Intervention Counselling in Ilkley

Photo of Elizabeth Robinson, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Elizabeth Robinson
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29
Elizabeth Robinson, Accredited Counsellor/Psychotherapist, Couple counsellor, Family counsellor - adults only - and Clinical Supervisor. I have over 19 years experience working and training within a variety of organisations, NHS, General Practice, Bradford Rape Crisis, Behind Closed Doors (Domestic Violence), Sue Ryder Hospice. Best gift you can give yourself is to come for some counselling - it will support you finding yourself again, and gain clarity, to make the best choice for you in your life. I look forward to hearing from you.
Elizabeth Robinson, Accredited Counsellor/Psychotherapist, Couple counsellor, Family counsellor - adults only - and Clinical Supervisor. I have over 19 years experience working and training within a variety of organisations, NHS, General Practice, Bradford Rape Crisis, Behind Closed Doors (Domestic Violence), Sue Ryder Hospice. Best gift you can give yourself is to come for some counselling - it will support you finding yourself again, and gain clarity, to make the best choice for you in your life. I look forward to hearing from you.
07481 360787 View 07481 360787
Photo of Adele McGovern, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Adele McGovern
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ilkley LS29
My clients say they feel safe with me and that I have really helped them gain deeper self-knowledge and self-regard, and to feel better. I have an LGBT+ and neurodivergent - friendly, warm, nurturing style. I don't judge you, I want to hear you, and value you, and genuinely help. I'm trained in different therapeutic approaches, so I fit the approach to you, not to other way around. I'm best at being honest, safe, and alongside you as I help you to deeply understand yourself. From those foundations we build up a better psychological safety for you. We do therapy, and you work toward your goals with me, knowing I am on your team.
My clients say they feel safe with me and that I have really helped them gain deeper self-knowledge and self-regard, and to feel better. I have an LGBT+ and neurodivergent - friendly, warm, nurturing style. I don't judge you, I want to hear you, and value you, and genuinely help. I'm trained in different therapeutic approaches, so I fit the approach to you, not to other way around. I'm best at being honest, safe, and alongside you as I help you to deeply understand yourself. From those foundations we build up a better psychological safety for you. We do therapy, and you work toward your goals with me, knowing I am on your team.
01473 943374 View 01473 943374
Photo of Adele Watiez, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Adele Watiez
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29  (Online Only)
As an intergrative therapist my aim is to provide you with support to work through a range of issues, anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, low self esteem, stress, cPTSD and relationship difficulties. My way of working is indepth and together, we will explore what your goals are. I have trained in a range of models so that I can offer you a compassionate and attuned presence. I have many years experience of supporting people and a deep understanding of how these issues, can impact upon one having a solid sense of self. Occasionally, I use creativity and parts work in the therapy session which can be powerful and transforming
As an intergrative therapist my aim is to provide you with support to work through a range of issues, anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, low self esteem, stress, cPTSD and relationship difficulties. My way of working is indepth and together, we will explore what your goals are. I have trained in a range of models so that I can offer you a compassionate and attuned presence. I have many years experience of supporting people and a deep understanding of how these issues, can impact upon one having a solid sense of self. Occasionally, I use creativity and parts work in the therapy session which can be powerful and transforming
0113 519 9783 View 0113 519 9783
Photo of Lucy Harrison, MBACP, Counsellor
Lucy Harrison
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ilkley LS29  (Online Only)
Being in therapy is something many of us have needed over the course of our lives, by acknowledging you need some help now you have already come a long way. By working together we can make a real difference in how you cope and live your life. Over the years I have worked in a variety of settings helping people who were struggling with issues such as fear, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, stress, self harm, addiction, co dependency, anger. I have been helping people come to terms with their past, enjoy the present and look forward to the future for the past 18 years.
Being in therapy is something many of us have needed over the course of our lives, by acknowledging you need some help now you have already come a long way. By working together we can make a real difference in how you cope and live your life. Over the years I have worked in a variety of settings helping people who were struggling with issues such as fear, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, stress, self harm, addiction, co dependency, anger. I have been helping people come to terms with their past, enjoy the present and look forward to the future for the past 18 years.
