What Is an EAP (Employee Assistance Program)?

An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is an employer-sponsored benefit that provides confidential, short-term support services to employees — completely separate from your health insurance plan. Most employees have access to one and most never use it.

What EAPs Typically Cover

• Mental health counseling: Free sessions (usually 3–8 per issue per year) with licensed therapists
• Financial counseling: Budgeting help, debt advice, financial planning basics
• Legal consultations: Free initial consultations with attorneys
• Work-life services: Help finding childcare, eldercare, tutoring
• Crisis support: 24/7 access for urgent mental health situations
• Substance use support: Assessment, counseling, and referrals

Is It Confidential?

Yes. EAPs are required to maintain confidentiality. Your employer does not receive information about your individual use of the EAP. They only receive aggregate data (e.g., how many employees used it).

It's Free

Your employer pays for the EAP. There's no deductible, no copay, no claim against your insurance. The sessions are free within the program's limits.

How to Find Yours

Ask HR for your EAP provider name and access information. It's usually a phone number and website. You can typically start accessing it the same day — no appointment necessary for the initial call.

Why More People Don't Use It

Most employees either don't know they have it, or forget about it when they need it. Keep the number in your phone now, before you need it.