Intervention Therapists in Toronto, ON

Photo of Debbie Berlin, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Debbie Berlin
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4M  (Online Only)
I have received training and specialization in: Psychotherapy and crisis intervention for individuals, couples and families; Health Navigation for Eating Disorders, Mental Health, Paediatric/Adult Oncology and Palliative Care; Couples and Family Mediation; Clinical Supervision for interns and practitioners; Clinical Debriefing and Organizational Health.
I am a social worker and psychotherapist who has worked passionately and extensively with individuals, families and health-care organizations. Therapy is a way for people to get extra support, when you need it. If you are struggling with a personal crisis, overwhelming emotion, a life transition, problems with family or friends, career questions, or the need to move on from past events, therapy can help.
I have received training and specialization in: Psychotherapy and crisis intervention for individuals, couples and families; Health Navigation for Eating Disorders, Mental Health, Paediatric/Adult Oncology and Palliative Care; Couples and Family Mediation; Clinical Supervision for interns and practitioners; Clinical Debriefing and Organizational Health.
I am a social worker and psychotherapist who has worked passionately and extensively with individuals, families and health-care organizations. Therapy is a way for people to get extra support, when you need it. If you are struggling with a personal crisis, overwhelming emotion, a life transition, problems with family or friends, career questions, or the need to move on from past events, therapy can help.
(647) 490-3135 View (647) 490-3135
Photo of Ashlyn Fisher, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ashlyn Fisher
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R
Ashlyn Fisher completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and obtained her Masters of Social Work degree from The University of Toronto. Ashlyn began her clinical practice working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds suffering from eating disorders and co-occurring mental health issues. During Ashlyn's internships, she acquired additional clinical experience providing one on one counselling to adults suffering from addictions and severe mental illnesses such as bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia, and extreme depression and anxiety. Additionally, Ashlyn worked as a child and family therapist at the SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health where her focus was on assessment and intervention.
Ashlyn Fisher completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and obtained her Masters of Social Work degree from The University of Toronto. Ashlyn began her clinical practice working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds suffering from eating disorders and co-occurring mental health issues. During Ashlyn's internships, she acquired additional clinical experience providing one on one counselling to adults suffering from addictions and severe mental illnesses such as bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia, and extreme depression and anxiety. Additionally, Ashlyn worked as a child and family therapist at the SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health where her focus was on assessment and intervention.
(844) 280-2462 x356 View (844) 280-2462 x356
Photo of Catherine MacDonald - Interventionist for Addictions, ICADC, CAI , RPS, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Interventionist for Addictions
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC, CAI , RPS
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4C
My name is Catherine MacDonald, I am a Certified Addiction Interventionist. I have a wealth of knowledge and life experience that allows me to help families transition from the chaos created by addiction and addictive behaviours of a loved one, towards a new beginning and a healthier family lifestyle for everyone. I will guide and support you through the intervention process, helping your loved one get the help they need and provide continuing care and support for families and friends.
My name is Catherine MacDonald, I am a Certified Addiction Interventionist. I have a wealth of knowledge and life experience that allows me to help families transition from the chaos created by addiction and addictive behaviours of a loved one, towards a new beginning and a healthier family lifestyle for everyone. I will guide and support you through the intervention process, helping your loved one get the help they need and provide continuing care and support for families and friends.
(855) 974-4372 View (855) 974-4372
Photo of Stephen Wells - Stephen Wells - Intervention Addiction Services, MA, CCAC, CCRC, PPCC, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Stephen Wells - Intervention Addiction Services
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, MA, CCAC, CCRC, PPCC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5P
Equipped with a Masters Degree in Human Systems Intervention, Stephen laser focused on providing customized and highly personalized Intervention, Recovery Coaching, Alcohol Monitoring and Addiction Counselling solutions for clients/client families.
Addiction Management is a complex and gut-wrenching process, especially at the front-end. People often find themselves stuck with the problem and are confused about how to move forward. Assisting families and loved ones in understanding the true depth, pattern and extent of the problem helps to inform decisions on appropriate options moving forward. Making informed decisions at the right time not only saves money, it establishes reasonable expectations and creates the conditions for successful outcomes for the entire family system.
Equipped with a Masters Degree in Human Systems Intervention, Stephen laser focused on providing customized and highly personalized Intervention, Recovery Coaching, Alcohol Monitoring and Addiction Counselling solutions for clients/client families.
Addiction Management is a complex and gut-wrenching process, especially at the front-end. People often find themselves stuck with the problem and are confused about how to move forward. Assisting families and loved ones in understanding the true depth, pattern and extent of the problem helps to inform decisions on appropriate options moving forward. Making informed decisions at the right time not only saves money, it establishes reasonable expectations and creates the conditions for successful outcomes for the entire family system.
(289) 768-8549 View (289) 768-8549
Photo of Sonia Pahwa, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sonia Pahwa
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
In addition to counselling services, suicide intervention training and supervision services are available.
Welcome. Looking for creative ways to make meaningful change? Or a safe place to sit with the uncertainty of the moment? Therapy and counselling is a place that can help you voice your thoughts, explore and move through challenges, and grow in your desired direction. Our work together will look at your unique experience, and what is meaningful in your life. My approach is emotionally-focused, neurobiological, and trauma-informed.
