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What to Expect in Recovery-Oriented Suboxone Treatment

Suboxone has become one of the most widely used and evidence-backed medications for treating opioid use disorder. But the success of Suboxone isn’t just about taking a pill—it’s about how the medication is integrated into a comprehensive, recovery-oriented program. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR), our Suboxone treatment isn’t a temporary fix—it’s a personalized, holistic approach to long-term healing.

If you’re considering medication-assisted treatment (MAT), understanding what to expect in recovery-oriented Suboxone treatment is the first step toward taking back control of your life.

Understanding Suboxone and Its Role in Recovery

Suboxone is a combination medication that includes buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which means it binds to opioid receptors in the brain to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the intense high that comes with full opioid agonists like heroin or oxycodone. Naloxone is included to prevent misuse, particularly by injection.

Suboxone is often part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) plan, where medication is combined with behavioral therapies, peer support, and recovery planning. Unlike short-term detox programs that remove opioids from the body, Suboxone can be used for long-term stabilization to support individuals through every phase of recovery.

What Makes Treatment “Recovery-Oriented”?

At CMAR, we use the term “recovery-oriented” to describe care beyond symptom control. Recovery isn’t just about stopping drug use—it’s about rebuilding every aspect of life that addiction has impacted.

Recovery-oriented treatment focuses on:

  • Long-term healing, not short-term solutions
  • Emotional wellness and mental health support
  • Relationship and community reintegration
  • Sustainable coping skills for relapse prevention
  • Empowering the individual through education and choice

By combining Suboxone with therapy, skill-building, and accountability, CMAR helps patients achieve more than sobriety—we help them rediscover purpose.

What to Expect During the First Phase of Suboxone Treatment

Initial Assessment and Medical Evaluation

The first step in any Suboxone treatment program at CMAR is a comprehensive intake assessment. Our medical team reviews your medical history, substance use patterns, and any co-occurring mental health concerns. We use this information to determine if Suboxone is the appropriate medication and how it fits into your treatment plan.

Induction Phase

Once cleared for Suboxone, you’ll begin the induction phase. This involves taking your first doses under clinical supervision, often in mild withdrawal. Our providers closely monitor your symptoms and adjust the dosage to reduce discomfort and stabilize your condition.

This stage is critical—it sets the tone for how your body responds to Suboxone and provides immediate relief from the physical pain of opioid withdrawal.

Education and Expectations

You’ll also receive education on how Suboxone works, what side effects to expect, how to avoid interactions with other medications, and the importance of consistency. Our expert team ensures you understand every part of your recovery journey.

What to Expect in Ongoing Recovery-Oriented Care

After the initial induction, you’ll move into the maintenance phase, where your recovery becomes more structured and goal-oriented. Suboxone helps reduce cravings, but healing requires more than medication. At CMAR, we help you create a life where opioids are no longer necessary.

Regular Monitoring and Dose Adjustments

Suboxone doses aren’t static. Your medical provider will work with you to assess your symptoms, side effects, and progress. Over time, your dose may be adjusted based on your stability, goals, and readiness for eventual tapering.

Individual and Group Therapy

Behavioral therapy is a required component of our recovery-oriented Suboxone treatment. In individual therapy, you’ll explore the underlying issues contributing to substance use, such as trauma, anxiety, or depression. In group sessions, you’ll connect with peers in recovery, share insights, and build a supportive community.

CMAR offers evidence-based therapies including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI)
  • Trauma-Informed Therapy
  • Family and Relationship Counseling

Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders

Many people struggling with opioid use disorder also experience depression, PTSD, ADHD, or anxiety. These co-occurring disorders need to be treated alongside addiction. Our dual-diagnosis expertise allows us to provide integrated care for both mental health and substance use.

Building a Life Beyond Substance Use

Recovery-oriented care means helping patients return to meaningful life roles—whether pursuing education, re-entering the workforce, repairing relationships, or developing hobbies and interests that foster a sense of identity and purpose.

