The Types of Addiction Interventions & When to Use Them

There is more than one way to stage an intervention. So how do you know which type is right for a given situation?

Choosing the type of addiction intervention that will most likely lead the addict to accept treatment requires an in-depth analysis of the addict’s personality and background as well as the family dynamics.

If a loved one intervenes early enough, a simple request that the individual stop abusing drugs, gambling or engaging in other harmful behaviors may be sufficient. In other situations, it may be advisable to plan an elaborate intervention that requires precise timing and involvement from participants spread throughout the country.

In some cases, the best time to intervene follows a crisis event, such as a drunk driving arrest, a health scare or a fight. In these emotional moments, it can be difficult for an addict to deny that they have a problem.

The most common types of addiction interventions are described below:

The Johnson Model

The Johnson intervention, named after Episcopal priest and recovered alcoholic Vernon Johnson, has been used for more than 40 years. This method has also been dubbed the “A&E Model,” a reference to the popular television show A&E’s “Intervention.”

In this type of “surprise” intervention, or “living room ambush,” the addict does not receive notice of the intervention until the group sits down to meet with them. Prior to the intervention, the participants gather to create a plan and prepare for the anger and manipulation that are often expressed by the stunned addict.

During the intervention, friends, family and co-workers focus on the positive attributes of the addict and the negative changes they’ve noticed as a result of addiction. Each participant gives specific examples of behaviors or experiences that have impacted them in order to break through the addict’s denial.

By sending a message of love and concern, the majority of interventions are successful at getting the addict into treatment. If the addict declines treatment, the participants follow through on consequences (such as refusing to loan money or bail the addict out of jail) that will help the addict recognize the need for help.

While it can be highly effective, the Johnson intervention may not be the best choice for an addict struggling with trauma or who is likely to respond to surprise with violence, retaliation or self-harm.

The Invitational Model

In this milder, less confrontational approach, the addict is informed of the intervention and is invited to meet a group of caring friends and family. Also described as “motivational interviewing,” this model is most effective when the addict has begun to acknowledge that they have a problem that requires treatment. It is also effective for addicts who need a gentler, more gradual approach to recovery.

The Systemic Model

Family members are impacted by a loved one’s addiction and may also contribute to it through enabling and co-dependency. The systemic model takes into account the dysfunction addiction brings to the family system.

In this type of intervention, the entire family participates in the intervention as well as the education and counseling that are commonly part of addiction treatment. Through family therapy, loved ones are often able to evaluate their role in the addiction, change unhealthy behaviors and hold the addict accountable for their decisions.

These addiction intervention models can be used separately or in combination, depending on the needs of the particular group. There are also alternative models springing up, some of which encourage weekly group meetings and relationship-building in addition to getting the addict into treatment.

Drawing from their training and experience, a professional interventionist will complete a thorough assessment before determining which method will be most effective in a given situation.

Whatever method is chosen, one fact is clear: An intervention sets the wheels of change in motion at a time when families need it most.