Rehab Programs Archives - Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Outpatient Detox vs. Inpatient: How to Know Which One You Need

Posted on June 18, 2026June 18, 2026 by Steve Sarin

Deciding between inpatient vs outpatient detox depends entirely on the severity of your physical dependence, your medical history, and your immediate safety risks. Residential inpatient detox offers 24 hour supervision for severe withdrawal scenarios.

However, many individuals with mild to moderate addiction are excellent candidates for a structured outpatient model, which allows you to clear your system safely using medical supervision while returning home at night. A brief clinical assessment is the safest, most accurate way to determine which level of care fits your current situation.

Understanding the Core Medical Differences

When an anyone asks me whether they should look into an inpatient or an outpatient program, they are usually feeling completely overwhelmed by the choices. It is a big decision, and the terminology thrown around online does not make it any easier. The primary difference boils down to medical stability and where you sleep at night.

Inpatient Detox:

Involves checking into a residential facility, hospital, or detox center for a period of days or weeks.
Continuous Monitoring: Features 24-hour medical supervision of vital signs, which is vital for managing severe or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

Outpatient Program:

Provides medical supervision via scheduled clinic visits during the day while allowing patients to return home each evening.
Medication and Freedom: Delivers the same prescription medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms as inpatient care, but permits patients to remain in their normal environment.

Why You Might Be a Strong Candidate for Outpatient Care

There is a common misconception that inpatient care is always superior or that you only choose outpatient if you are not serious about recovery. I want to clear that up right now. In reality, our medical director looks at specific clinical criteria to see who fits our outpatient model, and most people who assume they absolutely must go to inpatient are actually great candidates for outpatient care.

Effective for mild to moderate withdrawal risks.
Requires a stable and supportive home environment.
Suitable for those without complex co-occurring medical conditions like severe heart problems or a history of seizures.
Allows for the breaking of the physical cycle of addiction without disrupting daily life, work, or family responsibilities.
Provides a robust clinical safety net while treating patients with adult autonomy.

When Inpatient Care is the Right Medical Choice

While I love the flexibility and accessibility of our outpatient programs, my absolute top priority as a clinician will always be your safety.

Inpatient care is necessary if a home environment is unsafe for initial detox.
Recommended for those with a history of heavy drinking or high-dose substance use over consecutive years.
Essential for individuals who have experienced severe withdrawal complications, such as delirium tremens.

How We Structure Safety at Our Denver Clinic

If an outpatient path is the right fit for you, the process we use at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is deeply thorough. We do not just hand you a prescription and send you on your way. Our local clinical team walks with you through every single phase of the clearing process.

We look at your recovery through an integrated lens, combining medical management with early behavioral support. Our goal is to make the entire process as transparent and comfortable as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between inpatient and outpatient detox?

The primary difference is the living arrangement and level of monitoring. Inpatient detox requires you to stay overnight at a residential facility with 24 hour medical oversight. Outpatient detox allows you to attend medical and therapeutic appointments at a clinic during the day and return home each evening.

How do clinicians determine if outpatient detox is safe for me?

Clinicians use standardized medical criteria to evaluate the severity of your addiction, physical health history, and psychological stability. They also check for a supportive home environment and the presence of any underlying medical conditions that could make unmonitored withdrawal dangerous.

Can I work while undergoing outpatient medical detox?

Many patients are able to maintain modified work schedules during outpatient detox, depending on the severity of their symptoms. Because appointments are scheduled ahead of time, you can coordinate with your clinical team to balance medical visits with your personal and professional commitments.

Is outpatient detox less effective than residential inpatient programs?

No, outpatient detox is highly effective for patients with mild to moderate substance dependence. When a clinical assessment confirms that a patient is a good fit for the outpatient track, the success rates and medical outcomes are comparable to traditional residential programs.

Get Definitive Answers for Your Health

If you are ready to stop guessing and get a definitive answer about which treatment setting is safe for you, a quick phone call is all it takes. We provide a completely free clinical conversation to review your medical history and build a clear path forward.

Our clinical assessment is designed to flag these high risk profiles instantly. If we find that your body requires continuous medical monitoring to stay stable, we will tell you honestly and help you get placed in the appropriate residential setting. Seeking help is about removing barriers, and ensuring you are in the medically correct environment from day one is the most important step we can take.

Medication-Assisted Treatment In Colorado And What Recovery-Oriented MAT Really Means

Posted on February 11, 2026March 16, 2026 by Steve Sarin

When people search for medication-assisted treatment in Colorado, they are often trying to answer one loaded question first: Is MAT real recovery or just a substitute? At CMAR, Michael Damioli, COO and Chief Clinical Officer, explains that the better question is whether treatment helps someone become safer, more stable, and more functional in daily life.

CMAR builds MAT into a broader outpatient model that combines addiction medicine, therapy, psychiatry, case management, peer support, and continued care planning. That coordinated structure matters because recovery is rarely about a single service. It usually takes support from multiple directions at once.

Why MAT Gets Misunderstood

A lot of hesitation around medication-assisted treatment in Colorado starts with stigma. Damioli addresses that directly. He explains “the difference between substance abuse and substance dependency” and notes that dependence on a medication is not the same thing as addiction. His example is simple and clear.

