At our practice, we understand how overwhelming it can be to watch someone you care about struggle with substance use. Feelings of helplessness, fear, frustration, and isolation are common — but support is available.
We’re proud to offer CRAFT — Community Reinforcement and Family Training, a research-based, compassionate approach that empowers concerned loved ones with the skills and support to create meaningful change — in their relationships, in their own well-being, and in their loved one’s likelihood of seeking treatment.
What Is CRAFT?
CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) is an evidence-based therapeutic program specifically designed for family members, partners, and close friends of individuals struggling with alcohol or drug use, or gambling.
Rather than relying on confrontation or detachment, CRAFT uses positive reinforcement, skill-building, and respectful communication strategies to help families encourage their loved one toward recovery — while also prioritizing their own mental and emotional health.
CRAFT is grounded in behavioral science and motivational principles, making it especially well-aligned with our practice’s expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies and related evidence-based approaches.
How Does CRAFT Work?
Working with a trained CRAFT clinician, you’ll meet individually to learn and apply key strategies, including:
Understanding patterns of substance use and identifying opportunities for change
Reinforcing non-using/sober behavior and reducing behaviors that may unintentionally reinforce use
Improving communication, reducing conflict, and building connection
Learning how and when to encourage treatment without using ultimatums or coercion
Enhancing your own quality of life by managing stress, setting boundaries, and increasing self-care
CRAFT is typically offered over 8–12 sessions, though the timeline can be customized based on your needs. Sessions are available in-person in Florida or virtually in Florida and New York.
Importantly, you do not need your loved one to attend therapy for this approach to be effective. CRAFT focuses on empowering you with tools to create change, no matter where your loved one is in their journey.
Where Did CRAFT Come From?
CRAFT was developed by Dr. Robert J. Meyers and colleagues at the University of New Mexico, based on decades of research into behavioral psychology and substance use treatment.
It emerged as a science-backed alternative to traditional interventions (like the Johnson model) and Al-Anon-style detachment strategies. In multiple clinical trials, CRAFT has been shown to be more effective than other methods in helping families:
Improve their own well-being
Reduce a loved one’s substance use
Successfully engage their loved one in treatment
Today, CRAFT is recognized as one of the most effective and compassionate support models for families navigating substance use.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. CRAFT is designed specifically for concerned family members or friends. You can begin on your own, even if your loved one is not open to treatment.
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That’s exactly the situation CRAFT is meant to support. You’ll learn how to respond in ways that reduce defensiveness, increase motivation for change, and protect your own well-being.
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Unlike Al-Anon, which emphasizes detachment, CRAFT helps you stay connected and actively promote positive change. Unlike confrontational interventions, CRAFT avoids ultimatums and instead builds trust and motivation.
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Yes. CRAFT has been shown to be effective across a wide range of substances, including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis, as well as gambling and more.
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Most people complete C.R.A.F.T. in 8–12 sessions, though some choose to continue longer for additional support or coaching.
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Yes. While some people choose to participate individually, others benefit from attending with another concerned loved one. We can tailor the format to your situation.
You Deserve Support and Compassion, Too
CRAFT gives you tools — and hope. Whether your loved one is refusing help, in and out of treatment, or you're simply unsure what to do next, you don't have to navigate it alone.
To learn more or schedule a consultation with one of our CRAFT trained clinicians, contact us here.