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Writer's pictureEmily Hammons
Jan 5, 20233 min read

How To Refer Someone To Counseling

Seeking counseling is a really personal decision and often people are very resistant to the idea. The stigma of asking for help along with the fear that often comes from thinking something may be "wrong with them" can create barriers to treatment.

Counseling is a personal decision, and many resist making the final decision to go because they are afraid of discovering that something is really wrong with them, that they're crazy, or have a disorder or disability that will affect them for the rest of their lives. In reality, counseling is there for support and healing and most mental illnesses are curable or manageable with treatment.

At Mindsight, we know that you care for your friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, clients, and patients as whole people, not just a contact in your phone. We know that it's important to you that they get all the help they need to live happier, healthier lives.

So, with that in mind, here are a few tips to help you refer those who need counseling to a provider who can help them achieve their goals:

1. Use Your Influence When Referring Someone to Counseling

Because of your connection to this person, you have already had to establish trust and rapport. Use it! If you notice that signs point to someone not being okay, gently call it out and offer a solution.


Some may wonder if the "problem" they are noticing is truly an issue that is worth calling out. In the case of a mental health concern, I would argue that if you're noticing it, it's already overwhelming to your friend. But if you have more specific questions about anxiety, depression, or trauma, the webpages I've linked can help you see relevant symptoms that indicate it's time to reach out.


2. Be Specific When You Mention Counseling

Often just suggesting counseling isn't enough. For many, the prospect of finding a counselor (especially one who takes their insurance!) can be overwhelming. Make a specific recommendation, even if it's just to the practice as a whole. Most receptionists are trained to follow up from there and offer specific recommendations about which counselor is right for their needs.


At Mindsight, we take the client's preferences and match them to a clinician who is able to treat all of their concerns. For instance, if they are a new mom struggling with anxiety, we might recommend Teea, our perinatal specialist in Louisville, Ky. However, if they are someone struggling with major trauma, we might recommend Ayse, who performs EMDR therapy in Louisville, Ky.


3. Show Them the Ideal Outcome of Seeking Treatment

This just means to suggest to them what could be possible with the right support. If they suffer from panic attacks, mental health treatment could reduce or even eliminate those symptoms. If it's depression, counseling could help them find support and perhaps medication to manage their mood. Case Management is also an option for many of our Medicaid clients. This service can help them find assistance with many of life's basic needs — finding food, housing assistance, help with bills, and other resources available in their communities.


They can feel better! They just need help!



All that being said, our final piece of advice is just to ask if they're okay. So often, people are just waiting for someone to notice that they have not been themselves. That could be as easy as sending a text or picking up the phone.


Mindsight Behavioral Group has immediate openings for Counseling and Case Management. If you or someone you know needs help with their mental health concerns in Kentucky, we would love to help! Simply call our office at 606-401-2966 or Request An Appointment to get started.





Emily Hammons, marketing director and tea latte aficionado, loves words and writing. When she's not blogging, you can find her perfecting her island on Animal Crossing: New Horizons, or curled up with a mystery novel.












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