Medication-assisted treatment, paired with therapy.
FDA-approved medications combined with counseling and behavioral therapies. MAT reduces cravings and withdrawal so you can engage fully in the work of recovery.
What medication-assisted treatment is.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. MAT primarily treats opioid and alcohol use disorders — easing withdrawal, managing cravings, and stabilizing brain chemistry.
At Hickory Grove Recovery, MAT is not a standalone treatment. We integrate medication management with individual therapy, group counseling, and skill-building programs to address the whole person — allowing you to engage meaningfully in the therapeutic work of recovery.
MAT is supported by decades of research and endorsed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Three FDA-approved medications.
Which medication fits depends on your substance use history, medical conditions, and treatment goals. Our medical team makes the recommendation collaboratively.
Suboxone
A combination of buprenorphine and naloxone used for opioid dependence. Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing a high. The naloxone component discourages misuse by causing withdrawal if the medication is injected.
Subutex
A buprenorphine-only medication, often used early in treatment — including for clients who may have sensitivity to naloxone. Eases withdrawal and cravings during induction.
Vivitrol
A monthly injectable form of naltrexone that treats both opioid and alcohol dependence by blocking the euphoric effects of substances, supporting sustained recovery between doses.
How MAT works at Hickory Grove.
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1
Medical assessment
Our medical team conducts a comprehensive evaluation of your substance use history, medical conditions, and treatment goals to determine whether MAT is appropriate and which medication is best suited for you.
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2
Medication induction
Under medical supervision, you begin your prescribed medication. Our team closely monitors for side effects and adjusts dosing to optimize effectiveness while minimizing discomfort.
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3
Integrated therapy
MAT is combined with individual counseling, group therapy, and behavioral interventions. This combination addresses both the biological and psychological aspects of addiction.
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4
Ongoing management
Your medication plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted based on your progress as you move through the continuum of care.
What people get wrong about MAT.
Despite strong scientific evidence, MAT is sometimes misunderstood. Here are the facts.
Myth: "MAT just replaces one drug with another."
Fact: MAT medications are carefully dosed to prevent euphoria while relieving cravings and withdrawal. They restore normal brain function rather than continuing the cycle of addiction.
Myth: "Taking medication means you're not really sober."
Fact: Sobriety is about living a healthy, functional life free from the destructive cycle of addiction. MAT enables that by stabilizing brain chemistry so you can fully participate in therapy and life.
Myth: "MAT is only a short-term solution."
Fact: Some individuals benefit from MAT for months; others for years. Treatment duration is personalized, and our medical team works with you to determine the right plan.
MAT across the continuum.
Medical detox
Where MAT often begins — medically supervised withdrawal management.
Read more → Start treatmentAdmissions
Verify insurance and discuss MAT options with admissions.
Start admissions → From the blogMAT near Little Rock
How MAT works — Suboxone, Subutex, and Vivitrol — and how it supports recovery near Little Rock.
Read more → From the blogMAT near Conway
What medication-assisted treatment is and how it supports recovery for people near Conway, Arkansas.
Read more →Ask about MAT at Hickory Grove.
Our medical team can help determine if medication-assisted treatment is right for you.