Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/108504
referring out Timing is Everything • Don't offer referrals on the first appointment. Get to know your client's needs. Take your time, listen, and think about how best to approach her before you start the referral process. • You may not want to start referring the day of the client's needs assessment. That day may be overwhelming for her, so perhaps you'll choose one small, noninvasive referral and run it by your client to see how she responds. • You must be credible, compassionate, and professional in order for your client to take you seriously. If you aren't working out, how can you refer your client to a personal trainer? If you aren't taking care of yourself holistically, how can you convince a client to think about her long-term health? • Don't ever suggest referrals when the client is on the table. Her near-naked state makes her entirely too vulnerable. Any referral conversation should be done when the balance of power has been reestablished (i.e., after the session with the client clothed). • Be careful when suggesting mental-health professionals. To hear that recommendation from a stranger, or someone not trustworthy, is too difficult and will be met with outright resistance. Watch your timing on this referral, but be brave and compassionate when you realize it is the right time. 98 massage & bodywork march/april 2013 Talk Therapist, Psychotherapist, Psychiatrist Mental-health therapists specialize in one-onone, couple, or group therapy. Specialties vary widely: aging, coping skills, drug abuse, learning disabilities, marriage counseling, posttraumatic stress disorder, and sexual abuse. Therapists' education requirements range from four years of college for some, to mandatory medical school for psychiatrists, who are physicians that specialize in psychotropic medications. Reasons to Refer Alice clearly needs to talk about her marriage and perhaps convince her husband to attend couple's counseling. In addition, many clients have had life experiences with which they continue to grapple. These events can negatively alter physical function and self-esteem. Diplomacy is key when suggesting this referral. The preceeding list is only the beginning. Your referral network can include acupuncturists, homeopaths, neurologists, podiatrists, reflexologists, and more. The more you learn about optional medical and holistic specialists, the more valuable you become as a referring agent for your clients' challenges.