Referrals and self-referral

1Before any referral (1.9.1)

1. Inform the client of the referral, its reasons and implications.
2. Obtain their informed consent to refer.
3. Take reasonable steps to assure yourself of the other professional's competence and character: trained or certified, meeting their profession's standards, and what you say about them accurate.

2When to refer

• You must refer when you lack the knowledge, skill or judgment to offer needed services, and supervision or consultation cannot make it safe (2.1.6).
• Other reasons: temporary unavailability, a full client load, or care that supplements yours.
• Whenever possible, give the names of more than one professional.

3Someone you know (1.9.2)

• Fully disclose the extent of the relationship.
• Provide alternatives.
• Assure the client their decision will not affect your care.
• It is technically a conflict of interest; with these safeguards and a documented conversation, it is not an irreconcilable one.

4Self-referral (1.9.3)

• Self-referral: suggesting a client see you for another service (group therapy for an individual client) or elsewhere (an EAP client to your private practice).
• Allowed only if the benefit to you is disclosed.
• Offer at least three appropriate options, yourself included.
• Reassure the client the existing relationship will not be affected, and document the disclosure.

5No commissions (1.9.4)

• Do not accept commission fees or otherwise benefit materially from referring clients to other professionals.

6Incoming referrals (1.9.5)

• Respond within a reasonable timeframe, confirming or denying your capacity and competency to take the client.
• This includes people acting on your behalf, such as reception.
• If you decline, you are not obligated to suggest alternatives: the referring registrant makes reasonable efforts to find others.