An intervention isn’t a simple process.
It can be difficult, heart-wrenching, and incredible rewarding when it’s a success. According to the Mayo Clinic, an intervention is a “carefully planned process” to help individuals facing drug or alcohol addiction and carried out by a licensed professional. Because of just how important this process is and what it means to you, it’s critical to choose a professional you have full trust and faith in.
Where Can You Find an Interventionist?
Interventionists have very specific skills that go beyond that of a therapist. Though many work as psychotherapists or other classifications of therapists, those licensed and certified as a CIP (Certified Intervention Professional) are the ideal choice. When comparing treatment centers and addiction programs, seek out a location offering a CIP specifically. Many locations, including here at DK Solutions, offers this specialist to work with you and your family.
Schedule a Consultation
Whenever possible, conduct a one-on-one consultation with an interventionist as one of your primary steps in hiring this professional. This allows you to truly gauge the experience and personality of the individual.
Describe Your Loved One’s Needs
Your first discussion is about why you are there. Talk about your loved one, his or her experiences, and what steps you’ve already taken. You also want to talk about the true severity of the situation. Is there a history of violence, overdoses, or suicidal behavior? If so, seek out help immediately from the team. You also want to discuss what could have created the situation, such as traumatic events in your loved one’s history.
Discuss Your Obstacles
In nearly every situation there are obstacles. A family member may be resistant to interventions. You may have the worry that your loved one cannot miss work to enter into rehab. Costs can be a prohibiting factor for some people. Discuss this with the interventionist. You’ll learn about methods that can help you to ensure the best possible outcome.
Talk About Your Desired Outcome
During your consultation, ask all of the questions you have. Then, discuss what your desired outcome is. For example, do you want the individual to enter into a detox program immediately? Are you considering intensive outpatient therapy? The key is to discuss these goals with the professional openly. Allow that individual to offer some guidance and insight into what may be best for your loved one. Talk about options. Discuss a timeline.
Discuss the Process
A final step in the consultation is to discuss the actual process. How will the intervention be staged? What role should you play in it? Who should be a part of the team who attends? You also want to consider location, timing, and the overall ability to surprise your loved one. Again, listen to the suggestions provided. Gather insight into what can be expected and what has worked with others.
Reach an Agreement with the Intervention Team
Interventions bring people together in a small group setting. For the intervention to be a success, each person in the team must commit to the process. Before you hire the professional, it’s essential to gain insight into what each person feels about the process. Be sure your team is in agreement before moving forward. Then, work with the interventionist to establish a plan where everyone can meet. Most often, this meeting will be an all-hands-on process to discuss what is going to occur and how to be ready for what happens during the intervention.
At this point, you should be fairly confident in the individual you’ve selected. However, if you don’t feel comfortable after this meeting, you should still be able to locate another professional to help you.
Hiring an interventionist is a big step, but many people at this point are facing critical decisions that could save the life of their loved one. As a result, you’ll want to be thorough, but you also want to make decisions quickly. Your loved one may not be able to wait months for help. You can gain insight into any professional by asking for references, checking experience, and looking for recommendations. The key is to take action to ensure your loved one gets help as soon as possible.