Making the Referral
It is easy to get into the mindset that we can fix everything. Although, we can come across situations that do not make sense. It can be a cultural or religious belief that we just do not comprehend. In those situations, we can look into consultation from a person that is knowledgeable in that area. When in doubt it is never a bad idea to get a second opinion from a peer or supervisor that could potentially have more knowledge in that field. Although it is not uncommon to come across a client that has multiple issues that need many services. That client may need a service that your agency does not provide. In that case, we would make a referral so that we can help the client meet his or her needs.
A referral relates directly to the interaction between the human service professional and the environment by making use of the human services network during the referral process. In seeking services for a client, the helper often relies on other professionals both within and outside of his or her agency to locate the needed services. The reasons for a referral would be that the client is having problems or needs services that the helper cannot provide, or cannot solve. The helper might also consider referring the client because of lack of success with the helper. Another professional might be more effective. A successful referral results in the delivery of the service the helper cannot provide (Woodside &McClam, 2015).
Providing services to numerous clients can be challenging at times, and may require additional support from your peers. In some cases, the helper may have difficulty understanding the problems of the client due to their cultural or religious background, which the helper may be unfamiliar with. In other cases, the helper may experience their own resistance or bias, triggered by the client’s case. In these instances, it is good for the helper to seek out peer counseling.
A peer of the helper may have supportive ideas in a...