Abstract
The purpose of this research was to explore providers’ knowledge regarding therapeutic harm reduction strategies in working with those undergoing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid dependence. This qualitative content analysis investigated barriers in successful treatment outcomes for those undergoing MAT as well as the barriers clinicians face in treating this population. Using the snowball sampling method, ten Sacramento County addiction treatment providers currently assisting this population were interviewed. Common themes emerged from this study: 1) abstinence-only based clinicians attitudes towards MAT improves over time; 2) trainings on MAT grounded in science and empirical evidence is beneficial for both agencies and clinicians; and 3) agency implementation of 12-step meetings is neither therapeutically effective nor beneficial for the MAT population. Implications for social work practice and policy are offered and discussed.