In addition to counselling services, suicide intervention training and supervision services are available.
Welcome. Looking for creative ways to make meaningful change? Or a safe place to sit with the uncertainty of the moment? Therapy and counselling is a place that can help you voice your thoughts, explore and move through challenges, and grow in your desired direction. Our work together will look at your unique experience, and what is meaningful in your life. My approach is emotionally-focused, neurobiological, and trauma-informed.
(289) 272-0903 View (289) 272-0903
Photo of Arooba Syed, MSW, RSW, RSSW, Registered Social Worker
Arooba Syed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RSSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5V
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brief and Solution-Focused Interventions, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (including Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), Crisis Intervention, Cultural Safety Models, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Practice.
Hi there! I am passionate about helping people reach their full potential and live their most fulfilling lives. I provide a holistic approach and have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in therapeutic and case management roles in the community and educational settings.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brief and Solution-Focused Interventions, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (including Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), Crisis Intervention, Cultural Safety Models, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Practice.
Hi there! I am passionate about helping people reach their full potential and live their most fulfilling lives. I provide a holistic approach and have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in therapeutic and case management roles in the community and educational settings.
(437) 747-4648 View (437) 747-4648
Photo of Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw., PhD, PsyD, Registered Social Worker
Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw.
Registered Social Worker, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4W
He has written over 28 books and received several awards and recognitions as a Crisis Intervention Specialist and Mental Health Specialist.
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
He has written over 28 books and received several awards and recognitions as a Crisis Intervention Specialist and Mental Health Specialist.
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
(844) 382-8975 View (844) 382-8975
Photo of Tasha Breau, MACP, RP, TITC-CT, Registered Psychotherapist
Tasha Breau
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, TITC-CT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4C
Welcome! Walking this journey of life can be stressful and at times emotionally and physically overwhelming. I honour the vulnerability and courage it takes to seek support and will create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment that supports your personal growth. In working together we will create personalized goals using evidence-based interventions such as, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, ACT, and Poly-vagal theory. My goal is to inspire individuals to discover their own healing capacities and build resilience through therapeutic intervention, education and skill building.
Welcome! Walking this journey of life can be stressful and at times emotionally and physically overwhelming. I honour the vulnerability and courage it takes to seek support and will create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment that supports your personal growth. In working together we will create personalized goals using evidence-based interventions such as, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, ACT, and Poly-vagal theory. My goal is to inspire individuals to discover their own healing capacities and build resilience through therapeutic intervention, education and skill building.
(249) 444-3467 View (249) 444-3467
Photo of Angel Enrique Pacheco, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Angel Enrique Pacheco
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4R  (Online Only)
I have specialized in diagnostic assessment and intervention in behavioral health psychology, working in primary care settings with complex emotional, psychological, and behavioral medicine disorders of individuals of all ages and groups of reference, with social and medical problems, involvement with the educational and judicial systems, and addictions.
I am a Humanistic Behavioral Clinical Psychologist with over four decades of professional experience, specialized in behavior therapy and behavioral medicine. I am dedicated to helping people function and feel better by providing them with individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. I work with persons of all ages and groups of reference; with persons of both sexes presenting sexual disorders, and with all couples in their interaction and intimacy problems, and specialized in performing individualized clinical assessments of children, youth, and adults. My goal as a professional is to help people... Learn to Live Better ®.
I have specialized in diagnostic assessment and intervention in behavioral health psychology, working in primary care settings with complex emotional, psychological, and behavioral medicine disorders of individuals of all ages and groups of reference, with social and medical problems, involvement with the educational and judicial systems, and addictions.
I am a Humanistic Behavioral Clinical Psychologist with over four decades of professional experience, specialized in behavior therapy and behavioral medicine. I am dedicated to helping people function and feel better by providing them with individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. I work with persons of all ages and groups of reference; with persons of both sexes presenting sexual disorders, and with all couples in their interaction and intimacy problems, and specialized in performing individualized clinical assessments of children, youth, and adults. My goal as a professional is to help people... Learn to Live Better ®.
(289) 312-1765 View (289) 312-1765
Photo of Erin Harding, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Erin Harding
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K  (Online Only)
If you're looking for a qualified therapist who is passionate about supporting individuals, children, youth and their families, with 20 years’ experience with crisis intervention and a multitude of presenting struggles, I'm here to help.
Life throws A LOT of challenges our way! Are you currently going through it? Are you, your family members, children or your partner and you starting to feel like you can't keep afloat? Perhaps you're worrying 24/7, you can't seem to stop your thoughts. Maybe you experience physical symptoms of the stress or anxiety you've been feeling. Maybe you're trying to support a loved one, but aren't sure what the solution is. Whatever the struggle, I'm here to help. I work with clients of all ages to help them find the solutions that work for them. I help clients to find satisfaction again, to ease worry, become confident & committed.
