The Implications of Referring Out

Подробнее о видео

It can be uncomfortable to talk about the implications of referring our clients out. But the truth is that there are practical realities that therapists face when referring our clients to other services. Being able to discuss the impact helps us better serve our clients.

The work we do as therapists is profound and meaningful, which means we develop genuine connections with our clients. Referring out can mean having to let go of that therapeutic connection that we've worked so hard to build. That loss is real, and it's important to honor those connections.

Another very real implication that tends to be taboo to talk about is the tangible impact on our income. When we refer clients out, we also lose the income from that working relationship.

It shouldn't be taboo to talk about this. Just because our clients pay us for our expertise and services doesn't mean we don't care about our clients. We care deeply.

It's just that we've gone through years of schooling and training and have had to sometimes pay hundreds of thousands of dollars to get where we are. But we are still human beings trying to make it in this world like everyone else, with bills to pay and mouths to feed.

A third implication is the way referring out can tap into our own insecurities and feelings of inadequacy. Again, therapists are just as human as the next person. This means we still struggle with our own emotions and anxieties too. Referring a client out can sometimes feel like we've failed in some way.

But the truth is that knowing when to refer out has nothing to do with failure. In fact, it demonstrates just how successful you are at knowing what is best for your client and just much you care. In the long run, you are cultivating an even deeper sense of trust and care with your client that they will carry with them for a lifetime!