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Medication Is One Part of a Complete Recovery Plan
Desert Mountain Healing IOP provides Medication-Assisted Treatment for adults with opioid or alcohol use disorders in Rio Rancho, Albuquerque, and surrounding New Mexico communities. When clinically appropriate, medication can help reduce cravings, support stabilization, and make it easier to participate fully in treatment.
MAT at Desert Mountain Healing IOP is not medication alone. Each individualized plan may include Nurse Practitioner oversight, Intensive Outpatient Programming, individual counseling, group therapy, case management, relapse-prevention education, family support, and long-term recovery planning.
Recovery begins on day one. Clients do not have to wait until medication treatment is complete before beginning counseling and other recovery services.
How Medication-Assisted Treatment Works
Medication-Assisted Treatment combines appropriate medications with behavioral health services to address both the physical and emotional effects of substance use. Medication decisions are based on a comprehensive assessment, medical history, current symptoms, treatment goals, and clinical appropriateness.
Our Nurse Practitioner works with each client to determine whether MAT may be helpful and to monitor the treatment plan. Counseling, group participation, case management, and recovery planning begin alongside medical care so clients receive coordinated support rather than disconnected services.
MAT may be used for opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder. The appropriate medication, dose, duration, and level of monitoring vary from person to person.
Potential Benefits of MAT
Helps Reduce Cravings
Appropriate medication may reduce cravings that can interfere with early recovery.
Supports Stabilization
Medical support may ease withdrawal-related discomfort and help clients engage in treatment.
Improves Treatment Engagement
Reducing physical symptoms can make it easier to participate in counseling and recovery activities.
Integrated Recovery Support
Medication is combined with counseling, IOP, case management, and relapse-prevention planning.
Individualized MAT Plans
There is no single medication or timeline that is right for everyone. Our Nurse Practitioner evaluates each client and develops an individualized plan based on medical needs, substance-use history, recovery goals, and response to treatment. Medication may be adjusted over time as clinically appropriate.
Clients also receive behavioral health support designed to strengthen coping skills, address triggers, improve stability, and build a sustainable recovery plan.
Medications That May Be Used in MAT
Medication selection is based on an individual clinical assessment and medical appropriateness.
Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone®)
A prescription medication used for opioid use disorder that may reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
SUBLOCADE®
A monthly extended-release buprenorphine injection for certain people who have already begun treatment with a buprenorphine-containing medication.
BRIXADI®
An extended-release buprenorphine injection available in weekly or monthly formulations for opioid use disorder.
VIVITROL®
An extended-release naltrexone injection that may be used for alcohol dependence or to help prevent relapse to opioid use after an opioid-free period.
Medication names are provided for general educational purposes. Availability and suitability depend on medical assessment, current prescribing practices, insurance coverage, and individual clinical needs.
MAT Is Integrated With Your Recovery Services
At Desert Mountain Healing IOP, medication support is coordinated with the rest of your treatment plan. Depending on your needs, services may include:
Intensive Outpatient Programming
Structured treatment while you continue living at home.
Individual and Group Counseling
Support for triggers, coping skills, relationships, and recovery goals.
Case Management
Help addressing practical barriers that can affect recovery stability.
Relapse-Prevention Planning
Strategies for recognizing warning signs and responding early.
Common Questions and Misconceptions About MAT
Is MAT simply replacing one substance with another?
MAT uses carefully prescribed medications as part of a clinical treatment plan. The purpose is to reduce cravings, support stability, and help the client participate in recovery services.
Can I attend IOP while receiving MAT?
Yes. At Desert Mountain Healing IOP, MAT and IOP services can be provided as part of the same coordinated treatment plan when clinically appropriate.
How long will I need medication?
The length of treatment varies. Medication decisions are individualized and should be made with the prescribing clinician rather than according to a fixed timeline.
Is MAT only for opioid use disorder?
No. Certain medications may also be used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder.
Insurance and Payment Options
We work with a range of insurance plans and can verify your benefits before treatment begins. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs depend on your individual plan, eligibility, medical necessity requirements, authorization requirements, deductibles, copayments, and other plan provisions.
Not sure whether your plan covers MAT or IOP? Use our Insurance Verification Form to securely submit your information. Our team will review your benefits and contact you to discuss the results.
You may also contact our office to discuss insurance verification and available payment options. Verification of benefits is not a guarantee of payment by an insurance company.
Take the Next Step Toward Recovery
Speak with our team about MAT, IOP, insurance verification, and the treatment options that may fit your needs.
Verify Insurance Call (505) 270-0840 Contact Us Online