Once the patient is ready to be brought in, the interventionist takes the lead, introduces himself, and explains that family and friends are gathered in an expression of love and grave concern. He may refer to this gathering as a family meeting. He explains that each of them has something that they need to communicate. He is sure to point out that this is not a measure of attack and that everyone is there out of love.

If the addiction patient reacts brashly or defensively to the initial introduction, family and friends will take their cues from the interventionist. In some cases, the patient will threaten or even proceed to leave at the first inclination of the intervention process. At this point, the interventionist will look to the member of the family closest to the client. He might say something like, “before you leave, your wife has something she would like to say to you.” More often than not, this will get their attention.

The interventionist continues as the process facilitator. He sets and maintains the tone of the entire intervention. He makes sure that everyone stays on topic and that no one detracts from the gravity of the matter at hand. Once everyone has gone around the room, the interventionist asks if anyone has anything to add or if the client would like to say something. This is immediately followed by the group’s proposal. It may go something like this – “You’ve heard the expressed concerns from your family. We have arranged for you to be admitted into a treatment facility tonight. Will you agree to go?”

Intervention Outcomes

If the client agrees to seek help, then the intervention was a success, and the appropriate accommodations are met. If the patient does not agree to go, this does not necessarily mean that the intervention was a failure. Though perhaps disappointed in the initial outcome, the family has now formed a bond, which is considerably stronger than where they were prior to the intervention.

It is not uncommon for the family to present their loved ones with an ultimatum. This may sound something like, “We can not continue to support you or have you in our lives until you seek help.” This may sound harsh, but it is a measure that serves not only to protect the patient but to protect the family as well. This is a boundary that is essential to the well-being of both the client and the family.

The effectiveness and long-lasting results of the intervention don’t always present themselves immediately. Even if the initial result was not what one was set out to be achieved, it is not always immediately apparent the ways in which the client is affected. It may help plant the seed for that person and leave them better equipped to seek help on their own at a later time. For many, the intervention, no matter how instantly effective, is an experience they will take with them for years to come if firm boundaries and understanding are established in the intervention process, then that intervention can be deemed a success.