If you're looking for a qualified therapist who is passionate about supporting individuals, children, youth and their families, with 20 years’ experience with crisis intervention and a multitude of presenting struggles, I'm here to help.
Life throws A LOT of challenges our way! Are you currently going through it? Are you, your family members, children or your partner and you starting to feel like you can't keep afloat? Perhaps you're worrying 24/7, you can't seem to stop your thoughts. Maybe you experience physical symptoms of the stress or anxiety you've been feeling. Maybe you're trying to support a loved one, but aren't sure what the solution is. Whatever the struggle, I'm here to help. I work with clients of all ages to help them find the solutions that work for them. I help clients to find satisfaction again, to ease worry, become confident & committed.
(226) 271-4992 View (226) 271-4992
Photo of Hamid Azizi, BSc, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Hamid Azizi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
Welcome to my profile! I'm Hamid Azizi, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at LiveWise Associates. If you're seeking effective and evidence-based behaviour modification, you've come to the right place. With a solid educational foundation, including a BSc. in Psychology and Biochemistry from Trent University and a Master's in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville, I specialize in couple’s therapy, relationship dynamics, interpersonal conflicts, anxiety, depression, Adhd, and addiction. I've also honed my skills through a strategic intervention certificate, to provide a deeper level of evidence-based therapeutic solutions.
Welcome to my profile! I'm Hamid Azizi, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at LiveWise Associates. If you're seeking effective and evidence-based behaviour modification, you've come to the right place. With a solid educational foundation, including a BSc. in Psychology and Biochemistry from Trent University and a Master's in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville, I specialize in couple’s therapy, relationship dynamics, interpersonal conflicts, anxiety, depression, Adhd, and addiction. I've also honed my skills through a strategic intervention certificate, to provide a deeper level of evidence-based therapeutic solutions.
(289) 401-8170 View (289) 401-8170
Photo of Jemeisha Williams, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Jemeisha Williams
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6M  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise cover a broad range, including youth counselling, Christian counselling, group counselling, cultural responsiveness, coaching, wellness, mindfulness, anxiety, depression, suicide intervention and prevention, mentorship, community engagement, career coaching and education.
As a registered social worker, I provide support in addressing a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, issues related to identity and belonging, relational challenges, wellness, and spirituality. My objective is to help you understand your experiences, manage your emotions, and heal from previous traumas. I employ collaborative, person-centered, and strength-based approaches, partnering with you to establish objectives and realize your inherent capabilities.
My areas of expertise cover a broad range, including youth counselling, Christian counselling, group counselling, cultural responsiveness, coaching, wellness, mindfulness, anxiety, depression, suicide intervention and prevention, mentorship, community engagement, career coaching and education.
As a registered social worker, I provide support in addressing a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, issues related to identity and belonging, relational challenges, wellness, and spirituality. My objective is to help you understand your experiences, manage your emotions, and heal from previous traumas. I employ collaborative, person-centered, and strength-based approaches, partnering with you to establish objectives and realize your inherent capabilities.
(365) 654-6119 View (365) 654-6119
Photo of Sarah Nugent, MSc, RPsych, Psychologist
Sarah Nugent
Psychologist, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4H
Waitlist for new clients
Sarah has more than 10 years of clinical experience working with clients and families in private practice, school, and agency-based settings. Client populations include the age ranges of preschool to adults with a variety of clinical presentations. Sarah's work involves evidence-based assessment and treatment for individuals. The focus is placed on a strength-based model to foster resiliency and the development of an intervention plan to address areas of need.
Sarah has more than 10 years of clinical experience working with clients and families in private practice, school, and agency-based settings. Client populations include the age ranges of preschool to adults with a variety of clinical presentations. Sarah's work involves evidence-based assessment and treatment for individuals. The focus is placed on a strength-based model to foster resiliency and the development of an intervention plan to address areas of need.
(825) 250-0321 View (825) 250-0321
Photo of Jennifer Zahrebelny, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Zahrebelny
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
Hello, my name is Jennifer and I am a registered Social Worker in the province of Ontario. I completed an undergraduate Social Work degree at Algoma University and a Master of Social Work degree from Laurentian University. I've worked primarily in the field of mental health and addiction for the entirety of my career including a correctional facility. I have recently left my position as a child and family intervention clinician and opened a private practice; Northern Wellness Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Hello, my name is Jennifer and I am a registered Social Worker in the province of Ontario. I completed an undergraduate Social Work degree at Algoma University and a Master of Social Work degree from Laurentian University. I've worked primarily in the field of mental health and addiction for the entirety of my career including a correctional facility. I have recently left my position as a child and family intervention clinician and opened a private practice; Northern Wellness Counselling and Psychotherapy.
(705) 990-3238 View (705) 990-3238
Photo of Lori Slaunwhite Mindful Path, RCT, RP, CSAT, NADA-RT, Registered Psychotherapist
Lori Slaunwhite Mindful Path
Registered Psychotherapist, RCT, RP, CSAT, NADA-RT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6P
Waitlist for new clients
Intervention, Assessment and Individualized Treatment.
You may be considering counselling therapy for a specific reason such as a grief or sadness, difficulty in controlling your use of drugs or alcohol, or life changes such as separation and divorce. Perhaps life simply seems difficult. Many of us will have had difficult experiences at some stage of our lives that may have affected our sense of self or leave us searching for more. Although it may be difficult to reach out for help, please know that I will hear your story with compassion, openness, and a willingness to support you in your healing process.
