What Is Opioid Use Disorder and What to Expect in Treatment
Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a medical condition that changes how your brain and body respond to opioids over time. With the right support, recovery is possible. If opioids feel hard to control, treatment can help reduce cravings, ease withdrawal, and rebuild stability. At BAART Programs, you’ll receive care that meets you where you are.
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What Is Opioid Use Disorder?
OUD happens when your body becomes dependent on opioids, and stopping causes physical or emotional distress. Over time, opioids change how your brain handles pain, stress, and reward.
Opioids may include:
- Fentanyl
- Heroin
- Oxycodone or hydrocodone
- Morphine, codeine, or tramadol
Common signs and symptoms of opioid use disorder include:
- Strong cravings or urges to use opioids
- Withdrawal when opioids wear off
- Using more opioids than planned
- Trouble managing work or daily life
- Ongoing use despite health risks
- Difficulty stopping without support
How Opioid Use Disorder Is Treated
The most effective treatment for OUD combines medication with counseling. This approach is known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT), or medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD).
With MAT, you’ll receive:
- Medication that eases withdrawal and reduces cravings
- Counseling to support behavior change and coping skills
- Ongoing monitoring and plan adjustments as needed
This combination helps your body stabilize so you can focus on recovery and long-term wellness. Because fentanyl is now common in the opioid supply, structured treatment can play an important role in reducing overdose risk.
Medications Used in Opioid Use Disorder Treatment
At BAART Programs, opioid treatment may include methadone or buprenorphine. Both are safe, effective, and supported by decades of research.
- Long-acting medication taken daily under medical supervision
- Reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings
- Helps block the effects of other opioids
- Safe for long-term use, pregnancy, and breastfeeding
- Partial opioid agonist with a ceiling effect
- Reduces cravings and withdrawal
- Lower risk of overdose when taken as prescribed
- May allow more flexible dosing over time
Your provider works with you to find the right medication and dose based on your history, tolerance, and goals.
What to Expect When You Start Treatment
Your first visit usually lasts two to three hours. During that time, you’ll receive:
- A medical assessment
- Intake paperwork and screenings
- Your first medication dose, if appropriate
- An initial counseling session
- Education about OUD, medications, and health
Early in treatment, daily visits are common. As stability improves, take-home doses may be earned based on progress and program guidelines.
Counseling and Support Services
Counseling and therapy are a required part of treatment and support long-term success. You’ll receive help with:
- Understanding opioid use disorder
- Managing stress, cravings, and triggers
- Building coping and relapse-prevention skills
- Improving relationships and daily functioning
You may also access:
- Case management and care coordination
- Pregnancy and parenting support
- Referrals for housing, healthcare, or employment
- Guest medication services when traveling
Why Choose Opioid Use Disorder Treatment at BAART
Compassionate, Personalized MAT
You’ll receive a treatment plan tailored to your needs, combining medication, counseling, and support in a respectful setting.
Access to Proven MAT Medications
Methadone and buprenorphine are available at many BAART locations. Call to confirm options at the center nearest you.
CARF-Accredited, High-Quality Care
All BAART Programs facilities meet rigorous standards for safety, ethics, and evidence-based treatment.
Testimonials and Success Stories
“Hi my name is Nancy, I am Sixty year old lady. I want to thank the BAART PROGRAM So Very Much !!! Mainly because All of the staff were Very professional sweet people. That place is very clean. There is absolutely no judgement of people at BAART !!! Any race or sexual preference ,or any faith is Welcome here. In fact one gentleman goes to my church , Flatirons Church . This Church is Amazing as far as everybody is Welcome and you learn truly how much Jesus loves you. Thanks for All your help BAART. You are the best !!!!”
-Nancy Lewis
Verified Patient
“This is an amazing clinic ran by compassionate, caring and goal oriented people. There is no judgment here and clients are not looked down upon. It is also a harm reduction clinic. I highly recommend this place and can never thank Baart and the loving staff they employ enough!”
-Mark Popejoy
Verified Patient
“This is by far the best clinic I have entered. I have been to 3 clinics total now and this is by far the best. Definitely the most professional and caring group of staff I have encountered. They truly care about our sobriety and well being. They are truly here to help us. Thank you so much Bart clinic for letting my recovery be apart of yall”
-Michael Bannick
Verified Patient
Insurance and Payment Options
We accept most private insurance, along with Medicare and Medicaid. Veterans may also receive care through the VA Community Care Network (Optum and TriWest) with prior authorization.
Accredited and Trusted Care
All BAART centers are federally certified, state licensed, and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). This recognition reflects our dedication to quality care, continuous improvement, and the people we serve.
Start Today by Calling Us
Opioid use disorder is treatable, and you do not have to manage it alone. With medication-assisted treatment and counseling, you can reduce cravings, ease withdrawal, and rebuild stability. BAART Programs provides outpatient MAT with supportive care, so you can take the next step with a plan that fits your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Opioid Use Disorder
Is opioid use disorder treatable long-term?
Yes. OUD is a chronic condition that can be managed long-term. With consistent care, many people reduce opioid use, stay safer, and rebuild daily routines over time.
Will medication make me feel high?
No. At the right dose, methadone or buprenorphine is meant to relieve withdrawal and cravings so you can feel steady, alert, and able to function day to day.
Can I work while in treatment?
Often, yes. Treatment is outpatient, so you can keep working or caring for your family. Early visits may be more frequent, then lessen as you stabilize and earn take-homes.
Is treatment safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Methadone and buprenorphine are considered safe in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Your care can be coordinated with OB providers to support you and your baby.
Start Recovery From Opioid Addiction Now
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can set you on the path to positive change. Our medical providers work with you to choose the right medication and dose, adjusting your plan as needed to support your progress.
Don’t hesitate to contact your treatment center today with any questions about MAT and begin your path to recovery. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
