Key Points For Setting Up An Intervention

The goal of the intervention is to create a “bottom” in a safe and controlled environment , so that the individual will recognize their need for help. It is the loving thing to do.

All attending must be aware of the plan to get the individual to the treatment center of choice right from the intervention. The interventionist and the point person will make the arrangements prior to the Intervention.

All the attending must write a two-part letter to be read in turn to the individual. The first part should express your own personal feelings about their unmanageable life within the family unit. This letter should not contain judging or criticisms, just honest feelings about how the individual’s behavior has made you feel. The second part will only be read if the first part does not bring the individual to compliance with the plan of the group. The second part presents the consequences if the individual does not comply. These consequences may vary based upon the participants’ relationship with the individual. However, all participants need to be willing to "Burn Bridges" with the individual until they comply and get the help everyone agrees they need.

Displays of emotion are normal and expected. However, attacking, screaming or any other display of disrespect will be addressed by the Interventionist. That person will be asked to stop, and if necessary, asked to leave the room.

The intervention should take place during the day so that there will only be a short window of time between each end of the intervention and the admission of the individual into the treatment program in that same day.

An intervention is designed to interrupt the destructive process that has been occurring in the family. All family members have played a part in that (enabling) process. There should be no finger pointing. Everyone should be willing to go to some type of counseling or begin to attend a support group for their own healing and education.