Intervention Therapists in New York, NY

Prudence Mckenzie
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Online Only
I utilize a variety of strength based and client centered treatment modalities in order to find the best intervention for you.
I am a License Mental Health Counselor with special training and skills in working with individuals, children, families, and communities for over 14yrs. I am able to incorporate the use of mindfulness, solution/focused, play therapy and a person centered/strength based approach. My passion all my life is to help others to improve their mental health. I am warm, compassionate, direct, combining experience, education, creativity, and a sense of humor, with a down-to-earth, realistic approach.
I utilize a variety of strength based and client centered treatment modalities in order to find the best intervention for you.
I am a License Mental Health Counselor with special training and skills in working with individuals, children, families, and communities for over 14yrs. I am able to incorporate the use of mindfulness, solution/focused, play therapy and a person centered/strength based approach. My passion all my life is to help others to improve their mental health. I am warm, compassionate, direct, combining experience, education, creativity, and a sense of humor, with a down-to-earth, realistic approach.
(646) 604-2500 View (646) 604-2500
Photo of Raven Stralow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Raven Stralow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
Certified in CBT, Crisis Intervention, and more, I provide a safe space to address anxiety, trauma, and life transitions.
You found me! I’m Raven. I'm here to help you manage anxiety, navigate the down days, and rebuild your self worth. As a therapist I specialize in a holistic and dynamic approach to healing. Therapy with me is a safe space, and you can feel comfort in knowing most of my clients are struggling with the same obstacles you are.
Certified in CBT, Crisis Intervention, and more, I provide a safe space to address anxiety, trauma, and life transitions.
You found me! I’m Raven. I'm here to help you manage anxiety, navigate the down days, and rebuild your self worth. As a therapist I specialize in a holistic and dynamic approach to healing. Therapy with me is a safe space, and you can feel comfort in knowing most of my clients are struggling with the same obstacles you are.
(929) 239-4857 View (929) 239-4857
Photo of Rebecca Kulzer, Psychologist, PhD
Rebecca Kulzer
Psychologist, PhD
New York, NY 10004
Rebecca Kulzer's is passionate about working with children, youth, and their parents to address issues related to complex medical conditions, early development, behavioral management, parent training, pediatric populations, neurorehabilitation interventions, "whole-person" intervention approaches, and addressing health disparities.
Dr. Rebecca Kulzer is board-eligible in pediatric psychology, neuropsychology, and rehabilitation psychology. She specializes in early development, and behavioral management, as well as integrative approaches to cognitive remediation and psychotherapy.
Rebecca Kulzer's is passionate about working with children, youth, and their parents to address issues related to complex medical conditions, early development, behavioral management, parent training, pediatric populations, neurorehabilitation interventions, "whole-person" intervention approaches, and addressing health disparities.
Dr. Rebecca Kulzer is board-eligible in pediatric psychology, neuropsychology, and rehabilitation psychology. She specializes in early development, and behavioral management, as well as integrative approaches to cognitive remediation and psychotherapy.
(747) 529-9184 View (747) 529-9184
Photo of Samantha Barkoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Samantha Barkoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I see patients facing depression, anxiety, bullying, stress, emotional abuse, and a host of other concerns for which I deliver a sustainable therapeutic intervention via a customized treatment plan.
I have worked extensively to develop and implement individualized programs, with particular emphasis on building executive functioning skills. In addition, I have extensive experience helping clients to build emotional management skills and foster personal efficacy. Whether you are overwhelmed by daily responsibilities or navigating social situations,
I see patients facing depression, anxiety, bullying, stress, emotional abuse, and a host of other concerns for which I deliver a sustainable therapeutic intervention via a customized treatment plan.
I have worked extensively to develop and implement individualized programs, with particular emphasis on building executive functioning skills. In addition, I have extensive experience helping clients to build emotional management skills and foster personal efficacy. Whether you are overwhelmed by daily responsibilities or navigating social situations,
(516) 494-3235 View (516) 494-3235
Photo of David Anthony Elliott, Counselor, MA, LMHC
David Anthony Elliott
Counselor, MA, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My experience spans from early intervention to community mental health clinics, providing counseling services to all individuals.
