Blending Science and Connection in Recovery

When couples enter rehab together, they face a dual challenge: overcoming substance use disorders and rebuilding a healthy, supportive relationship. For many, especially those dealing with opioid or alcohol addiction, withdrawal and cravings present significant barriers to early recovery. That’s where Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) becomes a crucial element in a comprehensive care plan. At Trinity Behavioral Health, MAT is thoughtfully and strategically integrated into its Couples Rehab program to support physical stability, reduce relapse risk, and allow couples to focus on the emotional and relational healing process.

By combining FDA-approved medications with evidence-based therapy and relationship counseling, Trinity provides couples a holistic and individualized path to lasting sobriety—without compromising either partner’s safety or emotional connection.

Understanding Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-Assisted Treatment involves the use of medications in combination with behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. It is most commonly used for:

• Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

• Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

• Sometimes stimulant and benzodiazepine use, on a case-by-case basis

MAT helps manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also restoring brain chemistry disrupted by long-term substance abuse. Importantly, MAT is not a “quick fix” or a standalone solution—it is part of a long-term recovery strategy that includes therapeutic and lifestyle changes.

Why MAT Matters in Couples Rehab

In a couples rehab setting, MAT offers several advantages:

• Stabilization of both partners, allowing for more focused therapy

• Reduction in relapse risk, which can emotionally destabilize the relationship

• Improved participation in treatment, since physical symptoms are managed

• Enhanced emotional regulation, supporting healthier communication

• Lower risk of overdose during early recovery, especially post-detox

When one or both partners struggle with intense cravings or severe withdrawal, MAT can be a life-saving bridge to deeper emotional and relational work.

The MAT Evaluation Process at Trinity Behavioral Health

Every couple entering the Couples Rehab program at Trinity Behavioral Health undergoes a thorough intake assessment that includes a medical and psychiatric evaluation. This process helps determine:

• Whether MAT is clinically appropriate

• Which medications are best suited to the individual’s addiction history

• Any underlying physical or mental health issues that may impact MAT

• Compatibility with other medications or health conditions

This evaluation is completed with input from a multidisciplinary team, including a physician, therapist, and nursing staff, ensuring a safe and customized treatment plan.

Common Medications Used in Trinity’s MAT Program

The medications used in Trinity Behavioral Health’s MAT program are evidence-based and FDA-approved. Common options include:

For Opioid Use Disorder (OUD):

• Buprenorphine (Suboxone®, Subutex®): A partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing a high.

• Methadone: A long-acting opioid agonist used in some treatment plans under medical supervision.

• Naltrexone (Vivitrol®): A non-addictive opioid antagonist that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids.

For Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD):

• Naltrexone: Also used for alcohol addiction to reduce cravings and block the pleasurable effects of drinking.

• Acamprosate (Campral®): Helps restore balance in brain chemistry and reduce post-acute withdrawal symptoms.

• Disulfiram (Antabuse®): Causes unpleasant effects if alcohol is consumed, acting as a deterrent.

The choice of medication is based on the individual’s clinical profile, history of substance use, and readiness for change.

Integrating MAT with Couples Therapy

Trinity Behavioral Health takes a unique approach by fully integrating MAT into the relationship-focused structure of couples rehab. Here’s how:

• Both partners are educated about MAT, regardless of whether one or both are receiving medication. This promotes transparency, reduces stigma, and supports teamwork.

• Therapists help couples create MAT-informed communication plans, ensuring that the partner on MAT receives emotional support without enabling behavior.

• Couples therapy explores how medication affects intimacy, trust, and shared recovery goals, helping both partners stay emotionally connected.

• Emphasis is placed on shared accountability, with partners encouraged to attend appointments and support each other through medication schedules and check-ins.

This integration strengthens the couple’s bond by positioning MAT as a tool—not a crutch—on the road to recovery.

Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions About MAT

Despite its proven effectiveness, MAT is sometimes misunderstood. Trinity Behavioral Health works to dispel myths and provide clarity, including:

• “MAT just replaces one addiction with another.”
  → False. Medications like Suboxone and Vivitrol are medically monitored and do not produce a high when taken as prescribed.

