Are You Struggling With Addiction?
Addiction develops from changes to structure and functioning of the brain which influence behavior. Addiction is not caused by poor morals; it is not controlled by willpower, and it is not cured by good advice. Addiction is a disease like diabetes or cancer, and it is treatable.
Treatment for addiction can be complicated and overwhelming. The Guidance Center aims to provide a person-centered approach to those interested in services. Person centered services take in to account personal successes and struggles to create an effective and agreed upon treatment plan.
Our treatment can consist of medication assisted treatment for substance use with therapy or therapy alone. The frequency of visits is based on an individual’s therapeutic needs and clinical recommendations. Those utilizing our medication assisted treatment will be encouraged to also attend outpatient therapy and regular psychiatric appointments for progress monitoring and support.
The program is staffed by psychiatrists and a wellness nurse. Drug and alcohol counselors, case workers and Recovery Support Specialists provide additional support services.
Services are billed to your health insurance and offered on a sliding scale for self-pay individuals.
Medications for Opioid Overdose, Withdrawal, and Addiction
Medications for opioid overdose, withdrawal, and addiction are safe, effective and save lives.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse supports research to develop new medicines and delivery systems to treat opioid use disorder and other substance use disorders, as well as other complications of substance use (including withdrawal and overdose), to help people choose treatments that are right for them.
FDA-approved medications for opioid addiction, overdose, and withdrawal work in various ways.
Opioid Receptor Agonist
Medications attach to opioid receptors in the brain to block withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Opioid Receptor Partial Agonist
Medications attach to and partially activate opioid receptors in the brain to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Opioid Receptor Antagonist
Medications block activity of opioid receptors in the brain to prevent euphoric effects (the high) of opioids and alcohol and help reduce cravings.
Adrenergic Receptor Agonist
A medication that attaches to and activates adrenergic receptors in the brain and helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
REDUCES OPIOID USE AND CRAVINGS
TREATS WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS
REVERSES OVERDOSE
Information from the National Institute on Drug Abuse – Visit NIDA today!
Our Suboxone Program
Suboxone is an evidence-based, FDA approved treatment medication for Heroin or other opioid addiction. Suboxone treatment is provided at The Guidance Center through the outpatient department at the Bradford clinic in McKean County.
The program is staffed by psychiatrists and a wellness nurse. Drug and alcohol counselors, case workers and Recovery Support Specialists provide additional support services.
Evening appointments are available. Services are billed to your health insurance and offered on a sliding scale for self-pay individuals.
How Suboxone Works
Suboxone is a partial agonist, which means it has a limited opioid effect, enough to stop the withdrawal symptoms but not enough to cause the high that one gets from using full agonist opiates such as Heroin.
Suboxone helps relieve the cravings and prevent withdrawal symptoms so individuals can better manage their daily lives and focus on their treatment and recovery.
Eligibility
- 18 years of age
- Be willing to participate in an assessment and recommended treatment and support services
- Meet the criteria for opiate dependence.
- Agree to follow program rules and safety precautions including regular drug testing and medication callback checks
Program Structure and Schedule
The frequency of clinic visits is based on individual needs.
Typically individuals will see the Suboxone psychiatrist weekly when treatment first begins. With stable adjustment, clients may be seen every other week and eventually monthly.
Individuals must also agree to participate in counseling services. At a minimum, participants will receive at least 2 ½ hours of counseling per month during the first two years, 1 hour per month during the third and fourth year, and one hour every other month thereafter.
Drug and Alcohol Case Management and Recovery Support services may also be recommended services for some individuals.