Career work is emotional work. Clients rarely separate “job stuff” from everything else happening in their lives, and we are often the first people to see when something is shifting beneath the surface. In this issue, guest columnist, Megan Tazzi walks through a practical way to tell when you are dealing with typical job search stress versus something that may require mental health support—and how to talk about referral in a clear, respectful way.
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Guest Columnist: Megan E. Tazzi, LCSW, CCSP
Imagine a client who started out engaged and consistent. They showed up on time, completed action items, and seemed hopeful. Over the last few weeks, they’ve racked up a few cancellations or late arrivals, their follow-through has been limited, and their tone has shifted from frustration to hopelessness.
You start to ask yourself: is this normal fatigue from a long search, or is something deeper going on?
When Job Search Stress Becomes Something Else
Job search and career change are emotionally demanding. Most clients will experience stress, doubt, and discouragement during a career transition.
But how do we actually know when the emotional struggle is tied to something deeper?
Understanding the Signs
Normal job search blues often resolve once progress is made or a sense of purpose returns. Normal job search stress manifests itself through
Feeling upset or discouraged
Having a few “off” days when everything feels heavier
Questioning their skills or value
With coaching support, small wins, and a sense of direction, these feelings usually ease. The client starts taking action again, even if slowly.
By contrast, depression tends to be more persistent and disruptive. Common indicators include:
Ongoing sadness, tearfulness, or emotional numbness lasting two weeks or more
Noticeable changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
Difficulty concentrating or following through on simple tasks
Loss of interest in activities that previously felt meaningful
Strong feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or self-blame
When these symptoms are present most days and begin to interfere with daily functioning, it is important to consider that the concern may extend beyond coaching.
What Career Coaches Might Notice
Because career coaches see clients regularly, they are well positioned to notice changes. Some signs that may signal a deeper struggle include:
Canceling or missing multiple sessions
Expressing hopelessness or a sense of futility (“What’s the point?”)
Struggling to make decisions or follow through on action steps
Becoming unusually irritable, withdrawn, or emotionally flat
Any mention of self-harm or suicidal thoughts (requires immediate crisis referral)
When something feels “off” for more than a brief period, it is important to pause and reassess.
The 2 C’s Framework
A simple way to decide whether to continue coaching or refer is to consider the “2 C’s”: Capacity and Containment.
Capacity
First, ask yourself whether the client has enough emotional and cognitive bandwidth to take part in the work you are doing together. Can they reflect on their situation, set realistic goals, and follow through on small steps between sessions? If simple coaching tasks feel out of reach, their capacity for career work may be limited right now.
Containment
Next, pay attention to whether the emotions and concerns the client is bringing are within a range you can safely and ethically support as a career professional. Notice your own internal reaction: do you feel reasonably grounded and equipped to respond?
If the answer is “no” or “I am not sure,” that is a signal to step back, seek consultation, and seriously consider a referral to a qualified mental health professional.
When and How to Refer
Referring a client to a mental health professional is not a sign your coaching has failed. It is an ethical and compassionate part of coaching practice.
You might say:
“Sometimes the stress of career transitions overlaps with deeper emotional challenges. I want you to have support that aligns with what you are experiencing. Working with a therapist or counselor can help you address the emotional side of this, while we continue to focus on your career goals.”
If you plan to continue coaching alongside therapy, clarify the roles:
“To make sure you are fully supported, I recommend adding a mental health provider to your support team. They can help you work through the emotional impact, and we will keep focusing our time on your career strategy and job search.”
If you are not comfortable continuing coaching until mental health care is in place, be transparent about that and offer referrals.
Bridging Career and Mental Health Support
As both a clinical social worker and career counselor, I’ve seen how intertwined emotional well-being and professional growth truly are.
At the start of the coaching relationship, I include a brief, structured check-in that can normalize conversations about mental health and clarify support systems. For example, early in the engagement you might ask:
“Who do you turn to for emotional support?”
“Are you currently working with a therapist, counselor, or other helping professional?”
“What helps you maintain your well-being when stress is high?”
These questions help you:
Normalize the idea that mental health care can be part of career development
Understand whether the client already has mental health support in place
Revisit these topics later if concerns arise
The goal isn’t to turn coaches into clinicians, but to empower them with awareness and resources.
Resources for Referring Clients to Mental Health Support
Non-clinical career coaches do not diagnose or treat mental health conditions, but they can play a crucial role in linking clients to appropriate care. A short list of practical options includes:
1. Psychology Today “Find a Therapist” Directory
A searchable directory by specialty, insurance, and location.
2. Primary Care Provider (PCP)
PCPs can screen for depression or anxiety and provide referrals to local mental health services.
3. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
Many employers offer short-term, confidential (and free) counseling or referral benefits.
4. Local or Online Therapy Networks
Build your own referral network by developing reciprocal relationships that allow for “warm handoffs” and more coordinated support.
5. Crisis Resources (for Immediate Safety Concerns)
In the United States, 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) for 24/7 support.
If a client expresses suicidal intent, recent self-harm, or inability to stay safe, contact emergency services according to local laws and your organizational policies.
Closing Thoughts
Career transitions affect far more than résumés and interviews. They touch identity, confidence, and overall well-being. Your role is not to diagnose mental health conditions, but to notice patterns, listen carefully, and connect clients with the level of care they need.
When in doubt, pause, consult, and refer. That is not a step away from your work as a career coach; it is a deeper commitment to your client’s long-term well-being.
About the Author
Megan E. Tazzi, LCSW, CCSP is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Career Services Provider who owns Waypoint Career Counseling in Portland, Maine. Drawing on over a decade of experience integrating mental health and career counseling, she helps clients navigate transitions and prevent burnout. She assists them with job searches, interview prep, understanding imposter syndrome, and building confidence and clarity in their work and lives.
Contact Megan for questions or collaboration ideas.
207-332-4107