Kratom Addiction Treatment
Los Angeles
Medically Reviewed by: Eric Chaghouri
Evidence-Based Kratom Addiction Treatment at No Matter What Recovery
At No Matter What Recovery in Los Angeles, we understand that kratom addiction affects individuals from all walks of life, including many in the LGBTQ+ community who may have initially turned to kratom seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or other challenges. Our specialized kratom addiction treatment program combines medically-supervised care with holistic therapies to help you reclaim your life from dependence on this increasingly popular but potentially dangerous substance.
What is Kratom Addiction?
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia whose leaves contain psychoactive compounds that can produce both stimulant and opioid-like effects. While often marketed as a natural remedy, kratom can be highly addictive and potentially dangerous.
An estimated 1.7 million Americans aged 12 and older used kratom in 2021, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health. This significant usage rate reflects kratom’s growing popularity, but also highlights the need for specialized treatment services.
Research shows concerning patterns of use among certain populations. An estimated 0.7% of individuals in the U.S. have used kratom in the past year, with past-year proxy diagnosis of prescription opioid use disorder being associated with increased odds for kratom use, with 10.4% of those with use disorder reporting use.
The Science Behind Kratom Addiction
Kratom contains two primary psychoactive alkaloids—mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine—that partially activate the same opioid receptors in the brain as morphine and other opioids. This mechanism can lead to physical dependence and addiction, particularly with regular use.
The risk of dependence development seems to be highest for individuals who frequently consume higher doses (more than 5 grams per day and more than 3 times per day). Understanding this risk profile helps our treatment team develop personalized care plans that address individual usage patterns and addiction severity.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Kratom Addiction?
Recognizing kratom addiction can be challenging because symptoms often mirror those of opioid dependence. Our team at No Matter What Recovery looks for these key indicators:
Physical signs
- Tolerance requiring increased amounts to achieve the same effects
- Continued use despite negative health consequences
- Withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped (muscle aches, irritability, mood changes)
- Physical symptoms like weight loss, insomnia, or tremors
Behavioral and psychological signs
- Using kratom for longer periods than intended
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or quit
- Spending significant time obtaining or using kratom
- Neglecting responsibilities or relationships due to kratom use
Withdrawal symptoms
- Muscle pain and body aches
- Anxiety and irritability
- Depression and mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
- Nausea and digestive issues
- Cravings for kratom
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Our Comprehensive Kratom Addiction Treatment Approach
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our IOP Los Angeles program allows you to maintain your daily responsibilities while receiving comprehensive treatment. This flexible approach includes:
- Individual therapy sessions focusing on addiction patterns and triggers
- Group therapy with peers facing similar challenges
- Family therapy to rebuild relationships and establish healthy support systems
- Medication-assisted treatment when clinically appropriate
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Estimated United States past-year prevalence of kratom use is 0.8%, and kratom users tend to have more serious substance abuse profiles than non-users or users of cannabis, alcohol or cigarettes. Many individuals struggling with kratom addiction also face co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or trauma.
Our dual diagnosis treatment center in Los Angeles addresses both substance use disorder and underlying mental health issues simultaneously through an integrated approach to treatment that considers the complex pharmacology of kratom alkaloids and their interaction with mental health conditions:
- Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
- Evidence-based therapy approaches like CBT and DBT
- Trauma-informed care, particularly important for LGBTQ+ individuals
- Medication management for co-occurring conditions
Specialized LGBTQ+ Care
As a provider deeply committed to serving the LGBTQ+ community, we understand the unique factors that may contribute to kratom use, including:
- Social anxiety in the gay community
- Internalized homophobia and its impact on mental health
- Historical trauma and discrimination
- Challenges accessing affirming healthcare
Our LGBTQ+ addiction treatment program provides a safe, judgment-free environment where you can explore these factors and develop healthy coping strategies.
What Evidence-Based Therapies are Available for Kratom Addiction?
Individual Therapy
Our individual therapy services in Los Angeles include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change thought patterns that lead to kratom use
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for emotional regulation and distress tolerance
- Motivational Interviewing to strengthen your commitment to recovery
- Trauma-informed therapy approaches
Group Therapy
Group therapy in Los Angeles provides peer support and shared learning experiences. Our groups focus on:
- Relapse prevention strategies specific to kratom addiction
- Developing healthy coping skills
- Building a supportive recovery community
- Addressing shame and stigma around addiction
Family Therapy
Family therapy helps rebuild relationships damaged by addiction while educating loved ones about kratom addiction and recovery. We address family roles in addiction and work to establish healthier communication patterns.
Why Choose No Matter What Recovery for Kratom Addiction Treatment?
- LGBTQ+ Affirming Care: We understand the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and provide culturally competent care that addresses these specific needs.
- Evidence-Based Treatment: Our approach combines the latest research on kratom addiction with proven addiction treatment methodologies.
- Experienced Team: Our multidisciplinary team includes addiction medicine physicians, licensed therapists, and peer support specialists with expertise in kratom addiction.
- Flexible Treatment Options: We offer various levels of care to meet your individual needs and life circumstances.
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Take the First Step Toward Recovery Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with kratom addiction, don’t wait to seek help. The dedicated team at No Matter What Recovery is here to support you on your journey to lasting recovery.
Don’t let kratom addiction control your life any longer. Recovery is possible, and we’re here to help you achieve it. Contact No Matter What Recovery today to learn more about our kratom addiction treatment program and take the first step toward a healthier, substance-free future.
FAQs
The duration of kratom addiction treatment varies based on individual factors such as length of use, dosage, and presence of co-occurring conditions. Our intensive outpatient program typically runs 8-12 weeks, but some clients benefit from longer treatment periods.
Yes, our intensive outpatient program is specifically designed to accommodate work and school schedules. Treatment sessions are available during evening hours and weekends, allowing you to maintain your daily responsibilities while receiving comprehensive care. We work with clients to create flexible schedules that support both recovery goals and life obligations. Many clients find that addressing their kratom addiction actually improves their performance at work or school.
Kratom addiction presents unique challenges because it affects both opioid and adrenergic receptor systems, creating complex withdrawal patterns that can include both stimulant and opioid-like symptoms. Additionally, kratom is often perceived as “natural” or “safe,” which can create denial about the severity of addiction. Many clients initially used kratom to self-treat anxiety, depression, or chronic pain, requiring our treatment approach to address these underlying issues alongside the addiction itself.
Cravings are a normal part of the recovery process and can occur weeks or months after treatment completion. Our comprehensive aftercare planning specifically addresses kratom craving management through continued therapy, support groups, and relapse prevention strategies. We teach evidence-based techniques like mindfulness, cognitive restructuring, and healthy coping skills to help you manage cravings when they arise. Many clients find that cravings decrease significantly in intensity and frequency over time with proper ongoing support.
Dr. Eric Chaghouri is our Medical Director at No Matter What Recovery. Since completing his forensic psychiatry fellowship, he has established a successful and thriving practice in Southern California, focusing on treatment of co-occurring psychiatric and addictive disorders.
Dr. Eric Chaghouri is our Medical Director at No Matter What Recovery. Since completing his forensic psychiatry fellowship, he has established a successful and thriving practice in Southern California, focusing on treatment of co-occurring psychiatric and addictive disorders.