The following are some commonly asked questions about the intervention process for an addict:
Is a professional interventionist really necessary? Can’t we just do this on our own?
Yes, to both questions. Your family certainly can try to conduct an intervention. However, professional interventionists are trained to achieve the greatest success rate with an addict accepting treatment. Remember also that interventions, by their very nature, are highly sensitive and possibly volatile situations. One more reason to have a professional interventionist is the fact that the addicted individual has probably already heard about the family’s concerns and feelings. The professionally trained interventionists at AltaCenters are objective and new to the situation, and they are trained to communicate effectively with an addicted individual.
How do I know if it’s the right time for an intervention?
The fact that you are researching this issue might in itself be an indication that the alcoholic/addict’s addiction is likely at the point of needing intervention. Interventions usually occur after an individual’s drinking or drugging is out of control, and they seem unlikely to stop the destructive behaviors on their own. The majority of individuals at this stage are in denial of the severity of their substance abuse problems and the detrimental effects not only on the addict themselves but on their friends and families as well.
What if the alcoholic/addict is not likely to cooperate?
Interventionists are trained to deal with these situations. They will carefully instruct the family members on how to deal with this issue if an individual does not cooperate during the intervention.
I don’t feel comfortable criticizing my family member. Will this be necessary?
No. Criticizing or arguing with your loved one is not part of an intervention, and in fact, most interventions are conducted in a conversational tone. The goal of the intervention is to let the alcoholic/addict know how much they love and care and only want the best for them. This is accomplished with sensitivity and concern on the part of family members and the interventionist.
What if the person refuses to go to treatment?
The reality of the situation is that an individual over the age of 18 cannot be forced to go to treatment unless ordered to do so by the courts.
What is the plan for after an intervention?
Interventionists will ask questions about the individual’s history with drugs and alcohol. Based partly on it, they will contact a treatment facility and work with the facility until the alcoholic/addict goes in for assessment and treatment. Some interventionists like to remain in contact with the family during the individual’s course of treatment, as well as for a period of time afterward.
Does using an interventionist guarantee the alcoholic/addict will quit drinking/using?
No. Whether a person is successful in achieving and maintaining sobriety is really only up to the addicted individual themselves. However, using an interventionist, and encouraging an individual to go to treatment, are two important factors in motivating a person to get and stay sober.
Will all this be done in confidence?
Absolutely! You can trust that an interventionist will act in complete confidence.
What will all this cost?
This differs with each provider, but just to give you a very general idea, it will likely be in the thousands of dollars. Be sure to inquire of the interventionist exactly what the fees do and do not cover.