01535 286047 View 01535 286047

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Paul Walton - Kaleidoscope Psychology and Psychotherapy, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Kaleidoscope Psychology and Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Pudsey LS28
My name is Dr Paul Walton and I am the Director of Kaleidoscope Psychology and Psychotherapy. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Systemic Family Psychotherapist and I have worked in the NHS, charity, and private sector over the last 12 years. Kaleidoscope formed from a desire to create a therapeutic service which privileges the lived experience of people and champions their strength and ability to overcome emotional distress. My ethos is based on the belief that emotional and psychological problems are understandable responses to the things that happen to us in our lives. My role is to help you take your life back from such problems.
My name is Dr Paul Walton and I am the Director of Kaleidoscope Psychology and Psychotherapy. I am a Clinical Psychologist and Systemic Family Psychotherapist and I have worked in the NHS, charity, and private sector over the last 12 years. Kaleidoscope formed from a desire to create a therapeutic service which privileges the lived experience of people and champions their strength and ability to overcome emotional distress. My ethos is based on the belief that emotional and psychological problems are understandable responses to the things that happen to us in our lives. My role is to help you take your life back from such problems.
0113 519 0363 View 0113 519 0363
Photo of Kiran Kaur, MBACP, Counsellor
Kiran Kaur
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bradford BD1
Hi my name is Kiran, I am a British born fully qualified multilingual counsellor. I have 18 years experience of working in an educational environment and 12 yrs of Counselling experience. I have a good understanding of daily stresses which can cause people anxieties and other health issues. I provide counselling sessions for issues listed above and more. I am able to offer Counselling in English, Punjabi, Hindi & Urdu I believe counselling is a joint venture between the client and counsellor, this relationship is fundamentally important to allow you to experience growth and change, that we all go through in our lifetime.
Hi my name is Kiran, I am a British born fully qualified multilingual counsellor. I have 18 years experience of working in an educational environment and 12 yrs of Counselling experience. I have a good understanding of daily stresses which can cause people anxieties and other health issues. I provide counselling sessions for issues listed above and more. I am able to offer Counselling in English, Punjabi, Hindi & Urdu I believe counselling is a joint venture between the client and counsellor, this relationship is fundamentally important to allow you to experience growth and change, that we all go through in our lifetime.
0113 467 9505 View 0113 467 9505
Photo of Adeola Iluyomade, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Adeola Iluyomade
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS16
I offer a space to talk, giving you time out to reflect and to explore self-development. As an Integrative Relational Therapeutic Counsellor, I draw on different models of therapy including Psychodynamic, Systemic, Interpersonal Process, CBT, Transactional Analysis amongst others in supporting you to reach your desired goals to maximise your full potentials. Meaning, you will find my approach friendly, empowering and conversational in style. I take great care in ensuring that you feel safe, respected and valued. I offer flexibility of short or long term therapy as tailored round your needs. I adhere to the ethics & codes of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy.
I offer a space to talk, giving you time out to reflect and to explore self-development. As an Integrative Relational Therapeutic Counsellor, I draw on different models of therapy including Psychodynamic, Systemic, Interpersonal Process, CBT, Transactional Analysis amongst others in supporting you to reach your desired goals to maximise your full potentials. Meaning, you will find my approach friendly, empowering and conversational in style. I take great care in ensuring that you feel safe, respected and valued. I offer flexibility of short or long term therapy as tailored round your needs. I adhere to the ethics & codes of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy.
0113 467 9309 View 0113 467 9309
Photo of Saorsia Jefferson, MBACP, Counsellor
Saorsia Jefferson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS19
Making the decision to start counselling and talk about the things that are troubling can be scary, however having a space to talk openly without judgement can be the beginning of your journey. I offer the opportunity and support for individuals from all walks of life to explore their struggles with the aim to develop an understanding of themselves and build confidence in their abilities and in who they are. Over 10 years I have supported men, women and children of different ages, cultural and social backgrounds through their own journey.
Making the decision to start counselling and talk about the things that are troubling can be scary, however having a space to talk openly without judgement can be the beginning of your journey. I offer the opportunity and support for individuals from all walks of life to explore their struggles with the aim to develop an understanding of themselves and build confidence in their abilities and in who they are. Over 10 years I have supported men, women and children of different ages, cultural and social backgrounds through their own journey.
01274 033920 View 01274 033920
Photo of Andy Williams, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Andy Williams
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Leeds LS18
Not accepting new clients
As a psychotherapist, counsellor, supervisor and trainer, I am passionate about emancipation and freedom. My practice is characterised by offering you a space - online or face-to-face - where you can discover your identity and regain a sense of autonomy and connectedness. I seek to support my clients to move from a place of feeling perhaps lost and alienated to a position where they feel connected to themselves, to others and to the ground upon which they walk. As a client, you may be seeking to manage a significant and sudden change in your life. I would like to work shoulder-to-shoulder with you to address these difficulties.
