Classical or Johnson Method

The Johnson Intervention Model is the one most people think of when they hear the word “intervention”. Considered one of the more confrontational methods, this classical method involves a professional interventionist guiding family, friends, and other important members of the addicted person’s social network to directly address the damage caused by their drug or alcohol use abuse. One of the key elements of the Johnson Method, is to set defined boundaries and consequences of what will happen if the addict does not accept treatment.

Motivational Interviewing

As the name implies, the Motivational Method encourages people to become motivated to change the behaviours that are causing them harm, in this case alcohol and drug abuse. It can also ease them into other forms of therapy once they have “bought into” the idea getting better. The Motivational Method is also helpful for people who are angry or hostile as they may not be ready to commit to big changes at once but it can help guide them through small steps and stages until they are emotionally ready to be motivated for great change.

The Family Systems Model or the ARISE Method

Focusing on the entire family of the addicted person, the ARISE method helps to deal with the family issues first before focusing on treatment for drug or alcohol addiction.

The primary goal is to have each member of the family make a lifestyle change that will contribute to a healthier group dynamic which includes addressing anger management, anxiety, depression, or codependency. The Family Systems Model is open with no surprises and works best when the entire family works towards a better family relationship with each other.

The Invitational Method

Similar to the Johnson Method, the Invitation Model removes the surprise aspect of the intervention. Usually, one member of the intervention team (family or friend) is asked to speak to the addicted person about getting help and arranges for everyone to meet as a group with the professional interventionist. Everyone knows what will happen at the meeting and the addict is free to decide whether they will attend or not.

The benefit of this method is that without the element of surprise, the addicted person tends to be less defensive and more open to the suggestions of treatment. While it is possible the addict refuses to attend the intervention meeting, it is encouraged that the family and friends still meet so that they can understand how they may be acting as enablers to the addicted person’s behaviour.