomnia or disrupted sleep
This is often when people start feeling “off”, but symptoms can quickly escalate, especially for those with a long history of heavy drinking.
Stage 2: 12–48 Hours
Symptoms intensify
Increased blood pressure and heart rate
Fever, sweating, and confusion
Heightened anxiety or panic
Irritability
Sensory sensitivity (light, noise)
For some individuals, hallucinations (visual or auditory) may begin during this window, known as alcohol hallucinosis. Though distressing, they are not usually life-threatening.
Stage 3: 48–72 Hours
Peak withdrawal period for most people
Risk of seizures increases significantly
Possibility of developing Delirium Tremens (DTs)
DTs is a severe and potentially fatal complication of alcohol withdrawal that affects about 5% of people withdrawing from alcohol. Symptoms include:
Confusion and disorientation
High fever and rapid heartbeat
Hallucinations and paranoia
Seizures
Dangerously high blood pressure
This stage is a medical emergency. Anyone at risk for delirium tremens should never attempt detox at home.
Stage 4: 4–7 Days and Beyond
Physical symptoms begin to stabilize
Emotional and psychological symptoms may linger
Continued insomnia, depression, anxiety
Cravings for alcohol may persist
This is a vulnerable period when relapse is common, not due to physical discomfort, but emotional overwhelm and lack of coping strategies.
The stages of alcohol withdrawal timeline can vary depending on:
Length and intensity of alcohol use
Age and overall physical health
Co-occurring mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, PTSD, depression)
Nutritional deficiencies
Liver function and metabolic rate
History of past detox attempts
This is why CMAR begins every outpatient detox with a thorough clinical assessment, ensuring you receive a personalized plan that keeps you safe and supported from day one.
How Medical Detox at CMAR Can Help
CMAR’s outpatient alcohol detox program is designed to help you complete withdrawal safely, comfortably, and without disrupting your life. Here’s what to expect:
Daily medical supervision and symptom monitoring
FDA-approved medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings
You should never attempt alcohol detox alone if you:
Drink heavily every day
Have previously experienced seizures or hallucinations during withdrawal
Are over 40 with other health issues
Take medications for anxiety or sleep
Have experienced relapse after past attempts
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms consistent with Stage 3 or beyond, seek immediate medical attention.
Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal occurs when a person who has been drinking heavily for weeks, months, or years suddenly stops or significantly reduces intake.
The brain, which has adapted to alcohol’s depressant effects, becomes hyperactive without it, leading to a range of symptoms that can vary from mild discomfort to medical emergencies.
Timeline Awareness Can Save Lives
Understanding the stages of alcohol withdrawal timeline isn’t just about preparing for what’s ahead, it’s about knowing when to ask for help. The sooner you receive professional support, the safer and more successful your recovery will be.
At CMAR, we make starting that journey easy, discreet, and affordable, offering expert-led outpatient detox throughout the Denver metro area.
Starting recovery is never easy, but starting the right way can make all the difference. For many, the idea of quitting cold turkey or managing withdrawal alone feels overwhelming. That’s where medical detox comes in, not just as a clinical option, but as a strategic investment in your future sobriety.
At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR), we help people across Denver and beyond safely begin their recovery journey through outpatient medical detox designed around comfort, flexibility, and results.
If you’re weighing your next step, here’s what makes the benefits of medical detox impossible to ignore, and why it might be the most intelligent decision you’ll ever make.
For individuals who have tried to quit on their own or are nervous about what withdrawal might feel like, the benefits of medical detox are rooted in safety, comfort, and setting the stage for long-term success.
Below are some of the most important reasons why choosing medical detox, especially in an outpatient setting like CMAR’s, can make all the difference in your recovery journey.
1. Personalized Planning from Day One
Unlike one-size-fits-all detox approaches, medical detox begins with a complete medical and psychological assessment. This allows care teams to:
Understand your substance use history
Identify physical or mental health concerns
Create a tailored medication and therapy plan
At CMAR, this initial planning sets the tone for everything that follows. We don’t guess, we listen, evaluate, and respond to your unique needs.
