What is an intervention?

An intervention is a carefully planned process that may be done by family and friends, in consultation with a doctor or professional such as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor or directed by an intervention professional (interventionist). It sometimes involves a member of your loved one's faith or others who care about the person struggling with addiction.

During the intervention, these people gather together to confront your loved one about the consequences of addiction and ask him or her to accept treatment. The intervention:

• Provides specific examples of destructive behaviors and their impact on your loved one with the addiction and family and friends
• Offers a prearranged treatment plan with clear steps, goals and guidelines
• Spells out what each person will do if your loved one refuses to accept treatment