Intervention, Assessment and Individualized Treatment.
You may be considering counselling therapy for a specific reason such as a grief or sadness, difficulty in controlling your use of drugs or alcohol, or life changes such as separation and divorce. Perhaps life simply seems difficult. Many of us will have had difficult experiences at some stage of our lives that may have affected our sense of self or leave us searching for more. Although it may be difficult to reach out for help, please know that I will hear your story with compassion, openness, and a willingness to support you in your healing process.
(855) 773-8317 View (855) 773-8317
Photo of Angie Agrawal Holstein - Shanti Psychotherapy, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Shanti Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K  (Online Only)
It's time to break the stigma. South Asian mental health is often overlooked and stigmatized by cultural and religious upbringing and family expectations. Shanti Psychotherapy was founded to create a collective of like minded and skilled therapists. Our intention is to help our community break free of the stigma associated with mental health issues, and to offer a comfortable, compassionate therapy experience.
It's time to break the stigma. South Asian mental health is often overlooked and stigmatized by cultural and religious upbringing and family expectations. Shanti Psychotherapy was founded to create a collective of like minded and skilled therapists. Our intention is to help our community break free of the stigma associated with mental health issues, and to offer a comfortable, compassionate therapy experience.
(437) 747-5805 View (437) 747-5805
Photo of André Turcotte, CRPO, MA, RP, LC, Registered Psychotherapist
André Turcotte
Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO, MA, RP, LC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y
Change and solutions are possible! Help is available. Psychotherapy addresses a variety of issues and I can help you with everything from anxiety to depression to life and relationship issues. Often the hardest part is simply making the decision to begin. I offer a unique approach; in addition to traditional office visits, I also offer online sessions. Many people enjoy the added benefits of 'meeting' online; reduced travel time to and from their appointments, greater scheduling flexibility and being able to continue whether they are feeling under the weather or away on vacation.
Change and solutions are possible! Help is available. Psychotherapy addresses a variety of issues and I can help you with everything from anxiety to depression to life and relationship issues. Often the hardest part is simply making the decision to begin. I offer a unique approach; in addition to traditional office visits, I also offer online sessions. Many people enjoy the added benefits of 'meeting' online; reduced travel time to and from their appointments, greater scheduling flexibility and being able to continue whether they are feeling under the weather or away on vacation.
(844) 841-4247 View (844) 841-4247
Photo of Amallie De Fonseka, LMSW, RSW, JD, Registered Social Worker
Amallie De Fonseka
Registered Social Worker, LMSW, RSW, JD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4S
Are you struggling with a part of life and want to make changes towards healing, restoration and happiness? Therapy is a journey of understanding yourself and your needs as well as your interconnected relationships to others. I truly enjoy helping clients bring balance, healing and mindfulness in their lives. I have extensive experience in therapy over 20 years with trauma, mental health and substance abuse clients as well as matters of marital/couples counselling, individua and family counselling.
Are you struggling with a part of life and want to make changes towards healing, restoration and happiness? Therapy is a journey of understanding yourself and your needs as well as your interconnected relationships to others. I truly enjoy helping clients bring balance, healing and mindfulness in their lives. I have extensive experience in therapy over 20 years with trauma, mental health and substance abuse clients as well as matters of marital/couples counselling, individua and family counselling.
(647) 957-8369 View (647) 957-8369
Photo of Erin Hooks, RP, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Erin Hooks
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or difficulties managing school or work related stress? My focus is on providing a caring, non-judgmental and safe space for clients to share their stories and work through their challenges. I believe that there is no “one-size-fits-all” method to supporting clients, and trust the client is the expert of their own life. I also understand the importance of developing a collaborative therapeutic relationship and strive to help my clients to recognize their existing strengths, while acknowledging their unique needs, priorities and values.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or difficulties managing school or work related stress? My focus is on providing a caring, non-judgmental and safe space for clients to share their stories and work through their challenges. I believe that there is no “one-size-fits-all” method to supporting clients, and trust the client is the expert of their own life. I also understand the importance of developing a collaborative therapeutic relationship and strive to help my clients to recognize their existing strengths, while acknowledging their unique needs, priorities and values.
(647) 361-0403 View (647) 361-0403
Photo of Pallavi Gaur, MA, MPhil, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Pallavi Gaur
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MPhil, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5S  (Online Only)
I provide services to people navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, stress,relationship struggles, self-related issues, burnout among other challenges. If you want to work on yourself ,break free from your own patterns, build resilience,feel more in control, improve your habits, manage emotions effectively and create healthier connections in your life, I can surely help you. With a tailored, empathetic approach, I help clients understand their thoughts and behaviors, empowering them to achieve lasting change and mental and emotional well-being. Together, we’ll unlock your potential for growth and healing.
I provide services to people navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, stress,relationship struggles, self-related issues, burnout among other challenges. If you want to work on yourself ,break free from your own patterns, build resilience,feel more in control, improve your habits, manage emotions effectively and create healthier connections in your life, I can surely help you. With a tailored, empathetic approach, I help clients understand their thoughts and behaviors, empowering them to achieve lasting change and mental and emotional well-being. Together, we’ll unlock your potential for growth and healing.
(437) 291-7739 View (437) 291-7739
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Intervention Counsellors

