Dr. Tim O’Connor, MD
Psychiatrist
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Longer Appointments. Better Care.
In-Network with Insurance.
Immediate Appointments.
Psychiatry & Therapy.
Medication Assisted Treatment is offered within our integrated mental health system, where psychiatry and therapy work together to support recovery.
When more structure is needed, patients can also access our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for substance use, and Mental Health IOP in Raleigh—all under the same roof.
How Does MAT Work?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) works by combining specific medications with therapy to support recovery from substance use disorders. The medications help reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and stabilize brain chemistry that may have been affected by long-term substance use.
When cravings and physical symptoms are better managed, it becomes easier to focus on therapy and building healthier habits. Therapy then addresses the emotional triggers, thought patterns, and life stressors connected to substance use.
Together, medication and therapy create a more stable foundation, helping reduce relapse risk and support long-term recovery.
What Substances Can Medication-Assisted Treatment Treat?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is commonly used to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. When guided by a provider trained in addiction medicine, MAT can reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery through a combination of medication and therapy.
MAT for Opiate Use
MAT is widely used to treat opioid use disorder, including dependence on prescription pain medications, heroin, and fentanyl. Medications such as Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while lowering the risk of overdose.
When combined with therapy and ongoing medical monitoring, MAT can help stabilize individuals so they can focus on rebuilding their health, relationships, and daily structure.
MAT for Alcohol Use
MAT can also be effective for alcohol use disorder. Certain FDA-approved medications help reduce cravings, decrease the urge to drink, or make alcohol less rewarding.
Used alongside therapy and behavioral support, medication can make it easier to maintain sobriety and reduce the risk of relapse while addressing the underlying emotional and behavioral factors connected to alcohol use.
Does Insurance Cover Medication-Assisted Treatment?
In many cases, yes. Most major insurance plans cover Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol use disorders when medical criteria are met. Coverage often includes the medication itself, medical appointments with an addiction medicine provider, and therapy services.
The exact requirements can vary depending on your insurance plan. Some plans may require prior authorization or documentation of diagnosis and treatment history.
We are in-network with most major insurance plans and our team can help verify your benefits, explain what your plan covers, and guide you through the process so you know what to expect before starting treatment.
How Effective is MAT?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is one of the most researched and effective treatments for opioid and alcohol use disorders. Studies have shown that when medication is combined with therapy, people are more likely to stay in treatment, reduce substance use, and lower their risk of relapse and overdose.
MAT works by helping stabilize the physical side of addiction, which makes it easier to focus on therapy and long-term recovery. While no treatment guarantees immediate or permanent results, MAT has consistently been shown to improve outcomes compared to therapy alone.
When guided by a provider trained in addiction medicine and paired with ongoing support, MAT can be a strong foundation for sustained recovery.
The Effectiveness of MAT
- MAT increases the likelihood that people stay engaged in treatment.
- It reduces illicit opioid use and lowers relapse risk.
- MAT is associated with decreased overdose deaths.
- Many patients show improvements in daily functioning and quality of life.
- Outcomes are strongest when medication is combined with therapy and behavioral support often found in Partial Hospitalization Programs and Intensive Outpatient Programs
Start MAT in Raleigh Today
If you’re ready to take the next step, our Raleigh-based addiction medicine team is here to help. We offer insurance-covered Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol use disorders within a connected system that includes therapy and higher levels of care when needed.
Schedule a confidential assessment today to learn whether MAT is right for you. Our team will walk you through your options and help you build a plan that supports long-term recovery.
Lindsay Hildreth, PA-C, CAQ-Psychiatry
Psychiatric Physician Assistant
Elizabeth Morgan, PA-C
Psychiatric Physician Assistant
Madeline Hooper, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Therapist
Our Team
At the core of AIM is our dedicated team, focused on fostering an environment where optimal wellbeing is achievable.
A Team Committed to Your Wellbeing
Driven by a vision of accessible, compassionate healthcare, our diverse professionals bring unique expertise and insights to enhance our mission. We believe in the power of connection and collaborative care. From clinical experts to supportive staff, every team member contributes to creating a nurturing environment that promotes growth, healing, and comprehensive wellbeing.