Types of Interventions

Common Intervention Techniques

There are several approaches to interventions that range from simple, one-on-one conversations to structured processes involving professionals and multiple participants. The following are some of the most common intervention methods. 

Brief Intervention

A brief intervention is a one-on-one, structured, and client-centered option that is led by a trained professional interventionist. It is non-judgemental and, depending on the circumstances, may involve one to four counseling sessions, each lasting between 5 and 30 minutes. Brief interventions are based on the FRAMES model, which says: 

• Feedback discusses risks and consequences of substance use based on evaluation results.
• Responsibility encourages individuals to take control of their choices.
• Advice provides clear recommendations to reduce harm, such as cutting back or quitting. 
• Menu of Options offers alternatives to support change and encourage personal control. 
• Empathy uses reflective listening to build understanding without confrontation.
• Self-Efficacy builds confidence in the individual’s ability to make meaningful changes. 

Research shows that brief interventions can be effective in reducing heavy drinking and stimulant use. These short sessions help individuals recognize the impact of their substance use and motivate them toward healthier behaviors.  

Formal Intervention

A formal or classic intervention involves a group of close friends, family members, and even coworkers who come together to confront an individual about their addiction. Before the intervention takes place, a professional interventionist works with attendees to prepare for the discussion. This includes clarifying roles, setting expectations, and planning for all potential outcomes, including the possibility of resistance or refusal. 

Family System Intervention

A family system intervention addresses not only the addiction of the individual but also the family dynamics that may contribute to or be affected by addiction. This actively involves the entire family in the recovery process and focuses on building healthier relationships. The goals of a family intervention include: 

• Equip family members with strategies to handle the stress of addiction
• Reduce the emotional and practical burden addiction places on the family
• Address harmful family patterns that negatively affect recovery efforts
• Strengthen family involvement to encourage treatment participation and maintain progress
• Create a supportive environment that minimizes relapse risk

To meet these goals, families are encouraged to try different strategies that are designed to improve their ability to cope, encourage open communication, and support their loved one’s recovery journey. These include: 

• Recognize and adjust to shifting family roles and responsibilities
• Make lifestyle changes that align with recovery needs
• Create an environment for open and honest discussions about addiction
• Focus on areas of recovery that are within the family’s control
• Allow space to grieve losses, such as strained relationships or missed milestones 

Crisis Intervention

A crisis intervention becomes necessary when an individual struggling with addiction poses an immediate danger to themselves or others. This is initiated in response to sudden self-destructive behavior or a mental health crisis.

During a crisis, the person may experience intense confusion, anxiety, and frustration. Their ability to cope with stress may decline and lead to a heightened state of emotional and behavioral instability. In severe cases, this can manifest as violent outbursts, self-harming actions, or reckless and dangerous behaviors that put their life and the lives of others at risk. 

Crisis interventions focus on de-escalating these immediate threats through a collaboration between loved ones and professionals who are trained to handle acute mental health and addiction crises. 

Johnson Model

The Johnson Model is a structured intervention that is designed to guide an individual toward treatment with the support of family and friends. It focuses on creating a safe and supportive space for open discussion while maintaining a firm emphasis on the need for change. This intervention consists of seven components: 

1. Treatment Team: This will include family, friends, a therapist, and/or a professional interventionist. 
2. Planning: The time, location, and structure of the intervention is planned. 
3. Focus on Care: Maintain a positive and supportive tone rather than placing blame or criticism. 
4. Addiction Only: Focus on addressing only the issue of addiction, and avoid unrelated topics that might distract or overwhelm the individual. 
5. Evidence: Attendees present specific examples of how the individual’s addiction has negatively impacted their life and the lives of others. These can be put into letters. 
6. Primary Goal: The main objective is to motivate the individual to get treatment by framing it as a way to improve their quality of life rather than as a form of punishment or consequence. 
7. Treatment Options: Give the individual a sense of choice and control over the next steps by preparing a list of treatment options. 

Research shows that individuals whose families complete a Johnson Model intervention are more likely to enter treatment than those who do not receive this type of support.