picture of a man in couch holding his head while speaking to a therapist

What is Opioid Addiction?

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a chronic brain disease impacting reward and pain systems. Opioids flood the brain with dopamine, creating euphoria.³ This leads to tolerance and dependence, with withdrawal symptoms when opioids are absent.⁴ Addiction is marked by compulsive drug seeking despite negative consequences, impacting physical and mental health, relationships, and quality of life.⁵ Tennessee and Virginia face high overdose rates fueled by fentanyl.⁶ Recognizing addiction signs, such as intense cravings, increased use, neglecting responsibilities, and experiencing withdrawal, is crucial.⁴ Seeking professional help is vital, with OTP and OBOT programs offering effective treatment.

Understanding Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs)

Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) provide a structured and comprehensive approach to addressing opioid addiction. These programs go beyond simply dispensing medication; they combine medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with counseling, behavioral therapies, and other support services to help individuals achieve long-term recovery. 8

Types of OTPs

OTPs can vary in their structure and focus, but they commonly fall into these categories:

  • Methadone Clinics: These programs specialize in providing methadone, a long-acting opioid agonist that helps manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.9
  • Buprenorphine Programs: These programs offer buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist that also reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings, with a lower risk of overdose compared to methadone. 10
  • Naltrexone Programs: These programs offer naltrexone, an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids, preventing euphoria and helping to reduce cravings. It’s particularly helpful for preventing relapse. 17

  • Combined Programs: Some OTPs offer a combination of these medications, allowing personalized treatment plans based on individual needs and preferences.

A therapist explaining to a patient about opioid treatment programs

Components of OTPs

A typical OTP offers a multi-faceted approach to treatment, including:

  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): This is the cornerstone of OTPs, using FDA-approved medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone to stabilize patients and reduce cravings. 8

  • Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions with a therapist to address underlying issues contributing to addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and build relapse prevention skills.

  • Group Counseling: Provides a supportive environment for individuals to share experiences, learn from others, and develop a sense of community.

  • Support Groups: Offer peer support and encouragement, often led by individuals in recovery.

  • Other Services: This may include case management, vocational training, and assistance with housing and other social needs.

Eligibility Criteria for OTPs

To be eligible for an OTP, individuals generally need to meet the following criteria:

  • Diagnosis of Opioid Use Disorder: A healthcare professional must diagnose the individual with OUD based on established criteria.

  • History of Opioid Dependence: Demonstrate a history of opioid dependence, typically for at least one year.

  • Informed Consent: Provide informed consent to participate in the program and adhere to its rules and regulations.

Eligibility Criteria for OTPs

OTPs are highly structured programs, often requiring daily or frequent visits, especially in the early stages of treatment. This structure helps ensure medication adherence and provides regular monitoring and support. 11

Regulations and Accreditation

OTPs are subject to strict regulations and must be accredited by a federally deemed accrediting body, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) or The Joint Commission. This accreditation ensures that programs meet quality standards and adhere to federal and state laws. 12

woman in Opioid Treatment Program

Benefits of OTPs

A typical OTP offers a multi-faceted approach to treatment, including:

  • Structured Environment: The structured nature of OTPs provides stability and accountability, which can be crucial for individuals in early recovery.

  • Comprehensive Care: OTPs offer a holistic approach, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

  • Access to Specialized Medical Professionals: OTPs have a team of medical professionals, including physicians, nurses, and counselors, who specialize in addiction treatment.

  • High Success Rates: Research indicates that OTPs can be highly effective in reducing opioid use, overdose risk, and criminal activity. 12

Potential Drawbacks of OTPs

  • Rigidity in Scheduling: The frequent visits required by OTPs can be challenging for individuals with work or family obligations.

  • Potential Stigma: Some individuals may feel stigmatized by attending a specialized clinic for addiction treatment.

Choosing the Right Program: OTP vs OBOT

Both OTP and OBOT programs offer effective pathways to recovery from opioid abuse. However, they differ in their structure, approach, and the level of support they provide. Choosing the right program depends on individual needs, preferences, and circumstances.

Feature OTP OBOT
Location Specialized clinics Primary care offices
Structure Highly structured, frequent visits More flexible, less frequent visits
Medications Methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone Buprenorphine, naltrexone
Counseling Individual and group therapy, support groups Individual therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing
Monitoring Daily or frequent monitoring Less frequent monitoring
Regulations Strict regulations and accreditation are required Less stringent regulations
Benefits Structured environment, comprehensive care, access to specialists Reduced stigma, integrated care, accessibility, personalized plans
Drawbacks Rigidity in scheduling, potential stigma May lack intensity, potential for less frequent monitoring

Factors to Consider When Choosing

  • Severity of Addiction: Individuals with severe addiction or a history of relapse may benefit from the structure and intensity of an OTP.

  • Individual Needs: Consider personal preferences for structure, frequency of appointments, and types of therapy offered.

  • Lifestyle: Evaluate how the program’s schedule and requirements fit into daily life, work, and family commitments.

  • Location: Choose a program that is conveniently located and accessible.

  • Insurance Coverage: Check with your insurance provider to understand coverage for different types of programs.

group of young individual in Opioid Treatment Programs
group of young individual holding hands in Opioid Treatment Support Programs

“This place is wonderful. The staff have helped me so much. I highly recommend this facility to help end opioid addiction with compassion and trust.”

