Quick Summary
- CRAFT Model: Community Reinforcement and Family Training has a 64-74% success rate in getting a loved one into treatment. without confrontation.
- Professional Help: Board Registered Interventionists (BRI-II) are trained professionals who plan, coordinate, and facilitate interventions. Their involvement significantly improves outcomes.
- Timing: Do not wait for "rock bottom." Intervening early, before homelessness, incarceration, or overdose, produces better treatment outcomes.
When Is an Intervention Necessary?
An intervention is appropriate when the person consistently denies having a problem, refuses all suggestions to seek treatment, their health or safety is in immediate danger, or their addiction is causing severe harm to others (children, spouse, coworkers). Do not attempt an intervention when the person is actively intoxicated, in psychosis, or has recently expressed violent ideation. in these cases, call 911.
Evidence-Based Intervention Models
The Johnson Model is the "classic" intervention: a group of loved ones, guided by a professional, presents pre-written impact statements and a clear treatment plan. The person is told that if they refuse treatment, specific boundaries will be enforced. ARISE (A Relational Intervention Sequence for Engagement) uses a gradual, invitational approach across 3 levels of increasing intensity. CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) teaches family members to change their own behavior patterns. reinforcing sobriety and allowing natural consequences of use. to motivate the addicted person toward treatment without a formal confrontation.
Planning a Successful Intervention
Hire a Board Registered Interventionist. Identify 4-8 participants who the addicted person respects and loves. Each writes a personal impact statement. Pre-arrange the treatment bed, insurance authorization, and transportation before the intervention. Choose a time when the person is likely sober. Have a bag packed and ready to go immediately after they agree. Plan specific consequences if they refuse (not threats. boundaries you are genuinely prepared to enforce).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a professional interventionist cost?
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Professional interventionists typically charge $2,500-$10,000 depending on complexity, travel, and the level of crisis. Some treatment centers include intervention services in their program costs or offer financing.
What if they refuse?
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Refusal is common but not the end. Follow through on stated boundaries. Many people accept treatment days or weeks later after experiencing the consequences. The CRAFT model specifically trains families to continue creating motivation over time.
Can we do an intervention without a professional?
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You can, but outcomes are significantly better with professional guidance. Untrained interventions risk escalation, emotional manipulation by the addicted person, or enabling behavior by participants that undermines the process.
Sources
RehabSearch cites peer-reviewed research and recognized health organizations.
- Meyers RJ, et al. "Community reinforcement and family training (CRAFT)." J Subst Abuse Treat. 2002.
- ARISE Intervention. "A Relational Intervention Sequence for Engagement." ariseintervention.com.