“A diabetic is dependent on insulin, but that doesn’t mean that they’re addicted to it.” That framing helps cut through one of the most common objections to a MAT program in Denver. Damioli says the real difference is whether a substance is making life less manageable or more manageable.

In his words, treatment should move someone “from a drug that we’re addicted to, something that’s causing us issues with our family and issues with our lives, to something that we are dependent on that’s helping us be more functional with our lives.”

What Recovery-Oriented MAT Includes At CMAR

CMAR does not present MAT as a stand-alone fix. It is part of a larger outpatient addiction treatment model in Colorado built around coordination. Damioli keeps coming back to the same core idea. “The core of our treatment model is around structure, accountability, and support.”

That structure can include several pieces working together across the week:

Medication management in recovery
Individual therapy
Group therapy
Psychiatric support
Case management
Peer support and alumni connection
Continued care planning

This is where recovery-oriented MAT becomes different from a medication-only approach. Damioli explains that group treatment includes psychoeducation and peer processing, while individual therapy gives clients room to work through personal issues, trauma, and other barriers to recovery. He also describes case management as support for life problems outside the therapy room, including housing, work, education, and family stress.

That integrated design matters to readers trying to understand how outpatient detox works or how someone moves from stabilization into a more comprehensive outpatient recovery program. CMAR’s model is meant to connect those phases rather than treat them as separate tracks.

Why Therapy Still Matters When Symptoms Improve

One of the biggest misconceptions around medication-assisted treatment in Colorado is the idea that once cravings drop, the hard part is over. Damioli makes it clear that symptom relief is only one piece of recovery. People still need new ways to cope, communicate, regulate emotions, and respond to stress without returning to substance use.

Drugs and alcohol are ineffective long-term coping skills, but clients often over-rely on them as short-term coping skills
Therapy combined with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is crucial
Medication reduces cravings or withdrawal distress
Counseling helps people build necessary life skills for sustained recovery
Group work focuses on coping skills, emotional regulation, and interpersonal conflict
Individual therapy delves deeper into traumas, Other personal issues that affect stability and engagement

For people stepping into an outpatient recovery program, that combination can make the difference between early improvement and lasting progress.

Why Combining Medical And Clinical Support Often Works Better

Damioli is direct about the value of integrated addiction treatment. “Research shows and our experience shows, that doing both at the same time increases our odds.” He is talking about medication plus counseling, but the same logic applies to the rest of the treatment plan. The more coordinated support someone has, the more likely they are to keep moving forward.

He also warns against viewing recovery too narrowly. Abstinence matters, but it is not the only outcome that counts. When asked how he knows treatment is working, he says providers also look at “general functionality in life.” That includes questions like:

Are they happier and more content
Are relationships improving?
Are they showing up better at work
Is physical health getting better
Are they more engaged in community and recovery support

That broader view lines up with research on recovery from substance use disorders. It also helps explain why CMAR emphasizes integrated care instead of a one-service model. Recovery is not just about reducing use. It is about helping someone live better across the rest of life, too.

MAT Fits Into A Full Continuum, Not A Shortcut

For some clients, medication support begins during at-home drug detox or other outpatient withdrawal management services. Damioli explains that CMAR often sees alcohol, benzodiazepine, and opioid cases in that setting, with medical monitoring guiding what is appropriate and safe.

He is careful about risk, especially when it comes to substances with dangerous withdrawal profiles, a point also reflected in CMAR’s education on the stages of the alcohol withdrawal timeline. But he also makes a larger point about what happens after stabilization. “The longer somebody stays in treatment, I think the better outcomes we typically see.”

Recovery takes time, repetition, and habit change.
Brain changes take time, take time to form new habits.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) should be understood as part of a continuum, not a shortcut.
MAT can help calm the physical side of addiction.
Ongoing treatment helps people build recovery into everyday life.

What Recovery-Oriented MAT Really Means

At CMAR, recovery-oriented MAT means medication supports the recovery process without replacing the recovery process. Damioli’s language stays grounded in real outcomes, more stability, better functioning, more support, and a greater chance of sustained change. Medication matters, but so do therapy, psychiatry, case management, peer support, and time in treatment.

That is the clearer way to understand medication-assisted treatment, Colorado. It is not about swapping one problem for another. It is about giving people a coordinated plan that helps them function, participate, and heal. For someone looking at outpatient rehab Denver options, that full-picture model is what makes MAT recovery-oriented in the first place.

How to Plan for Long-Term Addiction Recovery

Posted on June 15, 2023June 27, 2025 by cmarnew

Addiction is a chronic disease that cannot be cured by simply quitting cold turkey. Those who are struggling with severe addiction might spend anywhere from six to 12 months in an addiction treatment program. For those who repeatedly return to opioids or alcohol after months or years of sobriety, a long-term recovery program will work to control your addiction finally. When you speak with one of our trained therapists, they will provide you with a comprehensive overview of your long-term recovery program.

At our addiction treatment center in Colorado, we offer addiction treatment programs that will help you manage your addiction no matter how long it takes. When you are ready to begin, call 833.448.0127 to speak with a therapist about starting a long-term recovery program.

