Intervention Therapists in Reston, VA

Photo of Jacques de Broekert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reston, VA
Jacques de Broekert
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, LSATP, CSAC, MAC
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
Additionally, I offer intervention services for addiction treatment.
Often in an attempt to finish "unfinished" business, we reenact unresolved issues in hopes of a better outcome finding ourselves face to face with the mountain of pain looming large in our past. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and groups struggling with addiction, compulsive behaviors, depression, trauma, and related issues. If you struggle with addiction, I use emotionally connective and psychodynamic therapy to help you reach abstinence and then recovery, pre or post rehab. If you are struggling with the out-of-control substance abuse merry-go-round, we can work together to improve your life.
Additionally, I offer intervention services for addiction treatment.
Often in an attempt to finish "unfinished" business, we reenact unresolved issues in hopes of a better outcome finding ourselves face to face with the mountain of pain looming large in our past. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and groups struggling with addiction, compulsive behaviors, depression, trauma, and related issues. If you struggle with addiction, I use emotionally connective and psychodynamic therapy to help you reach abstinence and then recovery, pre or post rehab. If you are struggling with the out-of-control substance abuse merry-go-round, we can work together to improve your life.
(571) 489-0724 View (571) 489-0724
Photo of Dana Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Dana Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
She creatively integrates evidence-based intervention strategies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relational life therapy, cognitive processing therapy, problem-solving therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and mental health integrative medicine.
Dana Thompson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 6 years of experience helping adults of all ages to improve their wellbeing and enhance their quality of life. Dana offers individual or group therapy for those experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and grief. She specializes in working with people who are experiencing unexpected life transitions due to illness, injury, role identity change, separation/divorce, or other types of loss.
She creatively integrates evidence-based intervention strategies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relational life therapy, cognitive processing therapy, problem-solving therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and mental health integrative medicine.
Dana Thompson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 6 years of experience helping adults of all ages to improve their wellbeing and enhance their quality of life. Dana offers individual or group therapy for those experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and grief. She specializes in working with people who are experiencing unexpected life transitions due to illness, injury, role identity change, separation/divorce, or other types of loss.
(571) 556-9540 View (571) 556-9540
Photo of Amber June, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Amber June
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20191
I next transitioned to working with substance use disorders, in an inpatient detoxification center & community outreach program, then for a national intervention and consultation company.
Effective therapy is a journey in which people identify the reasons behind their choices, then are subsequently able to make adjustments that better their health and optimize their strengths. As a therapist I hope to walk along side you as you explore your purpose for being and doing. The concept that drives my approach to therapy is that "We are generally the better persuaded by the reasons we discover ourselves than by those given to us by others." - Blaise Pascal. My primary areas of expertise include substance abuse, loss/grief, and mental health counseling to adolescents, adults, and families.
I next transitioned to working with substance use disorders, in an inpatient detoxification center & community outreach program, then for a national intervention and consultation company.
Effective therapy is a journey in which people identify the reasons behind their choices, then are subsequently able to make adjustments that better their health and optimize their strengths. As a therapist I hope to walk along side you as you explore your purpose for being and doing. The concept that drives my approach to therapy is that "We are generally the better persuaded by the reasons we discover ourselves than by those given to us by others." - Blaise Pascal. My primary areas of expertise include substance abuse, loss/grief, and mental health counseling to adolescents, adults, and families.
(703) 581-7729 View (703) 581-7729
Photo of Michael Monahan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Michael Monahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
Michael is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who strives to support and guide his clients through challenging life experiences. He has over 10 years of professional experience working with children, youth, and families. Michael specializes in the areas of depression, anxiety, adults with childhood trauma, mood disorders, adoption issues, cultural issues, parent-child conflicts, relational discord, and managing life transitions. Michael has extensive experience empowering and engaging individuals, couples, and families to move toward positive changes.
Michael is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who strives to support and guide his clients through challenging life experiences. He has over 10 years of professional experience working with children, youth, and families. Michael specializes in the areas of depression, anxiety, adults with childhood trauma, mood disorders, adoption issues, cultural issues, parent-child conflicts, relational discord, and managing life transitions. Michael has extensive experience empowering and engaging individuals, couples, and families to move toward positive changes.
(571) 462-2538 View (571) 462-2538
Photo of Cathy Patrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Cathy Patrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
If you're having some kind of pain with anxiety, depression and/or stress, I am here to help you! It can be difficult to keep picking up over and over again. I understand this and provide an open, warm and safe space where my clients feel comfortable and can recommit to helping themselves again! We work together to pull from your strengths, re-introduce existing coping strategies and learn many new ones. My focus is for you to gain tools quickly and learn to maintain them. Clients will see improvements in their mood, outlook, energy, physical health, emotional health and in relationships. I take care of and care for my clients!
If you're having some kind of pain with anxiety, depression and/or stress, I am here to help you! It can be difficult to keep picking up over and over again. I understand this and provide an open, warm and safe space where my clients feel comfortable and can recommit to helping themselves again! We work together to pull from your strengths, re-introduce existing coping strategies and learn many new ones. My focus is for you to gain tools quickly and learn to maintain them. Clients will see improvements in their mood, outlook, energy, physical health, emotional health and in relationships. I take care of and care for my clients!
(703) 454-5763 View (703) 454-5763
Photo of Farifteh Emamghorashi in Reston, VA
Farifteh Emamghorashi
MEd
