How to Organize an Intervention

Although interventions are commonly associated with drug or alcohol addiction, they are a powerful tool for confronting any type of destructive behavior. Many people who eventually recover cite an intervention as a turning point.

Instructions

• 1

  Enlist the services of a professional. People who are affected by the addict's negative behavior are often angry and confused. Without the help of a skilled professional, an intervention can leave the addict feeling defensive and alienated. Organizations such as the National Intervention Referral Organization or Lighthouse Solutions can help you find a professional interventionist.

• 2

  Educate yourself about the dysfunction. As you learn more about the particular problem, you will be better able to help a loved one who is struggling. Then, with the help of the interventionist, identify appropriate treatment options.

• 3

  Identify the participants in the intervention. Who should be involved in the process? What will each person contribute? This will involve several telephone calls or meetings. The interventionist can also help in this process.

• 4

  Plan the intervention. Determine the date and time for the event. In some cases, it is helpful for people to rehearse their "lines" or to write down what they are going to say.

• 5

  Have a treatment option in place. In many cases, the person who is being confronted will be willing to accept help immediately; his feelings might change if the process is delayed. Find out what programs are available and what their success rates are. Since treatment is expensive, you will probably want to find out about insurance coverage. Most insurance companies require preauthorization for mental health or addiction treatment.