I offer psychotherapy with an integrative approach utilizing different theoretical frameworks to individualize sessions and goals. While working collaboratively a treatment plan will be tailored to one's own unique specific need. Together the goal is to create an environment where one feels safe, heard, and free to explore all of one's challenges.
My experience spans from early intervention to community mental health clinics, providing counseling services to all individuals.
I offer psychotherapy with an integrative approach utilizing different theoretical frameworks to individualize sessions and goals. While working collaboratively a treatment plan will be tailored to one's own unique specific need. Together the goal is to create an environment where one feels safe, heard, and free to explore all of one's challenges.
(646) 693-3349 View (646) 693-3349
Photo of John B Roesch - John Roesch - Interventionist, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CASAC, CRC, CAI, CIP, CPA
John Roesch - Interventionist
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CASAC, CRC, CAI, CIP, CPA
New York, NY 10001
My intervention treatments aim to disrupt negative cycles and guide individuals toward rediscovering their authentic selves.
Addiction, whether to substances like alcohol and drugs or behavioral patterns such as gambling or an eating disorder, can wreak havoc on individuals and their loved ones. My expertise lies in treating addiction across a spectrum, including behavioral addictions, eating disorders, and mental health crises. Beyond addressing substance abuse, I specialize in tackling the associated feelings of shame, depression, and anxiety. Recovery from addiction and related mental health challenges involves a holistic approach, encompassing the strengthening of mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
My intervention treatments aim to disrupt negative cycles and guide individuals toward rediscovering their authentic selves.
Addiction, whether to substances like alcohol and drugs or behavioral patterns such as gambling or an eating disorder, can wreak havoc on individuals and their loved ones. My expertise lies in treating addiction across a spectrum, including behavioral addictions, eating disorders, and mental health crises. Beyond addressing substance abuse, I specialize in tackling the associated feelings of shame, depression, and anxiety. Recovery from addiction and related mental health challenges involves a holistic approach, encompassing the strengthening of mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
(347) 454-7013 View (347) 454-7013
Photo of Crystal R Hartley-Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Crystal R Hartley-Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered, Crisis Intervention, Strengths Perspective, and the Life Model to name a few.
“We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” Maya Angelou. When overwhelmed, it is easy to become distracted and not prioritize your personal needs. You may feel like you’ve lost your way or have not identified obtainable goals. You may want support however you are unsure of what your needs are or if there’s a safe space for you to dig deep to address your areas of development. I have worked with individuals who have felt this way and are open to make a change in their lives.
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered, Crisis Intervention, Strengths Perspective, and the Life Model to name a few.
“We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” Maya Angelou. When overwhelmed, it is easy to become distracted and not prioritize your personal needs. You may feel like you’ve lost your way or have not identified obtainable goals. You may want support however you are unsure of what your needs are or if there’s a safe space for you to dig deep to address your areas of development. I have worked with individuals who have felt this way and are open to make a change in their lives.
(646) 762-9373 View (646) 762-9373
Photo of Lyndsay Fee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lyndsay Fee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, life transitions, spirituality, grief, bereavement, crisis intervention, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse and addiction.
I am a passionate and empathic psychotherapist. I utilize principles from various treatment modalities and evidence based practices including; CBT, DBT, person-centered therapy, ACT, existentialism, positive psychology, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing and psychodynamic therapy. My approach is dynamic and highly personalized to each client. I provide a warm, safe and nonjudgmental space to engage in exploration, self reflection and personal growth.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, life transitions, spirituality, grief, bereavement, crisis intervention, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse and addiction.
I am a passionate and empathic psychotherapist. I utilize principles from various treatment modalities and evidence based practices including; CBT, DBT, person-centered therapy, ACT, existentialism, positive psychology, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing and psychodynamic therapy. My approach is dynamic and highly personalized to each client. I provide a warm, safe and nonjudgmental space to engage in exploration, self reflection and personal growth.
(646) 904-5549 View (646) 904-5549
Photo of Brian Moriarty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brian Moriarty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
New York, NY 10011
Using a variety of methods including motivational enhancement therapy, critical time intervention, harm reduction methods, and cognitive behavioral therapy I connect with clients and lead them through short and long term life changes.
