Medication Assisted Treatment
A Compassionate, Evidence-Based Path to Recovery
At Summit Counseling Services, we understand how overwhelming addiction can feel — especially when you’re trying to manage withdrawal, cravings, or recurring relapse. That’s why, if you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, know that there’s real, sustainable help available. Our Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) services, offer a clinically proven path to recovery — one that treats the whole person, not just the addiction.
MAT combines FDA-approved medications with therapy and behavioral health support to give clients the structure, stability, and hope they need to reclaim their lives. This isn’t about trading one substance for another. It’s about stabilizing brain chemistry, managing symptoms, and building a foundation for long-term healing.
So whether you’re battling opioid dependence, alcohol use disorder, or navigating both substance use and mental health challenges, our team is ready to support you — without judgment, without delay.
What is Medication Assisted Treatment?
Medication Assisted Treatment is a medical approach to treating substance use disorders, particularly opioid and alcohol addiction. It involves the use of medications—prescribed and monitored by licensed professionals — combined with counseling, behavioral therapies, and support services.
We take a “whole-patient” approach, meaning we look beyond the symptoms and treat the full range of challenges that come with addiction, including trauma, stress, mental health conditions, and social barriers. Each treatment plan is tailored specifically to the needs, history, and goals of the individual.
Conditions We Treat with MAT
- Opioid addiction (prescription opioids, heroin, etc.)
- Alcohol use disorder
- Co-occurring mental health conditions (such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD)
In a region like North Dakota — where cold winters, limited transportation, and rural isolation can heighten the risks of substance misuse—we’ve made it our mission to make this treatment available, accessible, and effective for our community.
Medications We Use in MAT
We only use FDA-approved medications under careful medical supervision. These include:
For Opioid Addiction:
- Buprenorphine: Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- Naltrexone: Prevents the effects of opioids and helps prevent relapse.
- Naloxone: Emergency medication used to reverse opioid overdose.
For Alcohol Use Disorder:
- Acamprosate: Helps maintain abstinence by restoring brain balance.
- Disulfiram: Causes unpleasant reactions if alcohol is consumed, deterring use.
- Naltrexone: Also effective in reducing alcohol cravings and relapse.
Every medication is paired with therapeutic support, ensuring clients are not only physically stabilized but emotionally supported every step of the way.
The Proven Benefits of MAT
Choosing MAT through Summit Counseling Services means choosing a proven, medically sound path to recovery. The benefits of this approach include:
- Increased survival and reduced risk of overdose
- Improved retention in treatment programs
- Fewer relapses and decreased illegal drug use
- Better job prospects and improved family relationships
- Stronger birth outcomes for pregnant clients
- Reduced risk of HIV and Hepatitis C
Most importantly, MAT provides people with the time, space, and stability they need to rebuild their lives from the ground up.
Dispelling the Myths About MAT
One of the biggest misconceptions we encounter is the belief that MAT just “swaps one drug for another.” That couldn’t be further from the truth.
MAT medications are carefully dosed to prevent euphoria. They help restore normal brain function, reduce cravings, and ease the symptoms that often drive people back to substance use. When combined with professional therapy services, MAT offers one of the highest success rates for sustained recovery.
Integrated, Holistic Support for Co-Occurring Disorders
Many of our clients come to us with both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition. That’s why our treatment plans include integrated support for issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma. You don’t need to seek help from multiple places — we offer a cohesive, comprehensive treatment program that addresses all aspects of your wellness.
Multiple Levels of Care to Meet You Where You Are
Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why we provide several levels of outpatient treatment based on clinical need:
Level 1 – Outpatient Treatment
Ideal for those transitioning from higher levels of care or needing regular support while continuing with daily life.
Level 2.1 – Intensive Outpatient
Designed for individuals who need more structure, offering group and individual therapy multiple times per week while maintaining home or work responsibilities.
Level 2.5 – Partial Hospitalization
Our most intensive outpatient level, this includes 20 hours of weekly programming for those with more complex needs, offered at our Stanton Recovery Center.
All levels include therapy, MAT, medical supervision, and access to crisis support.
Recovery Housing and Life Support Services
For those in need of safe housing during treatment, we offer Recovery Housing with built-in accountability and community support. We also help clients with:
- Job placement
- Securing vital documents
- Family reunification
- Life skills coaching
- Faith-based support and chaplain services
Our in-person and telehealth services make support accessible when and where you need it.
FAQ About MAT Services
Q: Is MAT safe?
Yes. MAT uses FDA-approved medications under the supervision of qualified healthcare providers. When combined with counseling, it’s one of the safest and most effective forms of treatment.
Q: Will I be on medication forever?
Not necessarily. Treatment duration varies based on your needs and progress. Some clients taper off, while others benefit from long-term support. We work with you to determine what’s best.
Q: Is MAT just for opioids?
No. MAT is also highly effective for alcohol use disorder, using different medications suited for that condition.
Q: Can I participate in therapy while on MAT?
Absolutely. In fact, therapy is a required part of our MAT program. Our integrated approach combines both medical and emotional support to help you achieve full recovery.
Q: Does MAT conflict with faith-based recovery?
Not at all. In fact, our MAT program can be tailored to include spiritual support. Many of our clients find strength in combining their faith with clinical care.
A Future Worth Fighting For
At Summit Counseling Services, we believe recovery is not just possible — it’s within reach. We also know the road isn’t always easy, but with the right tools and compassionate care, it’s absolutely worth it. So whether you’re taking your first step or returning after a setback, we’ll meet you with support, understanding, and proven expertise.
Remember: In communities across North Dakota, our MAT services are here to help you live the life you were meant for — healthy, whole, and free from addiction. Just be sure to call us today at 701-751-0299 to get started.