The Role of Behavioral Therapy in Suboxone Treatment

While Suboxone can help stabilize the body, therapy is what transforms the mind. Medication addresses the physiological cravings and withdrawal, but treatment helps rebuild emotional resilience, decision-making, and self-worth.

Behavioral health care in a recovery-oriented model:

  • Teaches healthy coping mechanisms
  • Helps reframe negative thoughts and self-beliefs
  • Supports relapse prevention by addressing high-risk triggers
  • Encourages the development of long-term goals

Without behavioral therapy, Suboxone becomes just a Band-Aid. With treatment, it becomes part of a sustainable recovery strategy.

How CMAR’s Approach to Suboxone Treatment Is Different

CMAR’s model is built for people who want to reclaim their lives, not just reduce their symptoms. Our outpatient Suboxone program is designed around:

  • Individualized treatment plans based on each client’s needs and goals
  • Flexible scheduling, including telehealth options, to fit busy lives
  • Clinicians trained in trauma-informed and dual-diagnosis care
  • Long-term support that evolves with your recovery journey

Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process. CMAR’s approach adapts to your life, not the other way around.

Duration and Timeline of Suboxone Treatment

There is no fixed timeline for Suboxone treatment. Some individuals may benefit from a short course, while others require maintenance treatment for several months or years. Recovery-oriented care doesn’t rush the process. Instead, we focus on progress over perfection, constantly monitoring signs of readiness for dose reductions or transitions in care.

Suboxone may be gradually tapered under medical supervision when:

  • The individual has demonstrated sustained stability
  • Cravings and withdrawal symptoms have subsided
  • Strong behavioral and emotional supports are in place
  • The patient expresses readiness and desire to reduce medication use

At CMAR, tapering is never forced or based on arbitrary timelines. It’s done collaboratively, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

Common Misconceptions About Suboxone and Recovery

Recovery-oriented treatment often challenges outdated ideas about sobriety. At CMAR, we help patients and families understand that:

  • Suboxone is not trading one addiction for another—it’s a medical intervention that allows for healing.
  • Recovery is not defined by abstinence alone but by quality of life, health, and connection.
  • You can be in recovery while on Suboxone, and for many, that’s when true healing begins.

Stigma surrounding MAT often keeps people from seeking help. We aim to dismantle that stigma by providing compassionate, science-based care that supports long-term recovery.

Start Your Recovery with CMAR Today

Choosing Suboxone is not just about getting through withdrawal—it’s about building a life you’re proud of. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we provide recovery-oriented Suboxone treatment that treats the whole person: body, mind, and spirit.

If you’re ready to take that first step, reach out today. Our expert team will help you understand your options and create a treatment plan that fits your goals, schedule, and needs.

Contact us today to begin your path to recovery with CMAR.

How Buprenorphine Is Used to Treat Heroin Addiction

Heroin affects the brain and body in ways that can eventually lead to a serious addiction. It doesn’t discriminate, so people from any background can become vulnerable to its effects. Getting the right help can be key to overcoming heroin addiction. Buprenorphine treatment is one way that Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery helps individuals struggling with a dependency on heroin. It’s administered as part of our medication-assisted treatment program as an alternative to taking an abstinence-only approach.

What Is Buprenorphine?

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that produces an effect similar to taking heroin but at a lower level. It’s been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating individuals diagnosed with an opioid use disorder. Clients at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery typically receive buprenorphine treatment alongside other counseling and behavioral therapies as part of an overall treatment plan for heroin addiction.

Clients receive the medication in tablet form at the recommended dosage once per day. We try and make sure clients receive buprenorphine treatment at the same time each day for consistency. You should never take more than the recommended dosage of buprenorphine to avoid the potential of developing a dependency, similar to the one that you might form with heroin.

How Does Buprenorphine Help with Addiction?

