FAQs

1. What is EAP?
2. How does EAP work?
3. Who does the counseling?
4. Who will know that I am using EAP?
5. What is the cost of EAP?
6. Who is covered under EAP?
7. What issues are covered under EAP?
8. Why use EAP?
9. When should EAP be used?
10. Can seeing a counselor or something I say during a counseling session be used by my employer as a reason for my dismissal from work?
11. Can my employer force me to see a counselor?

EAP is a confidential counseling service for personal difficulties, at work or at home.

An employee may call directly or a supervisor may make the referral on behalf of the employee, if the employee agrees to participate.

An EAP Coordinator will discuss with the employee the nature of the problem(s) and provide the person with immediate counseling if necessary and/or refer the person to an outside helping agency or a professional service provider in their area.

EAP is completely confidential. It is voluntary and no information is reported to the supervisor unless agreed to by the employee.

EAP is a benefit, paid by your employer and free to all employees and eligible family members.

Assistance is provided to employees and immediate family members. This includes spouse/partner and dependents up to 25 years of age living in the same household.

Issues may include marital, family, financial, emotional, work-related stress, substance abuse, gambling or other concerns. If you have questions, the EAP Coordinator will help redirect your inquiry.

We all experience ups and downs in life. It is impossible to avoid the many stresses, conflicts and challenges that occur in modern life. Often we resolve these situations on our own or with the help of family and friends. Sometimes however, it helps to talk to an experienced professional.

Whenever you feel the need to talk to someone objective, experienced and nonjudgmental. We suggest the earlier, the better. Waiting or ignoring a problem usually makes things worse.

Your employer cannot use EAP as a means of collecting information to support your dismissal. Employers do not have access to client files and they cannot find out what you discussed with your counselor.

Participation in EAP is always voluntary. Your employer, as well as a co-worker or family member, may suggest that you see a counselor, but it is always your choice.