What is Matrix Intensive Treatment for Drug Addiction?

The Matrix Model was first conceived in the 1980s to help those addicted to a variety of stimulants. It was one of the first protocols for treating cocaine, amphetamine, and methamphetamine addiction. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Matrix intensive treatment relies on several guiding principles and practices to help an addict recover from his or her addiction.

One of the benefits of the Matrix Model is that it is intensive and only lasts approximately 8 to 16 weeks. If you are addicted to stimulants and you think the Matrix Model is right for you call 800-996-6135(Who Answers?) . We can help you find all of the treatment principles of the Matrix Model in one treatment center.

Teaching Early Recovery Skills

Early recovery skills training begins in the first month of the program. The early recovery skill training covers issues like:

• conditioning cravings
• stopping secondary addictions
• community support
• beginning cognitive therapy and training

In early recovery that patient is still in withdrawal so the training is light and focuses on dealing with the problems they are facing right now.

Individual Counseling

Group therapy helps patients develop a positive support network.

In individual counseling the therapist uses techniques such as:

• cognitive behavioral therapy
• goal setting
• working on the cause of the addiction
• dealing with the consequences of the addiction

This therapy helps the patient deal directly with underlying issues and prepares them for the rest of the program.

Group Counseling

Group counseling is a large portion of the Matrix Model of therapy. This helps to establish a positive nonjudgmental support structure within the program. It is a safe place to discuss feelings with people who are also addicted to stimulants. Group counseling lets the patient know they are not alone and that there are others with similar experiences.

Family Therapy

Family plays a big role in the Matrix Model of therapy. Therapists and doctors begin by educating the family on how to function with the addiction and help the addict through their recovery.

Then family counseling sessions and family supportive therapy helps reestablish the relationship between family members. It helps to rebuild the relationships with those at home so the addict has the family support they need when they leave therapy.

Education in the Matrix Model

Not only do patients and their families learn how to deal with the addiction. They also learn about:

• social support programs
• relationship building
• how to use positive reinforcement
• self-help principles
• how to build a positive self image
• relapse prevention

These principles help people to understand their addiction and deal with the triggers, cravings, and other problems that arise after an addict stops using.

Drug Testing

One semi-controversial portion of the Matrix Model is that they use drug testing and positive reinforcement for clean drug tests. The positive reinforcement usually comes in the form of tokens or gift cards for goods or services.

Finding a Treatment Center that Uses the Matrix Model

You can find a treatment center that uses the Matrix Model by calling us at 800-996-6135(Who Answers?) . This proven method can help you onto the road to recovery, you just have to find the right treatment center.

Sources

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition)- The Matrix Model (Stimulants).
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2006). Substance Abuse: Clinical Issues in Intensive Outpatient Treatment: Chapter 8. Intensive Outpatient Treatment Approaches.