Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Substance Use Disorders
Compassionate, Evidence-Based Treatment for Recovery
Recovery is possible, and you don't have to face it alone. At Inspire Psychiatric, we provide Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) as part of a comprehensive, individualized approach to treating substance use disorders. While many people associate MAT with opioid use disorder, FDA-approved medications can also play an important role in treating alcohol use disorder and, in some cases, may be incorporated into treatment plans for other substance use disorders when clinically appropriate.
At Inspire Psychiatric, we believe the best patient care comes from collaboration. While all of our providers have experience treating substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions, Amanda Ghamsari, PMHNP-BC, has extensive experience with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), including buprenorphine-containing medications and other evidence-based treatments for opioid and alcohol use disorders.
Our providers regularly consult with one another to ensure patients receive individualized, evidence-based care. When a patient's treatment requires additional expertise or specialized medication management, we work together to provide seamless, coordinated care within our practice.
We believe recovery is about more than stopping substance use; it's about restoring hope, improving overall mental health, and helping you return to the life you want to live.
A Collaborative Approach to Addiction Treatment
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling, behavioral support, and ongoing medical care to treat substance use disorders.
Research has shown that MAT can:
● Reduce cravings
● Minimize withdrawal symptoms
● Lower the risk of relapse
● Reduce the risk of overdose
● Improve long-term recovery outcomes
● Support employment, relationships, and daily functioning
● Improve overall quality of life
Every treatment plan is individualized based on your diagnosis, treatment goals, and medical history.
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Treatment options may include:
Buprenorphine-containing medications (including Suboxone® and other buprenorphine formulations)
Extended-release buprenorphine injections, such as Sublocade® and Brixadi® (when clinically appropriate)
Naltrexone (oral or extended-release injectable Vivitrol®)
These medications can reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery.
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Medication can be an effective part of treatment for alcohol use disorder. Depending on your individual needs, treatment may include medications such as:
Naltrexone
Acamprosate
Disulfiram
These medications may help reduce cravings, decrease alcohol consumption, and support long-term sobriety when combined with counseling and ongoing psychiatric care.
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While medications are not available for every substance use disorder, our providers also treat individuals struggling with:
Stimulant use disorder
Cannabis use disorder
Polysubstance use
Nicotine dependence
Treatment may include psychiatric medication management, behavioral interventions, supportive psychotherapy, relapse prevention, and treatment of co-occurring mental health conditions.
Conditions We Treat
Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders
Many individuals living with substance use disorders also experience other mental health conditions. Treating only the substance use disorder often leaves important underlying issues unaddressed.
At Inspire Psychiatric, we specialize in treating both addiction and co-occurring psychiatric conditions, including:
Depression
Anxiety disorders
PTSD and trauma-related disorders
ADHD
Bipolar disorder
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Insomnia and sleep disorders
By addressing both substance use and mental health together, we help patients build a stronger foundation for lasting recovery.
Medications We May Use
Every treatment plan is individualized.
Depending on your diagnosis and clinical needs, medications may include:
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Suboxone®
Sublocade®
Brixadi®
Other buprenorphine formulations when appropriate
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Available in both oral and long-acting injectable (Vivitrol®) formulations.
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Including medications such as:
Acamprosate
Disulfiram
Your provider will discuss the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of each treatment option to determine the approach that best fits your goals.
Our Approach
Recovery looks different for everyone.
Our treatment plans may include:
Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Psychiatric medication management
Treatment of co-occurring mental health conditions
Supportive psychotherapy
Collaboration with therapists and other healthcare providers
Relapse prevention planning
Lifestyle recommendations
Ongoing follow-up and medication adjustments
Our goal is to care for the whole person, not simply treat a diagnosis.
What to Expect
Initial Evaluation Your first visit includes:
Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
Review of your medical and psychiatric history
Substance use history
Previous treatment experiences
Current medications
Mental health assessment
Development of an individualized treatment plan
Starting Treatment If Medication-Assisted Treatment is appropriate, your provider will discuss:
Medication options
When to begin treatment
What to expect during induction
Possible side effects
Monitoring and follow-up
Ongoing CareFollow-up appointments focus on:
Recovery progress
Craving management
Medication adjustments
Mental health support
Relapse prevention
Long-term recovery planning
Frequently Asked Questions
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No.
FDA-approved medications used in MAT help stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, decrease withdrawal symptoms, and significantly reduce the risk of relapse and overdose. When used as prescribed and monitored by an experienced provider, these medications are considered the standard of care for opioid and alcohol use disorders.
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Treatment is individualized. Some patients benefit from shorter treatment courses, while others remain on medication longer to maintain recovery. Decisions are made collaboratively between you and your provider.
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No.
We provide office-based Medication-Assisted Treatment using medications such as buprenorphine products and naltrexone. Patients who require methadone treatment can be referred to licensed opioid treatment programs that specialize in methadone services.
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Medication is most effective when combined with behavioral support. We encourage participation in therapy, recovery programs, or counseling whenever appropriate.
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Yes.
Your care is protected by HIPAA and applicable federal and state confidentiality laws.
Why Choose Inspire Psychiatric?
At Inspire Psychiatric, we recognize that recovery involves much more than addressing substance use alone. Our providers are experienced in treating both substance use disorders and the underlying mental health conditions that often contribute to them.
When you choose Inspire Psychiatric, you can expect:
Board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners
Compassionate, judgment-free care
Individualized, evidence-based treatment plans
Medication-Assisted Treatment tailored to your needs
Treatment for co-occurring depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric conditions
A holistic approach that integrates medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle recommendations, and patient education
Convenient office in Carlsbad serving North County San Diego
Telehealth follow-up appointments when clinically appropriate
Our goal is to help you achieve lasting recovery while improving your overall mental health and quality of life.
Begin Your Recovery
Whether you're struggling with opioid use, alcohol use, or another substance use disorder, help is available.
If you think Medication-Assisted Treatment may be right for you, our compassionate team is here to answer your questions, discuss your treatment options, and help you take the next step toward recovery.
Contact Inspire Psychiatric today to schedule a confidential consultation.