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Life is full of changes. If the simple pleasures of the life feel out of reach. You are not alone.I am trained working with clients in transition such as Divorce, Loss, Critical illness, PTSD due to catastrophic accident, rape, violence and war. I am known as therapist by Fairfax Courts for Anger and Abuse prevention and treatment, as well as helping Undocumented Immigrants for Psychological Assessment and Anxiety Treatment. I am successfully working with couples to solve their issues and having healthy relationship with children, relatives and themselves .
Life is full of changes. If the simple pleasures of the life feel out of reach. You are not alone.I am trained working with clients in transition such as Divorce, Loss, Critical illness, PTSD due to catastrophic accident, rape, violence and war. I am known as therapist by Fairfax Courts for Anger and Abuse prevention and treatment, as well as helping Undocumented Immigrants for Psychological Assessment and Anxiety Treatment. I am successfully working with couples to solve their issues and having healthy relationship with children, relatives and themselves .
(202) 440-1381 View (202) 440-1381
Photo of Noelle R Bice, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reston, VA
Noelle R Bice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20191  (Online Only)
So, you are the one who "doesn't need anyone's help". You ignore the red flags in relationships or neglect yourself because someone needs you. You're the overwhelmed person who wears the happiness mask even though you are feeling drained, depleted or trying to heal your past traumas. Life is about transitions, and we need support getting through the rough patches. You are more resilient, capable of healing, worthy of love, and deserving of peace than you may realize. If you’re ready to reduce the stress, heal, or confidently achieve peace for a better quality of life, you're in the right place.
So, you are the one who "doesn't need anyone's help". You ignore the red flags in relationships or neglect yourself because someone needs you. You're the overwhelmed person who wears the happiness mask even though you are feeling drained, depleted or trying to heal your past traumas. Life is about transitions, and we need support getting through the rough patches. You are more resilient, capable of healing, worthy of love, and deserving of peace than you may realize. If you’re ready to reduce the stress, heal, or confidently achieve peace for a better quality of life, you're in the right place.
(757) 260-4879 View (757) 260-4879
Photo of Patrick Nisco, Psychologist in Reston, VA
Patrick Nisco
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
(703) 596-8238 View (703) 596-8238
Photo of Felicea C. Meyer-DeLoatch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Felicea C. Meyer-DeLoatch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20192
You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think".......By A.A. Milne. It is my deepest desire to actively assist those in need of support through life's challenges. I am eager to work with those experiencing a crisis, conflict, or seemingly unmanageable change in the course of life's events. I discretely assist individuals in finding solutions to some of the more challenging issues in life.
You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think".......By A.A. Milne. It is my deepest desire to actively assist those in need of support through life's challenges. I am eager to work with those experiencing a crisis, conflict, or seemingly unmanageable change in the course of life's events. I discretely assist individuals in finding solutions to some of the more challenging issues in life.
(703) 962-1282 View (703) 962-1282
Photo of Ashley Patrican, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reston, VA
Ashley Patrican
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20191  (Online Only)
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
(571) 474-3064 View (571) 474-3064
Photo of Stella Benetis-Matta, Mental Health Counselor in Reston, VA
Stella Benetis-Matta
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190  (Online Only)
Welcome, I look forward to our work together in a warm and supportive environment. I have over 30 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples and families. My expertise and strength is in using an eclectic and holistic approach that is uniquely fitted to your values and lifestyle. I place great emphasis on the potential that you possess to make positive life changes. Together, we will identify the areas that you feel you are struggling in or want to change as I gently challenge and empower you to develop a healthier belief system that includes self advocacy and better boundaries.
Welcome, I look forward to our work together in a warm and supportive environment. I have over 30 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples and families. My expertise and strength is in using an eclectic and holistic approach that is uniquely fitted to your values and lifestyle. I place great emphasis on the potential that you possess to make positive life changes. Together, we will identify the areas that you feel you are struggling in or want to change as I gently challenge and empower you to develop a healthier belief system that includes self advocacy and better boundaries.
(401) 681-8123 View (401) 681-8123
Photo of Deepti Mishra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reston, VA
Deepti Mishra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Feeling alone, disconnected, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Struggling with strong emotions? Wanting to create a secure bond with your partner? You have been trying everything you can think of but nothing seems to be working. Let me guide you out of your painful situation and help you create peace, calm, and contentment in your life. My goal is to help you connect with your own strengths and face life's challenges with confidence. I am ready to help you make a change utilizing emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Feeling alone, disconnected, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Struggling with strong emotions? Wanting to create a secure bond with your partner? You have been trying everything you can think of but nothing seems to be working. Let me guide you out of your painful situation and help you create peace, calm, and contentment in your life. My goal is to help you connect with your own strengths and face life's challenges with confidence. I am ready to help you make a change utilizing emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
(571) 526-0369 View (571) 526-0369
Photo of LeslieGrace Craver in Reston, VA
LeslieGrace Craver
LMSW, ReikiM, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
Waitlist for new clients
Consider pausing and taking a breath. You are moving forward& it often requires a new lens,new tools and a partnership with a professional. Welcome to Healing & Growth! I utilize mind/body/spirit integrative therapies including Compassion Focused therapy, Yoga & Reiki to assist individuals, partners&families experiencing life transitions, grief & loss and unhealthy generational patterns.Together we identify and build upon core beliefs and existing strengths. Through the process self-limiting beliefs shift to self-enhancing beliefs.*My professional & personal ethical mandate includes being actively opposed to racism in all its forms.
Consider pausing and taking a breath. You are moving forward& it often requires a new lens,new tools and a partnership with a professional. Welcome to Healing & Growth! I utilize mind/body/spirit integrative therapies including Compassion Focused therapy, Yoga & Reiki to assist individuals, partners&families experiencing life transitions, grief & loss and unhealthy generational patterns.Together we identify and build upon core beliefs and existing strengths. Through the process self-limiting beliefs shift to self-enhancing beliefs.*My professional & personal ethical mandate includes being actively opposed to racism in all its forms.
(703) 775-4612 View (703) 775-4612