Taking buprenorphine helps clients reduce their need for heroin and other opioids over time. It helps alleviate cravings and can reduce the risk of a client having an overdose. You should stop taking any kind of opioids around 12 to 24 hours before starting buprenorphine treatment. Clients are often in the early stages of withdrawal when they start taking the medication. Heroin withdrawal symptoms can include:

  • Cravings for heroin
  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal distress
  • Depression
  • Agitation
  • Muscle spasms

The discomfort caused by heroin withdrawal can dissuade people from trying to kick an addiction to heroin. That’s where buprenorphine treatment can make a real difference. Alleviating a client’s withdrawal symptoms can increase their desire to complete a rehab program and continue treatment while in recovery.

Clients work with our addiction specialists and doctors to gradually wean themselves off of buprenorphine treatment. One of the reasons that the drug is popular for use with MAT is that it doesn’t typically cause clients to develop a psychological dependency.

Because each client has different needs when it comes to heroin treatment, everyone should have a choice when it comes to care. While an abstinence-only approach to heroin addiction can work for some, it’s not the path forward for everyone. That’s why Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery provides a range of treatment options for clients.

What Are the Side Effects of Using Buprenorphine?

You should let your doctor know if you have known allergies to buprenorphine or ingredients used to make buprenorphine. Make sure you fully disclose other substances you may be taking, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, OTC medications, and prescriptions. Doctors need that information to make sure that you won’t have an adverse reaction to buprenorphine treatment.

People receiving buprenorphine treatment may experience the following side effects:

  • Sweating
  • Dry mouth
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Tremors
  • Palpitations
  • Sleep issues
  • Muscle pain

Inform your doctor immediately if your symptoms worsen to include respiratory distress or signs that you are developing a dependency. Your physician may adjust your dosage or make other arrangements for treating your heroin addiction.

Receive Buprenorphine Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Our facility offers other treatments and therapies to help clients with addiction issues, mental health disorders, or a combination of the two. Clients get the chance to educate themselves about their addiction and better understand how to manage situations that might cause them to relapse.

If you or a loved one need help to overcome a heroin addiction, reach out to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127.

Does Vivitrol Cure Drug or Alcohol Addiction?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) gives rehab centers the ability to provide clients with a treatment option that can help sustain recovery. While it’s mainly used to treat drug addiction, it can also benefit individuals battling an alcohol addiction.

Vivitrol treatment involves giving clients an extended-release form of naltrexone. Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery believes in the benefits of MAT therapy using Vivitrol.

Does Vivitrol Cure Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Can Vivitrol Cure an Alcohol or Drug Addiction?

Once you become addicted to drugs or alcohol and become sober, you must remain in recovery mode for the rest of your life. While Vivitrol helps clients get through the rehab process with fewer cravings and withdrawal symptoms, it doesn’t cure addiction issues.

Vivitrol treatment typically works as a complement to other therapies in a client’s treatment plan. Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery looks to treat all aspects of a client’s addiction issues. You also get the opportunity to participate in sessions consisting of dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, both of which have benefited clients who come in to treat an addiction.

Many who come to us for help may have underlying mental health disorders. People often turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of self-medicating the symptoms. They may not realize that issues like depression, anxiety, and PTSD could exacerbate their addiction problems.

That’s why the staff at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery takes the time to understand our clients so that we understand the full scope of their issues. That allows us to come up with individualized treatment plans to address every aspect of your illness.

Vivitrol for Co-Occurring Disorders

Many individuals struggling with addiction also have co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Vivitrol can be an effective treatment option for these individuals, as it addresses the physical aspects of addiction while therapy tackles the psychological factors.

At CMAR, we take an integrated approach to treating co-occurring disorders. Our team of medical professionals and therapists works together to create personalized treatment plans that address both addiction and mental health. By treating the whole person, we help individuals achieve lasting recovery and improve their overall quality of life.

How Does Vivitrol Work?

Vivitrol is a brand-name version of the medication naltrexone. Clients in MAT programs can take the medication in injectable or tablet form. Your system must be free of opioids, alcohol, or other toxins before you can start MAT with Vivitrol. That will keep them from experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they begin taking the medication.

