Family Intervention

Could an Intervention help you? Click below to see the answers to common questions.

Any time someone needs help but refuses to accept it, a family intervention is appropriate.

A family intervention can be used for people engaged in any apparently self-destructive behaviour such as:-

• alcoholism
• drug abuse
• anorexia/bulimia/compulsive overeating/overexercising
• gambling/shopping/spending or computer addiction
• a senior needing assisted living
  

A family intervention can be done with love and respect in a non-confrontational, non-judgmental manner.

A Family Intervention involves:-

Preparation - in which the participants meet with the Interventionist to educate themselves about the problem, to determine how to best help themselves, and to prepare for Intervention Day.

Preparation often involves several meetings, telephone calls, and culminates in a practice session immediately prior to the Intervention Day.

Family Intervention Day - when family, friends, work colleagues and a professional Interventionist gather at a designated location with the subject.

The Interventionist controls the process and, the subject hears how much he or she means to everyone there, the impact on the group of their behaviour, and what they want their relationship to be in the future.

Then the subject is asked to accept help now; appropriate arrangements are already in place. The tone is loving, respectful and supportive, but firm; there is no debate.

Following Family Intervention Day the education process continues. Participants follow through on their plans for helping themselves.

Family Interventions vary because each family situation is different, the scope and approach to each intervention must vary accordingly. What may be practical and appropriate for one family may not be for another.

Family interventions are difficult and delicate matters and it is important that they be done properly. No family intervention should be undertaken without advice and counsel of a professional Interventionist who should be present at critical times.