2. A Controlled Way to Reduce Risk
Unsupervised detox can lead to serious complications like seizures, dehydration, or cardiac distress, especially for people detoxing from alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines.
Medical detox ensures safety through daily clinical oversight. At CMAR, patients undergo:
Regular vital monitoring
Medication adjustments based on progress
Direct access to licensed clinicians
Even in an outpatient setting, this high-touch care reduces risk and supports a smooth withdrawal process.
3. Immediate Relief from Cravings and Symptoms
Withdrawal doesn’t just test your willpower; it hijacks your body. From cold sweats and stomach cramps to panic attacks and insomnia, symptoms can feel unbearable.
One of the most significant benefits of medical detox is that it doesn’t require you to suffer.
This relief can make the difference between completing detox and giving up before it’s over.
4. Staying Present for Work and Family
Not everyone can disappear for 30 days. One significant advantage of outpatient medical detox, like the one offered at CMAR, is the ability to stay engaged in life while getting the care you need.
No overnight stays required
Early morning, daytime, and evening appointments available
Discretion and privacy are preserved
Our program is ideal for people who want to stay home, continue working, or maintain parenting responsibilities while safely beginning recovery.
5. A Judgment-Free Space to Start Over
Medical detox isn’t about punishment, it’s about healing. At CMAR, we offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where patients can be honest about their struggles and start fresh without fear.
We often hear from clients that simply walking through our door, knowing they’d be met with respect, was the turning point.
6. Setting the Stage for Real, Lasting Change
Here’s something people don’t talk about enough: Detox alone isn’t enough.
Detox clears your system, but real recovery requires addressing:
Why you used
How to avoid future triggers
What coping skills do you need next
That’s why our medical detox program is just the beginning of what CMAR offers. Patients who complete detox have immediate access to our therapy-based outpatient programs, including:
You don’t have to choose between safety and affordability. CMAR delivers both.
Final Thoughts: Why It’s Worth It
The benefits of medical detox go far beyond physical comfort; they include safety, flexibility, emotional support, and a clear path into recovery that fits your real life if you’re ready to take the first step but aren’t sure how, our team is here to guide you with compassion and care.
For many individuals beginning their journey to sobriety, the first question they face is: “What is medical detox?” Medical detox is a supervised process that helps individuals safely withdraw from drugs or alcohol under the care of healthcare professionals.
Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR) provides outpatient medical detox services designed to prioritize comfort, safety, and long-term success, without requiring an overnight stay in a hospital or rehab center.
Understanding the Medical Detox Process
Medical detoxification (medical detox) is the process of clearing substances like alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines from the body, with medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce potential risks.
Substance use changes brain chemistry and body function. When you suddenly stop using, your body can go into shock, especially with substances like alcohol, opioids, or benzos. Withdrawal can be painful and, in some cases, life-threatening.
Symptoms of withdrawal may include:
Nausea and vomiting
Sweating and chills
Seizures
Anxiety or depression
Insomnia
Hallucinations
Delirium tremens (DTs)
Medical detox helps you avoid these risks by providing round-the-clock care and the proper medications to stabilize your system.
What Happens During Medical Detox?
Step 1: Initial Assessment
At CMAR, every detox process begins with a comprehensive medical and psychological assessment. This helps us determine your:
Substance use history
Physical health
Mental health conditions
Risk of complications
We then design a personalized detox plan tailored to your specific needs.
Step 2: Medication-Assisted Withdrawal
We use evidence-based medications to manage symptoms and cravings, including:
Suboxone or Sublocade (for opioid detox)
Vivitrol (for alcohol or opioid cravings)
Antabuse (for alcohol recovery)
Comfort medications for anxiety, sleep, or nausea
These medications help ease the detox process and prevent relapse.