As a psychotherapist, counsellor, supervisor and trainer, I am passionate about emancipation and freedom. My practice is characterised by offering you a space - online or face-to-face - where you can discover your identity and regain a sense of autonomy and connectedness. I seek to support my clients to move from a place of feeling perhaps lost and alienated to a position where they feel connected to themselves, to others and to the ground upon which they walk. As a client, you may be seeking to manage a significant and sudden change in your life. I would like to work shoulder-to-shoulder with you to address these difficulties.
0113 519 4703 View 0113 519 4703
Photo of Rachel Ambrose, MBACP, Counsellor
Rachel Ambrose
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bradford BD1
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I’m Rachel welcome to my profile. I work with individuals across the UK aged 18 and over who are experiencing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, bereavement, relational difficulties, problems relating to confidence and self-esteem. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed & unable to see a way through; alone with no one to share your difficulties; stressed and 'frazzled' at work; trapped or bored in your current circumstances? Struggling after a bereavement or the end of a relationship? Feeling concerned about worrying or being a burden to loved ones. You may wish to appear stronger than you feel for them.
Hi, I’m Rachel welcome to my profile. I work with individuals across the UK aged 18 and over who are experiencing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, bereavement, relational difficulties, problems relating to confidence and self-esteem. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed & unable to see a way through; alone with no one to share your difficulties; stressed and 'frazzled' at work; trapped or bored in your current circumstances? Struggling after a bereavement or the end of a relationship? Feeling concerned about worrying or being a burden to loved ones. You may wish to appear stronger than you feel for them.
01484 598911 View 01484 598911

Online Therapists

Photo of Michelle Kelly, MBACP, Counsellor
Michelle Kelly
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B18
I also worked for Springfield MIND, a national MH charity providing Intervention for Stress, depression, anxiety & much more.
I am a qualified counsellor with a BACP Accredited qualification working to the BACP Ethical framework. My counselling is underpinned with qualifications in Health & Social Care, Children & Young People, Gangs, Anger Management, Criminal Psychology and a Bsc in Adult Mental Health Nursing. I am trained Integratively but apply focus on CBT, Motivational Interviewing techniques and Humanistic Approaches. Supporting a variety of needs to help enhance the quality of life of those I support to help build resilience. I am a member of the BACP Accredited register and Accredited register for The Foundation for Infant loss.
I also worked for Springfield MIND, a national MH charity providing Intervention for Stress, depression, anxiety & much more.
I am a qualified counsellor with a BACP Accredited qualification working to the BACP Ethical framework. My counselling is underpinned with qualifications in Health & Social Care, Children & Young People, Gangs, Anger Management, Criminal Psychology and a Bsc in Adult Mental Health Nursing. I am trained Integratively but apply focus on CBT, Motivational Interviewing techniques and Humanistic Approaches. Supporting a variety of needs to help enhance the quality of life of those I support to help build resilience. I am a member of the BACP Accredited register and Accredited register for The Foundation for Infant loss.
0121 726 1103 View 0121 726 1103
Photo of Sammy Rupiya - SR Inspiration CBT Practitioner, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
SR Inspiration CBT Practitioner
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Retford DN22
This therapist prefers to be identified as CBT Practitioner. I aim to work emphatically and collaboratively engage the client. If you are experiencing the following : Addiction, Anger Management, Anxiety, Abuse , Bereavement, Depression, Marriage or Relationship breakdown, PTSD, Self-Esteem, Stress , and Eating disorders call this practitioner for help. Don't leave it too late. My therapeutic approach using CBT model provides a short-term, goal focused and highly structured approach to therapeutic Assessment, Stabilisation, Planning, Intervention, Resilience and Evaluation. Call now for help. Do not leave it too late.
This therapist prefers to be identified as CBT Practitioner. I aim to work emphatically and collaboratively engage the client. If you are experiencing the following : Addiction, Anger Management, Anxiety, Abuse , Bereavement, Depression, Marriage or Relationship breakdown, PTSD, Self-Esteem, Stress , and Eating disorders call this practitioner for help. Don't leave it too late. My therapeutic approach using CBT model provides a short-term, goal focused and highly structured approach to therapeutic Assessment, Stabilisation, Planning, Intervention, Resilience and Evaluation. Call now for help. Do not leave it too late.
