Referral is the process of identifying the needs of the client that cannot be met by the counselor and the agency and therefore assisting the client in finding support systems and community resources that he/she can use.

Global Criteria

• Identify needs and problems that the counselor and agency cannot meet.
• Explain the rationale for the referral to the client.
• Match client needs and problems to appropriate resources.
• Protect client’s confidentiality by following laws, regulations, and agency policies.

Miller, Geri. “Learning the Language of Addiction Counseling.” 2nd ed.