You may encounter terms such as CRAFT, invitational intervention, family-systems work, motivational interviewing, or a structured intervention meeting. Ask what the provider actually does rather than choosing by the name alone.
CRAFT and ongoing family work
Partnership to End Addiction describes Community Reinforcement and Family Training as an approach that helps concerned relatives develop communication and other skills around substance use. It is not simply another name for a one-off confrontation.
A planned intervention meeting
A structured meeting is one possible format. Ask how it is prepared, who participates, how the individual’s perspective is included, and what alternatives exist. A named model should not remove the need to consider risk, consent, and the specific situation.
Motivational and invitational language
Ask the practitioner to explain the concrete difference between an invitation, a consultation, counseling, and a formal meeting. Marketing descriptions such as gentle, systemic, or non-confrontational should be supported by a clear process.
Questions that matter more than the label
- Why is this approach proposed for this situation?
- What relevant training does the practitioner have?
- Does the approach require participation from the person receiving care?
- What happens if the family disagrees or the individual declines?
- How will family safety and professional boundaries be addressed?
- Which claimed benefits are supported by research, and which are the provider’s own experience?
No universal winner
This guide does not assign one model to every diagnosis or family. Use it to prepare for a discussion with a suitably qualified professional.