Clinically reviewed by the licensed clinical team at Shepherd Recovery Centers. Content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Sources include the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
The Scope of the Opioid Crisis
Opioid addiction is the most deadly substance use crisis in American history, and it continues to claim lives at an alarming rate. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 80,000 people died from opioid-involved overdoses in a single year, accounting for roughly 75% of all drug overdose deaths in the United States.
More than 2.7 million Americans aged 12 or older had an opioid use disorder in 2022. (SAMHSA, 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health)
In Texas, the opioid epidemic has followed national trends. The Texas Department of State Health Services reports that opioid overdose deaths have increased sharply over the past decade, with fentanyl now the dominant driver. Fort Bend County and the greater Houston area are not insulated from this crisis. It is in communities like Missouri City (working families, parents, people holding down jobs) where opioid use disorder quietly takes hold.
Take the next step
Recovery starts with one conversation.
Our admissions team can walk you through your options, verify your insurance, and schedule an assessment. No pressure, no judgment, just help.
What Is Opioid Use Disorder?
The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction as a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. Opioids, including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription pain medications, bind to opioid receptors in the brain, triggering a powerful release of dopamine. Over time, the brain adapts, requiring more of the substance to produce the same effect while generating intense withdrawal when the substance is removed.
Opioid use disorder is diagnosed according to criteria established in the DSM-5, which include tolerance, withdrawal, loss of control over use, and continued use despite harm. A formal diagnosis by a licensed clinician is the starting point for individualized treatment planning.
Signs and Symptoms of Opioid Addiction
Opioid use disorder presents differently in different people, but common signs include:
- Strong urges or cravings to use opioids
- Continued use despite negative consequences at work, home, or in relationships
- Using more than intended or for longer than intended
- Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from opioids
- Withdrawal symptoms when opioids are stopped: sweating, nausea, muscle aches, anxiety, insomnia
- Loss of interest in activities that were previously important
- Using opioids to manage emotional pain, anxiety, or depression
If you recognize these patterns in yourself or a loved one, you are not alone, and effective treatment is available. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) confirms that opioid use disorder responds well to evidence-based treatment, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) combined with counseling.
Our Opioid Treatment Approach at Shepherd Recovery Centers
At Shepherd Recovery Centers, we treat opioid use disorder through a comprehensive, individualized outpatient model. Our licensed clinical team conducts a thorough assessment at intake, including medical history, substance use history, mental health screening, and social history, to build a treatment plan that fits your specific situation.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT is the gold standard of care for opioid use disorder. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration confirms that MAT reduces opioid use, overdose deaths, criminal activity, and the transmission of infectious diseases. At Shepherd, we offer FDA-approved MAT medications including buprenorphine (Suboxone) and naltrexone (Vivitrol), always in combination with counseling and clinical oversight. MAT is not a substitute for recovery work. It is a medical tool that makes recovery work possible.
Individual and Group Therapy
Every client receives individual therapy with a licensed counselor. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) are primary modalities, supported by group therapy that builds community, reduces isolation, and teaches skills critical to sustained recovery.
Levels of Care
Depending on the severity of your opioid use disorder and your life circumstances, treatment may begin at the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) level with a transition to Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and then Outpatient (OP) as you stabilize. Our continuum of care is designed to provide the right level of support at each stage of recovery.
Relapse Prevention Planning
Opioid use disorder has a high rate of relapse without structured aftercare. Our team builds individualized relapse prevention plans that identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and establish a recovery support network before clients transition out of active treatment.
Research shows that people who remain in treatment for longer periods and who use MAT have significantly better outcomes. Retention in treatment is one of the strongest predictors of long-term recovery. (NIDA, Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment)
Why Choose Us?
A more personal, values-driven approach to outpatient care
In a crowded treatment landscape, Shepherd Recovery Centers stands apart through intentional care and meaningful relationships.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. We meet clients where they are and walk alongside them toward sustainable recovery.
What Makes Us Different:
What to Expect from Our Behavioral Health Counseling Process
Beginning counseling may feel uncertain, but understanding the structure of care provides clarity and reassurance.
Mental health recovery is a structured and ongoing process supported by professional expertise and consistent therapeutic engagement.
Our Recovery Services
Comprehensive addiction and behavioral health care under one roof
Shepherd Recovery Centers offers a full continuum of outpatient substance abuse and mental health services, tailored to each individual’s needs.
Our outpatient model allows clients to remain engaged in work, family, and community while receiving professional care that drives real progress.
Our Recovery Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Started
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, Shepherd Recovery Centers is ready to help. Our licensed clinical team serves Missouri City, Fort Bend County, and the greater Houston area. We accept most major insurance plans and can verify your benefits within 24 hours. The first call is confidential and carries no obligation.