Written by: Banyan Editorial Staff | Medically reviewed by: Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne - Chief Medical Officer | Edited: March 2026
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne
Chief Medical Officer
At Banyan Treatment Centers, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne leads our nationwide clinical team with over a decade of addiction medicine experience, helping ensure evidence-based, compassionate care across every level of treatment.
Author / Written by: Banyan Editorial Staff
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne, CMO
Updated on: April 2026
One of the hardest things for those who are dealing with an individual who has an issue with alcohol or drug addiction, substance abuse, or mental health problems is seeing the person they love suffer from this problem. What may start out as a simple use of drugs or alcohol can turn into an alcohol use disorder, drug addiction, and mental health problems that permeate every aspect of a person's life.[1]
Families may attempt to discuss with their loved one the need to get help. It is hoped that the individual will come to realize the need for treatment. However, in substance use disorders and mental health issues, denial may be a major obstacle in seeking help from professionals.[2]
If conversations are not effective, a planned intervention may be able to help a loved one into treatment and recovery. Although we at Banyan Treatment Centers do not offer a traditional intervention program, we can provide families with information about the intervention process as well as treatment options and resources for a licensed interventionist.[3]
What Is an Addiction or Mental Health Intervention?
Addiction intervention is a thoughtfully designed process whereby family members and close associates of the individual with the problem hold a meeting with the individual who is having a problem with substance abuse or mental health issues. The individual is encouraged to seek professional help through a series of talks that are often facilitated by a professional interventionist, counselor, or addiction expert.
The intervention team talks about how the behavior, drugs, or mental health issues have affected the person's life and how they have affected those who care about that person. This is not about blaming and shaming, but about showing concern and support, and showing options for treatment.
Though most people think of drug or alcohol addiction when it comes to intervention, it is also possible for someone who is struggling with severe mental health issues or co-occurring disorders involving mental health and substance abuse.[4]
A successful intervention is one that is full of compassion, understanding, and a plan for professional treatment.
When Is an Intervention Needed?
It may be hard for a family to decide whether or not an intervention might be necessary. It may be hard because an addiction or a mental health problem may develop over time, and a family may hope that a person will regain control of their life without assistance.
But there are certain situations in which a more directed conversation may be helpful. Some of the signs that an intervention may be necessary are:
- Increased substance use of alcohol/drugs
- Deteriorating physical/mental health
- Withdrawal from family members/friends
- Inability to carry out work/school/home responsibilities
- Denial of drug/alcohol problem and mental health
- Increased irritability/anger/aggressiveness/unpredictability
In more serious circumstances, intervention may be required when a person displays signs of suicidal ideas, violent behavior, and mental health distress. In such circumstances, immediate professional help from medical and mental health professionals is required.[6]
Questions about our Facilities or Programs?
Our admissions coordinators are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have as you consider whether treatment at Banyan is right for you or your loved one.
The Four Basic Steps of an Intervention
The most effective formal intervention is well-planned and well-organized. Families may hire an experienced professional who can assist them in the entire process and manage their emotional responses.
Planning the Intervention
The initial step in the formal intervention is to collect information about the individual’s substance use, mental health history, and the availability of treatment. The family creates an intervention team of four to six trusted members who play an important role in the person’s life.[5]
Team members may include:
- Family members
- Close friends
- Social workers
- Addiction specialists
- Mental health professionals
Preparing the Intervention Team
Each participant writes a letter or impact statement about how the behavior of the person they love has affected them. These letters allow family members to express their concerns in a relaxed and supportive manner without any accusations or threats.
The team may also practice the intervention and the treatment plan that will be presented during the intervention.
Conducting the Intervention
This is usually done in a place that is out of sight and where the person is likely to be clear-headed. The participants discuss their concerns and listen to one another while keeping a respectful tone.
The aim of the meeting is to discuss treatment alternatives with the individual and persuade them to seek professional help.
Following Up After the Intervention
If the individual is willing to seek treatment, immediate arrangements can be made to admit them to a suitable treatment program. However, if the individual is not willing to seek help, healthy boundaries can be set while still encouraging them to seek treatment.