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Three Stages of Long-Term Addiction Recovery

Addiction treatment programs are typically tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. However, most treatment plans share a standard structure that comprises three key stages of recovery. It can be helpful to understand what to expect. When executed effectively, these stages can occur concurrently, enabling individuals to develop healthy coping mechanisms that support long-term recovery. This integrated approach not only addresses the physical aspects of addiction but also emphasizes the importance of emotional and psychological healing for sustainable progress.

1. Medically Assisted Detoxification

Depending on how severe your addiction is and what substance you are abusing will determine how severe your withdrawal symptoms can be. Drugs like suboxone and buprenorphine can help ease some of the withdrawal symptoms you will experience while you detox.

Convulsions
Vomiting
Chills and shivering
Hallucinations
Depression

This first stage is physically demanding, and our supportive therapists will guide you through it until you are ready to move on. Some detox programs can last from three to six months, depending on the severity of the addiction.

how-to-prepare-for-long-term-addiction-recovery

2. Rehabilitation Therapy

Once the drugs or alcohol are out of your system, now you will begin the stage of learning about the underlying causes of addiction and how you can avoid relapse in the future. Some of the therapies and programs you might participate in include:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that are associated with addiction. This type of therapy helps people learn how to develop healthier coping skills, manage cravings, and recognize triggers to prevent relapse.

Multidimensional Family Therapy

Multidimensional family therapy (MDFT) combines individual, group, and family interventions. It focuses on the relationships between the addicted person and their family to address underlying issues related to substance use.

Case Management

Case management is a personalized approach to treatment that focuses on the individual needs of the patient. It includes helping patients obtain resources to support their recovery and establishing an appropriate aftercare plan. Case managers provide links between medical, social, legal, and mental health services so that people with substance use disorders can receive comprehensive care.

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy addresses the issues that contribute to substance use. This type of therapy helps people identify negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with their substance use, develop healthier coping strategies, and learn how to recognize triggers for relapse.

3. Continued Support

After you have gone through time in detox and cognitive-behavioral therapy, your support does not stop once you go back out into the world. You won’t be alone while you continue with your long-term recovery program.

Continued care is essential for a successful recovery, and many programs will help in your continued fight against addiction.

Telehealth: Remote counseling sessions can be helpful when you’re unable to attend your treatment center in person.
Outpatient group therapy: Building lifelong bonds with those in your group will be a powerful tool to help you maintain your recovery.
Friends and family: Your loved ones want to see you healthy and happy, and they are there to help keep you focused on your goals.

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Planning for Long-Term Addiction Recovery at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Planning for a long-term addiction recovery program at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery requires careful consideration of various personal and financial responsibilities. Since the treatment process can span several weeks or even months, it’s essential to ensure that these responsibilities are managed before entering the program. One critical aspect is establishing a power of attorney. This legal arrangement designates someone to handle your affairs, whether that involves managing property or taking care of family matters while you focus on your recovery. Additionally, it’s essential to communicate with your employer about your need for leave. Many companies are understanding and willing to hold your position, and some may even provide financial assistance during your recovery period.

Moreover, there are personal tasks to address, especially for those living alone or with dependents, such as pets. If you have furry companions, you will need to arrange for their care to ensure they remain happy and healthy while you are away. At Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery, we recognize that planning for recovery poses significant challenges. Our expert team is here to assist you, ensuring that your focus remains on your healing journey.

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Get Started With Recovery at CMAR

It’s crucial to address personal responsibilities, particularly for individuals living alone or caring for dependents, including pets. Our dedicated team is here to support you in organizing these essential aspects, allowing you to focus on your healing journey. When you feel ready to take this transformative step, don’t hesitate to fill out our contact form or reach out to us at 833.448.0127. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

3 Benefits of Recovery Groups

Posted on June 13, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

If you are addicted to opioids or other substances and are beginning the road to recovery, it can be challenging to face your substance use issue head-on instead of hiding from it. Speaking to a stranger alone is not easy, and the thought of group therapy can keep others away from treatment. However, recovery groups can offer the support you need as you work to overcome addiction.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we specialize in individual therapy and group therapy for addiction in a safe and encouraging environment. You are fighting a disease, and there is no shame in that. If you or someone you know needs help with substance abuse, please our team at 833.448.0127 and speak with one of our addiction treatment specialists today.

6 Key Benefits of Addiction Recovery Groups

Once you enroll in an addiction recovery group, it may take some time to feel comfortable sharing. However, once you begin to open up, you’ll find that these groups can help you heal.

1. Encouragement From Other Group Members

In one-on-one sessions, the only person encouraging you to interact is your therapist. While individual therapy sessions can be the right setting to work through deeply personal issues, in a group setting, you will be encouraged by everyone to share your story after hearing others in your group share theirs.

Hearing others speak up about their experiences will make it easier for you to follow suit.

2. Opening Yourself up to a New Perspective

You have a strong view of how you see the world and how others see you. However, by telling your story to your group, you hear how others react and give feedback. You will have an easier time trusting them because you know they are in the same boat. This beneficial technique helps you see through your disease and begin to heal.

3. A Sense of Belonging

The stigma of addiction still keeps many people from seeking treatment, leaving them feeling alone and afraid to ask for help. When you share your struggles with others in your group, you form a deep bond that only these shared experiences can build.

