Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/77400
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON REFERRALS, ABMP MEMBERS CAN READ THE ARTICLE, "RECIPROCAL REFERRALS," IN THE SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS HANDBOOK, PAGE 150, ONLINE AT ABMP.COM. In the first client example, David provided a number of red flags that strongly suggested a mental health referral was in order. His confusion and slurred speech, as well as statements like, "They're giving me the strongest stuff they can," indicated a growing physical and psychological dependence on the medications he was taking. His demeanor and resignation to a lifetime of pain and discomfort demonstrated either a profound lack of hope or further evidence of drug-seeking behavior. MAKING THE REFERRAL One of the biggest challenges in making a mental health referral can be the delivery. How do I tell a client that I'm worried about them, or that I think they need to see a professional? Remember, a referral is simply a suggestion. Just as clients can accept or ignore your advice regarding stretching and water intake, they are also free to accept or ignore your advice regarding a mental health appointment. If the referral is delivered with a tone of compassion and sincere interest in the client's well-being, then only the most fragile of egos will be offended by such a referral. Here are a few steps to help you through the process: Wait for the appropriate moment. If the client has shown an unusual level of irritability over the past six weeks, or if a client says something midway through a session that you believe warrants a mental health referral, do not interrupt the session for the purpose of a referral. Remember Kim? Despite her breaking down early in the session, I avoided an immediate urge to get help. Of course, I asked if she was OK and if she wanted to continue, but a referral of any type is best discussed at the end of a session. Approach the referral as you would any other. In other words, voice your concern for the client, but remain professional. Don't go overboard Issues of the mind and body are not so far removed from one another. in your own emotional reaction. A good referral might begin like this: "It sounds like these issues with your wife are taking a toll on you. I'm concerned about you. How would you feel about talking with someone about these issues?" Be prepared to make the referral. Have business cards for the mental health professional you intend to refer clients to, or at least a name and phone number. This may be uncomfortable. If the thought of making a mental health referral produces a high level of anxiety in you, practice it with a friend or in front of a mirror. Referrals are an obligation of every health-care professional and must be made where appropriate, both for the welfare of clients and to maintain your professionalism as a massage therapist. Put on your professional cap, your scrubs, a lab coat, or whatever it takes to give you the strength to do what is naturally an uncomfortable task. As health-care professionals, none of us wants to see our clients in a kind of pain that we are not qualified to treat. Referring your clients on to other health professionals, however, is one ethical way you can help. FINAL THOUGHTS Mental health referrals will likely not occur during your first session with a client. Unless a client makes direct threats of suicide or harm to others, your ongoing relationship with a client over time will likely be what allows you to perceive changes in mood or behavior. Comments made over weeks or months may also accumulate to a point that warrants referral. There will come a time when you will need to refer clients, so make connections with a mental health professional today. Just as with massage therapists, there is great diversity among mental health professionals. If you can find a counselor, psychologist, etc., you trust, chances are your clients will agree. Asking professionals about their personal philosophy toward treatment and about their professional orientation is completely acceptable and may help you in directing a client to the right mental health specialist. Finally, use your own discretion. Obviously, every situation you may encounter in the course of your career cannot be covered in one broad stroke. Many of the issues clients present with in the massage therapy setting are vague and mysterious. Mental health issues share that quality. Not every client you see will require a mental health referral, but if you practice long enough, you're sure to see someone who will. Being prepared and confident in your assessment will go a long way in easing the burden of a mental health referral. And remember, issues of the mind and body are not so far removed from one another. To assist a client physically, a referral for some psychological treatment may prove absolutely essential. practitioner in Berea, Kentucky. He holds a master's degree in mental health counseling from Eastern Kentucky University and now investigates issues of mind-body connectedness. Contact him at jeremyt_smith@yahoo.com. Jeremy Smith is a part-time massage earn CE hours at your convenience: abmp's online education center, www.abmp.com 73