Treatments

Personalized Care for Substance Use: Evidence-Based, Compassionate, Whole-Body Healing

Treating substance use means more than stopping the substance—it means addressing the emotional, psychological, and physical factors that contribute to addiction.

At Avance Psychiatry, led by the expertise of Dr. Ashwin Patkar and Dr. Cam Coleman,  we use a holistic, integrated model that supports you at every stage of recovery.

What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy to treat substance use disorders—particularly opioid, alcohol, and in some cases, stimulant addiction. MAT doesn’t replace one drug with another—it restores brain chemistry, reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and helps individuals stay engaged in their recovery.

How does it work?

Addiction changes the way the brain functions, especially in areas related to reward, judgment, and self-control. MAT medications help correct those imbalances so that therapy, lifestyle changes, and support systems can take root more effectively. It significantly increases the likelihood of long-term recovery and reduces the risk of overdose.

Our Integrated Approach to MAT at Avance Psychiatry

1. Personalized Assessment and Monitoring

• We begin every MAT program with a full psychiatric evaluation to understand your medical history, mental health status, substance use patterns, and personal goals. Medication is prescribed only when clinically appropriate and is closely monitored over time.

2. Whole-Person Wellness

With guidance from our care team, you’ll explore supportive therapies that improve long-term recovery outcomes, including:

• Nutrition and sleep hygiene coaching
• Stress management and mindfulness
• Goal setting for relationships, work, and self-esteem

3. Integrated Mental Health Treatment

MAT at Avance isn’t just medication—it’s part of a broader therapeutic plan. Patients receive:

• Individual therapy (CBT, trauma-focused, motivational enhancement)
• Group support
• Co-occurring mental health care (e.g., for anxiety, depression, PTSD)

4. Relapse Prevention & Continuing Care

MAT is not one-size-fits-all. We provide long-term support with medication adjustments, ongoing therapy, and transition planning to help patients move toward independence while maintaining stability.

Led by Nationally Recognized Expert Dr. Ashwin Patkar and Dr. Cam Coleman

Dr. Ashwin Patkar brings decades of clinical and academic experience in treating substance use disorders. His leadership at Avance Psychiatry ensures that our MAT programs follow the highest standards in evidence-based care—delivered with empathy, integrity, and a belief in each patient’s capacity for recovery.

Dr. Cam Coleman has advanced training in preventive and addiction medicine from UNC and where he also earned a master’s in biomedical and health informatics. Dr. Coleman offers a compassionate, evidence-based approach to recovery, combining medical expertise with data-driven care to support each patient’s unique journey.

Drs. Patkar and Coleman practice at Avance Psychiatry at Centers of Excellence at Brier Creek in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Hope Begins Here

If you or a loved one is considering MAT, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. Let us walk with you toward a future defined not by addiction, but by strength, purpose, and healing.

MAT doesn’t replace one drug with another—it restores brain chemistry, reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and helps individuals stay engaged in their recovery.