Medicated-Assisted Treatment

Medicated-Assisted Treatment (MAT) opioid therapy is considered one of the most effective methods of achieving long-term sobriety following opioid abuse. MAT is the combination of FDA-approved medications (Suboxone) and regular counseling. It allows clients to overcome withdrawal symptoms and cravings while confronting the root cause of their addiction in therapy and remain in treatment until they are ready to maintain their sobriety.

MAT is the use of medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies for the treatment of substance use disorders. A combination of medication and behavioral therapies is effective in the treatment of substance use disorders and can help some people to sustain recovery. MAT is also used to prevent or reduce opioid overdose. MAT has proved to be clinically effective and to significantly reduce the need for inpatient detoxification services for these individuals. MAT provides a more comprehensive, individually tailored program of medication and behavioral therapy that addresses the specific needs of each patient.

The ultimate goal of the New Pathways clinic is full recovery, including the ability to live a self-directed life. This treatment approach has been shown to:

  • Increase treatment retention rates among patients

  • Improve patient safety and survival

  • Decrease illicit opiate use and other criminal activity

  • Increase patient's ability to gain and maintain employment

  • Improve birth outcomes among women who have substance use disorders

New Pathways specializes in out-patient MAT. Our supportive, nonjudgemental approach to evidence-based whole-person health care is affordable, realistic, and supportive throughout the entire recovery process.

A Bilateral Approach to Opioid Addiction

Suboxone or another Buprenorphine-based drug is used in the medication portion of MAT, and it works by reducing physical withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It accomplishes this by substituting a drug that partially fills the opioid receptors in the brain. There are no negative effects on patients' emotional, intellectual, or physical functioning when correctly dosed.


The counseling component of MAT works by encouraging patients to resolve the mental health and behavioral problems that are associated with their addiction. The MAT approach is more effective when counseling and other behavioral health therapies are included to provide patients with a whole-person approach. Research shows that with the use of both these medications and therapies, patients improve their ability to:

  • Recognize the behaviors that lead to addiction

  • Learn to choose healthy behaviors

  • Develop and repair meaningful relationships

  • Encourage and motivate yourself to stick to your treatment plan.

  • Recognize the cause of cravings and learn to manage behavior

  • Learn effective stress management techniques

  • Develop and learn relapse prevention strategies


This dual approach to opioid use disorder treatment is supported by medical and behavioral health groups, including the American Society of Addiction Medicine and the National Council for Behavioral Health, patient advocate groups, and federal entities including the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and the U.S. Surgeon General.


For those who wish to learn more, The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) has created a guide that explains the foundations of MAT treatment programs.

New Pathways MAT Services

Enrollment - You can learn more information about enrolling in New Pathway's addiction therapy treatment plan by calling (251) 298-7458. You will consult with an experienced enrollment coordinator in a private setting to learn more about you, your addiction history, and your overall health goals.

Initial Appointment - Your provider will decide whether we can fulfill your treatment needs during your first visit. If you are admitted, you and your provider will work together to create a care plan that takes into account your entire medical history as well as your specific goals.

Induction - Once a patient-specific care plan has been completed, you will begin your induction on Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone). We will create a medication care plan that is exclusive for you. This medication plan will be monitored and adjusted to meet the specific needs of each patient. The majority of new patients will receive buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) on their initial visit.

Treatment - Our providers will meet with you monthly to monitor your care plan during your treatment. A monthly drug test will be implemented to ensure compliance. Additionally, during your regular appointments with your New Pathways provider, your Suboxone medication prescription will be refilled. Your Suboxone prescription can be submitted to a pharmacy near you electronically. The New Pathways team will be with you at every step of the way, providing you support, encouragement and information.

Counseling - Self-help programs and mental health services are essential components of a comprehensive addiction treatment plan. New Pathways collaborates with a number of counseling programs to help you find the right therapy for your needs. A National Institute of Health study found that counseling offers a source of motivation for patients to stay committed and supports positive behavioral changes.

Recovery - New Pathways's comprehensive recovery support services are available throughout your recovery process. Counseling, group therapies, and community organizations are design to engage and assist patients after treatment. Our support team can provide help with navigating systems of care, removing barriers to recovery, and recovery process engagement. Individuals who participate in substance use disorder treatment and recovery support services typically have better long-term recovery outcomes.