Step 3: Ongoing Monitoring & Support
Our licensed professionals provide daily check-ins, monitor vitals, and adjust medications as needed. We also offer individual counseling to help patients cope with emotional triggers during detox.
Our outpatient program is ideal for individuals who:
Have mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms
Need flexible scheduling
Want to maintain work, school, or family obligations
Are you looking for a cost-effective alternative to inpatient rehab
We are Colorado’s only licensed outpatient detox provider that integrates medical, clinical, and therapeutic care in one location.
What Substances Require Medical Detox?
Not every drug withdrawal is the same. Some substances require medical detox due to the severity of symptoms and the potential for complications.
Substances Commonly Treated at CMAR:
Alcohol: Risk of seizures and delirium tremens
Opioids (heroin, fentanyl, prescription painkillers): Severe cravings, flu-like symptoms, anxiety
Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Valium): Risk of seizures, panic attacks, insomnia
Polysubstance Use: Combined drug withdrawals need specialized care
If you’re unsure whether you need detox, our team can help assess your condition confidentially.
Is Medical Detox Enough?
While detox is an essential first step, it’s not a cure for addiction. Proper recovery begins after detox, when the physical dependence ends and psychological healing begins.
That’s why CMAR offers a full continuum of care after medical detox, including:
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Daytime, structured support
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Flexible scheduling for working adults
Mental Health & Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Individual & Group Therapy
Family Support & Case Management
How Long Does Medical Detox Last?
Most medical detox programs last 5 to 10 days, but the exact duration depends on:
The substances used
How long and how heavily they were used
Your overall health and co-occurring conditions
CMAR designs each detox timeline around your unique recovery needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is detox painful?
With medical detox, discomfort is minimized through the use of medications and clinical care. Although you may still feel symptoms, we manage them closely.
Can I detox at home?
We strongly advise against unsupervised detox, primarily from alcohol, opioids, or benzos. Home detox can be dangerous and unpredictable.
Colorado’s only licensed outpatient detox provider
Full MAT services on-site
Dual diagnosis and trauma-informed care
Flexible appointment options, morning, evening, and telehealth
Caring, nonjudgmental staff with decades of experience
Start Medical Detox in Denver Today
If you or a loved one is asking, “What is medical detox?”, chances are you’re already considering a path to recovery. At CMAR, we make starting that journey easier, safer, and more flexible than ever.
Many professionals and working adults delay or avoid getting help for addiction because of one major fear: losing their job. The truth is, you can go to rehab without losing your job, and there are legal protections and flexible treatment options designed specifically for people in your situation.
At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR), we understand how important it is to balance treatment with work responsibilities. Whether you’re considering detox, outpatient rehab, or dual diagnosis care, we can help you take the first step, confidentially and without jeopardizing your employment.
FMLA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for severe health conditions, including substance use disorders.
Key points:
Your employer cannot fire you for seeking treatment
Your health benefits remain active during leave
You don’t have to disclose details of your condition, only that you need medical leave
To qualify:
You must work for a covered employer (most employers with 50+ employees)
You must have worked at least 1,250 hours in the past 12 months
2. The ADA: Protection Against Discrimination
The ADA protects individuals with substance use disorders from being fired because of their condition, as long as they are actively seeking treatment.
This law:
Prevents employers from firing you due to your medical diagnosis
Encourages reasonable accommodations (e.g., adjusted schedule for treatment)
Should You Tell Your Employer?
This decision is personal, but often necessary if you plan to take time off.
You do not need to disclose your addiction history. Under FMLA or ADA protections, you are only required to notify HR or a supervisor that you need medical leave for a serious health condition.
At CMAR, we work with many Colorado professionals who need help navigating these conversations and ensuring their privacy is respected.
Outpatient Rehab Options That Let You Keep Working
Not everyone needs to take weeks off for inpatient rehab. In fact, most people can attend treatment without leaving their jobs, primarily through CMAR’s outpatient and telehealth programs.
