Addiction is a complex and multifaceted chronic disease of the brain that affects millions of individuals worldwide. While many healthcare providers can help those struggling with the physical consequences of addiction, an addiction psychiatrist is uniquely trained to address both the psychological and biological aspects of substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O., is board certified in addiction psychiatry, providing comprehensive care to individuals looking to overcome addiction and regain control of their lives.
Understanding the Role of an Addiction Psychiatrist
An addiction psychiatrist is a medical doctor with specialized education and training in diagnosing, treating, and preventing recurrence (relapse) of substance use disorders (SUDs) and also the common underlying psychological reasons that individuals use substances for self-medication (i.e. escaping or coping with grief, trauma, loss or for reward). Unlike general psychiatrists or therapists, addiction psychiatrists undergo additional and advanced fellowship training focusing on the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to addiction and their treatments.
Education and Training
To become an addiction psychiatrist, a physician must:
-
- Graduate from medical school (D.O. or M.D.)
- Complete a general adult psychiatry residency (typically 4 years)
- Pursue additional fellowship training in addiction psychiatry (1 or 2 years)
- Pass the board certification exam from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
- Complete all ongoing continuing medical education requirements (CMEs) of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
This rigorous initial training and ongoing education equips addiction psychiatrists with the expertise needed to assess and manage addiction-related disorders using evidence-based treatments.
How an Addiction Psychiatrist Can Help
1. Comprehensive Evaluation and Diagnosis
Addiction psychiatrists conduct thorough assessments to understand an individual’s mental health, substance use history, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors. This allows for the development of a personalized treatment plan.
2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. An addiction psychiatrist can prescribe and monitor these medications safely.
3. Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Many individuals with addiction also struggle with mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Other individuals are abusing substances to escape, cope or reward. Addiction psychiatrists specialize in treating co-occurring disorders to promote long-term wellness and recovery.
4. Psychotherapy and Counseling
Behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Contingency Management are integral to addiction treatment. An addiction psychiatrist may provide therapy or collaborate with therapists to ensure comprehensive care.
5. Relapse Prevention and Long-Term Recovery Support
Addiction psychiatrists work with patients beyond detox and early recovery, helping them build strategies and behaviors to prevent relapse and to maintain long-term sobriety and wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What conditions does an addiction psychiatrist treat?
An addiction psychiatrist treats various substance use disorders, including:
- Alcohol use disorder
- Opioid use disorder (heroin, fentanyl, prescription painkillers)
- Stimulant use disorder (cocaine, methamphetamine, ADHD medications)
- Cannabis use disorder
- Benzodiazepine dependence (Xanax, Valium, Ativan)
- Nicotine addiction
- Behavioral addictions (gambling, internet addiction)
How is an addiction psychiatrist different from a regular psychiatrist?
While general psychiatrists treat a broad range of mental health conditions, addiction psychiatrists receive additional specialized training in substance use disorders. They are experts in mental health conditions and their treatments and have additional expertise and experience with medication-assisted treatment, detox protocols, and dual diagnosis care.
Do I need a referral to see an addiction psychiatrist?
No, you do not always need a referral to meet with Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O.. You can call his office at (424) 276-0777.
Can an addiction psychiatrist prescribe Suboxone or other medications for opioid addiction?
Yes. Dr. Goldenberg is licensed to prescribe Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) and other FDA-approved medications to help manage opioid use disorder and reduce cravings.
Do addiction psychiatrists only treat people with severe addictions?
No. Addiction psychiatrists help individuals at all stages of addiction, from early substance use concerns to chronic addiction and relapse prevention. They also help patients without addiction who are suffering from mental health conditions (i.e. depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD etc.)
How long does addiction treatment last?
The length of treatment varies based on individual needs. Some patients may require short-term detox assistance, while others benefit from ongoing therapy and medication management for months or years.
What should I expect during my first appointment?
During your initial visit, Dr. Goldenberg will:
- Conduct a comprehensive evaluation.
- Discuss your substance use history and mental health.
- Develop a personalized treatment plan based on your goals.
- Recommend therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes to support recovery.
Does insurance cover addiction psychiatry services?
Dr. Goldenberg does NOT accept any insurance and is NOT contracted with any health insurance plans, in his private practice, including Medicare or Medi-Cal/LA Care.
However, if you have a PPO insurance plan, Dr. Goldenberg can provide you with an invoice that you can submit to your PPO Insurance plan for possible “out of network” coverage.
Get Expert Addiction Treatment with Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, professional help is available. Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O. provides compassionate, evidence-based addiction treatment in Santa Monica, CA.
Contact Information:
📍 Address: 2708 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403
📞 Phone: (424) 276-0777
🕒 Business Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday & Sunday: Closed
Take the first step towards recovery today— You can call Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O., at (424) 276-0777 or click “book online” to schedule a free phone consultation.
