It is important to respect the student's value system, even if you don't agree with it. Even though a student asks for help with a problem and you are willing to help, there are circumstances which may indicate that you should suggest that the student use another resource, such as the Counseling and Testing Center or the Mental Health Clinic. You believe that personality differences will interfere with your ability to help. After talking with a student for some time you find that little progress has been made and you don't know how to proceed. You are feeling unable to assist the student, pressed for time, or otherwise at a high level of stress yourself.
Some people accept a referral for professional help more easily than others.
It is often reassuring to students to hear that you respect their willingness to talk to you and that you want to support them in getting the assistance they need. Confused students may be comforted to know that they don't necessarily have to know what's wrong before they ask for help. It may be helpful to assure students that seeking help doesn't necessarily mean they have serious problems. There are many kinds of referrals. The best one is the one to which the student will respond.