MAT in California: A New Way to Support Lasting Recovery

If you or someone close to you is dealing with addiction, figuring out the right kind of help can feel overwhelming. One treatment you may have heard of is MAT, short for Medication-Assisted Treatment. It’s a growing method that combines medication with therapy to support people recovering from substance use disorders. In California, MAT has gained more attention in recent years because it helps people not only stop using drugs or alcohol but also stay in recovery for the long term.

Let’s take a closer look at what MAT is, how it works, and why California is making it more available to individuals and families affected by addiction.

What Is MAT?

Medication-Assisted Treatment, or MAT, is a type of addiction treatment that uses prescription medication along with counseling and therapy. It’s most commonly used to treat opioid and alcohol addiction. The idea behind MAT is simple: the medications help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for the person to focus on their recovery. This gives them a better chance of staying committed to their treatment plan.

Unlike some myths you might hear, MAT is not about replacing one drug with another. The medications used in MAT are carefully chosen and prescribed to stabilize brain chemistry, reduce physical discomfort, and block the effects of the addictive substance.

Common Medications Used in MAT

Different substances call for different medications. For opioid addiction, doctors may prescribe methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. These help reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal. For alcohol addiction, medications like disulfiram, acamprosate, or naltrexone can be used to manage cravings and support long-term recovery. All these medications are FDA-approved and should be taken under medical supervision.

Why MAT Is Growing in California

California has seen a sharp rise in overdose deaths, especially from opioids like fentanyl. In response, state health programs have expanded access to MAT as a way to save lives and support long-term recovery. Today, MAT is offered in more places than ever before, including community health clinics, inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, hospitals, and even correctional facilities. The state’s Medicaid program, Medi-Cal, also covers many MAT services, making them more accessible to people with low income or no insurance. California’s Department of Health Care Services continues to support MAT as part of a broader effort to fight the opioid crisis.

How MAT Supports Long-Term Recovery

Getting sober is only the first part of recovery. The real challenge is staying sober, especially when withdrawal symptoms and cravings return. This is where MAT plays a key role. By easing the physical and mental discomfort of early recovery, MAT helps people stay engaged in their treatment. When someone feels stable, they’re more likely to go to therapy, attend group sessions, rebuild their relationships, and focus on their future. Studies from organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) show that people who use MAT are more likely to complete treatment and avoid relapse.

Who Can Benefit from MAT?

MAT isn’t right for everyone, but it can be very helpful for people who have struggled to stay sober through other methods. It works especially well for those with opioid or alcohol use disorders who have experienced repeated relapses, severe withdrawal symptoms, or cravings that feel out of control. Before starting MAT, a medical provider will usually do a full assessment to make sure it’s the right fit. This includes reviewing the person’s health, substance use history, and mental health needs. MAT is not usually recommended for people who are only using drugs occasionally or who have certain medical conditions that make medication unsafe.

Where to Find MAT in California

MAT services are available in many different places throughout the state. Local community clinics often offer MAT alongside other health services. Many inpatient and outpatient rehab centers now include MAT as part of their programs. Some primary care doctors are now trained to provide MAT too, making it easier for people to get help without needing to go to a specialized center. In addition, California has launched MAT programs in jails and prisons to help people continue recovery during and after incarceration. You can find MAT providers by checking the California Department of Health Care Services website or using national tools like the SAMHSA treatment locator.

Why Therapy Still Matters in MAT

MAT works best when it’s combined with counseling. The medication helps stabilize the body and mind, but therapy addresses the thoughts and behaviors that lead to substance use in the first place. Many people in MAT programs take part in individual therapy, group therapy, or family counseling. Some also benefit from trauma-focused therapy, especially if past experiences are connected to their addiction. This combination of medication and therapy helps people not only stop using but also understand why they started and how to move forward.

Breaking the Stigma Around MAT

Some people still believe that MAT is just another form of drug use. But this idea is based on misunderstanding, not science. Health organizations like the National Institutes of Health and the American Medical Association support MAT because it’s safe, effective, and life-saving. Taking medication for addiction is no different than taking insulin for diabetes or medication for high blood pressure. It’s a medical approach to a medical condition. When we treat addiction like any other health issue, more people feel safe asking for help and getting the care they need.

What to Expect When Starting MAT

If you or a loved one is thinking about starting MAT, the first step is usually a full assessment by a healthcare provider. They’ll ask questions about your substance use, health history, and mental health. Based on this, they’ll recommend a medication and explain how it works. You’ll also be connected to counseling or therapy services. In many cases, people start to feel more stable within a few days. Over time, as cravings fade and routines return, you can work with your provider to adjust or reduce the medication, if appropriate.

Final Thoughts

MAT is not a shortcut or an easy fix. It’s a practical, research-backed tool that helps people stay committed to their recovery. In California, access to MAT is improving thanks to state programs, expanded insurance coverage, and growing public awareness. If you or someone you know is ready for recovery, MAT may be a safe and supportive option. It offers a steady foundation for the emotional, physical, and mental healing that true recovery requires.