If you’ve ever asked Google, “What is an interventionist?” you’re likely trying to support a loved one who is struggling with addiction. Families often feel overwhelmed when someone they care about refuses help or doesn’t recognize the seriousness of their substance use. That’s where an interventionist comes in.
At Great Falls Wellness, an outpatient addiction treatment facility in Northern Virginia, we understand how emotional and difficult these situations can be. We work closely with trusted professionals to help families take the next step toward recovery.
What Is an Interventionist?
An interventionist is a trained professional who helps guide families through the process of confronting a loved one about addiction or mental health concerns. Their goal is to help the person accept that they need treatment and agree to get help in a safe, structured setting.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Often interventions occur without an intervention professional taking part. But having expert help may be best.” A professional brings both structure and emotional support to a moment that can otherwise feel chaotic or painful.
When Should You Consider an Intervention?
Not everyone who struggles with addiction will accept help easily. If your loved one is in denial, continues harmful behaviors, or refuses treatment, an intervention may be necessary.
The Mayo Clinic explains that having a professional present can be especially important if the person has a history of serious mental illness, past violence, suicidal thoughts, or is using multiple mood-altering substances. In these cases, having expert guidance keeps the conversation on track and helps ensure everyone’s safety.
They also state, “It’s very important to work with a professional for an intervention to succeed. This is especially true if you think your loved one may react violently or harm themselves” (Mayo Clinic).
How Great Falls Wellness Supports the Intervention Process
At Great Falls Wellness, we are deeply involved in supporting families through the process of finding help for addiction and alcoholism. If our team believes that an intervention is the best next step, we can connect you with an experienced professional from our trusted network.
Our goal is to ensure that if treatment is accepted, the individual can transition into the right program immediately, whether that’s through our outpatient services or a more intensive level of care somewhere else.
What Happens During an Intervention?
Before the actual intervention, an interventionist works with the family to prepare. Participants are coached on how to express their concerns calmly and clearly. The goal is to create a safe environment, not to confront or blame.
During the intervention, the interventionist guides the conversation and helps keep it focused. The hope is that your loved one sees the impact of their behavior and agrees to treatment.
If they do, the interventionist will help arrange immediate admission into a rehab program. At Great Falls Wellness, we’re ready to support the next step by offering outpatient treatment tailored to the individual’s needs.
What is an Interventionist? Final Thoughts
Understanding what an interventionist is can be a game-changer for families trying to help someone with a substance use disorder. These professionals play a vital role in helping individuals face the truth and take their first step toward recovery.
While Great Falls Wellness does not provide in-house interventions at this time, we work closely with families and trusted professionals to ensure the entire process, from the intervention to treatment and aftercare, is handled with respect and care.
If you’re concerned about a loved one and think an intervention may be necessary, don’t just Google “What is an interventionist?” Reach out to our team to learn how we can support you.
Reference
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Intervention: Help a loved one overcome addiction. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/in-depth/intervention/art-20047451
