Trust is the foundation of any intervention. A transparent, honest, and compassionate approach preserves dignity, reduces shame, defensiveness and opens the door to real dialogue. When family members express love and concern without blame, set clear boundaries, and offer healthy support, they create the opportunity for lasting recovery. Surprise tactics tend to trigger shame and can dissolve trust. In rare instances when the person of concern is cognitively challenged mentally or as a result of their using is in imminent danger the surprise method can sometimes be the best approach.

The preferred Intervention process is transparent, proven and compassionate. No ambush, no conspiracy, no secrets. This kind of intervention is non-punitive and is designed to support and inspire the individual’s recovery. Here is an overview of how I work….

• Several days before the intervention the person of concern is informed; if they decide not to participate, the intervention will proceed without them. The moment the message is delivered, the intervention begins. The family and friends are meeting to share their love and concern for them, and to create new boundaries and ways of interacting based on honesty, mutual respect, and compassion for all involved.

• Prior to the intervention I’ll meet with the individual's family and friends for an assessment to develop a deeper understanding of the individual and the dynamics involved. Together, we’ll explore the intervention process, discuss logistics, consider treatment options, and aftercare to support their successful recovery.

• After a thorough assessment if it has been decided that an intervention is the best course of action. We then go through the checklist of selecting treatment options, whether it's inpatient or outpatient, selection of treatment center, verifying insurance or private pay, selected treatment center confirmation, travel logistics, timing, place of intervention, and personal letters to be read at the intervention.

• Two short, concise letters are written by participants in the intervention. One that shares their love and concern about what has become of them as a direct consequence of their addiction, and a desire for them to accept treatment. The second letter is only read if they choose not to accept treatment. This letter describes how the relationship will change with new boundaries. These new boundaries are different for everyone. For example, it could be no contact until they seek treatment, limited contact under certain conditions, or limited financial resources. These letters express the individual and collective shifting strategy regarding the person of concern, with new boundaries, clear consequences, and unified agreements to eliminate any enabling behavior.

• A few days before the intervention a chosen family member or friend informs the person of concern. At that very moment… the intervention has begun. Reactions to this invitation vary tremendously: in some cases, indignation and outrage; in others, relief and acceptance. Whatever the reaction, it is clear that if they choose not to accept the invitation, the intervention, we would move forward without them.

• At any time, if the person of concern would like to talk to me, they are more than welcome to do so. This often helps to answer questions or lingering doubts about the process. Most often, the loved one shows up to defend themselves, reassure all present, “it’s not that bad,” or surrender to an opportunity to transform their lives.

• More often than not, those invited to their intervention show up sometimes, to defend themselves, minimize their condition, or even attack those who have assembled to express their love and concern. Deep down, they know they need help and are ready to take steps to change their lives. Occasionally, they do not show up even though accommodations have been made for their participation; regardless, the intervention continues without them.