Intervention Strategies

What are the different Intervention Strategies that Families Use?

Different intervention strategies are available and can be analyzed for appropriateness in each individual case. After studying an addict’s unique set of circumstances and past history, a decision can be made about which strategy will most likely motivate the addict to enter into treatment. A successful intervention is a well planned out event with the sole purpose of getting the addict to admit there is a problem and that they need help. Choosing the correct intervention strategy, the most suitable rehabilitation facility and loving participants is of paramount importance to increase the probability of success.

Intervention Strategies can have different Purposes

Being clear about the purpose of an intervention is key. An intervention is a very first step on the road to healing. While an intervention can be very emotional as the starting point on a long road to healing relationships, the intervention meeting is not established for that purpose. Staying focused on the primary objective of getting the addict into treatment is critical. Interventions are not the appropriate forum for rehashing other issues. By presenting a united front of concern instead of the blame for an addict, the focus becomes one of moving forward with dignity.

The Invitational Intervention Strategies

As the name suggests, interventions can be held without secrecy, planned much like a business meeting. In some situations, this intervention strategy works best. Every person is unique with different circumstances and some will respond better to a non-confrontational approach. In some cases, the “surprise” intervention does not work for everyone and can undermine trust. Professional counselors can help decide whether the Invitational Intervention is the best option. Participants are ask to attend this intervention. If the addict does not show up, this intervention is still held to discuss ways to support the addict.

Professionally Guided Surprise Intervention Strategies

This intervention strategy is also called the Johnson Model method. In some cases, it is deemed important to choose this method of “surprise” to ensure that the addict attends and is urged into treatment. An intervention is not always easy for those involved. But in many cases, this “surprise” intervention is the best way to get the addict to accept the fact that they need help. When concerned family members and friends confront an addict, it can be very a very powerful moment that drives the addict to finally take action and go into treatment.

Informal Family Driven “Soft” Intervention Strategies

In this intervention model family members confront the addict without the presence of a professional consultant. The involved family members prepare for the intervention by attending counseling sessions with expert coaching about how to proceed with the intervention on their own. As is true with the other models, preparation is key.

The S.M.A.R.T. Model of Interventions

Developed by Intervention Services, S.M.A.R.T. Model Interventions use a cognitive-behavioral model of interventions.  In other words, we look at the behaviors common to most substance abusers, and we seek to understand these common behaviors by discovering a primary underlying cognitive (or mental) operating basis in life.  S.M.A.R.T. Model Interventions understand that there are at least 3 types of interventions: Crisis, Recovery and Closure Interventions.

More information on the different models of interventions.

Conclusion

Professional interventions have become a lifesaver for many addicts who resist treatment on their own. Due to the nature of addiction and an addict’s reluctance to admit they have a problem, intervention is often the best strategy to use to get an addict’s attention and get them to enter treatment. Interventions do not always work, but a majority of the time they do end up getting the addict into treatment. With a loved one’s life hanging in the balance, an intervention is well worth the effort and expense. Many addicts will be the first to say that intervention was the reason they finally got help.

In essence, it is important to have an intervention service provider that is willing and able to tailor the intervention towards your needs and expected outcomes.  Although we, at Intervention Services, are considered an authority on interventions, that doesn’t mean we must be inflexible.  Allow us to guide you through making a choice that has the ideal solutions for your loved ones.