By surrounding yourself with your group and interacting with them, you build a powerful shield against your addiction.

4. An Opportunity to Practice New Coping Skills

When you share your story with the group, they can offer suggestions on how to better handle your triggers and thoughts. This is an invaluable opportunity to try out different coping skills in a safe environment before putting them into practice in real-life situations.

5. Receive Positive Reinforcement

Addiction recovery groups allow you to learn from the successes of others. In a group setting, you will receive positive reinforcement from other members when they see how far you have come. This can help to boost your self-confidence and motivate you to continue on your path of recovery.

6. Reduce Stress and Anxiety Levels

By actively engaging in a group setting, your stress and anxiety levels will be reduced. You’ll have the opportunity to form connections with other people going through similar experiences which helps create an emotional support system for yourself.

The Five Stages of Recovery

As you begin the journey to recovery, it can be helpful to know what to expect.

Pre-contemplation – The addiction has negative effects on your life, and you have yet to recognize the problem.
Contemplation – Recognizing the problem is a significant step.
Preparation – Deciding to start a group therapy program can require planning if you need to remain at a treatment center. It’s best to have someone help you prepare.
Action – Following up on your decision and actively working on your recovery takes effort.
Maintenance – After your treatment program ends, it is vital to avoid old triggers until you are more comfortable with your recovery.

A successful addiction recovery group involves action. One of the hardest things to do is openly talk about your disease. Being in a group of others going through the same problem can help make you feel more comfortable opening up.

How Can Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Help You?

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we believe addiction recovery should involve group therapy sessions along with individual therapy to better treat the mental and physical aspects of this terrible disease.

Addiction recovery groups have many beneficial effects on your recovery that you would not get with individual therapy. Once you begin, you will quickly realize the benefits of your group therapy sessions as you start to gain control of your addiction. If you or someone you know is ready to begin the recovery process, call 833.448.0127 today and schedule an appointment.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

Posted on May 31, 2023April 30, 2025 by cmarnew

Trauma affects people in many ways—physically, emotionally, and psychologically. For individuals in addiction and mental health treatment, understanding and addressing trauma is often essential for healing. That’s where trauma-informed care comes in.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR), trauma-informed care is foundational to our outpatient treatment programs. But what exactly is trauma-informed care, and why does it matter?

Defining Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma-informed care is an approach to treatment that acknowledges the widespread impact of trauma and integrates this understanding into all aspects of care. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, trauma-informed care considers a person’s whole life experience—including the ways trauma may influence behaviors, thoughts, and emotional well-being.

Unlike traditional treatment models, trauma-informed care seeks to avoid re-traumatization and create a safe, supportive environment where clients can heal at their own pace.

The Core Principles of Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma-informed care is based on six fundamental principles outlined by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). These principles serve as a framework for providing effective treatment at CMAR, ensuring that every interaction is sensitive to the needs and experiences of individuals who have faced trauma.

Safety

Creating an environment that fosters physical and emotional safety is vital. At CMAR, we prioritize making our spaces welcoming and secure, allowing individuals to feel protected and free from harm.

Trustworthiness and Transparency

Building trust through clear communication and consistent practices is essential. We encourage openness at CMAR, ensuring that clients understand the treatment process and feel confident in their care.

Peer Support

Recognizing the value of shared experiences, we incorporate peer support into our programs. This aspect emphasizes the importance of community and connection in the healing process, allowing individuals to learn from one another and foster a sense of belonging.

Collaboration and Mutuality

We believe in empowering individuals to take an active role in their treatment. Collaboration between clients and caregivers is encouraged, enabling clients to voice their needs and preferences, which fosters a sense of control over their healing journey.

Empowerment, Voice, and Choice

Understanding and respecting our clients’ diverse backgrounds is critical. At CMAR, we are committed to incorporating cultural humility into our practices and recognizing how past experiences shape individuals’ responses to trauma.

Cultural, Historical, and Gender Sensitivity

Acknowledging the widespread effects of trauma on individuals’ lives and mental health is fundamental to our approach. By understanding how trauma influences behavior and well-being, we can tailor our interventions to be more effective and compassionate.

By adhering to these principles, CMAR strives to create a supportive and understanding environment that promotes healing and resilience for all individuals seeking care.

Why Trauma-Informed Care Matters in Addiction Treatment

Trauma and addiction are deeply connected. Research shows that a significant portion of individuals with substance use disorders have experienced trauma—ranging from childhood abuse and neglect to military combat, domestic violence, or medical trauma.

When trauma is not acknowledged, clients may feel misunderstood, unsafe, or blamed for behaviors rooted in past pain. Trauma-informed care helps:

Uncover root causes of substance use
Reduce shame and judgment that often come with addiction
Improve treatment retention by building a sense of safety and trust
Support dual-diagnosis clients managing both PTSD and addiction

Examples of Trauma-Informed Practices at CMAR

At CMAR, trauma-informed care isn’t just a philosophy—it’s embedded in everything we do.

Warm, welcoming environments that avoid clinical coldness or intimidation
Clinician training on trauma-responsive language, body language, and boundaries
Individualized treatment planning that respects each client’s pace and preferences
Integration of therapy and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to treat both the mind and body

Trauma awareness guides our approach, whether a client enters our outpatient detox, intensive outpatient program (IOP), or long-term MAT services.

The Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care for Recovery

Trauma-informed care improves treatment outcomes by:

Enhancing emotional safety and psychological well-being
Increasing client engagement and trust in the recovery process
Reducing dropout rates from outpatient treatment
Creating space for deeper, more meaningful therapeutic work
Promoting long-term healing and resilience

It allows clients to feel seen, heard, and respected—not defined by their addiction or past.

How Trauma-Informed Care Differs from Trauma-Specific Treatment

While closely related, trauma-informed care and trauma-specific therapy are not the same.

Trauma-informed care is a universal approach that assumes every client may have experienced trauma. It shapes the culture and delivery of all services.
Trauma-specific treatment refers to therapies designed to process and resolve trauma, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), or Prolonged Exposure Therapy.

At CMAR, we provide trauma-informed care as a standard and refer or integrate trauma-specific modalities when appropriate.

Who Can Benefit from Trauma-Informed Care?

Trauma-informed care is beneficial for nearly anyone in addiction or mental health treatment, especially those who have:

A history of childhood trauma or abuse
Experienced sexual assault, domestic violence, or war
Survived a medical crisis or natural disaster
Lived through systemic oppression or discrimination
Dual diagnoses such as PTSD and substance use disorder

Even if trauma is not openly disclosed, trauma-informed care ensures clients receive treatment that is sensitive, respectful, and emotionally safe.

Begin Compassionate, Trauma-Informed Recovery at CMAR

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand that your past is just one part of a much larger story. You are a multifaceted individual who deserves compassionate care that acknowledges all aspects of your journey. Our mission is to provide you with trauma-informed, evidence-based outpatient treatment tailored to address both addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions.

We recognize that healing involves more than just managing symptoms; it requires a comprehensive approach that honors your experiences and supports your path to recovery. Our dedicated team is here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support as you work toward lasting change.

Whether you’re ready to take the first step or seeking additional resources, we encourage you to reach out. Call our compassionate team today or contact us online to discover how our trauma-informed care can empower you on your journey to a healthier, brighter future.

You deserve a treatment experience that respects your unique story and helps you build the life you envision.

Recognizing the Signs of Heroin Addiction

Posted on May 14, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

The addictiveness of heroin makes it one of the most commonly abused drugs in the U.S. People often turn to drugs like heroin after running out of prescription opioids or as a way to cope with mental health issues. Heroin addiction treatment in Colorado can help you break the cycle of addiction and demonstrate that recovery is possible with the proper treatment and support.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery offers you a path forward that helps you achieve recovery and break free of your heroin addiction. Call 833.448.0127 today or reach out online to get started.

How Does Heroin Addiction Start?

The path toward heroin addiction starts with developing a dependency. Heroin is an opioid that works by binding to opioid receptors located on different cells in your central nervous system, including your brain. It produces euphoric feelings as a reward to encourage users to continue using heroin to replicate the experience. Once heroin dependency develops, people often take larger quantities of the drug. Long-term heroin use can turn that dependency into an addiction.

Once you end up with a full-blown heroin addiction, imagining your life without the drug can be hard. That’s where you can benefit from receiving treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. We understand the complexity of battling substance abuse. We create individualized treatment plans to help clients with their specific issues.

What Are the Signs of Heroin Addiction?

People often gain a sense of comfort from ongoing heroin use. Things around you may seem to slow down, which affects your thinking and movements. You may feel as though you’re in a constant fog. Individuals with a heroin addiction may feel drowsy all the time.

Other common signs of heroin abuse include:

Small pupils that look like a black center in your eyes
Track marks on the skin
Moving between semi-consciousness and full consciousness
Constant itching
Nausea
Flushed skin
A feeling of heaviness in arms and legs
Dry mouth
Vomiting

Over time, you can develop issues like:

Insomnia
Heart infection
Lung issues
Mental disorders
Gastrointestinal problems

Injecting heroin increases your risk of contracting a virus like HIV or hepatitis through sharing needles or other forms of fluid sharing. You can also end up taking heroin mixed with other substances that are harmful to your system.

The Risk of Heroin Overdose

Heroin overdose is a real and serious danger. The opioid component of heroin is incredibly potent, and the risk of overdose increases when it is mixed with other drugs like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or even opioids such as fentanyl. If you spot the signs of heroin addiction in yourself or a loved one, do not wait to seek professional treatment and get help.

How Can I Treat a Heroin Addiction?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can be effective in helping individuals overcome an addiction to heroin. Many people avoid seeking treatment because they fear the effects of heroin withdrawal symptoms, which can include:

Moodiness
Insomnia
Cravings
Depression
Body aches
Nausea
Vomiting
Restlessness

Most people start experiencing withdrawal symptoms within 12 hours of their last dose of heroin. The length of time you remain in withdrawal depends on the severity of your addiction. MAT can alleviate many of the symptoms typical to go through heroin withdrawal. That often helps individuals complete a drug treatment program and can help them remain in recovery longer without relapsing.

