CRAFT: A Family-Centered Intervention Approach

CRAFT Family Intervention Guide

Families and loved ones play a vital role in shaping environments of hope, encouragement, and stability. Yet, when someone you love resists treatment, it can feel overwhelming to know how to help without losing yourself in the process. The Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training (CRAFT) model offers a compassionate, evidence-based path forward. CRAFT equips families with practical tools to support their loved one’s recovery while protecting their own well-being.

What Is CRAFT?

CRAFT Family Intervention Guide is a family-centered approach designed for “Concerned Significant Others” who want to encourage a loved one toward treatment and healthier living. Unlike confrontational or ultimatum-based methods, CRAFT uses positive reinforcement, healthy communication, and self-care to foster change. Research shows that families who learn CRAFT skills are more likely to see their loved one enter treatment compared to other approaches, and they report lower stress and greater confidence in their ability to support recovery.

At its heart, CRAFT recognizes that families are powerful allies. With the right guidance, families can become sober companions, walking beside their loved one and gently opening doors to healing.

Core CRAFT Tools Families Can Use

CRAFT is built on several practical tools that encourage connection and resilience.

1. Positive Reinforcement

Change often grows when healthy choices are noticed and encouraged. In CRAFT, families are taught to highlight moments of progress—large or small—by responding with affirmation rather than criticism. Example script: 

“I noticed you came home earlier tonight. I really enjoy having that extra time with you. It means a lot.”

2. Effective Communication

The way families speak to one another can either open or close doors. CRAFT emphasizes clear, calm, and respectful conversations that avoid blame. Families learn to use “I” statements and active listening. Visit How to Talk to a Loved One about Their Addiction to learn more. Example script: 

“I feel worried when I don’t know where you are. I care about you, and I want us to feel safe and connected.”

3. Boundary Setting

Boundaries create structure and protect well-being without ultimatums. CRAFT frames boundaries as choices families make for themselves rather than punishments for their loved one. Example script: 

“I want to help, but I can’t give you money. What I can do is help you find resources.”

4. Self-Nurturing and Support

Perhaps most importantly, CRAFT reminds families to take care of themselves. Stress, exhaustion, and fear can lead to burnout. By practicing self-care and reaching out to supportive networks, families sustain their own resilience. This might include joining a support group, engaging in recovery coaching, or simply setting aside time each day for rest and renewal.

Avoiding Enabling While Practicing Compassion

A common concern families face is the difference between supporting and enabling. CRAFT helps loved ones recognize when their actions unintentionally shield a person from the consequences of substance use. For example, repeatedly calling in sick on someone’s behalf or covering their bills can remove opportunities for accountability. Instead, CRAFT encourages choices that show love while allowing natural consequences to unfold. This balance fosters dignity, honesty, and long-term change.

Walking Beside, Not Leading

CRAFT aligns beautifully with the RiseWell philosophy of walking beside, never forcing or shaming. It empowers families to serve as steady anchors, offering support without losing their own balance. Families are reminded that recovery is a self-directed journey, and their role is to keep encouragement, hope, and support within reach.

Try CRAFT Step by Step

To help families begin using CRAFT in daily life, we’ve created a simple downloadable tool: “CRAFT Step by Step.” This worksheet offers prompts, conversation starters, and a checklist of daily practices to build healthier patterns at home. Families can adapt it to their own rhythm, honoring their unique path while holding space for growth and healing.

A Path of Hope and Resilience

Families deserve tools that bring clarity and compassion in difficult moments. CRAFT offers evidence-based strategies that engage loved ones in treatment while empowering families. RiseWell Recovery extends these principles through recovery coaching, sober companions, sober transportation, and intervention services. With CRAFT and RiseWell’s support, families discover that they are vital companions, walking beside their loved ones toward lasting recovery. For more family resources, visit our Family Resource Hub.