Medication Assisted Treatment for Addiction

Addiction is a chronic disease like asthma or diabetes. It cannot be cured, but it can be managed. 

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a comprehensive, individualized program of medication and behavioral therapy that can help you regain control of your life. 

The prescribed medications are taken under a doctor’s care to block the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol, relieve cravings and help reset the body. MAT does not replace one addictive drug with another. 

You CAN Recover

Research shows that a combination of medication and therapy promotes long-term recovery, prevents overdoses and reduces the need for inpatient detoxification. MAT has also been shown to: 

• Improve survival
• Help clients stay in treatment
• Decrease the use of illegal opiates and associated criminal activity
• Improve clients’ ability to get and keep a job
• Improve birth outcomes for pregnant women with substance use disorders
• Reduce the risk of contracting HIV and hepatitis C

You Are NOT Alone

Most people need help to overcome addiction. Counseling is an important part of MAT, helping you address the root causes of your addiction and providing encouragement and motivation to stick with treatment. 

Program participants meet with a treatment team member in an individual or group setting at least once a month. A care coordinator will connect you with opportunities for support and therapy, including our Pathways outpatient treatment program.

Eligibility

• Age 18 or older
• Resident of Kitsap County
•  Diagnosed with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders
• Medicaid-eligible

To Get Started

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, call 360-373-5031. Health care providers may fax referrals to 360-415-5891.

Your first visit will include a substance use assessment and drug screening. You must be off of opioids for 48-72 hours before beginning MAT.

Dr. Paula Wiesehan from our partner, Genoa Telepsychiatry, will manage your medication and closely monitor you during opiate withdrawal. She has more than 20 years of healthcare experience, including extensive work with clients experiencing substance use disorders and addiction.