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MAT Treatment In Kentucky At Aura Recovery Center

What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications with therapeutic support to treat substance use disorders such as opioid and alcohol addiction.[1] This evidence-based approach helps ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings during detox and early recovery.

Common FDA-approved MAT medications include:

  • Suboxone: A combination of buprenorphine and naloxone that eases opioid withdrawal symptoms and blocks the euphoric effects of opioids. It helps stabilize brain chemistry disrupted by substance use.
  • Sublocade: A long-acting injectable form of buprenorphine administered monthly. It maintains consistent medication levels, removing the need for daily dosing and supporting sustained recovery.
  • Vivitrol: A non-addictive, once-monthly injection that blocks opioid receptors and reduces alcohol cravings. It prevents the rewarding effects of substances, giving clients space to develop lasting recovery skills.

At Aura Recovery Center, MAT is integrated into our comprehensive detox and recovery programs in Kentucky. We offer personalized treatment in a serene, home-like environment—helping each client begin their recovery with stability, comfort, and expert medical support.

How (and Why) MAT Treatment in Kentucky Works

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) addresses both the physical and psychological components of addiction. In Kentucky, where opioid and alcohol use disorders have significantly impacted communities, MAT plays a vital role in both early recovery and long-term success. These medications interact with brain receptors affected by substances, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms—common triggers for relapse.[2]

Suboxone eases opioid withdrawal symptoms and blocks euphoric effects, while Sublocade offers long-lasting support through monthly injections. Vivitrol prevents the pleasurable effects of opioids and reduces alcohol cravings by blocking key receptors in the brain.

These medications help stabilize brain chemistry and reduce physical distress, allowing clients to focus on recovery. When paired with individual and group therapy, MAT helps people build lasting coping strategies and address underlying emotional or behavioral patterns—leading to better treatment retention rates and long-term recovery outcomes.

Efficacy of MAT Treatment

Research strongly supports the effectiveness of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in addressing substance use disorders. Clinical studies reveal that individuals receiving buprenorphine— the active ingredient in Suboxone and Sublocade—experience significantly lower mortality and overdose rates  compared to those not receiving medication support.[3] MAT is also linked to a reduction in high-risk behaviors such as injection drug use and needle sharing, helping to reduce transmission of HIV and hepatitis C.

A 24-week, placebo-controlled study on Vivitrol showed significantly higher rates of confirmed opioid abstinence in patients receiving the medication compared to the placebo group.[4] The trial measured success based on negative urine drug tests and self-reported abstinence between weeks 5 and 24, following a four-week stabilization period.

Aura Recovery Center’s Modalities for MAT

Aura Recovery Center combines medication with targeted therapies to create a complete recovery approach. Our team uses FDA-approved medications alongside personalized therapeutic interventions to address both physical dependence and psychological aspects of addiction. This dual strategy helps clients manage withdrawal symptoms while developing essential recovery skills.

Individual Therapy

One-on-one sessions with master-level clinicians tailored to personal recovery needs

Group Therapy

Structured peer support facilitated by trained professionals

Family Therapy

Healing relationship dynamics and building healthy support systems

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Identifying and changing harmful thought patterns

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Developing emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Learning mindfulness and values-based action

Holistic Therapies

Incorporating yoga and Reiki for mind-body healing

Experiential Therapy

Activity-based approaches that process emotions through direct experience

Finding Your Place on the Continuum of Care

MAT serves as a crucial entry point for many people beginning their recovery journey. At Aura Recovery Center, we help you determine where MAT fits within your individual continuum of care – whether you need detoxification support before transitioning to residential treatment or require medication management as part of an outpatient program. Our medical team assesses your specific needs to place you appropriately on this recovery spectrum.

Your placement considers factors including substance use history, previous treatment experiences, co-occurring mental health conditions, and available support systems. We recognize that recovery doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all path. The continuum ranges from our intensive 24/7 medically supervised detox to short-term residential care lasting 7 to 14 days, with coordinated referrals to lower levels of care afterward. Our 1:1 staff-to-client ratio ensures personalized attention throughout this placement process.

Frequently Asked Questions about MAT Treatment in Kentucky

What types of MAT are available near me in Kentucky?

Kentucky treatment centers offer several types of MAT, including buprenorphine (Suboxone), extended-release injectable buprenorphine (Sublocade), injectable naltrexone (Vivitrol), and methadone. These medications target different aspects of addiction. Aura Recovery Center provides Suboxone for opioid withdrawal management, Sublocade for long-term opioid recovery support, and Vivitrol for both opioid and alcohol use disorders.

Is MAT for alcohol use disorder effective?

Yes, MAT recovery approaches for alcohol use disorder have proven highly effective. FDA-approved medications like Vivitrol reduce alcohol cravings and block the pleasurable effects of drinking, while disulfiram and acamprosate help maintain abstinence through different mechanisms. These medications work best when combined with counseling and support services as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

How do I find MAT treatment near me in Kentucky?

You can find MAT treatment centers in Kentucky through several resources: your primary care physician can provide referrals, the SAMHSA treatment locator offers a searchable database, and Kentucky’s state addiction services website lists certified providers. Aura Recovery Center offers comprehensive MAT services in southern Kentucky, with a personalized approach featuring a 1:1 staff-to-client ratio in a comfortable, home-like environment.

How long will I need to stay on MAT during my recovery?

The duration of MAT varies based on your recovery progress. Some people benefit from shorter periods of medication support during detoxification and early recovery, while others maintain MAT for months or years as part of sustained recovery management.

At Aura Recovery Center, our medical team works with you to develop a personalized timeline, regularly evaluating your progress and adjusting your medication plan accordingly. The decision to taper medications considers your stability, support systems, and overall well-being rather than following a predetermined schedule.

Will insurance cover medication-assisted treatment for substance abuse in Kentucky?

Most commercial insurance plans and Medicaid in Kentucky cover MAT services, though coverage details vary by provider and plan. Aura Recovery Center works with major commercial insurers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare, to verify your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs. For those without qualifying insurance, we offer private pay options. Our admissions team guides you through insurance verification and helps address any coverage concerns, ensuring you understand your financial responsibilities before beginning treatment.

Sources

[1] Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2024). Information about Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). FDA. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medications-opioid-use-disorder-moud on April 18, 2025

[2] Mancher, M., & Leshner, A. I. (2019). The effectiveness of medication-based treatment for opioid use disorder. In www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. National Academies Press (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541393/ on April 18, 2025

[3] NIDA (2025, March 20). Medications for Opioid Use Disorder | National Institute on Drug Abuse. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/medications-opioid-use-disorder#oud-meds-work on April 18, 2025

[4] For Healthcare Professionals | Opioid Dependence Pivotal Study for VIVITROL® (naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension). (n.d.). Www.vivitrolhcp.com. https://www.vivitrolhcp.com/opioid-dependence-pivotal-study on April 18, 2025