28 Feb Finding a Qualified Interventionist
As Interventionists we understand that many times, we are only afforded one chance to get it right. A successful intervention is just the beginning of the recovery journey and finding the right Interventionist is the first step.
Interventions are often considered the last resort for friends and families hoping to secure help for a loved one suffering from mental illness or addiction. By this point, many families feel they have reached the end of a very long and challenging road with little to no options remaining. An Intervention done correctly, by a qualified Interventionist can lead to placement for the client and healing for everyone in the family.
WHAT YOU SHOULD EXPECT
Credentials/Certifications/Accountability:
It is important that the Interventionist you choose has more than a big heart! Carrying credentials and certifications in the fields of addiction and mental health increase the chances that you are working with a professional committed to continued education as well as being accountable to a Governing Board.
Business License and Liability Insurance:
Most people verify licenses and insurance when hiring a contractor or plumber, however this is often overlooked when hiring an Interventionist. Taking this step helps ensure legitimacy and safety for everyone involved.
Intervention Contract:
A professional Interventionist understands the importance of communication and transparency when engaging in an Intervention Agreement. The Interventionist you hire should present you with a contract clearly defining their role, expectations of engagement and pricing. This will reduce the chance of unmet expectations and financial surprises during what can often be a very emotional and overwhelming process.
Expertise in the Field of Addiction:
Many Interventionists are in recovery themselves, which is often helpful when it comes to relating to clients, however it is not enough. Addiction is a complex disease and no two interventions are alike. It is imperative that the Interventionist you hire has experience working in the field for many years prior to their first Intervention and is able to discern what level and type of treatment is most appropriate for each client.
Mental Health Knowledge:
Many, if not all clients who are struggling with addiction also suffer from mental health disorders, which is why it is imperative that the Interventionist you hire is proficient in the field of mental health. We are not suggesting that Interventionists need to be experts in the field of mental health, however, with collateral information from the family an Intervention professional should be able to assess for safety and basic mood disorders. This determination is critical to appropriate placement.
Commitment to Family System:
An effective Interventionist has the ability to connect with and support the individual as well as the entire family system. It is crucial to create a safe, supportive non-judgmental environment while preparing for and executing an Intervention. This is done through education, emotional support, setting expectations, identifying roles and holding strong boundaries with the family and client.
Appropriate Placement:
Matching your loved one’s recovery needs with the right treatment program can be very challenging. A strong Interventionist will do the work of researching program components, negotiating rates and coordinating placement for your loved one.
Ongoing Case Management:
In many cases the Intervention ends when the client is successfully placed in treatment, this often leaves the family at a disadvantage when problems arise. A Comprehensive Intervention model will include ongoing Case Management supporting the family and the client from placement to recovery. During this phase of treatment, the interventionist can support you in the following ways:
1. Serve as a liaison between the family and treatment team
2. Provide weekly updates on your loved one’s progress
3. Coach the family through tough decisions during treatment
4. Help the family establish and hold boundaries
5. Collaborate with the treatment team and family to create and execute a strong discharge plan (housing, ongoing recovery program, advanced employment and educational opportunities)
