21 Mar What is an EAP (Employee Assistance Program) in Employment Law?
With the aftermath of COVID-19 and the severity of the Ukraine crisis, many employees will feel like they need additional support. There are some issues that cannot be solved on their own and having a professional who can clearly help make sense of emotions and actionably cope with the stress can be greatly beneficial.
An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is short-term private counselling for employees going through a personal matter that may impact their ability to complete their work responsibilities.
EAP counselling is confidential and available any hour of the day via telephone or video meeting without required payments. The only time the counselor can divulge information is if the employee consents to the release of this information, if it is necessary for their safety, or if the law requires it.
Every call is answered by a mental health professional who is equipped to handle extreme crises and suicide intervention. They can provide solutions or counsel on matters pertaining to psychological health, work discord, or even family or partner conflicts. The support can also extend to family members, not just the employee being impacted.
If the counsellor is not the right fit, they can refer the employee to another counsellor within EAP if it is a short-term matter or to external help that is suitable for long-term counselling. If an EAP counsellor refers the employee to long-term help, it is important to recognize that this will cost money. However, the EAP counsellors are trained to provide affordable options so that all employees can get the help they need.
Employers should make it aware that EAP is available to all employees and can act as additional or acute help to any health and wellness program provided. Everyone needs support, and it is so important to seek help when you know or think it is necessary.
If you are an employer who wants to establish a health and wellness program or a statement about the help that is provided in the workplace, please contact, KCY at LAW by filling in an online consultation request or contact us by phone at 905-639-0999 to book your consultation today.