At some time in life, everyone feels overwhelmed and looks for a path to a happier, more comfortable day-to-day routine. That is different for everybody, and regardless of your individual needs, I can help you reach your goals. Change is not easy. When change involves mental health including anxiety and depression, substance abuse, or addressing negative behavioral patterns, it is necessary to involve a mental health professional.
Using a variety of methods including motivational enhancement therapy, critical time intervention, harm reduction methods, and cognitive behavioral therapy I connect with clients and lead them through short and long term life changes.
At some time in life, everyone feels overwhelmed and looks for a path to a happier, more comfortable day-to-day routine. That is different for everybody, and regardless of your individual needs, I can help you reach your goals. Change is not easy. When change involves mental health including anxiety and depression, substance abuse, or addressing negative behavioral patterns, it is necessary to involve a mental health professional.
(516) 980-3002 View (516) 980-3002
Photo of Natalie Morales - Natalie Morales Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, Counselor, LMHC, D
I am experienced with guiding clients of all ages through complex trauma work, grief and crisis intervention.
I'm a New York State licensed mental health counselor with a Master's degree and more than 20 years of professional experience, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I hold an additional license to provide mental health counseling services via telehealth to Vermont residents. I specialize in establishing therapeutic alliances with children and families and working with individuals with depression, anxiety, stress management, and relationship challenges.
I am experienced with guiding clients of all ages through complex trauma work, grief and crisis intervention.
I'm a New York State licensed mental health counselor with a Master's degree and more than 20 years of professional experience, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I hold an additional license to provide mental health counseling services via telehealth to Vermont residents. I specialize in establishing therapeutic alliances with children and families and working with individuals with depression, anxiety, stress management, and relationship challenges.
(845) 261-1109 View (845) 261-1109
Photo of Vivian Jacobs - Vivian Jacobs LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, BCPC, LMFT
Vivian Jacobs LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, BCPC, LMFT
Online Only
I can help you navigate turmoil,anxiety,social isolation, loss with crisis intervention for individuals, couples and families.
A Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience working with couples, I do premarital counseling for anxiety and fear of commitment, communication when intimacy has gone. Infidelity: forgiving is possible. Divorce, remarriage, and step-parenting. I work with life's transitions, partners being on different timelines regarding parenthood, depression, anxiety, challenges of being single in a couples world, changes in career or breaks in relationships, romantic or familial. I am interactive, empathetic. My goal: connect you with your inner strengths, build up your self-esteem, and move towards the next steps of your lives.
I can help you navigate turmoil,anxiety,social isolation, loss with crisis intervention for individuals, couples and families.
A Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience working with couples, I do premarital counseling for anxiety and fear of commitment, communication when intimacy has gone. Infidelity: forgiving is possible. Divorce, remarriage, and step-parenting. I work with life's transitions, partners being on different timelines regarding parenthood, depression, anxiety, challenges of being single in a couples world, changes in career or breaks in relationships, romantic or familial. I am interactive, empathetic. My goal: connect you with your inner strengths, build up your self-esteem, and move towards the next steps of your lives.
(914) 265-1044 View (914) 265-1044
Photo of Jayne C Barrett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-ASWCM
Jayne C Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-ASWCM
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25years of post-graduate training in the treatment of childhood, adolescent, and adult anxiety, depression, drug/ alcohol addiction, PTSD, and ADD/ADHD. I work with the family as a unit or individually if appropriate. I am trained in play therapy and have worked extensively with school and home behaviors. My style is warm, respectful, and interactive utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), in addition to being trained in conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments and implementing school and home Behavior Intervention Plans.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25years of post-graduate training in the treatment of childhood, adolescent, and adult anxiety, depression, drug/ alcohol addiction, PTSD, and ADD/ADHD. I work with the family as a unit or individually if appropriate. I am trained in play therapy and have worked extensively with school and home behaviors. My style is warm, respectful, and interactive utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), in addition to being trained in conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments and implementing school and home Behavior Intervention Plans.
(201) 654-7331 View (201) 654-7331
Photo of Dr. Valerie Quarles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW
Dr. Valerie Quarles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW
Serves Area
Some of my experiences include working with populations such as: children/youth/families, elderly, juveniles, and adults with issues of substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, mental health and domestic violence prevention and intervention.