People end up being attracted to substances for different reasons. Opioids create euphoric feelings by stimulating the opioid receptors in your brain, while alcohol functions as a depressant to your central nervous system.

Vivitrol blocks the receptors that typically respond to these substances, so they can’t produce the highs and other expected sensations typically produced when you consume drugs or alcohol.

How Can Vivitrol Help With Drug and Alcohol Addiction?

The FDA first approved the use of Vivitrol for alcohol addiction treatment back in 2010. Individuals who take the drug as part of MAT typically experience fewer cravings, which can help them avoid relapsing. It does the same for individuals working to overcome opioid addiction. The net effect is that people tend to stay in rehab longer, allowing them to absorb the lessons taught in therapy and apply them to their regular lives.

Again, your body must be completely free of other substances if you want to experience the full benefits of Vivitrol. If you’re already taking buprenorphine, then the Vivitrol would interfere with the effects of that drug, which might make your withdrawal symptoms worse. Vivitrol stops opioid receptors from bonding with endorphins produced by opioids, making it extremely effective for treating opioid addiction.

How to Prepare for Vivitrol Treatment

How to Prepare for Vivitrol Treatment

Before starting Vivitrol, individuals must complete detox and be free of opioids for at least 7–14 days. This ensures that Vivitrol does not trigger withdrawal symptoms or interfere with other medications. Here’s how to prepare for Vivitrol treatment:

  1. Complete Detox: Work with a medical professional to safely detox from opioids or alcohol.
  2. Stay Opioid-Free: Avoid using opioids, methadone, or buprenorphine for at least 7–14 days before starting Vivitrol.
  3. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Discuss your medical history and any medications you’re taking to ensure Vivitrol is safe for you.
  4. Commit to Recovery: Vivitrol works best when combined with therapy and lifestyle changes, so be prepared to fully engage in your treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does Vivitrol stay in your system?
Vivitrol’s effects last for about one month, which is why it’s administered as a monthly injection.

2. Can Vivitrol be used during pregnancy?
Vivitrol may not be safe for pregnant women. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits.

3. What happens if I miss a Vivitrol injection?
If you miss an injection, contact your healthcare provider immediately to reschedule. Delaying treatment may increase the risk of relapse.

4. Is Vivitrol safe for individuals with chronic health conditions?
Vivitrol may not be safe for everyone. Before starting treatment, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions or medications you’re taking.

Get Help For Addiction at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication-Assisted Recovery (CMAR), we understand that overcoming addiction is a challenging journey, and there are no quick fixes or miracle cures.

However, we are committed to providing the tools, support, and resources you need to achieve lasting sobriety. Our goal is to help you build a healthier, more fulfilling life free from the grip of drugs and alcohol.

What Sets CMAR Apart?

  • Personalized Treatment Plans: We recognize that every individual’s journey with addiction is unique. Our team takes the time to understand your specific needs, challenges, and goals to create a tailored treatment plan that works for you.
  • Comprehensive Care: Our programs combine medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with evidence-based therapies to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
  • Safe and Supportive Environment: We prioritize your comfort and safety, providing a welcoming space where you can focus on healing and recovery.
  • Experienced Team: Our medical professionals and therapists are highly trained in addiction treatment and are dedicated to helping you succeed.

Take the First Step Today

If you or a loved one is ready to take the first step toward recovery, CMAR is here to help. Our compassionate team is available to answer your questions, verify your insurance coverage, and guide you through the process of starting treatment.

How Naltrexone Is Used to Treat Opiate Addiction

The way that opioids interact with the brain makes opiate addiction difficult to overcome. It used to be that the main approach to helping people with opioid addiction was to have them go through withdrawal before receiving therapy and other forms of treatment. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) takes a different approach. Clients receive medication that alleviates withdrawal symptoms associated with opioids and other substances. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery uses naltrexone as part of the MAT treatment offered at our facility.

What Is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drug cleared for treating individuals with an opioid or alcohol addiction as part of MAT. It’s available in both a pill and injectable form and can be prescribed by those licensed to give out prescriptions to clients. Unlike other medications often provided through MAT, naltrexone is not an opioid.

