Addiction changes both the brain's chemistry and a person's habits, relationships and ways of coping. That is why the strongest results come from treating both.
What medication does
Medications such as buprenorphine, methadone and naltrexone for opioid use disorder, and naltrexone and acamprosate for alcohol use disorder, steady the brain and reduce cravings. For opioid use disorder, medication is the most effective single treatment, and staying on buprenorphine or methadone is linked with a much lower risk of overdose death.
What counseling does
- Builds skills to handle cravings, stress and triggers
- Treats anxiety, depression and trauma that often fuel use
- Rebuilds routines, relationships and purpose
Why together works better
Medication creates the stability to do the work of counseling, and counseling builds a life that supports recovery. Our approach combines both. Research shows medication also helps on its own, so lack of access to counseling should never delay starting it.
Learn more about medication-assisted treatment at Hope Addiction Medicine.
Help at Hope Addiction Medicine
Our team combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies, in person at our West Ashley office in Charleston and by telehealth when appropriate. New patients are often able to be scheduled within a week of requesting an appointment. Request an appointment or call our office.
This article is general health information and does not replace advice from your own provider. Never start, stop or change a medication without talking with your prescriber. If someone may be overdosing, call 911 and give naloxone if you have it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Counseling adds real benefit, and our approach combines both. Research shows medication helps on its own, so lack of counseling should never delay starting it.
It builds skills for cravings and stress, treats anxiety, depression and trauma, and helps rebuild routines and relationships.
No. Treatment medicines are taken as prescribed to steady the brain and reduce cravings, and for opioid use disorder, buprenorphine and methadone lower overdose risk. That lets people rebuild their lives.