3 - The Intervention

Summary

Chapter 3 presents in detail the NVR manual for entrenched-dependence interventions. The opening stage is devoted to building the therapeutic alliance, reframing the problem in ways that allow for new options, discussing parental accommodation, working on the parents' narrative of total responsibility, explaining the need for a support network, and training on how to prevent escalation. This stage concludes with the presentation of a therapy roadmap. The second therapeutic stage includes the formulation and delivery of the announcement, and the constitution of a support group. The third therapeutic stage is the gradual and systematic process of de-accommodation, consisting in a series of gradual exposures to diminishing services, infringement of prohibitions and, if necessary, change of living arrangements. The conclusion stage is usually open-ended, offering parents the option of returning to therapy for a short period if crises arise.