Because it’s not an opioid, there’s a much lower risk of clients developing an addiction to naltrexone. You also don’t experience side effects if you decide to discontinue its use. Naltrexone itself can’t help a client overcome an addiction. It’s often used in conjunction with other elements of a client’s treatment plan like dialectical-behavior therapy and dialectal behavior therapy.

How Can Naltrexone Help with Addiction?

People turn to drugs and alcohol because of the feeling of euphoria or relaxation they produce. Opioids specifically bind with opioid receptors in the brain responsible for producing feelings of pleasure. Once your brain starts associating your opioid use with those emotions, you end up with a dependency that can eventually turn into an addiction. Alcohol can have a similar effect on various parts of your nervous system.

Naltrexone blocks the effects produced by drugs and alcohol by keeping the substances from binding with your opioid receptors. That means you don’t experience the highs from opioids or sedated feelings that come with drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Naltrexone also reduces cravings and helps with opiate withdrawal, which can help you get through a treatment program and achieve recovery.

Your system must be completely clear of any toxins associated with drug or alcohol abuse before you start taking naltrexone. Clients should steer clear of using other illegal drugs or drinking while receiving the drug as part of MAT.

What Are the Side Effects of Taking Naltrexone?

Some clients do experience certain side effects from naltrexone treatment, including:

  • Diarrhea
  • Nervousness
  • Headaches
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach troubles
  • Muscle pain
  • Sleep issues
  • Fatigue

Make sure you inform your doctor about any adverse effects of naltrexone treatment. They can adjust your dosage or change you to a different medication. You should only take naltrexone as part of MAT and alongside other programs that provide you with the psychological and social support necessary to overcome your substance use disorder.

Naltrexone treatment can reduce your tolerance for opioids or other substances. Discontinuing your use of naltrexone can leave you more vulnerable to a potential overdose because you overestimate what your system can handle.

Receive Medication-Assisted Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

While naltrexone treatment can make it easier for you to get through a recovery program, it’s not a cure-all for addiction. You must still put in the effort needed to face the underlying issues driving your addiction. Our team of specialists sticks with you every step of the way as you learn to live a life free of substance abuse.

Other programs and services available at our recovery center include:

It’s not too late to change the direction of your life. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery gives clients the chance to overcome addiction and restore their health. Start your new journey today by calling us at 833.448.0127.

The Necessity of Peer Recovery to Successful Addiction Recovery

Long term recovery isn’t something we can achieve by ourselves. In fact, major addiction treatment studies have found a causal link between peer accountability and long-term recovery. Yet most people recovering from addiction (especially opioid-addiction), don’t have access to a peer group that can help them stay the course and remain clean through trying times. Literally 90% of addiction treatment clinics, addiction psychiatry and medicine practices fail to provide even a sing peer-support group. Since these programs and providers are driven to treat from more of a public health perspective, where the singular goal is to reduce harm and increase a single quality of life measure, survival! At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we offer an evidence-based alternative, which empowers each of our patients to truly recover. Not to simply “survive” but to fully thrive!

 

Peer support generates community between those who share the common bond of being in recovery from chemical dependence, which in turn facilitates the development of meaningful, accountable long-term connection.

 

Learn more at www.Colorado-Recovery.com or call (720) 778-2627.

3 Benefits of Trauma-Informed Treatment for Drug Addiction

When a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, it’s easy to think that willpower alone should be enough for them to overcome it. However, addiction is not a choice; it has been proven to be a chemical change in the brain. For many, past trauma has impacted the way they use drugs or alcohol. Trauma-informed care can help those who are struggling with addiction work through traumatic experiences and develop healthy coping skills for lifelong recovery.