• “You’re not really sober if you’re on MAT.”
  → Also false. Recovery is defined by progress and health, not by arbitrary rules. MAT allows individuals to stabilize and engage fully in their recovery.

• “MAT will interfere with our relationship.”
  → On the contrary, it often strengthens the relationship by reducing mood swings, impulsive behavior, and drug-seeking patterns.

Couples are provided with psychoeducation sessions to address these and other concerns so they can make informed, united decisions about care.

Monitoring and Adjusting MAT Over Time

MAT is not static. At Trinity Behavioral Health, progress is continuously monitored through:

• Regular physician check-ins and dosage adjustments

• Therapy sessions that track medication impact on emotions and behavior

• Toxicology screenings to ensure medication compliance and abstinence

• Client and partner feedback loops to assess medication side effects or emotional concerns

When appropriate, tapering plans may be developed in coordination with medical providers, allowing clients to reduce or discontinue medication as stability increases.

Supporting Couples Where Only One Partner is on MAT

Sometimes only one member of a couple qualifies for or chooses to use MAT. Trinity Behavioral Health is experienced in supporting this dynamic and ensures both partners receive equal care. This includes:

• Individual therapy for the non-MAT partner

• Couples therapy to address power dynamics, fears, or misunderstandings

• Boundaries training to prevent codependency or resentment

• Joint sessions to develop empathy and reinforce shared goals

The focus remains on unity, even when treatment paths differ slightly.

Aftercare and Continued MAT Support

Recovery doesn’t end when residential treatment concludes. Trinity Behavioral Health includes MAT as part of its comprehensive aftercare planning. Couples leaving the program with ongoing MAT needs are connected to:

• Local or virtual MAT providers

• Telemedicine options for medication management

• Community pharmacies and support clinics

• Continued therapy and relationship counseling

This ensures continuity of care and reduces the risk of relapse during the critical transition phase.

Conclusion: Medication-Assisted Treatment as a Catalyst for Change

Medication-Assisted Treatment in Trinity Behavioral Health’s Couples Rehab program is not a substitute for therapy—it’s a support system that empowers couples to fully engage in the recovery process. By reducing cravings, stabilizing emotions, and preventing relapse, MAT allows individuals to show up more fully for themselves and their partner.

What makes Trinity’s approach unique is how seamlessly MAT is woven into the fabric of couples therapy. It’s not an add-on or a separate track—it’s an integrated part of a comprehensive, relationship-centered model of care.

Whether both partners are on MAT or just one, the goal remains the same: build a solid foundation of trust, health, and emotional connection that can withstand the challenges of addiction recovery and thrive in lasting sobriety.

For couples ready to heal together with every available tool—including medication—Trinity Behavioral Health offers a path of clinical excellence, emotional depth, and real, sustainable transformation.

FAQs

1. Can both partners be on MAT during couples rehab?

Yes. If both partners are medically eligible, they can each receive their own individualized MAT plan while also participating in shared therapy and relationship work.

2. Is MAT safe during couples therapy?

Absolutely. In fact, MAT can improve therapy outcomes by stabilizing mood, reducing impulsivity, and increasing emotional availability. Trinity’s therapists are trained to incorporate MAT into relationship counseling.

3. Will MAT be included in our aftercare plan?

Yes. Trinity ensures that couples have continued access to MAT through outpatient providers, telehealth options, and local community resources after completing residential treatment.

4. What if one of us doesn’t want to use medication?

That’s okay. MAT is voluntary and based on clinical need. Trinity supports both partners with compassion, regardless of their treatment path, and offers therapy to help navigate these differences.

5. How long will we stay on MAT?

The duration of MAT varies based on individual needs. Some clients stay on medication for a few months, while others benefit from longer-term support. Trinity provides ongoing assessments to adjust treatment as needed.

Read: Are there weekend or part-time couples rehab options at Trinity Behavioral Health?

Read: Can Trinity Behavioral Health’s couples rehab address both substance use and gambling addiction?