Define "Medication-Assisted Treatment" (MAT).

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) refers to a comprehensive approach to treating substance use disorders that involves the use of medications in conjunction with counseling and behavioral therapies. This dual approach recognizes that while medications can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, addressing the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction is vital for long-term recovery.

MAT typically combines medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone with therapeutic counseling to create a holistic treatment plan tailored to each individual's needs. This integrated strategy aims to improve treatment outcomes, lower the risk of relapse, and enhance the chances of sustained recovery by addressing both the physical and psychological components of addiction.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of MAT. A focuses solely on medications without including the necessary therapeutic support, while C and D describe treatment methods that disregard the pharmacological aspect, which is essential for a comprehensive approach to substance use disorders.