Step 1: Name the Problem
Most people see the symptoms of the problems, e.g. some symptoms of alcoholism are: Denial, unmanageability, feeling helpless, isolation, uncontrollable anger, etc. It is important to relate the symptoms to the problems and state that it can be treated. Optimism is a key ingredient for those involved in an intervention.

Step 2: Select the participants
It is important that those selected for the intervention see the connection between the symptoms and “the problem” and not be afraid to make that connection. It is helpful if they are people whose opinions and feelings are valued and respected by the person with the problem. Participants may include: parents, spouses, siblings, aunts, cousins, friends, pastors, business associates, anyone who has influence.

Step 3: Identify concrete feelings and incidents.
This is how you feel. This is what actually happened. It should not be fuzzy, but real. Always the intervention should be done in an atmosphere of love, not condemnation. You may want to use a special notebook or journal to list all the symptoms exhibited by the person on whom you are doing the intervention, so that you have ample room to write all the behaviors, incidents, and your feelings.

Step 4: Identify Solutions and Choices
Unhealthy behavior must have consequences! They have a choice, but so do you! Often the addict feels helpless. We need to provide realistic solutions. We do not need despair. If treatment has been decided upon by the intervention group, then it is sensible to have arranged travel, bags and admission date. A person from the treatment center should be available to the team.

Step 5: Ongoing support
Recovery, healing is a process. After treatment, the person may be referred to a local therapist and to a Twelve Step support group. Family members will greatly benefit from attending their own support groups. In most cases, family relationships are improved by family therapy.