Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are an important resource for employees who are experiencing personal or work-related issues. EAPs are employer-sponsored programs that provide counseling services to employees to help them deal with a range of issues, such as stress, substance abuse, relationship problems, and mental health concerns. If you are reading this article, you are a member of Capital EAP!

Capital EAP counseling sessions are short-term, confidential, and focused on addressing specific concerns. Sessions are conducted by qualified mental health professionals who have expertise in a range of issues and who are ready to assist you in your current concerns.

Counseling sessions usually last between 30 and 60 minutes and are conducted either in-person, over the phone, or via video conferencing. At the beginning of the session, your EAP counselor will introduce themselves and explain their role and the counseling process. They will ask you to fill out some paperwork, assist them in completing an assessment and/or answer some questions about your concerns and goals. Your counselor will then listen actively and show empathy and understanding as you share your thoughts and feelings.

Throughout the session, your counselor will attentively listen to your concerns and demonstrate compassion and comprehension while you provide more information about the issue at hand. They may ask open-ended questions to help you clarify your thoughts and feelings and explore the root causes of your issues. They will help you gain insight and develop coping strategies by providing support, feedback, and guidance. They will not judge or criticize you, but rather help you navigate your concerns and develop an action plan to move forward.

Sessions may include a range of techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and stress management. Based on your concerns and goals, your EAP counselor will work with you to develop a personalized plan of action. This may include specific strategies to manage stress, improve communication, set boundaries, or address mental health concerns. Your counselor may also refer you to additional resources, such as support groups, self-help books, referrals to other mental health professionals or referrals to other applicable professionals.

EAP counseling sessions can help with a range of personal and work-related issues. Some of the most common issues addressed in EAP counseling sessions include stress and anxiety, substance abuse, relationship problems, depression & other mental health concerns, and work-related concerns, such as work overload, burnout, and conflicts with coworkers.

It is important to note that EAP counseling sessions are usually short-term and focused on specific issues. They are not intended to replace long-term therapy or psychiatric care, but rather to provide immediate support and resources for employees who may be experiencing personal or work-related stressors.

Ultimately, counseling sessions at Capital EAP can provide employees with a safe and confidential space to address personal and work-related issues. By providing support, feedback, and guidance, the counselors at Capital EAP can help employees develop coping strategies and improve their overall well-being. If you are experiencing personal or work-related issues, consider reaching out to our intake team at 518.462.6531 to schedule a counseling session. We are happy to help.

By, Denelle Abel, LMHC, EAP Counselor