1. Leave enough time to discuss the referral and deal with any
hesitancies the patient may have.
2. Educate your patient as much as possible regarding:
a) what to expect/what is psychotherapy
b) about the therapist you are referring to
c) how to be a good consumer of psychotherapy
3. Make a good match; i.e. consider the personality characteristics of
the new therapist, the therapist's area of expertise, the client's
financial resources, and any preferences the client may have.
4. Giving your full endorsement of the referral will greatly improve
the probability that the client will follow through. Be aware of any
concerns YOU have about making the referral.
5. Address any concerns that the patient may have regarding the
referral.
6. Follow-up is important. Sometimes a patient needs a little extra
support or encouragement. You can follow-up with a phone call or at the
next scheduled appointment. Be sure to ask about what is holding them
back.
