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As mental health professionals, it’s natural to want to help everyone. We strive to be the person who saves the day, offering care and support to as many people as we can. However, there comes a point when we need to recognize that we can’t save everyone—and sometimes, trying to do so can be more harmful than helpful. Working outside of your scope of practice not only risks your client’s well-being but can also put you in a position where you’re no longer serving the field appropriately.

Recognizing When You’re Outside Your Scope

The first step to staying within your scope of practice is knowing when you’re outside of it. Here are some things to consider:

Trust Your Judgment: If you don’t feel confident treating a particular client or issue, or if you have no one to consult with for guidance, that’s a strong signal you’re outside of your scope. In these situations, it’s best to refer the client to someone more experienced in the area of concern. Continuing without the necessary skills can cause more harm than good.
When the Case Evolves: Sometimes, you start working with a client whose issues you’re well-equipped to handle, but over time, new concerns arise that you are not trained to address. Even if the client begs you to continue working with them, it’s important to acknowledge when it’s time to refer them to a specialist. Letting your client know that this is in their best interest ensures they get the help they truly need.

Assisting Clients with Referrals

It’s not always easy to refer a client to another clinician, especially when they have grown attached to you. But it’s vital to remember that guiding them to someone more qualified is a responsible and ethical decision.

Explain the Benefits: You can tell your client that seeing a specialist for their current concerns is similar to seeing a medical specialist for a specific health issue. Reassure them that after they’ve worked through the specific issue with the specialist, they are welcome to return to you for other concerns. This keeps their therapeutic journey moving in the right direction without leaving them feeling abandoned.
Avoid Creating a Dependency: It’s important to help your clients understand that while you’re there to support them, they are the ones doing the work. You are a catalyst for their change, not their crutch. Empower them to take ownership of their progress, even if that means seeing someone else for a time.

Don’t Be the Hero—Be the Professional

There’s a temptation in our field to want to “fix” everything, but doing so can sometimes lead to burnout. If you’re overwhelmed with a specific type of case, or you’re nearing burnout yourself, it’s essential to recognize that—even if a particular issue is within your scope, you may not be able to provide the quality care the client deserves at this time.

Check in With Yourself: Are you lumping clients together because you’re feeling inundated with the same type of concern? If so, it’s time to refer them out to someone who can provide a fresh perspective and focused care. This is about maintaining high standards for both your clients and your own mental health.

When to Seek Supervision or Consultation

When you’re not sure whether you’re capable of handling a particular case, it’s critical to seek supervision or consultation. Early in your career, it can be tough to distinguish between impostor syndrome and a legitimate gap in your abilities.

Consult, Consult, Consult: Talk to a supervisor or a trusted colleague when in doubt. They can offer a fresh perspective and help you decide if this case is within your scope or if you need to refer out. Always err on the side of caution—better to be safe than to risk liability.

Knowing your limits and acting accordingly is a hallmark of professional responsibility. Don’t be afraid to refer, ask for help, and trust your judgment. You’re not just protecting your clients—you’re protecting yourself and the integrity of your practice.