0116 478 2890 View 0116 478 2890
Photo of Schola Shum Osong, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Schola Shum Osong
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Loughborough LE12  (Online Only)
This gives us the flexibility to use different technics and intervention that best suit you to meet your specific need.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, internal conflict, overwhelmed with life challenges, feel stuck, etc, you are in the right place. I am passionate about helping people explore these feelings and emotions in a safe and confidential space, look for ways to cope, feel better and move forward. I work with a wide rage of issues, including, anger management, self-esteem, stress, relationship breakdown, PTSD, bereavement/grief, domestic violence and many others. I also offer Christian Counselling, a form of spiritual counselling to individuals that would like counselling tailored to their Christian perspective.
This gives us the flexibility to use different technics and intervention that best suit you to meet your specific need.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, internal conflict, overwhelmed with life challenges, feel stuck, etc, you are in the right place. I am passionate about helping people explore these feelings and emotions in a safe and confidential space, look for ways to cope, feel better and move forward. I work with a wide rage of issues, including, anger management, self-esteem, stress, relationship breakdown, PTSD, bereavement/grief, domestic violence and many others. I also offer Christian Counselling, a form of spiritual counselling to individuals that would like counselling tailored to their Christian perspective.
0116 502 3307 View 0116 502 3307
Photo of Stephanie Dunning - Peace of Mind Wellbeing, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Peace of Mind Wellbeing
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Cannock WS12
Peace of Mind Wellbeing offers therapeutic support and mental health intervention to Children, Young People and Adults, presenting with psychological difficulties such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Childhood Trauma, Relationship difficulties and Low Self Esteem. Peace of Mind Wellbeing also offers couples therapy and family therapy, alongside training packages to other professionals, family and friends, to support their understanding of different psychological difficulties, how they present and how they can appropriately offer their support.
Peace of Mind Wellbeing offers therapeutic support and mental health intervention to Children, Young People and Adults, presenting with psychological difficulties such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Childhood Trauma, Relationship difficulties and Low Self Esteem. Peace of Mind Wellbeing also offers couples therapy and family therapy, alongside training packages to other professionals, family and friends, to support their understanding of different psychological difficulties, how they present and how they can appropriately offer their support.
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Photo of Sue J Daniels - Psychotherapist, Supervisor & Trainer, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor
Psychotherapist, Supervisor & Trainer
Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louth LN11
C-PTSD (20 Week Programme) 20 week programme, which incorporates an initial assessment of 90mins and 10 x fortnightly sessions of 60mins of post trauma intervention such as EMDR (eye movement desensitising reprocessing), VKD (rewind technique work), BSP (brainspotting) and GV (Guided Visualisation).
PTSD and C-PTSD are serious and debilitating disorders that occur as a result of experiencing either one trauma or repeated traumatic suffering over a long period of time. C-PTSD can often be seen in survivors of childhood abuse, domestic violence, and combat. The effects of all unresolved trauma are far-reaching and can deeply impact an individual’s ability to function in day-to-day life. However, with the right support and treatment, individuals with PTSD at any level can achieve post-traumatic growth and personal development.
C-PTSD (20 Week Programme) 20 week programme, which incorporates an initial assessment of 90mins and 10 x fortnightly sessions of 60mins of post trauma intervention such as EMDR (eye movement desensitising reprocessing), VKD (rewind technique work), BSP (brainspotting) and GV (Guided Visualisation).
PTSD and C-PTSD are serious and debilitating disorders that occur as a result of experiencing either one trauma or repeated traumatic suffering over a long period of time. C-PTSD can often be seen in survivors of childhood abuse, domestic violence, and combat. The effects of all unresolved trauma are far-reaching and can deeply impact an individual’s ability to function in day-to-day life. However, with the right support and treatment, individuals with PTSD at any level can achieve post-traumatic growth and personal development.
01507 304193 View 01507 304193
Photo of Elizabeth Anne Lee - Purple House Clinic Nottingham, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Purple House Clinic Nottingham
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
Dr Lee is a Registered Clinical Psychologist experienced in working with clients across the lifespan. She provides assessment and therapeutic intervention for psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety, phobias, obsessive/compulsive problems, trauma, child behavioural problems, bereavement, trauma, anxiety and adjustment to chronic and life-limiting physical health conditions. Further to qualification in 2006 Dr Lee has worked in a range of settings both in the NHS and privately. She has post qualification training in Clinical Neuropsychology and Eye Movement Desentisitaion and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Dr Lee is a Registered Clinical Psychologist experienced in working with clients across the lifespan. She provides assessment and therapeutic intervention for psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety, phobias, obsessive/compulsive problems, trauma, child behavioural problems, bereavement, trauma, anxiety and adjustment to chronic and life-limiting physical health conditions. Further to qualification in 2006 Dr Lee has worked in a range of settings both in the NHS and privately. She has post qualification training in Clinical Neuropsychology and Eye Movement Desentisitaion and Reprocessing (EMDR).
