Although no two interventions are identical, a basic framework for interventions has been utilized for more than four decades with little variation.
1. Consult with prospective interventionists.
Interview prospective interventionists to select one to lead your process. The advantage of having an experienced person leading the intervention is that unforeseen contingencies which could destroy the process are more likely to be handled without the process being hindered. When lives are on the line, experience can make a significant difference.
If you consult with Dale, this initial conversation will aid you in determining if an intervention is appropriate in your specific situation. You will evaluate whether Dale is a good “fit” for you. Since Dale considers you to be his client, he will advise you about required time commitments, costs, treatment options and potential outcomes. Your intervention goal will be clarified and your “process” and “what if” questions answered.
2. Engage and schedule an interventionist of your choosing.
If you choose Dale as your interventionist he will immediately establish clarity about communication and the next steps in the process. He will begin aiding you to accomplish your intervention objective–getting your loved one to seek help. Dates for the formal part of the intervention will be scheduled immediately when appropriate. Usually two full days are scheduled for this portion of the intervention.
3. Follow the interventionist’s guidance.
Dale will lead you step by step in preparing for the intervention. He will guide you in gathering the optimal team of family and friends for the intervention. He will answer questions about treatment options, schedule phone appointments as needed, communicate via email and meet face to face as possible to fully enlist and prepare your team for the intervention. Whether the time between engaging Dale as your interventionist and the intervention is short or long, Dale’s commitment to your process and preparation will not waver. He will be available to you.
4. Meet with the interventionist for face to face training and preparation.
On the first of the two scheduled intervention days Dale will meet with you to train the team involved in the intervention on the following day. Preparing well means knowing what to do and how to do it–how to do it effectively from the heart. Your deepest concerns about your family member will be fully addressed. When anger, fear and other powerful emotions are felt they will be appropriately heard and addressed. Dale will work with you to instill confidence in your intervention process, and to creatively, compassionately and powerfully invite your loved one to seek help. Preparation will include rehearsal. Specific plans for meeting with your loved one the next day will be made.
5. The intervention team and interventionist will meet with the loved one.
On day two of the intervention Dale will lead the intervention team to invite your loved one to accept the help he needs. The process will be loving and respectful. If your loved one chooses to get help the prearranged plans for treatment will be initiated immediately. If arrangements for Dale to escort your loved one to treatment have been made in advance, this will proceed as planned.
If your loved one chooses not to get the help he needs, your preparation and commitments are not in vain. Many who refuse help at this meeting choose help the following week as they test and experience your commitments and changes.
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