Medication Assisted Treatment

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can provide additional support to help stabilize brain chemistry and reduce reliance on substances. Great Care Health Services offers psychiatrist-prescribed medication-assisted treatment alongside behavioral health care in Nashville and throughout Tennessee. Request a telehealth or in-person appointment by phone or online to learn whether MAT is right for you.

How does medication-assisted treatment work?

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral health support to treat substance use disorders. These medications may help by:

• Reducing cravings
• Preventing withdrawal symptoms
• Blocking euphoric effects associated with substance use
• Creating negative physical reactions to certain substances

You work closely with a licensed psychiatrist who prescribes and monitors your medication throughout treatment. Regular follow-up appointments allow your provider to adjust dosages, track progress, manage side effects, and ensure treatment remains safe and effective over time. When appropriate, your provider may also help guide a safe medication tapering plan.

Great Care Health Services offers MAT through both in-person and virtual appointments, with prescriptions sent electronically to a pharmacy of your choice. This flexible care model makes it easier to stay consistent with treatment while balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities.

When should I consider medication-assisted treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment may be helpful for individuals managing substance use disorders, including alcohol and opioid use. MAT is often recommended for those who have struggled with relapse, intense cravings, or withdrawal symptoms despite previous treatment attempts.

Alcohol Use Disorder

Certain prescription medications can help reduce alcohol cravings or discourage drinking by blocking pleasurable effects or causing uncomfortable reactions when alcohol is consumed.

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

MAT medications such as buprenorphine (Suboxone) help stabilize opioid receptors in the brain, reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings while supporting long-term recovery. This stabilization allows many patients to focus on rebuilding daily routines, improving mental health, and strengthening overall quality of life.

Will I need therapy with medication-assisted treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment is most effective when combined with behavioral therapy. For individuals receiving buprenorphine (Suboxone) treatment, participation in therapy is a federal and state care requirement and part of evidence-based recovery standards.

Great Care Health Services offers integrated therapy services on-site, including:

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs)
• Family systems therapy
• Couples counseling

Patients may also work with an outside therapist if preferred. In these cases, documentation of ongoing therapy participation is required as part of MAT program compliance.

Behavioral therapy supports recovery by strengthening coping skills, improving emotional regulation, and addressing co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Together, medication and therapy create a comprehensive treatment approach that supports both physical stability and long-term emotional healing.

To learn more about medication-assisted treatment or to schedule an in-person or virtual evaluation, contact Great Care Health Services today.