When to Make a Referral

Consider making a referral when:

The issue is outside your range of knowledge or expertise
Helping the student could compromise or change the status of your relationship with the student (perhaps it is too personal)
The student feels uncomfortable talking with you about the issue
You feel the differences between you and the student are such that you cannot help him or her
You feel overwhelmed, overly responsible for and worried about the personal safety of the student
The student’s behavior is a significant and ongoing disturbance to others
You are extremely busy or are experiencing stress in your own life and are unable or unwilling to handle the student’s needs
You have talked to the student and helped as much as you can, but further assistance is needed
You think that your personal feelings about the student would interfere with your ability to be helpful
The student admits there is a problem but does not want to talk to you about it
The student asks for information or assistance, which you are unable to provide

Ask to see the student in private
Speak to the student in a straightforward fashion that shows concern for his or her welfare and focuses on observable behaviors
Express your concern in a nonjudgmental manner (State what you observed)
Ask if the student is talking with anyone (friends or family) about the problem, pointing out that isolation is rarely useful when dealing with problems; listen carefully
Let the student know that counseling is accessible, free and confidential
Suggest that the student go to the Counseling Center, or call for an appointment while he or she is in your office
Encourage the student that if counseling didn’t help in the past to try it again

Don’t attempt to coerce or intimidate the student into counseling