How Addiction Relates to Trauma

Some individuals turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with something deeper. To get through life or trauma they’ve experienced, they numb and self-soothe to overcome feelings and thoughts that have become too burdensome. This helps them disconnect and cope, but all the while, substance abuse causes even more problems. Understanding how addiction relates to survival can help more people recover from addiction. For example, an overwhelming number of adolescents receiving treatment for substance use disorders end up having a history of trauma exposure. This alone points to trauma being a consideration factor when developing treatment plans for those dealing with addiction. It also explains why trauma-informed treatment is so necessary.

How Trauma-Informed Treatment Can Help

Trauma-informed therapy is based on the belief that a person’s substance use can be their way of coping with negative, overwhelming, or intrusive thoughts and feelings. These can be from memories, current situations, or past traumas. With these clients, safety is a high priority for therapists. Clients often experience triggering moments when learning how trauma has played a role in their lives. Through therapy that takes a trauma-informed approach, the therapist helps the client make positive connections, handle situations that have triggered drug use, and create a toolbox of strategies for overcoming trauma and avoiding substance use in the future.

Trauma-informed therapy used for substance abuse disorders involves:

  • A respectful, safe place to do the work
  • An understanding of how mental health-related issues and trauma co-exist with addiction
  • Leading the client to have self-compassion and self-respect instead of shame and guilt surrounding trauma and addiction
  • Creating healthy solutions to the identified problems
  • Finding ways to provide ongoing support

Three Benefits of Trauma-Informed Treatment

There are many benefits of taking this approach, but three stand out as the most helpful:

  1. It provides holistic care
  2. It offers a lower risk of re-traumatization
  3. It uses well-known approaches to therapy

Trauma-informed treatment takes a holistic approach, recognizing that addiction has roots in both chemical and emotional causes. It connects recovery and resilience, trauma and addiction, so that the whole person can be treated. It can be provided in any setting and uses evidence-based information, family engagement, empowerment, and collaboration as its touchpoints for success.

Many people are exposed to trauma on some level or another in their lifetime, but taking a trauma-informed approach allows a therapist who understands how trauma affects a person to have a hand in helping a person through recovery. If someone not as informed on trauma is assisting a person, there can be accidental incidences of re-traumatization. A deeper depth of compassion and sense of safety in trauma-informed therapy helps the client feel more compelled to heal. The extra gentleness provided in these sessions is beneficial for success in recovery.

Trauma-informed treatment uses some of the primary and most evidence-backed methods of treatment available today. Not only is cognitive-behavioral therapy especially effective for co-occurring disorders involving addition and mental health, but EMDR is as well. EMDR uses rapid eye movements to desensitize clients from the negative emotions, detrimental behaviors, and possible stigmas associated with trauma and addiction. It allows clients to process the emotions surrounding their trauma so that they can create healthier behavior patterns.

Trauma-Informed Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, clients can benefit from therapists who take a trauma-informed treatment approach. Understanding the symptoms of trauma, PTSD, and other related issues can help those suffering from a substance use disorder. Options such as telehealth and outpatient meet various needs, and our approaches offer a complete recovery to clients. Contact us at 833.448.0127 for more information.

How Suboxone Is Used to Treat Opioid Addiction

When it comes to addiction, there are many substances and behaviors that a person can become dependent on, ranging from drugs and alcohol to gambling or even food. The need for effective addiction treatment is real and urgent.

In some cases, individuals may not intentionally abuse drugs to get high but still develop a dependence, such as relying on prescription medication to manage chronic pain. This dependence can gradually evolve into addiction. One important aspect of opioid addiction treatment is understanding how Suboxone is used to treat opioid addiction.

Suboxone can be used in addiction treatment programs to help individuals who are struggling with substance abuse find relief from withdrawal symptoms as they work through the underlying causes of addiction.

What Is Opioid Addiction?

After using opioids to control pain, such as after surgery or for an extended period, it is possible to become dependent on them. Eventually, a person can become addicted to the feeling of relief that opioids bring.

Others who are seeking to get high turn to opioids and can eventually become addicted as well. Opioids contribute to over half of all deaths caused by drug overdoses in the United States, so the problem is severe and has become an epidemic.

