Recent recognition by the US Government of an Opioid Epidemic and deeming it a "physician caused epidemic" has resulted in extended Congressional funding and new guidelines relative to the prescription of opioids, street abuse of opioids (synthetic heroin/narcotics) and heroin, and treatment of these disorders (opioid use, abuse, dependence). Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration notes: "Under federal law, MAT patients must receive counseling, which could include different forms of behavioral therapy. These services are required along with medical, vocational, educational, and other assessment and treatment services."
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is not really "a treatment", but rather a technique that has proven to help early stabilization and to enhance engagement and adherence to treatment for opiate abuse or dependence! It is clear from the science, and established law and rules and guidelines that the MAT Technique, without a more comprehensive psychotherapy and rehabilitation plan is not an adequate Treatment for Abuse or Addiction. It is also clear from the literature that these individuals often have co-occuring mental illness, lots of medical illness, and that a psychologist and psychological diagnostician is essential in a symmetrical multi-disciplinary treatment team to diagnose and order an adequate treatment plan for opiate abuse or dependence disordered individuals!
This course reviews MAT, it's place in Comprehensive Treatment assessment and plans, and rehabilitation of Opiate abusers or dependent individuals. The Medical Psychologist will increasingly be pressed into leading multi-disciplinary treatment teams of substance abuse counselors, nurses, MAT physicians, nurse practitioners, mid-level mental health professionals, and case managers. This program begins the educational process toward that result and goal.