Opioid Addiction Treatment Options

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a chronic disease that affects millions of people, altering brain function and making it difficult to stop using opioids without help. The U.S. is currently in the midst of an ongoing opioid epidemic, with opioid overdoses responsible for over 100,000 deaths annually.

Opioids are highly addictive pain-relieving drugs that affect the brain’s reward system, often leading to dependence and addiction. They include both prescription medications and illegal drugs, such as:

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, effective treatment options are available to help you break free and regain control of your life.

Understanding Opioid Addiction

Opioids are extremely addictive because they alter brain chemistry, creating intense feelings of euphoria and pain relief. Over time, the brain builds tolerance, requiring more of the drug to achieve the same effect. This leads to opioid dependence and ultimately addiction, making it difficult to stop without medical intervention.

Signs of Being Addicted to Opioids

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the following signs, it may be time to consider treatment:

Opioid Addiction Treatment Options

There are multiple types of treatment options available to help people recover from opioid addiction. The right approach depends on an individual's needs, the severity of the addiction, and any co-occurring conditions. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, therapy, and support programs to promote long-term recovery.

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

Medications help people with opioid use disorder manage withdrawal, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse. Here’s a look at the most common medications used in treatment:

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it attaches to opioid receptors but produces only mild effects. This helps relieve cravings and withdrawal without creating the same high as opioids like heroin or fentanyl.

It’s available in different forms, including:

Methadone

Methadone is a full opioid agonist, meaning it fully activates opioid receptors but in a controlled way. It helps prevent opioid withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings, making it easier to stop using illicit opioids. Since it is a powerful medication, it is only available through specialized clinics.

Naltrexone

Unlike methadone and buprenorphine, naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, meaning it completely blocks opioid receptors. If someone taking naltrexone tries to use opioids, they will not feel the effects, reducing the temptation to relapse.

It is available in:

Naloxone (Narcan)

While not a long-term treatment, naloxone (Narcan) reverses opioid overdoses. It works by quickly blocking opioid receptors and restoring normal breathing in someone experiencing an overdose.

Naloxone is available as:

Behavioral Therapies and Counseling

Therapy helps individuals address the emotional, mental, and behavioral aspects of their addiction. These approaches help develop coping skills, manage triggers, and build motivation for long-term sobriety.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps individuals recognize negative thought patterns that lead to opioid use and replace them with healthier coping strategies. It’s one of the most effective methods for preventing relapse.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT focuses on improving emotional regulation, stress management, and interpersonal skills. It’s especially helpful for individuals who struggle with impulsivity or using opioids to cope with emotions.

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

MI helps individuals who feel uncertain about quitting by strengthening their motivation and commitment to recovery. This approach encourages self-reflection and personal responsibility to build long-term change.

Contingency Management

This therapy uses positive reinforcement to encourage sobriety. Individuals receive rewards or incentives for staying drug-free, helping reinforce healthy behaviors and treatment engagement.

Group Counseling

Group therapy provides peer support and shared experiences in recovery. It helps individuals build a strong support system, develop accountability, and learn from others on similar recovery journeys.

Inpatient Opioid Treatment Services

Inpatient opioid treatment provides 24/7 medical and therapeutic care in a structured environment. Patients stay at a treatment center, where they receive medication-assisted treatment (MAT), therapy, and medical supervision to help manage withdrawal and cravings.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) combines FDA-approved medications with counseling to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Inpatient care is best for individuals with severe addiction, a history of relapse, or co-occurring mental health conditions.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)

PHPs offer intensive, full-day treatment while allowing individuals to return home or to a sober living environment at night. These programs include medical support, counseling, and life skills training, making them a good option for those who need structured care but do not require 24/7 supervision.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

IOPs provide a flexible but structured treatment option for individuals transitioning from inpatient care or those who need support while maintaining daily responsibilities. Patients attend multiple therapy sessions per week, focusing on relapse prevention, coping strategies, and rebuilding daily life skills.

Outpatient Opioid Treatment Services

Outpatient treatment allows individuals to attend scheduled therapy sessions while living at home. It’s ideal for those with mild to moderate addiction, a strong support system, and the ability to manage their recovery with professional guidance and peer support.

Outpatient care typically includes counseling, group therapy, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as needed.

Support Groups for Opioid Addiction

Support groups provide a safe and structured environment for individuals in recovery to share experiences, receive encouragement, and build a strong support system. These groups can be an essential part of long-term success, offering community and accountability.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)

NA is a 12-step program designed for individuals recovering from drug addiction, including opioids. It offers peer support, sponsorship, and structured steps to help people maintain sobriety and navigate challenges in recovery.

SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery is a science-based alternative to 12-step programs. It focuses on self-empowerment, critical thinking, and practical problem-solving to help individuals overcome addiction and develop healthier habits.