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Faby Diallo in Reston, VA
Faby Diallo
MEd, BCBA, LBA
Not Verified Not Verified
Fairfax, VA 20151
My mission is to work with your child to achieve their full potential. I design plans that incorporate the natural environment to develop life skills and unlock your child’s tremendous potential. My approach is rooted in science and driven by daily insight from interacting with your child. As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum and a professional, I have had extensive experience working with children with special needs and training parents. I understand the challenges that your family faces. I believe that parent involvement plays a crucial role in the intervention and I want to give the best support to continue the work.
My mission is to work with your child to achieve their full potential. I design plans that incorporate the natural environment to develop life skills and unlock your child’s tremendous potential. My approach is rooted in science and driven by daily insight from interacting with your child. As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum and a professional, I have had extensive experience working with children with special needs and training parents. I understand the challenges that your family faces. I believe that parent involvement plays a crucial role in the intervention and I want to give the best support to continue the work.
(703) 844-2905 View (703) 844-2905
Photo of Chantel Bishop, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Reston, VA
Chantel Bishop
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151  (Online Only)
I have 5 yrs of experience using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Crisis intervention, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Mood Regulation, Family Systems Theory, Distress Tolerance, Strengths-based approach, Resiliency, Communication Skill Building, and Problem Solving.
Dear reader, whether you are initiating services with me, or continuing your mental health journey, know that you are still taking steps in the right direction to cater to your mental health needs! As a therapist I develop a relaxed and judgment-free environment to build a healthy and supportive therapeutic relationship with you. I use cultural sensitivity, ethics, & evidence-based practices to address Depressive Disorders, Self-injurious Behavior, Anxiety/Bipolar Disorders, Anger/Stress Management, Grief, PTSD, Substance Abuse, and some Trauma. I am experienced in working with families, children 5-17, couples, and elderly clients.
I have 5 yrs of experience using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Crisis intervention, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Mood Regulation, Family Systems Theory, Distress Tolerance, Strengths-based approach, Resiliency, Communication Skill Building, and Problem Solving.
Dear reader, whether you are initiating services with me, or continuing your mental health journey, know that you are still taking steps in the right direction to cater to your mental health needs! As a therapist I develop a relaxed and judgment-free environment to build a healthy and supportive therapeutic relationship with you. I use cultural sensitivity, ethics, & evidence-based practices to address Depressive Disorders, Self-injurious Behavior, Anxiety/Bipolar Disorders, Anger/Stress Management, Grief, PTSD, Substance Abuse, and some Trauma. I am experienced in working with families, children 5-17, couples, and elderly clients.
(571) 475-9169 View (571) 475-9169
Photo of Veronica Watkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Veronica Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSWC, LCSW
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
I also utilize Person-Centered, Solution Focused, Crisis Intervention, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Looking for purpose? Trying to understand life? Hard transition from or to the league? Questioning God? At the end of your rope? I may not have the answers but I can help you process your questions, your thoughts, and your situations. I'm here to team with you through this journey. I can partner with you and provide the needed support through life transitions, self-exploration, and self-development. Whether you are someone who is looking to understand their thoughts and behaviors, a couple looking to improve their relationship, or an athlete looking for an unbiased listening ear, I'm the therapist for you.
I also utilize Person-Centered, Solution Focused, Crisis Intervention, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Looking for purpose? Trying to understand life? Hard transition from or to the league? Questioning God? At the end of your rope? I may not have the answers but I can help you process your questions, your thoughts, and your situations. I'm here to team with you through this journey. I can partner with you and provide the needed support through life transitions, self-exploration, and self-development. Whether you are someone who is looking to understand their thoughts and behaviors, a couple looking to improve their relationship, or an athlete looking for an unbiased listening ear, I'm the therapist for you.
(240) 436-3671 View (240) 436-3671
