How to Stage an Intervention

Staging an intervention provides help for someone struggling with problems such as addiction. If unsure of an intervention's effectiveness, then a professional therapist or counselor also allows for extra facilitation. Rehabilitation specialists have experience in dealing with addicts and know what behavior to expect in an intervention. In the case of someone who isn't struggling with addiction but perhaps another problem, such as dropping out of school, an intervention by loved ones may be a good solution.

Instructions

• 1

  Contact treatment centers that specialize in the type of help he needs. There are many facilities that are specific to a certain type of problem. Choose a treatment center in advance so that if the person agrees to get help, he can go directly to the center after the intervention. Talk to a interventionist. If you feel that you are unable to stage the intervention without professional help, interventionists are trained professionals that can help you plan it, mediate during the intervention and even accompany your loved one to a treatment facility.

• 2

  Meet with as many people as possible, including the interventionist, prior to the intervention to discuss how it will be handled and what they will say to the addict. It is important that everyone is prepared and the interventionist can offer suggestions to anyone who isn't sure what they should say.

• 3

  Pick a date that is the open for a majority of the people invited. It can be difficult with people's schedules to coordinate every person, but the most important aspect is that the addict does not know about it in advance. There is a possibility that they will resist an uncomfortable situation and not attend if they know beforehand. Choose a time that is convenient for the participants and when the addict would most likely be at that location.

• 4

  Invite people who are loved and respected by the person struggling. This would include those who understand the severity of the problem, who are willing to help and who are concerned about the outcome of the event. It is important to choose people who will speak honestly and openly to the person because the impact of words makes for a successful intervention.

• 5

  Keep the atmosphere positive during the intervention. Let your loved one know that everyone is gathered because they care about him and how important it is for him to seek help. Do not argue with him or blame him, and if a professional is present, allow her to handle the objections. At the end of the intervention, provided your loved one admits to needing help, allow him to pack a bag and take him to a treatment center. In the unfortunate event that your loved one does not admit it and refuses treatment, the ultimatum's consequences must start immediately, and hopefully prompt the person to change his mind and seek help.