It is important for employers to identify helping resource that employees can access if they need assistance with a personal issue that is or could impact their work performance. Contracting with an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a cost-effective and efficient way to provide these workplace-specific services.
An EAP serves two clients — the employee and the employer.
Employees (and their family members) have access to a contracted number of sessions with a counselor. During these sessions, the EAP will conduct an assessment, provide brief counseling, or refer the employee if they have a problem – like a substance use disorder – that requires more in-depth treatment. In making the referral, the EAP will research the employee’s insurance — and other benefits — to find a treatment provider that is appropriate, affordable and accessible for the employee.
Employers who mandate an employee receive an alcohol or other drug assessment will need a report about the assessment and subsequent recommendations from the EAP. The EAP will also continue monitoring the employee’s progress until they can be returned to work – as quickly as possible — healthy and ready to produce.
Other critical services offered by most EAPs include
- 24-hour crisis line staffed by professional counselors
- Management support in dealing with employee and organizational challenges (e.g., threats of violence, employee morale)
- Education and written resources to help deal with behavioral health issues
- Emergency intervention and critical incident stress management
Finding and selecting an EAP doesn’t have to be difficult. All Working Partners® Consortium members have access to discounted EAP services.
Contact us to learn more about EAPs and our other Consortium services.
