Most people with addiction problems and eating disorders are in denial about their situation and are unwilling to seek treatment. They may not be aware of how their behaviour has had a negative effect on themselves and others or even care. This can be very difficult for a loved one and can lead to additional conflict within families. A Clinical Interventionist can help a family discuss the reality of the situation with the person, in a measured and respectful way. A skilled Interventionist will be able to quickly establish a relationship with the person affected. This will be based on the principles of respect and a non-judgemental approach. This starting point will open up a more balanced discussion and will lead to the person to feel more motivated to seek help.

There are three types of intervention that I provide:

Intervention – This intervention is a meeting with the individual either at their home (if appropriate) or a consulting room. The focus on this meeting is to listen, encourage and to motivate the person to get help.

Crisis Intervention – This is when a person is feeling very distressed, anxious, depressed or suicidal. This meeting can take place at the home (if appropriate) or a consulting room. The focus of this meeting is to help the person to feel more relaxed and refer to the appropriate services. Assessment of imminent risk can be undertaken within a crisis and an emergency admission made if necessary.

Family Intervention – The family intervention model I provide is from   “Love First” by Debra and Jeff Jay. They are the authors of Love First, A Family’s Guide to Interventions.

Each family is different and each intervention will be unique. An in depth understanding of your families needs will be established prior to any intervention. I will speak to all concerned family members individually. I understand that it will have taken courage to acknowledge that your loved one needs help. It is my hope that I can provide the specialist care and knowledge that your family may desperately need.

A typical format for an Intervention will be:

1. Family meeting – I will meet with the family to understand how they have been affected and what the current situation is. It may be difficult at first but be assured that I fully understand how devastating addiction can be. The family will receive information on addiction and are asked and guided to write a letter to the individual, which they will read in the intervention. The family will also be given guidance and sources of support for themselves.

2. Family Rehearsal – This is the second family meeting. The rehearsal is necessary before doing the intervention. The rehearsal has four segments. The first is to edit and rehearse the letters. Each person reads the letter aloud while the group listens carefully to both tone and content. The second segment is where I will decide in what order the letters will be read. In the third segment I will decide the seating arrangement and may arrange furniture. The fourth segment is the dress rehearsal whereby we practice the intervention.

3. Intervention – This is when the family read the letters and ask the person to go in to treatment. I will then escort the person to the planned treatment facility.

Continued support to the family – I will offer on going support to the family for as long as needed. Addiction can be an isolating problem and family members have often been managing a very difficult situation, for a long period of time, before they seek help. I am here to ensure that this becomes easier for everyone, not just the person with an addiction.