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How Do You Know If MAT Is Right for You?

Not sure if MAT is for you? CORE Medical Clinic in Sacramento and West Sacramento explains how it works and who it can help.

July 16, 2025

C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic Team

How Do You Know If MAT Is Right for You?

You Don’t Have to “Hit Rock Bottom” to Ask About MAT

Many people think they must meet a certain standard before they’re allowed to ask for help. Maybe you’ve told yourself:

“I’m not addicted enough.” “I should be able to stop on my own.” “I don’t want to be on medication forever.”

But the truth is if you’re struggling, you’re allowed to explore options. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) exists to help people feel stable, supported, and safe while they work toward recovery.

You don’t need to fit a mold. You just need to be ready for change, even if you’re not sure what it looks like yet.

What Is MAT, Really?

MAT uses medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone to help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and make recovery more manageable. These medications are combined with counseling and ongoing care.

You’re still in control. You still get to decide what recovery looks like for you.

MAT is simply one of the tools that can make it easier to stay.

How to Know If It’s a Good Fit

MAT might be a good option if:

  • You’ve tried to stop using before but keep going back
  • You feel overwhelmed by cravings or withdrawal
  • You want stability so you can focus on work, family, or your health
  • You’re tired of doing this alone

You don’t need to wait for things to get worse to consider MAT. You can ask questions now and get the answers you deserve.

What Happens If You Decide to Start?

At CORE Medical Clinic, we’ll walk you through every step with care and respect. Whether you’re interested in methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, we’ll explain how it works, what to expect, and how we’ll support you along the way.

With clinics inSacramento and West Sacramento, we offer:

  • Methadone clinic services
  • Buprenorphine treatment
  • Naltrexone therapy
  • Medication assisted treatment (MAT)
  • Withdrawal management
  • Substance use disorder (SUD) care
  • Ongoing outpatient treatment (OTP)

👉 Learn more about our services

You’re Not Alone And You Don’t Have to Guess

MAT isn’t a last resort. It’s a proven way to rebuild stability and reduce risk. If you’re unsure whether it’s right for you, that’s okay. We’re here to listen, answer questions, and help you decide at your pace.

CORE Medical Clinicis here to support your journey, whether you’re just starting to ask questions or ready to take the next step.

Educational content from Core Medical Clinic. This article does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Core Medical Clinic

Ready to talk with the C.O.R.E. team?

Recovery support starts with a clear next step.

Reach out to learn more about treatment options, appointment availability, and what care at C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic looks like.

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Frequently Asked Questions

At C.O.R.E., we strive to individualize treatment and maximize success. There is no time pressure. Some patients do well with short-term treatment while others benefit from long-term treatment. We know relapse is common and can have devastating consequences, so we continue treatment as long as necessary to help each patient achieve lasting success.

We work hard to educate patients about the benefits and safety of MAT. Many myths exist regarding methadone and other medications, but these concerns are discussed thoroughly with your treatment team. MAT is closely monitored, and when patients are ready, medications can be tapered safely under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

We work closely with each patient to achieve a "normalizing" medication dose that relieves withdrawal symptoms and cravings while minimizing side effects. Through collaboration between medical providers, counselors, and dispensing staff, most patients reach this goal within days or weeks.

Your first visit includes an intake assessment, medical history, physical examination, and counseling evaluation. Together we'll discuss treatment options and develop an individualized care plan. Medication doses are adjusted carefully based on your response, and regular communication with your care team is encouraged.

Not necessarily. C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic serves patients throughout Sacramento, West Sacramento, and surrounding communities. Many patients choose us because of our accessibility, treatment approach, and convenient location.

Opioid withdrawal is extremely uncomfortable and often leads to continued opioid use without treatment. While opioid withdrawal itself is usually not life-threatening, withdrawal involving alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants, or other substances can require coordinated medical care. Our treatment program helps minimize withdrawal symptoms through carefully monitored medication adjustments.

Most patients can continue working and maintaining their normal daily routines while beginning treatment. If residential or coordinated medical care is necessary, temporary time away from work may be recommended. Our clinic hours are designed to accommodate the schedules of working patients whenever possible.

C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic accepts several insurance plans, including Medi-Cal, MHN, Anthem, Medicare, Humana, Kaiser Permanente, Optum, Blue Shield of California, Magellan Health, and Western Health Advantage.

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Content last updated August 27th, 2026 @ 5:36pm CDT

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