Matrix Model
The Matrix Model was developed as a research based approach to treating various types of drug addiction including addiction to stimulants. The goal of this program, like that of most addiction treatment models, is to help users achieve abstinence though various relapse prevention techniques, self-help programs and drug monitoring. The Matrix Model has helped thousands of people since it was first introduced into the treatment setting in the 1980s—could it be the treatment that works for you?
What is Matrix Model?
Matrix Model treatment is offered as part of an intensive outpatient therapy approach that was developed using research and experience in real world treatment settings over a period of 20 years. According to the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices, Matrix Model involves intervention which consists of various elements including:
The Matrix Model involves support groups and group therapy among other treatment methods.
- Relapse prevention groups
- Education groups
- Social support groups
- Individual counseling
- Urine testing
Together, these elements of treatment are delivered to the patient over a period of 16-weeks during which many of the critical issues pertaining to the addiction and the potential for relapse are addressed. The patient receives regular support and guidance from a licensed therapist, is educated on various self-help groups that are available to assist in the recovery process, and is monitored through random or scheduled drug or alcohol screenings to ensure continued abstinence.
The Role of the Therapist
The therapist plays a very significant role in the treatment model providing both education and support to the patient throughout the program. Any therapist that is delivering Matrix Model therapy to a patient has been formally trained to provide encouragement, coaching, and teaching that will help to reinforce positive behavioral change that is conducive to recovery. Therapists are trained to act simultaneously as the patient’s coach and teacher while working with the patient to evoke positive change that helps them to achieve sobriety.
Why it Works
According to NIDA, various studies have proven that patients who are treated using the Matrix Model show greater reductions in the use of drugs or alcohol, have improved psychological stability and are less likely to partake in risky sexual behaviors which can be associated with the potential transmission of HIV or AIDs. But why does the Matrix Model work so well?
Many attribute the success of Matrix Model treatment to the length of the program—16 weeks to be exact. The National Institute on Drug Abuse recommends that at least 90 days of treatment take place in order to effectively break drug use habits. For some, the length of time that treatment must be continued is far greater. In any case, NIDA reports that “good outcomes are contingent on adequate treatment length.”
Matrix Model treatment can be extended for periods greater than 16 weeks as needed.
Matrix Model treatment is likely effective for the following addition reasons:
- Treatment protocol is backed by 20 years of proven data that includes treatment details pertaining to thousands of substance abusers.
- Treatment includes a very distinct structure and expectations are clearly defined.
- Cognitive behavioral concepts, self-help and family education are provided as part of the treatment protocol.
- Urinalysis is used to regularly monitor patients eliminating any potential for undetected drug use.
- Positive reinforcement is used to encourage continued behavior changes in the right direction.
Benefits
Evidence suggests that Matrix Model patients reap great rewards and benefits from the treatment that they receive. In fact, Matrix Model patients have been proven to become more involved with their treatment, attend more groups and are likely to remain in treatment longer than patients treated using other forms of therapy or substance use counseling and care. Additional benefits of Matrix Model treatment include:
- Reduced drug use
- Improvements in urine testing (more clean tests)
- Longer periods of abstinence
- Recommendations for change are backed by scientific evidence
- Stability is more clearly defined
- Behavioral change is the focus
Evidence Based Treatment
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, “in a controlled trial, a clear positive relationship was documented between duration and amount of treatment involvement in the Matrix Model and positive outcome at 1 year.” The treatment offered through this method is backed by a number of federal organizations including:
- The Center for Substance Abuse Treatment
- The National Institute on Drug Abuse
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- The Office of National Drug Control Policy
This evidence based approach to treatment was not developed overnight—Matrix Model treatment took 20 years to develop during which time the methods were continuously improved upon based on scientific research and real-world data.
Types of Addiction Treated
Matrix Model treatment is a cost-effective therapy that is proven helpful to patients suffering from various types of stimulant addiction. While studies have been conducted to prove the effectiveness of this treatment protocol primarily to those who abuse methamphetamine, cocaine or other stimulants, Matrix Model treatment can help patients who are addicted to various substances including:
Statistical Evidence
The following statistical evidence is taken from various research studies that are represented in full by SAMHSA’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices:
- Matrix Model participants are up to 38% more likely to remain in treatment than patients receiving standard treatment.
- Matrix Model participants are up to 27% more likely to complete treatment than those receiving standard services.
- Matrix Model participants produce more drug-free urine samples than those receiving standard treatment.
- Matrix Model participants have fewer drug use days after 12 weeks of treatment than those receiving standard treatment.
A Directive Approach
Matrix Model treatment provides a directive approach to helping patients overcome addiction. Not only is this method of treatment more behavior-focused than general therapy techniques, Matrix Model participants enjoy improved stability, a therapeutic approach that is team centered and improved recovery outcomes. The therapist is your advocate, your educator and your coach throughout the treatment process acting as a liaison between you and your addiction, fueling your self-motivation, encouraging your continued behavioral change and rewarding your abstinence from drug use along the way.
Matrix Model treatment establishes a positive relationship between the patient and the therapist to help build a strong emotional bond that is conducive to trust and continued following. This directive approach to treatment also includes family counseling and support to help build upon the family support network while recommendations for positive change are made to encourage improved behavioral outcomes. Matrix treatment focuses on helping the user to change his or her behaviors so that emotions no longer affect the outcome of whether or not drugs will be used.
Is it Right for Me?
It Matrix Model treatment the right choice for your drug addiction? Possibly!
To speak with a counselor about Matrix Model treatment and the benefits that you can enjoy be receiving quality, effective care from a formally trained Matrix Model therapist, call our helpline. We can help you find treatment that’s ideally suited to your individual needs and which will make the process of recovering from substance abuse and addiction a little bit easier—and a lot more effective. There’s no better time to seek help than the present—so don’t hesitate to call.
