What Is an EAP?
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is not therapy, but it can provide short-term counselling and support to employees who are dealing with personal issues that may affect their work performance. EAPs are usually staffed by licensed professionals, such as social workers or psychologists, who can provide confidential counselling, information, and referrals to community resources.
What kind of assistance can an EAP provide?
An EAP can provide assistance for a range of personal concerns, such as financial, legal, caregiver, health, and relationship issues. This could include help with managing stress, anxiety, and depression, coping with grief and loss, managing work-life balance, and resolving conflicts at work or home. Some EAPs also offer resources and support for substance abuse and addiction, as well as financial and legal consultations.
How is confidentiality protected in an EAP?
Confidentiality is a critical aspect of EAP services. EAP providers are bound by ethical and legal guidelines to maintain strict confidentiality and protect the privacy of their clients. This means that all information shared during EAP counselling sessions is kept confidential, and is not shared with the employer or anyone else without the employee's written consent.
It is important to note that there are some exceptions to confidentiality, such as when there is a risk of harm to oneself or others, or when required by law. However, EAP providers will always strive to inform the employee of these exceptions and work with them to manage any potential risks while protecting their privacy to the fullest extent possible.
What type of concerns?
Marital and family
Interpersonal relations
Personal and emotional
Stress and burn-out
Work-related stress
Problematic substance use
Critical and traumatic incidents
Conflict
Grief
Any other concerns that affect or could affect personal well-being and/or work performance
To contact your EAP:
You can usually find the phone number or website information on your employer's intranet, employee handbook, or benefits information. If you are unsure how to access your EAP, you can ask your Human Resources representative or supervisor for guidance.
If you require more than what the EAP can provide, your EAP counsellor can help you find additional resources and support in your community. This may include referrals to specialized healthcare providers, community organizations, or government programs. In some cases, your group health benefits plan may assist with covering the cost of these services.
It's important to take advantage of the resources available to you through your EAP and other healthcare providers to address any personal concerns you may have. Taking care of your mental and physical health can improve your overall well-being and work performance.