When a loved one is struggling with substance use, family members often feel helpless, unsure of how to offer support without enabling harmful behaviors. Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) is a proven, evidence-based approach that empowers families to foster positive change while prioritizing their own well-being.
SummitStone Health Partners is committed to providing compassionate, research-backed support for families facing substance use challenges. Through services like Peer Support Services and Case Management, we help families apply CRAFT principles and navigate the journey toward recovery together.
What Is Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT)?
CRAFT is a structured, skills-based approach designed to help families and friends:
- Encourage a loved one to seek treatment voluntarily
- Improve communication and strengthen relationships
- Reduce conflict and stress at home
- Prioritize self-care while supporting recovery
Unlike traditional intervention models, which can sometimes feel confrontational, CRAFT focuses on positive reinforcement and behavioral strategies to guide loved ones toward change. Research has shown that CRAFT is highly effective in increasing treatment engagement for individuals with substance use disorders—without using ultimatums or coercion.
How CRAFT Differs From Traditional Approaches
Many families wonder how CRAFT compares to other support systems like Al-Anon or traditional interventions. While all approaches aim to help families, they differ in their strategies:
- Traditional interventions often involve a direct confrontation, where loved ones express their concerns and encourage immediate treatment. While this method can work for some, it may push others away.
- Al-Anon focuses on personal detachment from a loved one’s addiction, encouraging family members to find peace regardless of whether the person struggling with substance use seeks help.
- CRAFT, in contrast, is an active, skill-based method that teaches family members how to motivate and support their loved ones in seeking treatment while maintaining a healthy relationship.
“[The CRAFT] environment has really helped me remove the shame and help[ed] me open up and be more honest with myself and others. That’s been a huge learning experience for me, just to see that I’m not alone.” – Elizabeth (name changed to respect privacy)
How SummitStone Supports Families
At SummitStone Health Partners, we understand that families play a crucial role in a loved one’s recovery. Our services align with CRAFT principles, providing hands-on support through:
Peer Support Services
Our Peer Support Specialists offer guidance based on their own lived experiences with substance use and recovery. They help families develop skills to communicate more effectively, set healthy boundaries, and support their loved ones in a positive way.
Case Management
Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with substance use challenges. Our Case Management team connects families with treatment providers, support groups, and other essential services to ensure they have access to the resources they need.
“When I entered the program, boundaries were something that I really lacked,” she said. “The program has helped me build physical boundaries—how I interact with my loved ones—and emotional boundaries—really confronting and labeling how I’m feeling or how I handled a certain situation. What I’ve learned from this program is how to communicate my boundaries in a healthy way and really stand up for myself.”
Frequently Asked Questions About CRAFT
Is CRAFT available at no cost?
Yes! CRAFT resources are freely available to families who want to learn how to support a loved one. Many organizations, including SummitStone, provide guidance in applying these principles.
Does CRAFT require my loved one to participate?
No, CRAFT is designed specifically for family members and friends of individuals struggling with substance use. The focus is on your actions and how you can positively influence change.
Can CRAFT help even if my loved one doesn’t want treatment?
Yes. CRAFT helps families develop communication strategies that increase the likelihood of a loved one seeking treatment on their own. Even if they aren’t ready for treatment yet, CRAFT techniques can improve relationships and reduce stress in the household.
Can CRAFT be beneficial for families of all ages?
Yes! Whether you are supporting a teenager, an adult child, a spouse, or an aging parent, CRAFT strategies can be adapted to different family dynamics.
What if I’m not in contact with my loved one right now?
Even if you’re not currently in touch with them, CRAFT can help you build skills that strengthen future interactions. The approach focuses on long-term positive change, even when direct communication isn’t possible.
Take the First Step Toward Healing – Get Help Today
If your loved one is struggling with substance use, you don’t have to face it alone. CRAFT provides the tools to support their recovery while also prioritizing your own well-being.
“The problems that we’re facing are deep, deep-rooted, and they’re not going to fix themselves. Just coming in with ease and grace and really embracing the community that’s been built helps each and every group member.”
For general information on CRAFT, please visit the Behavioral Health Administration’s website, where you can also find a CRAFT group and connect with professionals offering virtual or in-person sessions across Colorado.
- Loveland:
- Sign up by calling Gloria at 970-473-4335
- Fort Collins:
- Sign up by calling Sara at 970-657-0498
We encourage you to take the next step towards positive change. Reach out today to learn more about these programs and how they can support your family’s journey.