As a professional, you may
be the first to recognize marital and family problems that need
attention. Recognizing a problem is the first step in finding a
solution. Making a successful referral is even more important.
That's when you may choose to refer to a qualified marriage and
family therapist. This section provides you with a guide for making
an appropriate referral to a well-trained marriage and family
therapist.
How and When to Make a
Referral
If you believe that an
individual, couple, or family could benefit from marital and family
therapy, refer to a marriage and family therapist you know
personally or professionally. You may also use AAMFT's
"TherapistLocator.net" online database
by clicking
here or on the logo below to select one or
more MFT's for your client(s) or contact
AzAMFT and we will be pleased to provide you with the names of
AzAMFT clinical members in your community.
- REFER at the first sign of emotional, marital or family
distress. Delay can compound the problem.
- PROVIDE your client with the names of several qualified
marriage and family therapists.
- SUGGEST that your client call and request information
regarding the practitioner's training, experience, and fees.
- DISCUSS a marriage and family therapist's special areas of
expertise with the person(s) you are referring.
- REFER couples and/or families for therapy together.
- ASK the client to use your name as the referring
professional when they make their initial call to the marriage
and family therapist.
- FOLLOW UP with both your client(s) and the marriage and
family therapist.