Common opioids include:

  • Morphine
  • Codeine
  • Oxycodone
  • Hydrocodone
  • Oxycontin
  • Vicodin
  • Percocet

How Is It Treated?

Treating opioid addiction involves several factors. Counseling is often used to help the client cope with the emotions surrounding their pain and learn new strategies, but this alone is not enough. Most of the time, mediated opioid addiction treatment is necessary.

Using an opioid replacement therapy strategy, professionals help clients overcome their dependence on the drugs by reducing the withdrawal symptoms that often make it impossible to quit in the first place.

The steps a client typically undergoes, which can occur independently of each other or as a combined process, involve:

  1. Outpatient Detox
  2. Therapy
  3. Medicated treatment
  4. Utilizing ongoing coping strategies

Rehabilitation for more than 90 days is encouraged to be the most effective. This helps reduce the risk of relapse.

Medicated-Assisted Treatment

During the medicated treatment period, clients are given medicine to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. These medications help without the added adverse effects brought on by opioids. Some drugs also help with cravings experienced during detox.

This type of treatment cannot occur without consulting a professional, so it is imperative to seek help. Medications such as Suboxone can reduce the duration and severity of withdrawal symptoms.

How Suboxone Is Used to Treat Opioid Addiction

How Does Suboxone Help with Opioid Addiction Treatment?

Suboxone lowers the effects of opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It has a lower potential for abuse than methadone, which is another commonly used medication in opioid treatment programs.

Some of the most common opioid withdrawal symptoms that Suboxone can help relieve include:

  • Stomach cramping
  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Frequent chills
  • Muscle tension
  • Sleep-related issues
  • Disruptive aches and pains
  • Heart palpitations
  • Intense cravings

Suboxone can be incredibly effective in helping those with opioid addictions maintain recovery long-term.

Opioid Addiction Treatment at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Getting treatment for opioid addiction is possible at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Here, clients can benefit from therapists who tailor their approach using both evidence-based techniques and medical interventions to support long-term healing.

Understanding the different ways to treat opioid addiction, including how Suboxone is used to treat opioid addiction, helps us deliver a more comprehensive and effective path to recovery.

Suboxone can ease withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and support clients as they work through the emotional and psychological aspects of addiction, creating a more stable foundation for lasting sobriety.

Press Release: Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery’s Clinical Director Interviewed for Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Weekly

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery’s Clinical Director Interviewed for Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Weekly

 

Denver, CO: In a recent article in Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Weekly, Michael Damioli, the clinical director of Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, offers his perspective on the future of telehealth in the field of addiction treatment. 

Medications that can treat opioid use disorder, such as buprenorphine, were once only available through in-person inpatient or outpatient treatment. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has propelled addiction treatment centers such as Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery to open up telehealth treatment options. In Damioli’s view, this will pave the way for more comprehensive telehealth treatment options in the future. 

“The telehealth door has been opened,” Damioli notes. While remote treatment for substance use disorder may have been prompted by the pandemic, telehealth is seen as an option that will only continue to grow in years to come. Even as treatment centers begin to return to in-person sessions, telehealth can help those addicted to opioids continue medication-assisted treatment long-term.

About Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery: Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is Colorado’s only licensed outpatient addiction treatment center that offers integrated medical, clinical, and pharmaceutical services. To learn more, reach out to their treatment center at 855.454.4003 today.

How Do You Find A Good Addiction Treatment Program

Finding a good addiction treatment program for you or your loved one can be an overwhelming process. Due to the time, money, and energy an individual and or a family channel toward substance use disorder treatment, it’s crucial to find the right treatment. With so many addiction treatment programs and rehab to choose from, it can be challenging to choose one that provides the highest quality of care or suits your needs or that of your loved one. However, if you do your research and ask the right questions, you can find the right addiction center in Colorado. For more information about an acceptable addiction treatment center, contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127.

