Life can be daunting at times, from familial troubles to professional issues, financial difficulties, mental health, addiction, and substance misuse issues. Everything you need to know about an employee assistance program counselor is here.

An employee assistance program in federal is a confidential employer-employee program that helps and supports those dealing with personal or work-related issues. Many businesses employ EAP counselors or provide an EAP counseling program.

EAPs employ many practitioners, including psychologists, licensed therapists, and substance abuse counselors. EAP counselors are typically licensed therapists, which implies they have passed state licensing standards and have at least a master's degree in a field such as:

•    professional social work counseling
•    Marriage and family therapy, addiction counseling, and psychology

Here are a few issues that EAP counselors can help you deal with or confront:

•    workplace disagreements
•    workplace trauma
•    Anxiety and depression are examples of mental health issues.
•    concerns with substance abuse
•    sorrow or loss
•    Relationship issues

Other services provided by some EAPs include employee education, individual assessments, organizational assessments, management advice, and legal, financial, and retirement support.

There are two ways to find an EAP counselor: through a mandate or self-referral. However, the process differs from area to region—and company to company—so it is important to note that both methods are equally effective.

Most employees go to the EAP on their own. After all, no one is more familiar with the pressures and difficulties you go through than you are. Consult your employee manual or contact your HR department for an EAP counselor. They can put you in contact with the right counselor.

In some circumstances, an employer may make an employee's participation in an EAP mandatory. However, they are uncommon—mandatory referrals are typically only issued if an employer thinks an employee threatens themselves or others—they can and do happen. The ability to engage may be a requirement for an employee's continued employment.

In these situations, your human resources department will put you in touch with the EAP provider for your business. They could also give you a timeline and a list of objectives or expectations. 

Counseling through the EAP is completely private, just like all other types of counseling. Your employer provides an employee assistance program counselor. However, they can only share specific information with your boss and HR.

 

Employee assistance programs (EAPs) are an excellent way for staff to get free mental healthcare, even if they may not be as popular or well-known as other types of counseling. Additionally, it enables people to get assistance, soothing techniques, and stress alleviation right away.