How does an intervention work?

An intervention is a planned, structured meeting in which a person’s family or friends voice concerns about the person’s behaviour and its consequences; the goal is for the person to accept treatment. In this meeting, the person’s loved ones (often with the guidance of a trained interventionist) share how the person’s behaviour has harmed them and the consequences if the person refuses treatment. They collectively ask the person to accept a proposed treatment plan.

How effective are interventions?

There isn’t extensive research on the efficacy of interventions, in part because success is difficult to measure. Individuals often enter addiction treatment after an intervention, for example, but treatment itself may not work, especially if the person only begins due to external pressure from others rather than due to internal motivation to change. However, if all other attempts at helping someone have failed, an intervention may be worth exploring.

What are the limitations of interventions?

While a friend or family member’s intentions are in the right place in wanting to help a loved one through an intervention, there are significant limitations to the approach. The surprising nature of the event can make the person feel ambushed or judged. They may feel embarrassed or ashamed as a result, and relationships may be strained or broken. This can make it difficult for the individual to be receptive to the concerns of their loved ones and the interventionist.

Are there alternatives to interventions?

Rather than confronting a loved one through an intervention, an effective and less pressured approach is to create space for a caring, open, one-on-one conversation. This works best if the loved one asks open-ended questions, listens attentively to the answers, and frames their observations and statements with concern rather than judgment. More than one conversation may be needed, but change can take root over time.