Mediation may seem like a strange term to use when talking about addiction and intervention, but it can play a key role in the process. In a legal sense, mediation is a formal process for resolving disputes with two or more parties, producing concrete effects or action steps. Mediators can be helpful in a variety of arenas from commercial, legal and diplomatic to workplace, community and family matters.
The term “mediation” may sound too official when it comes to a very personal family issue like substance abuse. That’s when it’s helpful to remember that, at its core, mediation is really any instance in which a third party helps others reach agreement. It provides structure, a timetable and – perhaps most importantly – objectivity.
The primary goal of an intervention or mediation for substance abuse is simply breaking down barriers to treatment and getting the addicted individual the help they need.
Their methods, locations and price can vary greatly for professional mediators and interventionists. A reputable helpline like Black Bear’s will work with a varied network of professionals to ensure they can recommend the person that is the right fit for your situation.
Making the Right Choice
To determine the best option for your situation, there are three main areas to consider:
- Clinical Approach – To determine the professional who will have the best possibility of success, consider factors like gender, age and style or approach. Many interventionists also offer products in addition to intervention, so determine early on if your loved one needs additional care and then make sure to hire someone who can provide that.
- Resources – Unfortunately, family mediation and intervention aren’t covered by insurance like treatment may be. Unchecked addiction is usually far more costly than getting help, though, taking its toll financially, personally, professionally and emotionally. A reputable professional or referral agency will work with you to determine the level of financial support your family can provide and match you with someone who fits your budget.
- Geography – Often, by the time you reach out, help is needed immediately. In this case, you may want to seek out a mediator in your region who can get to you quickly. Of course, most professional interventionists do travel and are willing to do so frequently, but using someone local can also help cut costs or allow for the fastest possible response, which is why geography is a factor.
A Mediator’s Role
The mediation process – whether dealing with legal or family issues — is private and confidential. And unlike the ambush interventions often seen on TV, there is usually far less drama and participation is typically voluntary. The mediator’s main role is to act as a neutral third party, facilitating rather than directing the process.
As the practice gained popularity, training programs, certifications and licensing followed, producing trained, professional mediators committed to the discipline. Mediators use various techniques to open or improve dialogue between all parties with the goal of helping everyone involved reach an agreement. When substance abuse is involved, emotions can run high and the addicted individual may be frightened or defensive. This is where the mediator’s skill and training proves invaluable. Helping an individual to see their need for treatment – if there is one – and be willing to accept help isn’t always something loved ones are able to do. Often, they’re too involved to present the facts clearly. A mediator or interventionist, however, can step in and help make sure that everyone is heard and to keep the focus on facts, not hurt feelings.
Intervention Models
There is more than just one type of intervention, and professionals rely on a variety of proven models and methods. From invitational to systemic to a family approach, they should be willing to use what will work best for your loved one. Some models engage the entire family for a longer period; others focus on letting the individual have more control. Some interventions may even go forward without the addicted individual being present. Be sure to ask questions beforehand to make sure you’re getting a method you feel good about.
A Family Affair
Intervention isn’t just for the addicted individual. In fact, intervention is usually only 10 percent for the individual and 90 percent for the family, because professionals know that everyone has work to do during the treatment process.
Codependent and enabling behaviors also need to be addressed, so that the loved one in treatment returns home to a family system that can help support rather than sabotage their long-term sobriety.
Most families or groups who go through an intervention weren’t seeking that out initially. Usually, someone is simply at the end of his or her rope and desperate to get back a loved one they feel they are losing to addiction. While loved ones see the signs, the person who is abusing isn’t usually ready to admit they have a problem. That’s where mediation and intervention can come in, helping to remove barriers to treatment and give families a concrete plan for presenting the option to their loved in a calm, professional manner.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction and you don’t know where to turn, call us today. We’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can provide information on treatment programs, mediation, help with insurance and answer questions about the treatment process.