Families aren’t just groups of people who live together, they are ecosystems. Our personal development is completely effected by, and often hinges on, the support, love, laughter, neglect, loss & abuse we experience at home. It is where we learn to love, laugh, and cry, where attachments are formed, and detachment is taught healthily or otherwise. Yet when addiction happens to a member of a family, treatment is usually totally focused on them.
Family therapy, couples counseling, self-help support groups for the loved ones of addicts, these are all fantastic forms of help to heal the wounds addiction has caused. So too is attachment & family constellation work for the addicted individual. But without addressing all three sides, the needs of the identified patient (the addict), the needs of the family, and the reintegration of all parties into an evolved state of being, things will never be truly as good as they could be. Not to mention, not doing the “family work” could lead to relapse of the patient, or feelings of resentment on behalf of the family, the patient, or both. This is as true for couples as it is for larger nuclear families.
At CMAR, we support the healing of entire family systems, because it is in healing the system as a whole, that the individual recovers and the system can become and stay whole. It rarely looks the same way twice, but unless the family system is tended to, systemic healing is often impossible. We provide updates to patients’ families weekly (when the proper releases are signed), family therapy weekly (just the family or the family and the patient), provide referrals for more intensive family work, and referrals to high-quality self-help support groups as well. We do all of this because we recognize the crucial role families play in the recovery of a loved one.
If a loved one needs help for an opioid addiction, CMAR is Colorado’s most comprehensive opioid-specific addiction treatment program statewide. We will provide more care for less than any other private organization. This includes support and works with the families and other loved ones in a patient’s life. We do this because we care…
Despite advancements in addiction science and mental health treatment, stigmas in outpatient rehab continue to affect those with opioid use disorder (OUD) negatively. While many outpatient programs aim to serve a broad population, individuals recovering from opioid addiction often face unique barriers that make generalized care models less effective—and sometimes even harmful.
At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR), we understand the specific needs of opioid-dependent individuals. We offer dedicated outpatient treatment programs that foster safety, connection, and long-term healing—without stigma.
It is essential to cultivate a more compassionate understanding of opioid use disorder, recognizing that a myriad of factors, such as genetics, environment, and mental health, influence it. By fostering empathy and support, we can create a more inclusive environment that encourages those affected to seek treatment without fear of judgment. Addressing the stigma surrounding this condition is crucial for promoting recovery and improving the overall well-being of individuals struggling with opioid use disorder.
Common Misconceptions Include:
“They chose this path.”
“People on Suboxone aren’t sober.”
“Opioid users are more dangerous or unstable than others.”
These false beliefs can lead to shame, guilt, and fear. Worse, stigma may prevent someone from seeking help altogether or cause them to leave treatment early. For outpatient rehab to be effective, it must be a judgment-free space where people feel understood and supported.
Challenges Faced by Opioid-Dependent Individuals in General Outpatient Settings
When opioid users are placed in generalized outpatient groups, they may experience:
Judgment or Misunderstanding
Clients recovering from alcohol or stimulant addiction may not understand the nature of opioid dependence or the role of medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This can create an environment where opioid users feel isolated or looked down upon.
Lack of Specialized Support
General programs may not offer the specific medical protocols, clinical strategies, or therapeutic models needed to treat OUD safely. Without these tools, patients may struggle unnecessarily.
Disengagement and Dropout Risk
Feeling misunderstood or stigmatized increases the likelihood that opioid-dependent individuals will disengage from care—especially during the early, vulnerable stages of detox and recovery.
Why Opioid-Dependent People Benefit from Dedicated Outpatient Programs
Opioid addiction presents unique physical, psychological, and social challenges. Our dedicated outpatient program addresses these complexities by offering:
Peer Connection: Sharing space with others who understand the opioid experience fosters trust and empathy.
Clinical Relevance: Groups and therapy sessions can focus on opioid-specific triggers, cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and relapse risks.
Stigma Reduction: When everyone in the program has a shared background, individuals are less likely to feel judged or “different.”
Enhanced Retention: Studies show that patients are more likely to remain in treatment when they feel accepted, understood, and supported by peers and staff.
CMAR’s Specialized Approach to Opioid Addiction Treatment
At CMAR, our outpatient opioid treatment program is built on respect, evidence-based practices, and individualized care. We go beyond detox to offer long-term recovery support with a program that includes the following:
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
We use FDA-approved medications such as:
Suboxone® (buprenorphine/naloxone)
Vivitrol® (naltrexone)
Lucemyra® (lofexidine) for withdrawal relief
These medications help reduce cravings, prevent withdrawal symptoms, and support sustained recovery—without the high associated with opioids.
Integrated Therapy and Dual Diagnosis Support
Many people with OUD also struggle with trauma, anxiety, or depression. Our licensed clinicians provide:
Individual therapy
Group counseling specific to opioid addiction
Trauma-informed care
Psychiatric services when needed
Flexible and Confidential Outpatient Care
Clients receive care on a schedule that works for them, with options for in-person and telehealth appointments.
Breaking Down Stigma Through Education and Empathy
Reducing stigma is not just a clinical goal—it’s a community responsibility. At CMAR, we work to:
Educate clients, families, and the public on the science of addiction and the effectiveness of MAT
Train staff and therapists in stigma-sensitive language and trauma-informed care
Empower individuals to advocate for themselves and others in recovery
By replacing judgment with compassion, we help create a treatment culture where healing is possible for everyone.
How CMAR Creates a Safe Space for Recovery
Recovery isn’t just about stopping drug use—it’s about rebuilding trust in oneself and others. CMAR offers:
Private, welcoming clinical settings
Nonjudgmental staff who specialize in opioid recovery
Peer groups with shared experience
Ongoing support beyond detox and initial stabilization
Our opioid-specific outpatient program is designed to be a true recovery home base—where individuals feel safe, seen, and supported every step of the way.
Start Your Recovery with a Program That Understands You
At CMAR, we understand that opioid addiction is a complex challenge that many individuals face, and we believe that everyone deserves a program that truly recognizes the unique circumstances surrounding their struggles. Our commitment is to provide compassionate, judgment-free care that empowers you to regain control of your life.
We offer specialized outpatient care explicitly designed for individuals ready to embark on a recovery journey. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way and equip you with the necessary tools and resources to overcome the hurdles of addiction.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or are ready to take the following steps toward recovery, our outpatient programs in Colorado cater to your needs with a focus on personalized care. We foster an environment that promotes healing and strength so you can confidently move forward.
We encourage you to contact us to learn more about how our opioid-focused programs can help you. Our compassionate team is ready to answer your questions and help you find the support you deserve. Don’t hesitate to call us today or contact our team here. Together, we can work toward a brighter, healthier 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.
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.
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.