Reach Out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Today

Recovery is a lifelong process that requires constant vigilance and maintenance. Successful completion of a rehab program is only the first part of the process. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery gives clients the tools needed to overcome difficult situations that often come up in their lives. We teach clients to apply various techniques to situations that could potentially trigger a relapse.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery believes in taking a whole-body approach to treatment. We evaluate each client to ensure we understand all aspects of their illness. That helps us craft better treatment plans to increase a client’s chances of a positive outcome.

Additional therapies and services offered through Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery include:

Start the process of overcoming your heroin addiction by contacting Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery online or calling 833.448.0127.

What Happens During the Individual Therapy Process?

Posted on May 10, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

When someone seeks out therapy or counseling for addiction, there are many options to choose from. Who delivers it, how it’s accessed, and how it’s approached all differ depending on the type of therapy a person seeks out. If one-on-one counseling is the person’s choice, it is often helpful to know what to expect during the individual therapy process. Learn more about individual therapy in Colorado by calling Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127.

What Is Individual Therapy?

Individual therapy is a type of counseling that is also commonly referred to as psychotherapy or talk therapy. Trained mental health professionals deliver treatment in a safe, confidential, one-on-one setting. During this time, clients can explore their feelings and identify areas that may need work, including beliefs, behaviors, memory influences, or addictions. The overall goal of this type of therapy is to help the client talk through mental health concerns so that they can heal and move toward a healthier life.

Why Choose an Individual Therapy Program?

Psychotherapy has been shown to result in fewer relapses related to common conditions such as moderate anxiety and depression. The right kind of therapy can have long-lasting positive effects. Oftentimes, individual therapy is more effective than rehabilitation drugs or medical treatments alone, and techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are evidence-based, providing further backing to their effectiveness.

The individual therapy process is known to have the following benefits:

Effective for all ages
Continued progress after treatment is completed
Potential reduction of the need for medical intervention
Fewer side effects than with the use of rehabilitative drugs
It may improve the daily functioning of those with mental health disorders
Effective in addressing multiple issues

Individuals entering individual therapy will often be assessed for current symptoms and mental health history. These measures help therapists sculpt effective therapy plans that address relevant concerns.

Types of Individual Therapy

Because each therapist approaches their counseling sessions differently depending on the client’s needs, it can be helpful to understand each type. Some of the most common types of individual therapy include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT)
Existential therapy
Solution-focused therapy
Motivational interviewing
Psychodynamic therapy

Each type of therapy modality will provide unique benefits to those who engage in them. However, some common therapy methods have proven effective for most people.

Three Common Individual Therapies

The main three used in most individual therapy sessions are CBT, DBT, and EMDR.

CBT

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a process that works to assess how a person thinks and behaves to improve the way they feel. It is most helpful for mood disorders, substance use disorders, and sleep disorders. Because of this, it is often the individual therapy method used for those with co-occurring conditions.

DBT

As a newer form of therapy, dialectical behavior therapy helps clients build healthy coping skills. Mindfulness, stress tolerance, and emotional regulation are commonly used during the process.

EMDR

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is most commonly used to treat trauma and related disorders. In this process, bilateral stimulation is used to process and remove physical and psychological blockages.

What to Expect During an Individual Therapy Program

Individual therapy is different for each patient. The goals, frequency, duration, and techniques will depend on the client and even the therapist’s preference. Most sessions last between 45 and 50 minutes, occur at least once a week, and last as long as it takes to resolve the issues present.

Psychotherapy begins after the client and therapist determine that it will be the most beneficial option. Afterward, forms to protect patient privacy and share clinical history are typically filled out. Often, the first appointment is used to discuss concerns, history, and goals so that the client and therapist can be on the same page. Through repeated sessions, the therapist and client can build trust and deepen the relationship to cover more ground toward recovery.

How Long Are Individual Therapy Plans?

Depending on the needs of the individual, therapy plans can range from a few weeks to months or even years. The duration of the individual therapy process usually depends on how long it takes for the individual to reach their treatment goals or objectives. However, many individuals find that having ongoing therapy is beneficial as they work through life’s challenges and continue making progress in recovery.

Many people in a rehab setting will engage with their therapist for as long as they are in treatment. This allows them to address any comorbid conditions they may have and work on their triggers, emotions, and feelings to build a foundation for successful recovery.

Choose Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for Your Individual Therapy Needs

When it comes time for individual therapy, Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery can help. We work toward a complete recovery for clients who benefit from our highly accessible options, including remote telehealth, outpatient programs, and neuro-feedback. Visit our website or contact us at [Direct] for more information.

Effective Therapies for Alcohol Addiction

Posted on May 4, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

When a person becomes addicted to alcohol, getting help is critical to their health and well-being. While recovery is not always easy, there are many counseling programs geared toward alcohol dependence that can help. Understanding therapy for alcohol addiction can make choosing which type of program to enter easier.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we know how challenging it can be to stop drinking. We offer alcohol addiction treatment in Colorado that can help. Learn more by calling 833.448.0127 today.

What Constitutes Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol-related issues have become some of the most significant public health issues in the United States. While many people might struggle with their drinking at some point in their life, that doesn’t mean they have an alcohol use disorder.

