WHAT IS "EAP" COUNSELING?

 

There are many ways to access mental health services. "EAP" counseling services are a very common benefit with most employers. "EAP" is your Employee Assistance Program. There are many benefits within your EAP,  and therapy can be a untapped resource.

Most employers are aware that employees face personal challenges. This could be illness, divorce, bankruptcy, etc. and it is quite difficult to work at your peak performance when any of these situations arise. In order to help employees and their families function and move forward, the EAP will allow a therapist to jump in and offer immediate support.

Your EAP should quickly connect you with a licensed therapist for a set number of sessions. Most EAP benefits range from 3-6 sessions, and are normally without a co-pay. These sessions are designed to help through a crisis, learn coping, and to make a plan to locate longer term services. Additionally your EAP is available throughout your employment. This means if you need support for a birth of a child, you can also contact the EAP if you are struggling with another issue shortly after. 

Not only does the EAP offer support to move employees past a crisis and back into productive team members, for the employee it is a very fast way to get emotional support when needed the most.

If you have never tried therapy and you are unsure if you want to commit, you can also use these EAP benefits for a few sessions to see if therapy can be right for you.

It is always important to know what benefits are offered and make use of them when you need it. You worked for these services, don't forget that.