When making a referral on behalf of a client you need a thorough understanding of process.

When making a referral on behalf of a client you need a thorough understanding of process. Knowing what the goals of the client are and what agencies can assist in reaching these goals are very important.

Choose a social issue from the list below. Your task is to choose one issue and determine the goal of the client.

Homelessness

Eating disorder (be specific)

Teenage pregnancy

Unwanted pregnancy

Girl with no female role model; Boy with no male role model

Alcoholism (alcoholic client or alcoholic client family member)

Suicide ideation

Acute grief

Suspected developmental delays (infant/toddler)

Lack of food/clothing

Mental health crisis

Chronic mental health issues

Developmental disabilities

Suspected ADD/ADHD

Find an agency or organization in the community that can assist with the chosen social issue, and address ways to reach the stated goal. Call, visit, or complete a Web search to find out the following:

What is the intake policy of the agency?

What is the approximate wait time for an intake interview?

What documents will the client need to bring with her or him to the interview?

What are the costs? Are there alternatives if the client cannot pay up front or in full?

List any issues you would need to share with the client before making a referral the agency. Share your thoughts (positive and negative) regarding the agency.