01777 800583 View 01777 800583
Photo of Sultana Begum - Care for me Counselling Services, MBACP, Counsellor
Care for me Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oldham OL2
My name is Sultana I am an experienced MBACP Integrative Person-Centred Counsellor, I offer a private, confidential, and non-judgemental space for you to explore and discuss your concerns and difficulties. I offer therapeutic intervention on Mental Health Issues such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and phobias. I have high success in couples counselling and have supported clients going through loss, trauma, separation and divorce. Whatever the issue I hope to work together to explore and unpack the patterns of thought, core beliefs and behaviours that are preventing you from living your life fully and authentically.
My name is Sultana I am an experienced MBACP Integrative Person-Centred Counsellor, I offer a private, confidential, and non-judgemental space for you to explore and discuss your concerns and difficulties. I offer therapeutic intervention on Mental Health Issues such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and phobias. I have high success in couples counselling and have supported clients going through loss, trauma, separation and divorce. Whatever the issue I hope to work together to explore and unpack the patterns of thought, core beliefs and behaviours that are preventing you from living your life fully and authentically.
07449 850608 View 07449 850608
Photo of Magdalen Dalton, MBACP, Counsellor
Magdalen Dalton
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York YO1
I am a British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) registered counsellor offering counselling support within York city centre to young people (16+) and adults. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, anxious or confused by recent or past life events.  You may feel stuck; finding yourself making the same unhelpful life choices or struggle with relationships, repeating negative patterns.  You may need the space to find some self healing and acceptance.  It is not my place to tell you what you need to do, rather we will work together to help you find clarity, move forward and regain control. We may work short or long term.
I am a British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) registered counsellor offering counselling support within York city centre to young people (16+) and adults. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, anxious or confused by recent or past life events.  You may feel stuck; finding yourself making the same unhelpful life choices or struggle with relationships, repeating negative patterns.  You may need the space to find some self healing and acceptance.  It is not my place to tell you what you need to do, rather we will work together to help you find clarity, move forward and regain control. We may work short or long term.
01904 803236 View 01904 803236
Photo of Sarah Alsawy-Davies, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Sarah Alsawy-Davies
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Manchester M45
Waitlist for new clients
I'm glad you've taken the first step by coming here to improve your life. I specialise working with people who have experienced traumatic relationships, traumatic attachments, issues of abuse and neglect in a relationship - no matter how big or small this may feel. It may be you were in a relationship where you felt like you were not good enough, other people were gas-lighting you, or you were invalidated or misunderstood. I help people feel confident, develop boundaries, be more assertive, improve their self-esteem after feeling panicked, anxious, or walking on eggshells.
I'm glad you've taken the first step by coming here to improve your life. I specialise working with people who have experienced traumatic relationships, traumatic attachments, issues of abuse and neglect in a relationship - no matter how big or small this may feel. It may be you were in a relationship where you felt like you were not good enough, other people were gas-lighting you, or you were invalidated or misunderstood. I help people feel confident, develop boundaries, be more assertive, improve their self-esteem after feeling panicked, anxious, or walking on eggshells.
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Photo of Beverley Ann Colman, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Beverley Ann Colman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR3
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I’m Bev. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and when our thoughts are disorganised it can be challenging to see a clear way forward and to make positive and healthy choices. Although it is helpful talking to others, many people feel more comfortable and more able to be fully open, talking to a trained professional. I am an Integrative Person-centered Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. I have experience in supporting and helping clients overcome mental health issues including; bereavement, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and trauma.
Hello, I’m Bev. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and when our thoughts are disorganised it can be challenging to see a clear way forward and to make positive and healthy choices. Although it is helpful talking to others, many people feel more comfortable and more able to be fully open, talking to a trained professional. I am an Integrative Person-centered Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. I have experience in supporting and helping clients overcome mental health issues including; bereavement, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and trauma.
07446 869552 View 07446 869552

See more therapy options for Ilkley

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.