Holistic Consulting Business Resources
LAUNCH Program · Phase 1 · Lesson 3

Referral Decision Tree & Network Builder

Know exactly when to refer, who to refer to, and how to build your professional network. This resource gives you a clear framework so you never second-guess a referral decision.

25 minutes 2 tools Printable
Network Builder Progress 0 of 5 providers

Part 1: Decision Tree

Work through these five questions in order when you’re unsure whether a client situation falls within your scope. If you reach a YES at any step, refer before proceeding.

Step 1

Does this client need a medical diagnosis?

Watch For
  • Unexplained weight changes
  • Persistent pain
  • Blood in stool
  • New lumps
  • Severe fatigue
  • Cardiac symptoms
Yes — Refer
Refer to:
PCP or specialist physician
No — Continue
Proceed to Step 2
Step 2

Are there signs of disordered eating or mental health concerns?

Watch For
  • Restriction
  • Bingeing / purging
  • Obsessive food behaviors
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Trauma responses
  • Suicidal ideation
Yes — Refer
Refer to:
Licensed mental health professional or eating disorder specialist
No — Continue
Proceed to Step 3
If suicidal ideation is present: immediately provide the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988. Do not attempt to manage this yourself.
Step 3

Is the client asking about medications or medical treatment?

Watch For
  • Wanting to stop / start medications
  • Asking you to interpret labs diagnostically
  • Requesting treatment for a named condition
Yes — Refer
Refer to:
Prescribing physician or specialist
No — Continue
Proceed to Step 4
Step 4

Is this population or condition outside your training?

Watch For
  • Pediatric nutrition
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Renal disease
  • Cancer nutrition
  • Advanced diabetes management
  • Eating disorders
Yes — Refer
Refer to:
Specialist with specific training in that area
No — Continue
Proceed to Step 5
Step 5

Is the client not progressing despite compliance?

Watch For
  • Following your plan but no improvement
  • Symptoms worsening
  • Plateau despite adherence
Yes — Refer
Refer to:
PCP or functional medicine doctor for deeper evaluation
No — Proceed with Confidence
This client is within your scope

Proceed with Confidence

You’ve worked through all five decision points. This client’s needs fall within your scope of practice. Move forward with your assessment and plan, and revisit this tree any time a new concern arises during care.

Part 2: Referral Network Builder

Build your bench. List at least 3–5 professionals you can refer to. Include local providers, virtual options, and specialists relevant to your client population.

1

Provider 1

A primary care physician, functional medicine doctor, or general practitioner in your area.

2

Provider 2

A licensed mental health professional — therapist, psychologist, or counselor.

3

Provider 3

A specialist physician — gastroenterologist, endocrinologist, or other relevant specialist.

4

Provider 4

A registered dietitian, eating disorder specialist, or complementary practitioner.

5

Provider 5

Any additional professional — acupuncturist, chiropractor, pelvic floor therapist, or another referral partner.

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