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Key Points / Guidance on Referring a Client to Therapy
Based on ICF Guidance https://coachingfederation.org/app/uploads/2021/01/ReferringaClienttoTherapy.pdf
Overview
The guidelines from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) aim to help coaches understand when and how to refer a client to a mental health professional. This ensures that clients receive the appropriate help when their needs exceed the coach’s competencies.
Introduction
Increasing Mental Health Issues: According to WHO, mental health issues like depression and anxiety will be major global health disorders, highlighting the importance of coaches being prepared to encounter such issues.
Role of Coaches: Coaches should recognize mental health issues, co-create referral options with clients, and empower clients to seek professional help.
Coaching vs. Psychotherapy
Coaching: Focuses on visioning, success, and moving forward. It deals with performance improvement and works with well-functioning individuals.
Psychotherapy: Emphasizes understanding emotions and the past to address deep-seated issues, focusing on personal healing and trauma recovery.
Why Refer
Ethical Responsibility: Coaches have a duty to refer clients to other professionals when issues are beyond their expertise, as outlined in ICF’s Core Competencies and Code of Ethics.
Scope of Work: Coaching agreements should clearly define the scope of coaching, differentiating it from therapy.
Impact of Early Intervention: Early referral to mental health professionals can significantly improve clients’ mental health outcomes.
When to Refer
Competency Level: Refer clients if their issues are outside the coach’s experience or expertise.
Daily Functioning: Referral is needed if the client’s issue interferes with their daily functioning (e.g., self-care, work, social life).
Lack of Progress: If psychological issues block coaching progress, a referral might be necessary.
Consultation: Coaches should consult with mentors or mental health professionals if unsure about the need for referral.
Emergency Situations: Immediate referral is required if there is a risk of harm to the client or others.
Signs for Referral
Common mental health issues that may require referral include:
Anxiety: Excessive worry affecting daily life.
Depression: Persistent sadness impacting daily activities.
Eating Disorders: Unhealthy eating behaviors causing distress.
PTSD/Trauma: Stress from traumatic events.
Substance Abuse: Dependence on substances affecting life.
Suicidal Ideation: Thoughts or plans of self-harm.
Thought Disorders: Illogical or incoherent thinking.
How to Refer
Private Meeting: Discuss the issue in a private, unhurried setting.
Positive Tone: Be supportive, nonjudgmental, and clear.
Specific Observations: Point out specific behaviors causing concern.
Listen and Encourage: Actively listen to the client’s perspective and encourage seeking professional help.
Follow Up: Check in on the client’s progress and their decision regarding therapy.
After the Referral
Continued Support: Coaches may continue working with the client if both agree it’s beneficial.
Respect Client’s Decision: Ultimately, the client decides whether to pursue therapy.
Emergency Situations
Immediate Danger: Contact local police or emergency services if the client poses an imminent risk to themselves or others.
Consultation: Consult with a mental health professional if uncertain about the severity of the situation.
Confidentiality Guidelines
Privacy Rights: Respect clients’ privacy regarding their mental health and treatment.
Confidentiality Breaches: Only share client information if there is a serious risk of harm.
General Resources
Organizations: Provide a list of reliable mental health resources, such as Befrienders, GoodTherapy.org, and the World Health Organization.
These guidelines help coaches navigate the boundaries of their role and ensure clients receive the necessary mental health support.
