Intervention (counseling)

Intervention (counseling)

An intervention is a professionally directed, education process resulting in a face to face meeting of family members, friends and/or employer with the person in trouble with addiction. Interventions are used to provide the addict with a clear understanding of the destruction they are causing to themselves and their loved ones.

History

The concept of an intervention began in the 1960s with Dr. Vernon Johnson. Johnson's work focused on the impact of alcoholism on the family system and he developed the Johnson Intervention model to address this issue.

Types of Interventions

There are several types of interventions, including:

• Family Intervention: This involves family members confronting the addict about their behavior. The goal is to encourage the individual to seek treatment.

• Workplace Intervention: This occurs when an employer or co-workers confront an employee about their substance abuse. The goal is to protect the workplace environment and encourage the individual to seek help.

• Crisis Intervention: This type of intervention is used in emergency situations where immediate action is required.

Process

The intervention process typically involves several steps:

1. Planning: A group is formed, often with the help of a trained interventionist.
2. Gathering Information: The group learns about the extent of the loved one's problem and researches treatment options.
3. Forming the Intervention Team: The team members set a date and location and work together to present a consistent, rehearsed message.
4. Deciding on Specific Consequences: If the loved one refuses to accept treatment, each person on the team needs to decide what action he or she will take.
5. Holding the Intervention Meeting: Without revealing the reason, the loved one is asked to the intervention site.
6. Follow-Up: Involves the majority of the work. The intervention team supports the individual in staying in treatment and building a new life free of addiction.

Effectiveness

Studies have shown that interventions can be effective in getting people into treatment for substance abuse. However, the success of the intervention depends on the willingness of the individual to seek help and the support provided by family and friends.

File:Intervention counseling.jpg

Intervention counseling session

See Also

• Addiction
• Substance Abuse
• Counseling
• Therapy