About CRAFT

(Community Reinforcement and Family Training)

Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) was developed by Robert J. Meyers, PhD and Jane Ellen Smith, PhD to teach families how to support loved ones who are using drugs/alcohol without the use of detachment and/or confrontation. CRAFT draws on behavioral principles and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help families* respond in ways that may influence positive change.

Change can be messy. Even with step-by-step instructions or coaching, it rarely follows a linear pattern.  Indeed, the change process typically resembles a circle due to shifting feelings and needs along the way. CRAFT demystifies the change process so families can meet loved ones where they are — with genuineness, acceptance and empathy.  It provides a framework for family members to understand (and possibly influence) a loved one’s behaviors, and to communicate intentionally for connection and change. Most importantly, it cultivates a self-care mindset that can significantly improve family coping and resilience. In clinical research, CRAFT is shown to reduce a loved one’s substance use, increase their access to treatment, and/or improve family wellbeing (i.e. less stress, anxiety, depression).  

I have received training in CRAFT and I continue to gain insight via participation in peer consultation groups.

Please refer to Resources for more information about CRAFT.

Invitation to Change

Clinicians at the Center for Motivation and Change developed an approach that blends CRAFT with two other interventions — Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Called Invitation to Change® (ITC), this model brings mindfulness and compassion into the fold, providing families with a more holistic understanding of the problem along with correlating skills to address them. I have received training in ITC and use it in my practice as well.

Please refer to Resources for more information about Invitation to Change®.

* Family is defined broadly to include anyone who cares about someone who is using.

Schedule a 30 minute consultation to learn more about how a CRAFT/ITC approach may help you navigate a child’s substance use.