Many of our clients in Denver attend IOP before or after work, allowing them to stay on top of both their recovery and career.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
If you need more structure, our PHP provides 5–6 hours of treatment daily, but without requiring overnight stays. This option works well for people who can take short-term leave or work part-time while receiving care.
Will Your Employer Find Out?
Your treatment is confidential under HIPAA laws. CMAR never shares your health information with employers unless you provide written consent.
Even when using FMLA, you’re only required to provide documentation stating that you need medical leave. No details about the nature of your treatment must be disclosed.
Common Myths About Rehab and Employment
“If I go to rehab, I’ll get fired.”
Most people are legally protected under the FMLA and the ADA. Your employer cannot terminate you for seeking treatment.
“I can’t afford to miss work.”
Many of CMAR’s clients keep working while in treatment through IOP and telehealth. We design our programs around your schedule.
“My job won’t support me.”
You might be surprised. Many HR departments are trained to handle medical leave professionally and discreetly.
How CMAR Supports Working Professionals
At CMAR, we specialize in helping people maintain their lives while recovering from substance use disorders. Here’s how we support working clients across Colorado:
Flexible schedules (evening, morning, remote)
Insurance verification & FMLA documentation support
Ongoing therapy, case management, and peer support
We’ve helped countless Coloradans begin recovery without risking their jobs, reputations, or privacy.
Taking the First Step: What to Do If You’re Ready
Here’s how to safely start your recovery journey without jeopardizing your job:
Step 1: Confidential Assessment
Call (855) 454-4003 or submit a form to schedule your private consultation.
Step 2: Insurance Verification & Leave Options
We’ll walk you through insurance, FMLA paperwork, and your treatment options.
Step 3: Begin a Flexible Treatment Plan
Start with outpatient detox, IOP, or PHP, depending on your needs.
Final Thoughts: You Can Get Help Without Sacrificing Your Career
It’s never easy to admit you need help. But choosing treatment doesn’t mean losing everything you’ve worked for.
At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we make sure you can heal without pausing your life. From flexible outpatient programs to legal protections and compassionate care, we’re here to help you build a better future.
Cortland Mathers-Suter entered the treatment space after his own battle with addiction. He first worked as a peer mentor, before starting clinical work while completing his Masters of Science in social administration from Case Western Reserve University where he focused on policy and direct practice. Cortland moved to Colorado in 2015 to start his first addiction treatment program, AspenRidge Recovery. Under his tenure, AspenRidge Recovery became a two-location, nationally accredited organization. He has since spent the last two years researching and developing what is now Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR).
According to Cortland, “Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is the most important organization I have had the honor to help build. We’re offering a service that seeks to not only improve the lives of our patients but also evolve how we look at medication-assisted treatment in Colorado entirely. Most individuals receiving medication-assisted care only receive medication and urinalysis. Sure you can call that ‘treatment,’ but you can’t call that ‘recovery.’ Our model is about adding the missing recovery component, and thus affords an opportunity to achieve lasting change for each patient and the industry.”
Cortland and his treatment programs have received numerous honors. These include Colorado Business Magazine’s “GenXYZ” award, the 2020 “Titan 100” award, and his program AspenRidge Recovery was both a finalist for “Best Healthcare Company” and named in the “Company’s to Watch” by Colorado Business Magazine as well. He has been interviewed and quoted by numerous publications for his “addiction expertise”, including News Week, 5280 Magazine, the Denver Post, Elephant Journal, Colorado Biz Mag, and TheRecoverySource.org.
Tyler Whitman
Compliance/HR Administrator
Tyler is originally from Omaha, Nebraska. He worked in manufacturing administration for 18 years until he chose to pursue recovery from alcohol addiction, which led him to Chicago, Illinois. Since then, Tyler gained experience in retail, retail pharmacy, and healthcare as a vaccine coordinator for a local Colorado clinic. At the clinic, Tyler discovered that healthcare was the career change he had been looking for. His newfound passion for healthcare, combined with his lived experience with addiction, brought him to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery as an Office Administrator.