It is my aim to empower individuals to use their strengths and skills in attaining and maintaining their goals, personal growth, and self-sufficiency. I contend that it is important to positively role model and to teach others the value of caring for themselves and others. I am very eclectic in my therapy approach in which I combine Cognitive Behavioral theory, Psychodynamic, Problem Solving, Task-Centered, Solution Focus, Narrative, and Crisis. I will personalize our discussion to create a customized treatment plan to assist you in your success. Also experienced in: Addictions , Trauma and Abuse , Grief/Loss , Intimacy-related
Some of my experiences include working with populations such as: children/youth/families, elderly, juveniles, and adults with issues of substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, mental health and domestic violence prevention and intervention.
It is my aim to empower individuals to use their strengths and skills in attaining and maintaining their goals, personal growth, and self-sufficiency. I contend that it is important to positively role model and to teach others the value of caring for themselves and others. I am very eclectic in my therapy approach in which I combine Cognitive Behavioral theory, Psychodynamic, Problem Solving, Task-Centered, Solution Focus, Narrative, and Crisis. I will personalize our discussion to create a customized treatment plan to assist you in your success. Also experienced in: Addictions , Trauma and Abuse , Grief/Loss , Intimacy-related
(203) 903-9686 View (203) 903-9686
Photo of Lanya Snyder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Lanya Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am experienced in treating individuals and their families affected by substance use disorders from initial assessment and intervention to navigating treatment and providing support in both early and long-term recovery.
In my practice, I provide psychotherapy drawing from psychodynamic, interpersonal, CBT, DBT and family systems. My style is warm, frank, and attentive to the processes of healing and personal growth. In addition to individual sessions, I also facilitate a process group for women once a week.
I am experienced in treating individuals and their families affected by substance use disorders from initial assessment and intervention to navigating treatment and providing support in both early and long-term recovery.
In my practice, I provide psychotherapy drawing from psychodynamic, interpersonal, CBT, DBT and family systems. My style is warm, frank, and attentive to the processes of healing and personal growth. In addition to individual sessions, I also facilitate a process group for women once a week.
(718) 550-2291 View (718) 550-2291
Photo of Raven Perera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Raven Perera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
My services have varied from advocacy, substance use, mediations, crisis intervention, and mandated counseling.
In life we are never fully prepared for the challenges that we face as an adult, yet we do our best to push through these hurdles, collecting life lessons along the way. An unexpected turn of events can either make you or break you, but at the end we rise to the occasion; we seek resources for support that aid us in becoming stronger. You have taken the first step, which is the biggest step, in having the courage to seek therapy, that shows your resiliency.
My services have varied from advocacy, substance use, mediations, crisis intervention, and mandated counseling.
In life we are never fully prepared for the challenges that we face as an adult, yet we do our best to push through these hurdles, collecting life lessons along the way. An unexpected turn of events can either make you or break you, but at the end we rise to the occasion; we seek resources for support that aid us in becoming stronger. You have taken the first step, which is the biggest step, in having the courage to seek therapy, that shows your resiliency.
(347) 848-1002 View (347) 848-1002
Photo of Mi Cao - Joy Mental Fitness LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Joy Mental Fitness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
our clinician team treats a variety of mental health challenges (anxiety, depression, relationship related issues, trauma, and adjustment issues, etc.) by using evidence based intervention including CBT, mindfulness, DBT, ACT, etc.
Welcome! We provide psychotherapy to clients from NJ, MA, DE, CT, and CA. Our clients come from diverse background with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger management, parenting problems, career challenges, self-esteem/confidence issues, intellectual/developmental disabilities, Asperger/autism spectrum disorder, attention deficient, Trauma/PTSD, oppositional behaviors, and immigration/acculturation/adjustment issues. Our Goal is to create a safe, open, and non-judgmental environmental for our clients to be heard, supported, and motivated. Our multi-cultural therapists speaks many different languages.
our clinician team treats a variety of mental health challenges (anxiety, depression, relationship related issues, trauma, and adjustment issues, etc.) by using evidence based intervention including CBT, mindfulness, DBT, ACT, etc.
