Medication Assisted Treatment

According to recent surveys, nearly 20 million Americans — including 8.5% of Californians — live with some form of substance use disorder. Unfortunately, only about 10% of those people receive any type of treatment. Even fewer receive effective, comprehensive treatment that leads to a successful outcome. Through our medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program, Families Together of Orange County Community Health Center is fighting to change that.

What is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication can be an invaluable tool in treating substance use disorders, but it’s rarely a solution on its own. At Families Together of Orange County, we use medications in conjunction with counseling, behavioral therapy and other tools to offer a “whole-patient” approach to treating substance abuse. Medication-assisted treatment is primarily used in treating opioid use disorders, though it can also be effective in managing alcohol addiction.

During the MAT program, we assist with detox by using medications that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to safely and effectively relieve withdrawal symptoms and ease psychological cravings. In addition, our patients work directly with a case manager and medical provider to create a holistic treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. This includes one-on-one support, weekly check-ins and a variety of other resources. In addition, we provide access and referrals to behavioral health services for anyone who wishes to receive additional counseling and therapy.

Find Your Path to Successful Recovery

Clinical research has shown that medication-assisted treatment is consistently associated with better outcomes than other treatment options. It’s much safer, aids in patient retention and adherence and leads to fewer relapses even after the program is completed. More importantly, we know that our program works because we’ve seen the results for ourselves. In just a year and a half, Families Together of Orange County has helped more than 400 people overcome their addictions and begin putting the pieces back together.

In the midst of battling a substance use disorder, it’s easy to find yourself feeling helpless and overwhelmed. Our goal is to restore hope by helping you break the cycle of addiction and develop the tools needed to achieve sustainable, long-term success. The road to recovery can sometimes be long and winding, but we’re committed to providing all the support you need to reach your destination.

Closing the Gaps in Our Communities

The opioid crisis has taken a devastating toll on countless communities in Orange County and across the country. While substance use disorders aren’t limited by background or income level, disadvantaged people and communities are often at the greatest risk of falling through the gaps. That’s why we’re working hard to ensure everyone has access to the support and resources needed to overcome the challenges of addiction and build a happier, healthier, more productive life.

Through partnerships with local jails, shelters and detox programs, we reach out to those who need a helping hand and provide comprehensive addiction, health and wellness services. We can also connect MAT program patients with a wide range of additional resources to help with essential needs, including food, transportation, government aid applications and more. Many people who qualify can receive substance abuse treatment at little to no cost, removing yet another barrier that often stands in the way of recovery.