An alcohol use disorder is characterized by the following:

The individual feels like they have to drink – Compulsive cravings mean they can’t control their consumption. The individual is unable to stop drinking once they’ve started, even though they may try.
They can’t control how much they drink – People living with alcohol addiction might be able to limit when they drink to non-working or non-school hours, but once started, they find it hard to moderate the amount of alcohol consumed.
They feel bad when they can’t drink – Withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and depression can occur when someone stops drinking.
They develop a tolerance – To get the same level of satisfaction, people with an alcohol use disorder may need to drink more and more.

For millions of adults, alcohol use turns into an addiction that they must overcome. Fortunately, targeted therapy has been shown to help most people that seek out help for an alcohol use disorder, with many remaining in recovery for the rest of their lives.

How Alcohol Addiction Therapy Can Help

Most therapists utilize various behavioral therapy modalities, and there are many evidence-based treatment options that have proven effective for addiction. Therapy for alcohol addiction helps change a person’s behaviors through education, analysis, planning, tool development, and exposure. These methods are used to accomplish the following:

Education – Understanding behavior, rewards, and consequences can help clients plan and create goals toward recovery.
Analysis – Reflecting on what caused the addictive behavior and what is currently reinforcing it can help clients avoid triggers and relapses.
Tools – Different tools to help clients relax, center themselves, avoid challenging moments, and stay on the path to recovery are explored.
Exposure – Impulses to use are reduced as exposure to situations related to the addiction is worked through.

Every person entering alcohol addiction treatment will benefit from a unique mix of therapies. Addiction treatment specialists conduct thorough assessments to help clients understand their cravings, symptoms, triggers, and goals so they can develop effective therapy plans.

Effective Therapies for Alcohol Addiction

Most often, a combined behavioral therapy approach is used in therapy for alcohol addiction. While 12-step programs are very popular, the focus here is on individual treatment. This can include integrated cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement, dialectical behavior therapy, EMDR, and other techniques. Below are the most commonly used therapies for alcohol addiction that have proven effective.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is used to reduce behaviors connected to alcohol abuse. By anticipating situations that can trigger use and developing strategies that help clients cope, they can learn to avoid damaging behavior. CBT transfers to real-life situations well and is useful for alcohol use disorders.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT helps clients regulate their feelings, develop tools to cope, and accept their situation. It helps clients deal with intrusive thoughts and overcome them. Relaxation techniques such as meditation and breathing techniques are beneficial. Using DBT reduces recovery dropout rates and is helpful for co-occurring disorders.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)

When trauma is involved as one of the main reasons behind alcohol use, EMDR is especially helpful. It reduces the stress that stems from the traumatic memories and targets the symptoms of PTSD. It teaches the brain to reframe the memories as less negative so that the client can cope more effectively.

Motivational Therapy

Motivational therapy is widely used in rehab. It is based on finding the motivation to get treatment, incentives for refusing alcohol as a coping mechanism, and behavioral therapy techniques to ensure recovery. By conducting motivational interviews, doubts surrounding quitting alcohol use are reduced, and positive changes are encouraged. It is especially helpful for alcohol and nicotine addiction.

Other Methods

Other addiction therapy methods might involve yoga, meditation, art or music therapy, wellness and nutrition, contingency management, or family therapy.

Alcohol Addiction Therapy at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, clients can benefit from therapists who vary their treatment approach based on both proven techniques and behavioral insights. Understanding the different ways to treat alcohol use disorder means that we are able to provide a complete recovery to clients. Options such as telehealth and outpatient are available to ensure everyone can get the help they need. Visit our website or contact us at 833.448.0127 for more information.

Heroin Overdose Symptoms

Posted on April 12, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

An overdose is taking a high dosage of a substance that causes harm to the body. People who use drugs such as heroin may get addicted to and become tolerant of the drug. Thus, they may use a higher amount of the drug than their body can handle. Continued drug use may lead to an overdose, which can be fatal. However, early identification of heroin overdose symptoms can prevent further harm and help individuals recover.

If you’re battling an addiction to heroin, start the addiction treatment program ay CMAR today by calling 833.448.0127.

What Are the Symptoms of a Heroin Overdose?

Heroin is one of the most addictive drugs manufactured from the opium poppy plant. Since individuals purchase heroin illegally, they may lack information on the strength of the substance. Also, some sellers mix this substance with other dangerous drugs such as fentanyl. This increases the potency of the drug and the potential side effects.

A person may show various heroin overdose symptoms depending on their usage. For instance, the purity of the drug and the amount taken determine the symptoms one shows. Moreover, using this substance alongside other drugs such as alcohol may affect the signs shown.

What are the symptoms of a heroin overdose? Some of the early signs include:

Shallow breathing
Weak pulse
Blue nails
Low blood pressure

Overdosing on heroin can also lead to constipation, confusion, and drowsiness. Other signs of a heroin overdose are gasping for breath, pale skin, and a discolored tongue.

Seeking heroin overdose treatment can help control the effects of the drug. However, if someone does not obtain medical help, they may experience severe heroin overdose symptoms. For instance, one may lose consciousness and experience spasms and seizures. In other cases, a person might stop breathing or experience visual hallucinations.

Heroin Overdose Treatment

Overdosing on heroin may cause one to fall into a coma, which puts their life at risk. For example, if one vomits while unconscious, they may choke and die. So, it is crucial to obtain emergency medical attention if one suspects a person is overdosing. It’s also important to keep the person awake and get information about the incident. Such information includes the amount of heroin used and if the individual took other drugs.