Welcome! We provide psychotherapy to clients from NJ, MA, DE, CT, and CA. Our clients come from diverse background with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger management, parenting problems, career challenges, self-esteem/confidence issues, intellectual/developmental disabilities, Asperger/autism spectrum disorder, attention deficient, Trauma/PTSD, oppositional behaviors, and immigration/acculturation/adjustment issues. Our Goal is to create a safe, open, and non-judgmental environmental for our clients to be heard, supported, and motivated. Our multi-cultural therapists speaks many different languages.
(551) 308-0890 View (551) 308-0890
Photo of Susan B Hagen - Susan B. Hagen On-line therapy, MA, MEd
Susan B. Hagen On-line therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
$200 individual session, $200 couples, group crisis and traumatic event intervention paid by sponsoring agency.
I work with individual, couples and groups who are in the midst of a life crisis, an enormous emotional struggle, who have experienced a traumatizing event in their lives or are grieving a loss. I have helped people access their own internal strength so they can start to feel solid ground under their feet again. Sometimes it is a process of changing something or coming to terms with a part of life that has been avoided or stuck in denial. Other times it is process of understanding more deeply and get more clarification in order to make a decision. Still others are working on re-building trust after being devastated by betrayal.
$200 individual session, $200 couples, group crisis and traumatic event intervention paid by sponsoring agency.
I work with individual, couples and groups who are in the midst of a life crisis, an enormous emotional struggle, who have experienced a traumatizing event in their lives or are grieving a loss. I have helped people access their own internal strength so they can start to feel solid ground under their feet again. Sometimes it is a process of changing something or coming to terms with a part of life that has been avoided or stuck in denial. Other times it is process of understanding more deeply and get more clarification in order to make a decision. Still others are working on re-building trust after being devastated by betrayal.
(978) 850-6255 View (978) 850-6255
Photo of Rob Strauber, CIP, CAI-II, AIS, CFRS, CRS
Rob Strauber
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Addiction affects everyone involved, so I help identify and carry out the most effective intervention strategy tailored to your needs.
I specialize in early recovery support, offering expert intervention, consulting, and coaching tailored to your family’s needs. Having facilitated thousands of interventions, I help families take loving, strategic action that creates real momentum toward healing -without shame, blame, or judgment.
Addiction affects everyone involved, so I help identify and carry out the most effective intervention strategy tailored to your needs.
I specialize in early recovery support, offering expert intervention, consulting, and coaching tailored to your family’s needs. Having facilitated thousands of interventions, I help families take loving, strategic action that creates real momentum toward healing -without shame, blame, or judgment.
(610) 756-9651 View (610) 756-9651
Photo of Sonya Hamilton-Padilla, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CMRFTC
Sonya Hamilton-Padilla
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CMRFTC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Provides in-home services such as intervention, hoarding, & family conflict resolution.
With over 17-years of expertise as a therapist working in capacities such as a Family-Based Therapist, Outpatient Therapist, and as a Certified Marriage, Relationship & Family Trauma Coach. I am a warm, seasoned, and a compassionate healer. When we experience trauma and everyday life struggles, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed; these things cause our lives to spiral. No single approach is the right fit for everyone and I utilize a range of therapy modalities. I also provide Christian Counseling by request. I provide therapeutic coaching to clients who live outside the state of PA and to expats who are living abroad.
Provides in-home services such as intervention, hoarding, & family conflict resolution.
With over 17-years of expertise as a therapist working in capacities such as a Family-Based Therapist, Outpatient Therapist, and as a Certified Marriage, Relationship & Family Trauma Coach. I am a warm, seasoned, and a compassionate healer. When we experience trauma and everyday life struggles, we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed; these things cause our lives to spiral. No single approach is the right fit for everyone and I utilize a range of therapy modalities. I also provide Christian Counseling by request. I provide therapeutic coaching to clients who live outside the state of PA and to expats who are living abroad.
(610) 859-4638 View (610) 859-4638
Photo of Jenny H Choi - Jenny Choi LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jenny Choi LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
(917) 563-4037 View (917) 563-4037
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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.