Clinical education event examines evidence-based medication strategies for addiction treatment professionals
Norwood, New Jersey–(Newsfile Corp. – January 8, 2026) – Valley Spring Recovery Center announced that it is hosting a live, in-person professional training event focused on evidence-based approaches to addiction medicine, led by its medical director, Dr. Michael Olla. The educational session is scheduled to take place Friday, January 16, 2026, at the newly launched Recovery Haven operated by Friends of Recovery Westchester in White Plains, New York, and is designed for licensed behavioral health and addiction treatment providers.
The event centers on translating current scientific research in addiction medicine into practical strategies that clinicians can apply immediately in real-world treatment settings. The training will examine how Medication Assisted Treatment, commonly referred to as MAT, supports long-term recovery by addressing both the biological and behavioral dimensions of substance use disorders. Participants will earn 1.5 continuing education credits and the program is open to social workers, licensed mental health counselors, and CASAC, CPP, and CPS professionals.
The session will explore how FDA-approved medications are used within addiction treatment to stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and support patient engagement in care. According to data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, individuals receiving medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan are significantly more likely to remain in treatment and less likely to experience fatal overdose. These outcomes have contributed to a growing adoption of MAT across clinical and community-based treatment programs nationwide.
Dr. Olla, a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in addiction medicine, will lead the presentation and discuss how medication-based interventions can be integrated with counseling and behavioral therapies. The training will focus on clinical decision-making, patient assessment, and strategies for reducing treatment dropout, a persistent challenge in addiction care. Attendees will also examine common misconceptions surrounding MAT and review current research findings that inform best practices.
The event will take place at Friends of Recovery Westchester’s Recovery Haven, located at 235 Mamaroneck Avenue, Lower Level, in White Plains. Networking and lunch are scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by the formal presentation from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Parking is available at the nearby Lyon Place Garage. The venue’s recent launch reflects continued investment in community-based recovery education and professional collaboration across the region.