2025 CMA TRAINING AT THE AATOD CONFERENCE/Philadelphia, PA
The Certified MAT Advocacy (CMA) Training, offered by the National Alliance for Medication Assisted Recovery (NAMA Recovery), is an intensive and empowering program that certifies participants to become Certified MAT Advocates (CMAs)—peer leaders trained to advocate for individuals receiving medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
This training is deeply rooted in the historic work of Dr. Vincent Dole and Dr. Marie Nyswander, who in the 1960s pioneered the use of methadone in treating heroin addiction. Their groundbreaking research redefined opioid use disorder as a chronic medical condition, establishing the foundation for modern-day, evidence-based treatment models that include a range of FDA-approved medications.
Today, the need for strong patient advocacy remains urgent. CMA trainees will learn how to identify and respond to stigma and discrimination, educate communities, and advocate for systemic change. The training covers medical and legal issues, the science of MOUD, harm reduction principles, and effective communication strategies.
About NAMA Recovery:
Founded in 1988, NAMA Recovery is the oldest national advocacy organization dedicated to defending the rights of individuals in MAT/MOUD. It is led by people with lived experience, promoting recovery with dignity, health equity, and patient empowerment across systems.
Training Topics Include:
Historical evolution of MAT/MOUD
Overview of methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone
Stigma, discrimination, and patient rights
Advocacy skills for healthcare, housing, employment, and criminal justice
Public speaking, storytelling, and peer leadership
Ethical principles and boundaries in advocacy work
How to write grievances and file formal complaints
How to contact and communicate with your state’s SOTA (State Opioid Treatment Authority)
Who Should Attend:
Individuals in methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone treatment; peer recovery specialists; counselors; harm reduction advocates; program staff; and others committed to advancing recovery justice.
Outcome:
Participants who complete the full training and evaluation will receive a certificate and be recognized as Certified MAT Advocates (CMAs)—joining a national network of trained peers working to protect rights, educate the public, and lead recovery-focused change.
Date: October 4th, 2025 at the AATOD Conference, Philadelphia, PA For more information, please visit: AATOD
TO REGISTER, PLEASE VISIT: CMA 2025 registration
Cost: $50 per participant. Registration will also be conducted on-site at the AATOD Conference