Addiction and Mental Health Interventions
Addiction is a problem that many people face, and in addition, many of them may be struggling with mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and trauma. Co-occurring disorders, where a mental health disorder and a substance abuse disorder occur simultaneously, make it harder for a person to realize that he needs treatment.[7]
In such cases, it is possible that treatment programs that deal with both addiction and mental health at the same time may be suggested. Such treatment programs are often referred to as dual diagnosis treatment programs.
In dual diagnosis treatment programs, addiction treatment, mental health treatment, and behavioral therapies are provided to ensure long-term recovery from addiction.[8] Mental health professionals, addiction specialists, and medical professionals work together to provide a treatment plan that meets the physical as well as emotional needs of patients.
Finding Professional Intervention Support
Families who believe that an intervention might be beneficial to their loved one may seek the assistance of a professional interventionist who can assist them in the process.
Professional Interventionists Can Help Families By:
- Understanding the intervention process
- Preparing impact statements and letters
- Organizing the intervention team
- Creating a supportive and structured atmosphere
- Presenting treatment option
Although Banyan Treatment Centers does not have a formal intervention program in place, our staff may be able to assist families in understanding the intervention process and may be able to assist families in locating a licensed interventionist. Members of our Business Development team are licensed interventionists.[9]
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What Happens After an Intervention?
Once the individual agrees to receive treatment, the next step is to enter the treatment program that will address the addiction and the mental health issues simultaneously.
Treatment options may include:
Medical Detox
Detox programs allow individuals to safely detoxify from alcohol or drug use.
Inpatient Treatment
Residential programs offer an environment in which there is 24-hour support from medical and mental health professionals.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient programs give an individual an opportunity to participate in therapy and counseling while they continue with their day-to-day activities at home.
There are also programs that offer holistic treatments like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga, and support groups that can help in emotional healing and recovery.
Need Help Finding Treatment for a Loved One?
Addiction and mental health disorders are family diseases, and as such, it is common for family members of those struggling with mental health and addiction issues to feel overwhelmed and unsure of how they can assist their loved ones.[10]
While Banyan Treatment Centers does not have a specific intervention program, our staff is able to assist with providing information and resources for those who are struggling with mental health and addiction issues and ensure that they are able to get the care that they need for their specific problem.
If you are a family member of someone who is struggling with mental health and addiction, we invite you to contact Banyan Treatment Centers today and ask about the treatment options that are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Avoid blaming or shaming: This can create defensiveness and hinder progress.
- Don’t go unprepared: At Banyan Treatment Centers, our intervention services ensure you have a well-structured plan.
- Don’t allow distractions: Our professional interventionists help maintain focus and guide the conversation productively.
If you’re unsure how to have an intervention, our drug intervention specialists provide step-by-step guidance to ensure the meeting remains respectful, supportive, and goal-oriented.
Alcohol Intervention Our alcohol intervention programs help individuals struggling with alcohol abuse recognize the impact of their behavior and guide them toward seeking treatment. These interventions are designed to be compassionate and supportive, ensuring the individual feels encouraged to take the first step toward recovery.
Drug Intervention Our drug intervention services focus on individuals dealing with substance abuse problems. Whether it’s opioids, prescription drugs, or illicit substances, our drug intervention specialists provide the structure and support needed to help your loved one accept the need for treatment.
Mental Health Interventions Mental health interventions at Banyan address underlying mental health concerns that may be contributing to harmful behaviors. These interventions are particularly effective for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, or co-occurring disorders, helping them connect with the appropriate treatment programs.[12]
Banyan Facilities for Drug, Alcohol, & Mental Health Treatment
Banyan Castle Rock
Located in Castle Rock, CO
Substance Use Inpatient
Mental Health Inpatient
Telehealth Virtual IOP
Banyan Heartland
Located in Gilman, IL
Substance Use Inpatient
Mental Health Inpatient
Substance Use Outpatient
Telehealth Virtual IOP
Banyan Palm Springs
Located in Cathedral City, CA
Substance Use Inpatient
Telehealth Virtual IOP
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