Holistic and Wellness-Based Options

Holistic therapies support physical, mental, and emotional well-being, helping individuals in recovery build healthy coping mechanisms beyond traditional treatments. These approaches can reduce stress, improve emotional balance, and promote long-term healing.

Aftercare and Relapse Prevention Strategies

Recovery doesn’t end after treatment — ongoing support is what helps maintain sobriety. Opioid treatment programs and relapse prevention strategies provide structure, accountability, and coping skills to help individuals navigate life after rehab and reduce the risk of relapse.

Sober Living Homes

Sober living homes provide a drug-free, structured environment for individuals transitioning from rehab to independent living. These homes offer peer support, accountability, and a routine that promotes long-term recovery. Residents often attend therapy, work, or school while living in a safe, supportive community.

Ongoing Therapy and Counseling

Continued therapy helps individuals address emotional triggers, develop coping skills, and strengthen relapse prevention strategies. Options may include individual counseling, group therapy, and family therapy, depending on the person’s needs.

Alumni Programs and Peer Networks

Staying connected to a supportive recovery community can make a huge difference in long-term success. Alumni programs and peer networks provide ongoing check-ins, social events, and mentorship opportunities to keep individuals engaged in their recovery journey.

How To Choose the Right Treatment Option for Opioid Addiction

Choosing the right treatment depends on several factors, including addiction severity, co-occurring mental health conditions, and personal needs. Some people may need inpatient care with medical detox, while others might benefit from a structured outpatient program that allows them to continue daily responsibilities.

Key factors to consider:

A professional assessment can help determine the best treatment path for long-term success.

Opioid Addiction Treatment Options at Caron

At Caron, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based options to treat opioid use disorder, addressing both physical dependence and underlying emotional factors. Our programs range from inpatient care to outpatient support, making sure every individual gets the level of treatment they need.

Treatment options at Caron may include:

Why Choose Caron Treatment Centers

Caron Treatment Centers are renowned for our effective, evidence-based approach to opioid use disorder treatment. Here's what distinguishes Caron:

Proven Success Rates:

Comprehensive, Individualized Care:

Leader in Value-Based Care:

Caron is dedicated to providing compassionate, expert care and innovative treatment, offering hope and healing to those seeking recovery from opioid addiction.

Our Addiction Treatment Center Locations

Caron offers specialized opioid addiction treatment at various locations across the U.S., including inpatient, outpatient, and recovery support services. Every facility provides tailored care, making sure you receive the right level of support.

Inpatient Locations

Our inpatient treatment centers provide 24/7 medical supervision, detox support, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and evidence-based therapies in a highly structured environment. These programs are designed for individuals who need intensive care and long-term treatment planning.

Pennsylvania

Caron’s flagship residential facility in Wernersville, PA, provides comprehensive opioid addiction treatment backed by medical expertise and research-driven care. Our Pennsylvania location offers:

With a serene campus and a world-class medical staff, this facility is ideal for individuals seeking long-term, structured treatment.

Florida

Caron provides exclusive inpatient treatment options tailored for executives, professionals, and high-profile individuals seeking discreet, high-end care. These programs combine expert clinical treatment, personalized recovery plans, and luxurious accommodations, allowing patients to focus on their healing while balancing personal and professional commitments.

Outpatient Locations

For individuals who need flexibility in treatment, our outpatient centers provide structured therapy, group counseling, and recovery support while allowing patients to continue working, attending school, or handling daily responsibilities.

Atlanta

This center offers intensive outpatient programs (IOP) designed for individuals transitioning from inpatient care or needing structured support while living at home. Services include:

Philadelphia

Located in downtown Philadelphia, this center serves individuals who need flexible outpatient treatment options and relapse prevention strategies. Services include:

Pennsylvania (Wyomissing)

This outpatient center provides a step-down level of care for individuals integrating back into daily life after residential treatment. Here, patients get:

Encore

Our Washington, D.C. location helps individuals struggling with opioid addiction by offering:

This center is ideal for individuals who need a treatment plan that fits their professional and personal lives.

Recovery Center Locations

Caron’s recovery centers offer peer support, relapse prevention programs, and community engagement to keep individuals on track after completing inpatient or outpatient treatment.

New York City

Located in the heart of NYC, this center provides continuous recovery support and alumni programs for individuals seeking to maintain sobriety after treatment. Services include:

Our NYC center is perfect for individuals looking to stay connected, engaged, and supported in early and long-term recovery.

How to Get Started With Treatment

Taking the first step towards recovery can feel overwhelming, but our specialists and health care professionals make the process simple and supportive. Here’s how to begin treatment:

FAQs About Opioid Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, you likely have questions about treatment options, costs, and recovery success rates. Below are some of the most common questions to help guide your decision.