Drug Intervention Services — When and How Professional Help Works

Intervention Models — ARISE vs. Johnson vs. CRAFT

ARISE Model (Albany-Rochester Interventional Sequence of Engagement):

• Graduated, invitational approach
• Level 1: Family meeting with no surprise — loved one is invited openly
• Level 2: If Level 1 doesn't produce treatment, family meets with interventionist to plan next steps
• Level 3: Structured intervention with clear consequences, if needed
• Higher success rates than Johnson, particularly for engagement in process
• Lower drama and confrontation; better for maintaining family relationships

Johnson Model (the "traditional" intervention):

• Single-session structured confrontation
• Family members read prepared statements about specific incidents and consequences
• Clear treatment option presented with a bed held
• Surprise element — the loved one does not know the intervention is happening
• Higher immediate acceptance rate in single session; higher drop-out risk
• Can damage family relationships if poorly executed

CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training):

• Family-centered — doesn't require the person to attend an intervention
• Trains family members in evidence-based behavior change
• Evidence base for engaging "resistant" loved ones in treatment
• Longer timeline but less confrontational
• Appropriate when traditional intervention is not feasible or has failed

How to Find a Certified Interventionist

Credentials to look for:

• ARISE Certified Invitational Interventionist: Trained in the ARISE model
• BRI-I or BRI-II (Board Registered Interventionist): Certification through the Association of Intervention Specialists
• CIP (Certified Intervention Professional): Certification through NAADAC (Association for Addiction Professionals)
• Clinical license: Many interventionists are also LCSW, LPC, or LMFT

Directories:

• Association of Intervention Specialists
• ARISE Network
• NAATP (National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers)

Or call (888) 368-3288 — we maintain a network of vetted interventionists and can make referrals based on your location and situation.

What Happens After the Intervention

The crucial piece most families overlook: the intervention is not the finish line. The real work is the 48 hours after. If the intervention succeeds:

1. Transport to the treatment facility immediately — same day when possible
2. The interventionist may travel with the person to admission
3. Family coordinates practical matters: work notification, children, pets
4. Insurance verification and admission complete at the facility

If the intervention doesn't produce immediate treatment agreement, the ARISE Level 2/3 process continues, or CRAFT family work continues. The work of helping someone accept treatment is often longer than a single session.

When an Intervention Fails

Approximately 20–40% of first interventions don't produce immediate treatment acceptance. This is not unusual. Practical next steps:

• Continue ARISE graduated approach — Level 2 or 3
• CRAFT family behavior change work
• Family boundaries around enabling behaviors (housing, money, legal protection)
• State-specific involuntary commitment options (Marchman Act, Casey's Law, Section 35)
• Be ready for the next moment of willingness — it will often come after a consequence
• Family therapy to address enabling patterns
• Al-Anon or Nar-Anon peer support

Many people who refuse an intervention later enter treatment willingly — often within weeks or months. The intervention plants a seed even when it doesn't produce immediate treatment. Call (888) 368-3288 when the next moment of willingness arises.