An intervention counsellor can be defined as someone who conducts an intervention with an alcohol or drug addicted individual and their family with the aim of getting the patient into a treatment centre and recovery plan.
Intervention Counselling
Interventions in counselling are deliberate actions or strategies employed by the counsellor aimed at assisting clients in managing their problems and achieving their goals. These interventions can be counsellor-centered, where the counsellor actively does something for or to the client, such as offering advice. On the other hand, client-centered interventions focus on empowering the client, enabling them to tackle their own issues by enhancing their skills like monitoring and altering negative thought patterns. The process of selecting the most fitting intervention involves a detailed evaluation of the client’s specific needs and the desired outcomes.
The choice of intervention is influenced by several factors, including the nature of the client’s problem, the counsellor’s therapeutic approach and the client’s readiness and capability to engage in the process. Given the diverse needs of clients, counsellors must possess a wide array of intervention techniques that are adaptable to the individual’s values, cultural background and personal circumstances.
The emphasis on evidence-based practice advocates for the selection and application of interventions grounded in the most current and robust research, aiming to significantly enhance client outcomes.
An Intervention Counsellor is a trained professional who specialises in planning and facilitating interventions. Their primary goal is to help individuals with addiction recognise the severity of their problem and encourage them to seek treatment. These counsellors possess a deep understanding of addiction and recovery, allowing them to guide both the individual struggling with addiction and their families through the intervention process.
During an intervention, an Intervention Counsellor works closely with the family or friends of the person struggling with addiction. They help educate and prepare these loved ones for the intervention, ensuring that everyone involved understands the purpose, objectives and potential outcomes. The counsellor helps to create a safe, compassionate and structured environment for the intervention to take place.
Therapeutic interventions vary widely and can be particularly effective at different stages of therapy, tailored to meet the specific needs of the client. Clients are often seen as their own best problem solvers, capable of reflecting on their own thought processes. By focusing on their thought patterns, clients can learn to guide their own thoughts in a more positive direction, helping to break cycles of negative thinking and improve their emotional well-being.
Some of the most commonly used interventions in therapy aim to engage clients in this process of self-reflection and self-guidance, across a range of therapeutic contexts. These interventions are chosen based on their proven effectiveness in helping clients achieve their therapeutic goals.
Intervention Counsellors also play a important role in bridging the gap between the addicted individual and the treatment facility. They assess the readiness for treatment, help identify suitable rehab options and coordinate the admission process. Their expertise ensures that the addicted individual receives the necessary treatment promptly, increasing the chances of successful recovery.
How Does Intervention Counselling Work?
Identifying and challenging rigid thinking patterns characterised by “musts,” “oughts,” and “shoulds” can significantly aid clients in therapy. These inflexible thoughts often hinder individuals by setting unrealistic standards for themselves and others, leading to feelings of inadequacy or resentment. Therapists can help clients question these beliefs through logical reasoning, empirical evidence and exploring the practicality of their thoughts in relation to their goals and happiness. Techniques such as functional, empirical, logical and philosophical disputing are used to break down these mental barriers.
Additionally, recognising automatic perceptions and the power of self-talk are crucial in reshaping one’s mindset. Clients are encouraged to see things from different perspectives, avoid jumping to conclusions and use positive self-talk to manage emotions like anger, stress and to boost confidence. Visual techniques, such as imagining loved ones or envisioning relaxing scenes, can also be therapeutic, helping clients connect with their feelings and find calm.
Setting realistic expectations and goals is another key aspect of therapy. By assessing risks, boosting confidence and identifying support systems, clients can envision a positive future and work towards it. Goals should be clear, aligned with personal values, achievable, specific, measurable and time-bound. Experiencing, expressing and managing feelings through methods like the empty chair dialogue allows clients to explore and resolve emotional conflicts, enhancing their emotional intelligence and coping mechanisms.
The addiction recovery community employs specific terminology that is key to understand. One such term is “denial,” which refers to the addict’s refusal to acknowledge their addiction or the severity of the problem. Another term commonly used is “enabling,” which describes the behaviors of family or friends that inadvertently facilitate the addiction and hinder recovery efforts.
Over time, the role of Intervention Counsellors has become more structured and specialised, ensuring that interventions are conducted with compassion, empathy and expertise.
Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and Thailand, WeDoRecover supports individuals globally, including those from the United Arab Emirates and Europe. Accepting both South African medical aid and international health insurance our organisation facilitates access to high-quality treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders, offering individualised care that addresses the physical, mental and social needs of patients.
Our team, led by Gareth Carter, offers empathetic and professional support, guiding you through every step of the treatment process. Whether you're in South Africa or abroad, our acceptance of various insurance plans makes quality care accessible, providing a platform for lasting recovery and a healthier future.
Inpatient Rehab
Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
Outpatient
If you're committed to your sobriety but cannot take a break from your daily duties for an inpatient program. Outpatient rehab treatment might suit you well if you are looking for a less restricted format for addiction treatment or simply need help with mental health.
Therapy
Therapy can be good step towards healing and self-discovery. If you need support without disrupting your routine, therapy offers a flexible solution for anyone wishing to enhance their mental well-being or work through personal issues in a supportive, confidential environment.
Mental Health
Are you having persistent feelings of being swamped, sad or have sudden surges of anger or intense emotional outbursts? These are warning signs of unresolved trauma mental health. A simple assesment by a mental health expert could provide valuable insights into your recovery.
Finding the right rehab close to you is simple with WeDoRecover. Our network includes the finest rehab centers, ensuring personalised, quality care for your recovery needs. Let Gareth Carter and our empathetic team help guide you to a center that feels right for you, offering expert care and support. Start your healing today by choosing a rehab that's not just close to you, but also that truly cares about your loved ones recovery.