Alex – Former Patient

Why Choose Cedar Recovery for Opioid Addiction Treatment in Tennessee and Virginia

Cedar Recovery is a leading provider of compassionate, individualized opioid addiction treatment in Tennessee and Virginia. We offer comprehensive services, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), individual and group therapy, family therapy, and aftercare planning. Our commitment to personalized care, comprehensive support, and a focus on long-term recovery sets us apart.

At Cedar Recovery, we understand that addiction is a complex disease, and we believe in treating each individual with dignity and respect. Our experienced team of clinicians will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. We offer a supportive and encouraging environment where you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

OTP (Opioid Treatment Program) is a highly structured, clinic-based program that provides medication-assisted treatment (MAT), counseling, and other support services. OBOT (Office-Based Opioid Treatment) integrates MAT and counseling into a primary care setting, offering more flexibility and potentially reducing stigma.14

The most common medications used in MAT are methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These medications help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse.

The length of treatment varies depending on individual needs and progress. However, research suggests that longer treatment durations are associated with better outcomes. Many individuals benefit from ongoing MAT and support to maintain long-term recovery.

No. MAT utilizes medications that are FDA-approved for treating opioid addiction. These medications help stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and enable individuals to engage in therapy and rebuild their lives. When used as prescribed, they are not addictive.

Common therapies include individual therapy, group counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing. These therapies help individuals address underlying issues contributing to addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and build relapse prevention skills.

You can use the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) treatment locator tool to find OTPs near you.

For OBOT providers, you can contact your primary care physician or search online directories for qualified healthcare professionals in your area.

Relapse is a common occurrence in recovery. If you relapse, it’s important to reach out to your treatment provider or support system immediately. They can help you get back on track and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Signs of an opioid overdose include:

  • Slowed or stopped breathing
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Blue or grayish skin color
  • Limp body
  • Choking or gurgling sounds

If you suspect someone is overdosing, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone (Narcan) if available.

  1. Tennessee Department of Health. (2022, November 7). 2021 Tennessee drug overdose deaths. Office of Informatics and Analytics. https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/pdo/2021_Tennessee_Drug_Overdose_Deaths.pdf
  2. Virginia Department of Health. (n.d.). Drug overdose and related health outcomes. Retrieved October 10, 2024, from https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/drug-overdose-data/
  3. Volkow, N. D., & Koob, G. F. (2015). Brain disease model of addiction: Why is it so controversial? The Lancet Psychiatry, 2(8), 677–679.
  4. Koob, G. F., & Volkow, N. D. (2016). Neurobiology of addiction: A neurocircuitry analysis. The Lancet Psychiatry, 3(8), 760–773.
  5. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). American Psychiatric Publishing.
  6. Florence, C. S., Zhou, C., Luo, F., & Xu, L. (2016). The economic burden of prescription opioid overdose, abuse, and dependence in the United States, 2013. Medical Care, 54(10), 901–906.
  7. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2016). Treatment improvement protocol (TIP) 63: Medications for opioid use disorder. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 16-4984. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
  8. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Medication-assisted treatment (MAT). SAMHSA’s National Helpline. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment
  9. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Methadone. National Institute on Drug Abuse.
  10. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Buprenorphine. National Institute on Drug Abuse.
  11. Knudsen, H. K., Abraham, A. J., & Roman, P. M. (2003). Retention and treatment compliance among patients in different modalities of opioid maintenance treatment. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 70(3), 263–271.
  1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2001). Opioid treatment program certification. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
  2. Bell, J., Strang, J., & Dolan, K. (2017). The effectiveness of methadone and buprenorphine for the management of opioid dependence: A systematic review of the evidence. Addiction, 112(2), 209–230.
  3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Office-based opioid treatment (OBOT).
  4. Duffy, S. N., & Stein, B. D. (2018). Office-based opioid treatment with buprenorphine: National trends and implications for primary care. JAMA Internal Medicine, 178(1), 122–124.
  5. Alford, D. P., Nucifora, K. A., & Tilson, H. H. (2017). Expanding access to opioid agonist therapy in the United States: Office-based opioid treatment. JAMA Psychiatry, 74(10), 995–996.
  6. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Medications for substance use disorders – Naltrexone.Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders/medications-counseling-related-conditions/naltrexone
  7. Beck, A. T. (2011). Cognitive therapy of depression. Guilford Press.
  8. Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2012). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change. Guilford Press.
  9. Soeffing, J. P., Martin, M., Fingerhood, M. I., Jasinski, D. R., & Strain, E. C. (2009). Differences in patient characteristics and treatment retention between primary care and opioid treatment program patients receiving buprenorphine-naloxone. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 37(4), 381–388.
  10. Jones, C. M., Campopiano, M., Baldwin, G., & McCance-Katz, E. F. (2015). National and state treatment need and capacity for opioid agonist medication-assisted treatment. American Journal of Public Health, 105(8), e55–e63.
  11. American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence. (2023). Opioid treatment programs & office-based opioid treatment: Understanding the difference. https://www.aatod.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Comparison-Document_OTP-and-OBOT_FINAL3.2023.pdf

Begin Your Recovery Journey at Cedar Recovery

Navigating the path to recovery from opioid addiction can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Cedar Recovery, we offer comprehensive and compassionate opioid addiction treatment in Tennessee and Virginia. Our personalized approach, including OTP and OBOT programs, helps individuals find lasting freedom from addiction. Contact us today for a free consultation to take the first step towards a healthier future. Call us at +1 (800) 799-1450 or visit our website to learn more about how we can support your journey to recovery.

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