The intervention process starts with an assessment - the gathering of information from the family to develop specific goals.
Most of the process takes place prior to the intervention itself. The Interventionist prepares each involved family member to realize a set of specific conditions the substance abuser will need to fulfill as well as consequences in case of non-compliance. There are usually several in-person meetings with the family before the intervention designed to educate, prepare, address concerns, and finally, to rehearse the process.
To increase effectiveness, a "co-facilitator" is chosen from a team of licensed, experienced therapists, to "match" the identified patient's demographics, and increase the counseling presence during the intervention.
The day of the intervention, family members express concerns, provide specific examples, and clearly define options in a safe, controlled and structured environment.