Photo of Dessia Crawmer, LCSW Private Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Dessia Crawmer, LCSW Private Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I believe therapeutic skill combined with sensitive attunement can illuminate a healing path, removing psychological barriers and empowering clients to reach their full potential. I am a highly competent psychotherapist with twenty-two years of counseling experience. I specialize in creating a safe environment to explore issues that will result in integration and lasting change. The relationship bond that I form with each client, I consider a sacred trust to be guarded and respected. I use a deeply effective EMDR model which produces desirable results proven by research. I have EMDR certification . I counsel individuals, couples, and families. Visit my website for more information.
I believe therapeutic skill combined with sensitive attunement can illuminate a healing path, removing psychological barriers and empowering clients to reach their full potential. I am a highly competent psychotherapist with twenty-two years of counseling experience. I specialize in creating a safe environment to explore issues that will result in integration and lasting change. The relationship bond that I form with each client, I consider a sacred trust to be guarded and respected. I use a deeply effective EMDR model which produces desirable results proven by research. I have EMDR certification . I counsel individuals, couples, and families. Visit my website for more information.
(703) 496-4550 View (703) 496-4550
Photo of Supportive Solutions, EJS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Supportive Solutions, EJS
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
In my experience, I've found that the more clients are interested and motivated to make changes, the more they will benefit from the therapeutic process. Client's issues can vary from dealing w a change or transition in their lives to someone who struggles with a chronic mental health issue. Clients are able to be practical and realistic in relation to their goals. Typically, clients are wanting to have a safe space and connection in order to reduce the intensity, duration, or frequency of their issues or associated symptoms.
In my experience, I've found that the more clients are interested and motivated to make changes, the more they will benefit from the therapeutic process. Client's issues can vary from dealing w a change or transition in their lives to someone who struggles with a chronic mental health issue. Clients are able to be practical and realistic in relation to their goals. Typically, clients are wanting to have a safe space and connection in order to reduce the intensity, duration, or frequency of their issues or associated symptoms.
(703) 810-7019 View (703) 810-7019
Photo of Martha Gizachew, Qualified Mental Health Professional in Reston, VA
Martha Gizachew
Qualified Mental Health Professional, QMHP-A, QDDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
My name is Martha Gizachew, and I was born and raised in Ethiopia before moving to the United States at an early age. My upbringing and experiences called me to counseling, and I provide services in the state of Virginia in my development as a counselor with Virginia State University. My decision to practice in psychology was driven by first and secondhand experiences of discrimination, colorism, and other mistreatments of vulnerable populations. As a counselor, I am dedicated to being part of the solution for the common and uncommon effects of trauma, discrimination, religious persecution, and other situations of intolerance.
My name is Martha Gizachew, and I was born and raised in Ethiopia before moving to the United States at an early age. My upbringing and experiences called me to counseling, and I provide services in the state of Virginia in my development as a counselor with Virginia State University. My decision to practice in psychology was driven by first and secondhand experiences of discrimination, colorism, and other mistreatments of vulnerable populations. As a counselor, I am dedicated to being part of the solution for the common and uncommon effects of trauma, discrimination, religious persecution, and other situations of intolerance.
(804) 465-9952 View (804) 465-9952
Photo of Mary Guckert Psychologist in Reston, VA
Mary Guckert Psychologist
PhD
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
Are you feeling stuck and having a hard time getting back on track? Maybe you are someone with big goals and dreams, but you're having a hard time executing a plan and designing accountability to reach your full potential. I specialize in life and executive skills coaching that helps you be the best version of you. I design coaching to help you develop self-awareness of obstacles that get in the way and act as a non-biased sounding board to help you address how to overcome them. As your coach, I am your accountability partner, holding you accountable to stay on track with the action plans you design to reach your life goals.
Are you feeling stuck and having a hard time getting back on track? Maybe you are someone with big goals and dreams, but you're having a hard time executing a plan and designing accountability to reach your full potential. I specialize in life and executive skills coaching that helps you be the best version of you. I design coaching to help you develop self-awareness of obstacles that get in the way and act as a non-biased sounding board to help you address how to overcome them. As your coach, I am your accountability partner, holding you accountable to stay on track with the action plans you design to reach your life goals.
(703) 343-9066 View (703) 343-9066
Intervention Therapists

