Understanding Interventions - OmniQuake Recovery Advisors

When someone refuses to get help despite obvious destruction, families often consider an intervention. But interventions aren't what you see on TV. Done correctly, they can be effective. Done poorly, they can damage relationships and decrease the likelihood of treatment acceptance.

What Is an Intervention?

An intervention is a planned, structured conversation where loved ones express their concerns and encourage the person to accept treatment. It's typically facilitated by a professional and involves preparation, specific messaging, and immediate treatment options.

"An intervention is not about forcing someone into treatment. It's about breaking through denial and presenting a clear choice with loving accountability."

Types of Interventions

Johnson Model (Traditional)

The most recognized form. Family and friends gather to confront the person, share impact statements, and present treatment as the only acceptable path forward. Includes consequences for refusal.

Best for: Situations where the person is in significant denial and gentler approaches have failed.

ARISE (A Relational Intervention Sequence)

A gentler, invitational approach. The person is told about and invited to the intervention meetings from the start. Emphasizes collaboration rather than confrontation.

Best for: People who might respond to inclusion and respect; when preserving relationships is crucial.

CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training)

Trains family members to change their own behavior to make treatment more appealing. Focuses on positive reinforcement when sober, allowing natural consequences, and improving communication.

Best for: Families wanting to make changes themselves while waiting for readiness; shown to have high success rates.

Crisis Intervention

Occurs during or immediately after a crisis (overdose, arrest, medical emergency). Takes advantage of a moment when denial is cracked and willingness may be higher.

Best for: Capitalizing on breakthrough moments; requires having treatment options ready in advance.

When to Consider an Intervention

Good Candidates:

• Multiple failed conversations haven't worked
• The situation is getting progressively worse
• Health or safety is at serious risk
• Family is prepared to set real boundaries
• Treatment options are researched and available

Red Flags:

• History of violence or severe mental illness
• Family isn't united or committed
• No ability to follow through on consequences
• Doing it to "punish" or express anger
• Not working with a professional

Keys to a Successful Intervention

1

Work with a professional — A trained interventionist guides the process and manages emotions.
2

Have treatment arranged — If they say yes, they should leave immediately. Delays lose momentum.
3

Prepare what you'll say — Write impact letters focusing on love and specific observations, not accusations.
4

Mean your consequences — Only state boundaries you're actually prepared to enforce.
5

Stay calm and loving — Anger and blame trigger defensiveness and shutdown.

If They Say No

An intervention isn't guaranteed to result in immediate treatment acceptance. If they refuse:

Follow through on stated consequences
Don't return to enabling behaviors
Leave the door open for when they're ready
Get support for yourself (Al-Anon, therapy)

Many people who initially refuse eventually accept help—often within days or weeks when consequences become real.

Important Note

Interventions are powerful tools that require careful planning. They should never be attempted without professional guidance. A poorly executed intervention can damage trust and make future treatment acceptance less likely.

Understanding Interventions: When and How