In his free time, Tyler enjoys cooking, hiking, and skiing. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Health Services Administration from Regis University.
Simmeren Boanvala
BA Outreach and Admissions Representative
Simmeren comes to CMAR after several years working admissions in inpatient psychiatry and addiction. A first-generation Colorado Native, Simmeren attended CU Boulder, where she earned a BA in psychology. Simmeren is currently completing her CAC III while working toward her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy.
According to Simmeren, “I joined CMAR because I believe in the quality and importance of the program whole-heartedly. My goal at CMAR is to guide each prospect who calls CMAR to find the best possible pathway to their recovery”. Simmeren currently lives in her hometown with her dog and cat.
Tyler Hale
Community Partnership Lead
Tyler Hale began his career in addiction treatment following a decades-long fight with his own substance abuse issues. Since achieving long-term recovery, Tyler has held various positions in direct care, client services, admissions and outreach departments at various addiction treatment organizations. From sober living program director to outreach director to admissions director at a drug and alcohol treatment program, Tyler consistently finds himself in leadership roles within the addiction treatment space.
Tyler is originally from Chicago, IL, where he graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Bioethics. Thereafter, Tyler built a successful career in the tech industry, before finding sobriety and a subsequent calling to help others. Tyler joined the team at CMAR because he believes in the efficacy of comprehensive and patient-centered outpatient treatment. In his free time Tyler enjoys camping, hiking and spending time with his newborn son.
Kirstin O’Carroll
MSW Engagement and Relations Director
Kirstin O’Carroll started her career in addiction and mental health services 23 years ago after graduating with an MSW from The Oho State University. Hired directly from an internship program, she served as a case manager and vocational specialist on a community treatment team in Columbus, OH, working to help severely mentally ill adults remain at home and in a community setting. Within the same organization, she later transitioned to clinical assessment and crisis intervention services with children, adolescents, and adults. Through these experiences, she learned the importance of providing empathetic, high-quality care and the need to “start wherever the patient is” with regard to finding the best treatment & solutions for her patients.
After seven years, Kirstin made a career change to diagnostic sales and worked for several Fortune 500 companies as an acute care sales specialist. She is delighted to return “home” to her passion for helping others and believes her new role as community engagement coordinator for CMAR is the perfect alignment of both her clinical and sales skills. When not promoting CMAR, she can be found reading, running, hiking, watching movies, and spending time with her husband Dennis and senior canine son Reggie.
Thomas Mazzarella
LAC Primary Therapist
Thomas is a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) in the State of Colorado and a Licensed Addictions Specialist (LCAS) in the State of North Carolina with particular expertise in the treatment of chronic Substance Abuse Addiction and Dependency.
Thomas is dedicated to Individual, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling and Therapy for individuals with Substance Use and Mental Health issues and concerns.
James Jackman
CAS Primary Therapist
James Jackman is a Certified Addiction Specialist and has been practicing addiction treatment in Colorado since 2015. James is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Metropolitan State University Denver. James is a traditional CBT therapist specializing in childhood events that lead to adult addictions.
James has received special training in Family Systems, Inner Child, Maladaptive Schemas, and Adverse Childhood Experiences. James has worked in many treatment settings throughout his career and uses a client-centered treatment approach to help one recover from destructive patterns that facilitate addiction. In addition, James enjoys working with rescue animals and advocates for several local rescue organizations outside of work.
Megan is a licensed counselor who has worked in various mental health and addiction treatment environments. She practices cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing and believes in pulling from various therapeutic approaches to best support each individual. Megan received her bachelor’s in psychology and Spanish from Concordia College. She relocated from North Dakota to Colorado where she earned a master’s in counseling psychology from the University of Denver.
Outside of the office, Megan enjoys spending time with her two German Shepherds and her cat. She is passionate about fostering animals through various local rescues to find adoptive homes for dogs and cats in need.