How does an intervention work?

An intervention is a planned, structured meeting in which a person’s family or friends voice concerns about the person’s behavior and its consequences; the goal is for the person to accept treatment. In this meeting, the person’s loved ones (often with the guidance of a trained interventionist) share how the person’s behavior has harmed them and the consequences if the person refuses treatment. They collectively ask the person to accept a proposed treatment plan.

How effective are interventions?

There isn’t extensive research on the efficacy of interventions, in part because success is difficult to measure. Individuals often enter addiction treatment after an intervention, for example, but treatment itself may not work, especially if the person only begins due to external pressure from others rather than due to internal motivation to change. However, if all other attempts at helping someone have failed, an intervention may be worth exploring.

What are the limitations of interventions?

While a friend or family member’s intentions are in the right place in wanting to help a loved one through an intervention, there are significant limitations to the approach. The surprising nature of the event can make the person feel ambushed or judged. They may feel embarrassed or ashamed as a result, and relationships may be strained or broken. This can make it difficult for the individual to be receptive to the concerns of their loved ones and the interventionist.

Are there alternatives to interventions?

Rather than confronting a loved one through an intervention, an effective and less pressured approach is to create space for a caring, open, one-on-one conversation. This works best if the loved one asks open-ended questions, listens attentively to the answers, and frames their observations and statements with concern rather than judgment. More than one conversation may be needed, but change can take root over time.