Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

EAP Step-By-Step

Here's a closer look at the procedures to follow when you or a member of your family contact the EAP office.

1. You will visit with an EAP counselor, and together you'll determine the nature of the problem.
2. Working with the EAP counselor, you will decide on a course of action to resolve the problem.
3. The EAP counselor will suggest the agency, professional person, treatment center or program best equipped to help you. Most often a formal referral must come from your Primary Care Physician, but a suggestion for who or what program to utilize can be very helpful.
4. The EAP counselor will continue to work with you and the agency, program or professional to make sure you are getting the best possible assistance.

Self Referral

You or a family member may call the EAP office directly for information or to make an appointment. Your visit, what you discuss and any resulting records pertaining to the service, are strictly confidential. What you talk about can't be released to anyone without your written authorization.

Supervisory Referral

If a personal problem is negatively affecting your work, your supervisor may suggest a call to the EAP office. Most supervisors don't have the training or expertise to determine the nature of your personal problem. They can only look at the job situation and your performance. If you choose to call the EAP office based on a supervisory referral, the only information the supervisor will receive is confirmation that you kept your appointment or not and if there is a need for special arrangements or time off from work.

Utilizing the EAP will not jeopardize your position or future promotions with the university; in fact, it may enhance your abilities to correct a difficult situation. On the other hand, it doesn't excuse you from the usual disciplinary procedures. The EAP is simply an additional resource for both employees and supervisors.