Maggie Coyle
MA, LPC Primary Therapist
Maggie Coyle, MS, MA, LPP, LPCC has worked in the mental health and addictions counseling field for the past six years. She has extensive experience in working in the varying levels of mental health and addictions treatment as well as with diverse populations.
She practices cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy as primary intervention methods. She has earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology as well as a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling both from Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD. She has also earned a master’s degree in addictions counseling from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, SD. Maggie moved from South Dakota to Colorado in June 2020 and is excited to be a part of the CMAR team.
Michael Damioli
LCSW, CSAT Clinical Director
Michael Damioli has been passionately working in the fields of addiction treatment and mental health since 2012. He has held a variety of different roles within the addiction recovery space, ranging from peer support to direct clinical practice. Notably, Michael was part of a leadership group that developed a small therapy practice into a nationally branded addiction treatment program, which offers multiple levels of care to recovering professionals. Michael is a strong believer in the family disease model of addiction and has focused much of his clinical work and training on supporting families impacted by addiction. He also specializes in treating individuals suffering from co-occurring chemical and process addictions.
Michael is honored to be leading the clinical care team at CMAR and believes that excellent clinical care begins by simply treating a patient with dignity and respect. Michael is a strong advocate for ethical reform within the addiction treatment field and is excited to promote CMAR as an ethical and thought leader throughout the treatment & recovery industry. Michael earned his master’s degree in social work from the University of Denver and is independently licensed as a clinical social worker with the state of Colorado. He holds an advanced post-graduate certificate in marriage and family therapy from the Denver Family Institute as well as an advanced certificate in sexual addiction counseling from the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals.
Dwight Duncan
Psy.D Psychologist
Dr. Duncan was born and spent most of his early life in California. He received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Denver in 1987. He is a licensed psychologist as well as a licensed addiction counselor. He has had extensive training and experience throughout his professional career in medical psychology, mindfulness, integrated behavioral healthcare, and substance abuse.
Dr. Duncan is married and has one daughter, a neurologic physical therapist in Los Angeles.
Susan Miget
NP Medical Provider
Susan has been in healthcare for more than 20 years. She was an ICU nurse for nine years, then returned to school and completed her master of nursing and family nurse practitioner degree at the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 2007. She practiced pain management for many years before developing her current passion for addiction treatment.
Susan has transitioned her practice to focus entirely on addiction treatment. She has worked in residential treatment, partial hospitalization (PHP), and intensive outpatient (IOP) programs. Susan most enjoys working with patients one-on-one in a private office to protect their confidentiality and ensure top-rate care. Knowing that addiction can affect anyone, anywhere, and at any time, Susan continues to strive to make treatment more accessible and confidential.
Whitney Grant
MSN, FNP-BC, ARNP, RN, CPN Medical Provider
Whitney Grant is an experienced family nurse practitioner with experience and expertise in medication-assisted treatment. Whitney earned her BSN at the University of Miami before moving on to achieve a master of science in nursing degree there as well, becoming a nurse practitioner immediately thereafter.
Whitney has since achieved board certification from the ANCC as a family nurse practitioner. After spending her entire formative and educational years in South Florida, Whitney moved to Denver in 2018 to pursue a career as a provider in family practice, sub-specializing in addictions medicine. Whitney has worked under the guidance of Dr. Nathaniel Moore, CMAR’s medical director, since moving to Denver.
Nathaniel Moore
MD Medical Director
Dr. Nathan Moore is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Moore attended Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA for his undergraduate work and then attended Duke University School of Medicine and obtained his M.D. in 1995. Dr. Moore then came to Colorado and completed his residency in family medicine at the University of Colorado’s Family Medicine Program at Rose Medical Center.
Dr. Moore practices primarily at our Aurora location. He provides comprehensive family medicine services and has a special interest in addiction medicine, treating patients with opioid use disorder as well as alcohol addiction.
Dr. Moore is married with three children. He enjoys mountain biking, running, and golf.
