Opioid Addiction Treatment in Houston

We Treat A Wide Range of Patients who suffer from Mental Health & Substance Abuse Disorders

If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health challenges and substance use disorder, our experienced team is here to help guide you toward lasting recovery.

Opioids are highly addictive substances that continue to fuel a major public health crisis in the United States. Millions of prescriptions are written each year, and many individuals develop a dependency—even when using the medication as directed. Understanding the different types of opioids, their effects, and common patterns of misuse is essential for recognizing the need for timely treatment.

At Solace Texas in Houston, we provide outpatient treatment programs tailored to address opioid abuse and addiction. Each treatment plan is customized based on the individual’s diagnosis, history, and personal recovery goals to ensure the most effective path to healing.

What Are
Opioids?

In the United States, several types of opioids are frequently prescribed and misused. Common prescription opioids include oxycodone, hydrocodone, and codeine. Illicit opioids such as heroin, as well as powerful synthetic drugs like fentanyl, are also widely abused and pose significant health risks due to their extreme potency.

Opioids work by binding to receptors in the brain and spinal cord, producing strong pain relief and feelings of euphoria. However, they also suppress the central nervous system, leading to side effects such as drowsiness, slowed breathing, constipation, and nausea. With continued use, individuals often develop tolerance—requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect—and physical dependence, where the body becomes reliant on the drug to function normally.

What Does Opioid
Abuse Look Like?

Unfortunately, opioid misuse is widespread. Some individuals begin by misusing their prescribed medications—taking larger doses, using them more frequently, or altering the method of administration, such as crushing pills to snort or inject. Others obtain opioids illegally, either through street drugs or fraudulent prescriptions. The widespread availability of these substances, combined with the false belief that prescription opioids are inherently safe, continues to drive the growing rates of abuse and addiction.

Short & Long Term
Effects of Opioid Addiction

Short-term effects of opioid abuse:

Euphoria and relaxation
Pain relief
Sedation and drowsiness
Slowed breathing and heart rate
Constipation
Nausea and vomiting
Confusion and impaired cognition
Constricted or pintpoint pupils

Long-term effects of opioid abuse:

Physical dependence and tolerance
Increased risk of overdose
Respiratory depression leading to respiratory failure
Liver damage and hepatitis
Increased vulnerability to infections
Hormonal imbalances and sexual dysfunction
Cognitive impairment and memory problems
Mental Health Issues such as depression and anxiety
Social isolation and strained relationships
Financial problems and legal issues related to obtaining drugs

Symptoms of
Opioid Addiction

Signs and symptoms of opioid abuse can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their addiction. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

Behavioral changes: Increased secrecy, isolation from loved ones, and a loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities are common behavioral red flags.

Mood swings: Individuals may fluctuate between euphoria when using and irritability, depression, or agitation when not using.

Physical symptoms: Look for signs such as pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, slurred speech, slowed breathing, and frequently nodding off.

Neglected responsibilities: Opioid misuse often leads to poor performance or frequent absences from work, school, or home responsibilities.

Financial issues: Sustaining an opioid habit can result in significant financial strain, including borrowing or stealing money.

Neglected hygiene and appearance: People struggling with opioid addiction may ignore personal grooming, experience noticeable weight loss, or appear unkempt.

Relationship problems: Conflicts with family and friends, social withdrawal, or a shift in peer groups are often seen.

Doctor shopping or forged prescriptions: Individuals may visit multiple doctors or alter prescriptions to maintain access to opioids.

Drug paraphernalia: Items like pill bottles, syringes, burned spoons, or powder residue may indicate opioid use.

Withdrawal symptoms: When opioid use is reduced or stopped, withdrawal can include anxiety, restlessness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle aches.

Treatment Options for
Opioid Addiction with Solace Texas

At Solace Texas, we take a whole-person approach to treatment, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of recovery. Our outpatient program allows individuals to receive structured care during the day while returning home or to a sober living environment at night. Each program begins with a comprehensive assessment to identify the individual’s specific needs, including any co-occurring mental health conditions alongside opioid addiction.

Individual Therapy

Working one on one with a licensed clinician can help address issues that lead to addiction and identify triggers for addiction. Individual therapy can give better understanding and insight in order to effectively make changes that will allow for progression in recovery. Therapeutic goals can be established as a collaborative effort between the therapist and individual.

Group Therapy

Sharing experiences in a group therapy setting is one of the most beneficial parts of rehab. Group therapy allows for the development of social skills being supervised by a therapist. Similar experiences can be shared in order to relate and reduce feelings of lonliness.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely regarded as the gold standard in therapeutic treatment. This evidence-based approach helps individuals recognize and address negative thought patterns, beliefs, and behaviors that may be contributing to their addiction. Often, patients are unaware of these underlying cognitive distortions, yet they play a significant role in sustaining addictive behaviors. Through CBT, individuals gain tools to challenge these thoughts and develop healthier coping strategies.

Dialectial Behavior Therapy

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that has proven effective in treating various addictions, including prescription drug abuse. DBT focuses on teaching four key skill sets—mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness—to help individuals manage their emotions and behaviors more constructively. By replacing harmful habits with healthy coping strategies, individuals are better equipped to avoid relapse and build a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Experiential Therapy

Experiential therapy uses hands-on, activity-based approaches to support emotional healing and personal growth. By incorporating recreational activities like yoga, hiking, art therapy, and meditation, individuals can reconnect with past interests or discover new passions. These activities not only provide healthy outlets for stress but also promote a sense of balance between mind and body—supporting long-term recovery and overall well-being.

Physical Exercise

Addiction is often accompanied by isolation and a decline in physical well-being. Reintroducing regular exercise can help individuals regain physical health, often returning to levels seen before addiction. Establishing a consistent fitness routine not only enhances physical strength and energy but also supports mental health by reducing stress, improving mood, and boosting self-esteem. Creating healthy lifestyle habits centered around movement is a key step toward lasting recovery.