What is an Intervention

Intervention is a proven, successful process that has enabled thousands of addicts to receive treatment despite the fact that they have already refused to do so. Their addictions can be to alcohol and other mood altering drugs as well as to food, anorexia, gambling, internet, sex and others. Contrary to myth, people do not have to hit bottom in order to receive help. Sometimes that is too late. An intervention, by breaking through the denial of the addict succeeds in “bringing the bottom up” by creating a crisis. Through clear, detailed, often documented information, presented in a loving, firm and supportive way the person is able to see the effect their addiction has had on everyone who is important to him/her as well as on their own lives. There are a number of different approaches utilized by Interventionists such as:

The Johnson Model

This model focuses on the positive aspects of the addict’s personality and the negative changes that occur as a result of their addiction. Specific examples of their behavior are presented in a loving, caring approach with the intent of breaking through their denial of their addiction. The group, together as a unit, all reinforcing the same caring message has an positive effect on the addict and on average, more than 90% of addicts will then accept treatment.. Should they decline, the group is prepared to provide serious consequences that will make a considerable negative impact on his/her life. This leverage often is sufficient to convince them.

The Systemic Model

The systemic model involves the entire family. The philosophy of this model is that all persons involved move into recovery. All participants are given education and counseling including the addicted person (if he/she will join them). Whether that person comes or not, the family is making changes that it is believed will motivate him/her to stop the behavior.

The ARISE Model™

Using a compassionate Invitational Intervention™, the ARISE three-phase process is a Continuum of Care that leads your loved one into appropriate treatment and recovery. The addicted individual is invited to join the process right from the beginning with no surprises, no secrets, no coercion, and absolute respect and love. ARISE introduces the addicted person and the family to a new life of recovery and healing. The individual does not need to hit bottom before getting help.

The ARISE process breaks the cycle of repeated disappointment and failure without the blame, shame, and guilt that accompanies the disease. It brings healing to family, friends and co-workers who come together to build a solid recovery network. It works because the entire network is involved, and every decision is made by the majority. There is no opportunity for the addicted individual to pressure anyone "one-on-one" which would let the disease win. The focus of ARISE is on both individual and family healing and recovery. ARISE gets over 83% of addicted individuals into treatment, with 61% sober by the end of the first year.