Medics can treat a heroin overdose using a naloxone antidote. This drug will cause an immediate withdrawal of heroin from the body, leading to withdrawal effects such as stomach pain and diarrhea. Seeking help from an opioid treatment center can promote safety and comfort during withdrawal.

Heroin Addiction Treatment

Many people who overdose on heroin are already addicted to the substance. Still, depending on their tolerance, one can overdose on the drug the first time they use it. Seeking heroin addiction treatment or a medication-assisted treatment program can help a person stop using the substance and avoid overdosing.

However, withdrawing from heroin can lead to adverse side effects, such as seizures. Therefore, one should detox in a facility that offers medication-assisted treatment. Some of the most common drugs used to reduce heroin withdrawal effects are methadone and buprenorphine.

During treatment, one can undergo therapy to help them deal with the psychological aspect of addiction. Individual therapy also helps one manage the stress associated with prolonged drug abuse. Some of the therapies used in heroin addiction treatment include;

Family therapy
Individual therapy treatment
Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Group therapy

Start Recovering Today at CMAR

Heroin overdose symptoms may escalate and lead to death if one does not get treatment. At CMAR, we provide an outpatient treatment program for heroin addiction. We supplement our addiction treatment with peer support and physical healthcare services. This measure ensures that a person is in a proper mental and physical state for treatment. Contact CMAR at 833.448.0127 or online to start your long-term heroin addiction treatment.

How to Help a Loved One with Opioid Addiction

Posted on February 27, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

If your loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, it’s likely a scary and overwhelming time for everyone involved. Opioids have been in the news heavily for the past few decades—and for good reason. They are highly addictive, and overdoses claim many lives each year. The good news is that many lawmakers are taking this epidemic seriously and working to make real change. Furthermore, effective treatments both for opioid overdose and long-term recovery are available. Help with opioid addiction is within your grasp.

If your loved one is struggling and you’re seeking treatment for opioid addiction near you, call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. We’re available at 833.448.0127, and you can also reach us by filling out our online form. Our qualified team is standing by to help connect you to the best resources possible.

What Are Opioids and What is Opioid Addiction?

Opioids are synthetic or semisynthetic forms of opiates. Opiates, which people have used in various forms for thousands of years, include heroin, morphine, and codeine. They are derived from or mimic natural substances found in opium poppy plants. In the modern day, well-known lab-created opioids include:

Fentanyl
Oxycodone (OxyContin)
Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
Methadone
Tramadol (Ultram)

Drugs like these act on receptors in the brain, blocking chemical messages that enable one to feel pain. They also affect dopamine and serotonin activity, creating intense feelings of pleasure. Because of their chemical properties, opioids can be an effective medication for acute pain. Thus, doctors may prescribe them for patients who experienced serious injury or surgery. At low doses and over short periods of time, they can have positive therapeutic effects.

Nonetheless, opioids pose grave risks because of their addiction potential. The high many people feel taking opioids can lead them to keep seeking the drug after their prescription has ended. Moreover, the substance is chemically addictive, meaning the brain develops tolerance over time. This means the person using needs greater and greater amounts to achieve the same effect.

Many people who become addicted to opioids first try them through a legitimate pain-management prescription. Others become addicted to using opioids in an illicit context, such as sharing someone else’s prescription or buying from a dealer. Tragically, opioid addiction can result in overdose and death since, at high doses, the drugs suppress breathing and blood pressure.

What Happens in Opioid Addiction Treatment?

In an accredited treatment program for opioid addiction, patients benefit from a number of key services. These include:

Medication-assisted treatment – Using medications like buprenorphine and naloxone, doctors are able to reduce the pain patients often feel during withdrawal from opioids. This allows them to more comfortably rid their bodies of the addictive substance and reduces their chance of relapse. Receiving individualized physician care likewise allows for careful monitoring during recovery.
Individual therapy – After withdrawal, patients benefit hugely from talk therapy that gives them concrete tools for staying sober long term. Especially potent forms of talk therapy for addiction include cognitive-behavioral therapy geared toward reframing self-defeating thoughts. Dialectical-behavioral therapy can also help by incorporating mindfulness, meaning tolerance for one’s emotions.
Family or group therapy – Including a social dimension into recovery can be a game-changer since it reduces the isolation many people with addiction feel. It also builds a strong support network for the future. Family therapy has the added benefit of creating a space for healing from any damage a loved one’s drug use has caused.
Dual diagnosis – During substance abuse treatment, patients should also receive an assessment for any co-occurring mental health concerns. Disorders like ADHD, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder are fairly common among those who abuse opioids. These dual diagnoses help providers effectively treat underlying causes for drug use. They also ensure patients receive the therapies and medications they need for optimal mental health as well as physical recovery.

Get Help with Opioid Addiction Recovery Today at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we’re proud to offer effective treatment for opioid addiction and other forms of substance abuse. Outpatient and telehealth options likewise give our patients great ability to customize treatment and enjoy flexible scheduling. If your loved one is struggling, call us at 833.448.0127 or send us a message online. We’re eager to answer your questions and help your loved one take the first step toward lasting recovery today.