Supporting a Loved One’s Change (CRAFT-Informed)
A CRAFT-informed family worksheet with four strategies (reward sober behaviour, step back during use, positive communication, self-care), response planning and a script to suggest help.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Family · CRAFT-informed
- Approach / concern
- Recovery & Addiction
- Technique
- Family · CRAFT-informed
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Supporting a Loved One’s Change (CRAFT-Informed)?
Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) teaches concerned significant others to change their interactions to encourage treatment entry and reduce use, while improving their own wellbeing.
Why it works
CRAFT, described by Meyers and Wolfe (2004), helps families encourage loved ones into treatment without confrontation. Motivational principles support non-confrontational communication (Miller & Rollnick, 2013).
When to use it
- Families and partners of people who use substances
- Loved ones refusing treatment
- Family therapy
- Al-Anon members
How to use it in session
- Learn the four strategies.
- Identify common situations.
- Plan new responses.
- Choose a moment to suggest help.
- Practise self-care.
Clinician tips
- Assess family safety first.
- Validate family exhaustion.
- Avoid blame.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Isn’t stepping back the same as giving up?
No. It’s about not reinforcing use, while staying warm and connected during sober times.
When should I suggest treatment?
Choose a calm, sober moment, especially after a natural consequence or when they express regret.
References
Meyers, R. J., & Wolfe, B. L. (2004). Get your loved one sober: Alternatives to nagging, pleading, and threatening. Hazelden.
Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2013). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
