She gave her client this social worker's name and suggested the client seek further treatment with this therapist. After the client moved, Christine received a request for a transfer of the client's records to the new therapist. Imagine Christine's surprise when one year later, she is sued by the client. The former client alleged that the subsequent treating therapist had committed malpractice in the course of her treatment. Furthermore, she alleged that Christine bore some responsibility for referring her to such a substandard therapist.
Referrals are a routine part of health care.
However, if a referral is made in a negligent manner, you might be found partially responsible by a court for providing that referral. First, give more than one name to a client whenever you make a referral. You may want to provide referral resources, such as the NASW Clinical Register directory or the NASW office, if you can't provide multiple names. Also, make every effort to be neutral about the referral options, so that the client does not perceive your favoring any one particular name or source. By giving your client options, you are placing some of the burden on your client to check credentials and make comparisons between therapists.