What is CRAFT (Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training)?

Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training (CRAFT) was developed for the loved ones of people who use alcohol or drugs. It can be delivered individually or in groups.

CRAFT is adaptable to the specific needs of each family.  It takes into account the severity of the loved one’s addiction, their openness to change, and the family’s emotional state and history.

Who created CRAFT?

Developed by Dr. Robert Meyers at the University of New Mexico, the approach aims to motivate the loved one to enter treatment. It focuses on rewarding positive behaviors and allowing the loved one to experience the natural consequences of use. With these methods, families can learn to change interactions with the user. The overall goal is to drive changes in the loved one’s behavior.

What are the key aspects of CRAFT?

• Non-Confrontational Approach: CRAFT focuses on positive reinforcement and effective communication. It encourages individuals with substance use disorders to seek treatment.
• Focus on Family Involvement: The program empowers family members, known as Concerned Significant Others (CSOs), to play an active role in motivating their loved ones to enter treatment while also prioritizing their own well-being.
• Behavioral and Motivational Strategies: CRAFT teaches families behavioral and motivational strategies to interact with their loved ones, aiming to make sober behavior more rewarding than substance use.
• Skills Development: Participants learn positive communication, problem-solving, self-care, and understanding substance use triggers. They also learn to provide positive reinforcement for non-using behaviors and to allow natural consequences for using behaviors.

How effective is CRAFT (Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training)?

High Success Rate: CRAFT is more effective than traditional intervention methods, with a success rate of 65-75% in getting individuals to seek treatment, compared to lower rates with other approaches like 12-step programs.

In repeated clinical studies, the CRAFT approach was significantly more effective than the Johnson Intervention and Al-Anon at convincing a loved one to enter treatment. CRAFT methods provide families with hopeful, positive, and effective alternatives to address alcohol and substance problems in their families.

Broad Mental Health Benefits of CRAFT (Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training):

The program has been shown to be impactful in many areas which include:

1. Reducing the substance use of the identified patient
2. Improving the quality of life and mental health of the family members
3. Reducing depression, anxiety, and anger in all family members

Summary

CRAFT (Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training) is comprehensive and emphasizes the importance of family involvement in the recovery process. At the same time it ensures that family members take care of their own needs.