Exploring Patient Outcomes in Combined Opiate Addiction and Psychotherapy Treatments: A Focus on Mental Health and Recovery Engagement
Exploring Patient Outcomes in Combined Opiate Addiction and Psychotherapy Treatments: A Focus on Mental Health and Recovery Engagement
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Issue Date
2025-06-30
Authors
Taylor, James
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Abstract
This capstone explores how incorporating psychotherapy into medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opiate use disorder (OUD) can improve mental health outcomes and participant engagement in recovery. A structured literature review was conducted, identifying 36 relevant studies from the past 15 years. Findings emphasized the effectiveness of combining psychological interventions, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and
commitment therapy (ACT), as well as mindfulness-based approaches, with MAT in improving treatment retention, relapse prevention, and overall psychological well-being. However, systemic barriers such as stigma, inequity, and limited access to culturally appropriate care persist as significant challenges. This project proposes a trauma-informed, patient-centered model that includes therapeutic interventions, as well as structural and policy-level changes to support long-term recovery.
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Keywords
opiate use disorder , psychotherapy , medication-assisted treatment , trauma-informed care , patient engagement , recovery