Canadian Deafblind Association-NB Inc.

The term “Intervention” means to go between or mediate between.  Intervention is the process which allows an individual to receive non-distorted information such that he or she can interact with his or her environment.

 

The principles of the Intervenor must address the following issues:

 

Anticipation

 

What information does the Intervenor need to ensure that the person is aware of what is going to happen, whether immediately or in the future?

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Motivation

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What information do Intervenors need provided to give the person encouragement?  What are the person’s goals?  What adaptations to the environment are necessary based on the person’s level of sight, hearing and cognitive ability?

 

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Communication

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How will the Intervenor communicate with the person?  What are his/her preferred methods of communication?  How will the Intervenor ensure that the person has opportunities for expressive communication?

 

Confirmation

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What information can the Intervenor provide to ensure that the person has understood what effect his/her actions have had?  How will the Intervenor let him/her know how successful she/he had been?

 

Intervention is not just a set of skills that can be easily learned.  It is in fact a process that must vary to meet the individual needs and abilities of each person.  Successful Intervenors are those who understand their role and who have not only the necessary skills but also the knowledge, training and experience that ensure their effectiveness.