Why Drug Rehab Accreditation Matters

A good outpatient treatment program will be accredited by external regulatory bodies such as The Joint Commission or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities(CARF). The regulatory bodies subject addiction treatment facilities to rigorous vetting to ensure that they meet a certain level of evidence-based care. For this reason, accreditation serves as quality assurance and a level of protection to consumers of an addiction center.

Team of Qualified Staff

An addiction treatment program needs to incorporate a multi-disciplinary addiction treatment staff to help deal with issues from different angles. Having a mix of professionals in an addiction program can be handy. It allows you and the treatment team to create an individualized treatment plan to help uncover and address a wide array of issues.

A multi-disciplinary team may consist of:

  • Chemical dependency counselor
  • Medical doctor
  • Nurse
  • Psychiatrist
  • Psychologist
  • Nutritionist
  • Wellness specialist
  • Spiritual care counselor

In addition, all team members should be licensed and accredited to practice in a particular discipline. When the clinical staff has adequate credentials and licenses, it is an indication that they meet the nationally recognized standards of professional practice.

Thorough Assessment and Treatment

A good addiction treatment center begins with a reliable and thorough screening. The screening can identify the specific substance use disorders and other underlying physical and mental health conditions. What follows is a comprehensive analysis of substance use history and any related disorders. The team does this all to uncover the interrelated factors that may affect the functioning of the patients. It is also instrumental in assessing the readiness of the patient to change. A comprehensive analysis will be able to address all aspects of someone’s life, which otherwise would compromise their recovery process.

Integrated Treatment Approach

Once the clinical staff has identified any co-occurring disorders following the screening, a good program incorporates a holistic approach. This treatment approach addresses these concerns. As such, this program aims at treating the patient as a whole, which improves the likelihood of substance use disorder recovery and minimizes the chances of relapse. A comprehensive addiction program should, at least, include:

Addiction is a condition that affects the entire family. Therefore, it becomes important for families to heal. With family therapy, they learn how to overcome the chaos they had to go through, develop healthy boundaries, and build trust. When families are engaged in the addiction treatment program, patients tend to have better recovery rates.

Find the Right Addiction Treatment Program at CMAR

Addiction treatment therapies mark a pivotal mark in an addict’s life. Therefore, it is crucial to find a program that helps them build a solid foundation for their recovery. Our Colorado addiction treatment program utilizes clinically driven healthcare treatment. Throughout and after the treatment, we provide a caring and supportive recovery community for our recovering patients.

Let’s help you lay a foundation for lifelong recovery with our comprehensive addiction treatment program. Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127 to learn more about the programs we offer.

Early Intervention

Research tells us that the most effective timing for treating opioid use disorder (OUD) & those at risk for developing one is early intervention. Intervening before the condition progresses can literally save someone’s life, & yet it’s so rarely highlighted as an important tool in the arsenal of addiction treatment.

Why is Early Intervention Such an Important Option in Opioid Treatment?

Yes, screening for opioid addiction is increasingly done in primary healthcare settings, but barriers still persist. Fewer resources, less funding, inadequate training & training opportunities, particularly for treating those with co-occurring disorders (whether it be dual addiction, mental health, and/or physical ailments). But that’s not the case at CMAR, where we understand early interventions’ range of effective, evidence-based clinical interventions, therapies, supportive services & even medications.

Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At CMAR, we fully grasp that opioid addiction is a difficult necessary disease to beat & recover from. As opioids continue to kill more & more Americans, CMAR is here to provide the tools and services, including early intervention too. As Colorado’s most comprehensive opioid-recovery program, we empower our patients to achieve and sustain their recovery, other addictions, and all co-occurring mental health. Whether you’ve used for weeks, months, years, or decades, our drug addiction treatment center in Metro Denver, Colorado, has your solution. Whether online rehab, in-person rehab, or a mix of the two, our program can help you as does our current patients and graduates.

Learn More at www.Colorado-Recovery.com or call 833.448.0127.

VERIFY INSURANCE

Cortland Mathers-Suter

MSSA
Managing Partner

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

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 Hanekom

LPC, LAC, NCC
Therapist & Clinical Compliance Officer

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

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

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

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.