What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?
An EAP is a confidential counselling and support service provided by your employer to help you manage personal or work-related challenges. It’s designed to support your wellbeing and help you stay healthy, focused and productive — both at work and at home.
What kinds of issues can I talk about with the EAP?
You can talk about anything that’s affecting your wellbeing, including:
- Stress, anxiety, or burnout
- Relationship or family concerns
- Grief and loss
- Workplace conflict or change
- Financial or legal stress
- Alcohol or substance use concerns
- Career or performance worries
There’s no problem too big or too small — if it’s impacting your life, the EAP can help.
Who provides the EAP service?
Most EAP services are run by independent external providers, not your employer. This helps ensure your privacy and confidentiality.
Is EAP counselling confidential?
Yes — absolutely confidential. Your employer will not be told who has used the EAP or what was discussed.
Only the EAP provider knows who attends sessions, and any reports to your employer are de-identified, showing general trends (for example, “stress management” or “work-life balance” issues) but no personal details.
Will my manager or HR know if I use the EAP?
No. Your participation is private. The only exception is if you choose to tell them yourself, or if there’s a serious safety concern (for example, risk of harm to yourself or others) — in which case, the counsellor has a duty of care to act.
How do I book an EAP appointment?
You can usually contact the EAP directly, without telling your manager.
Bookings can be made via phone, email, or online through the EAP provider’s website. Check your company’s intranet or HR department for contact details.
Do I need approval from my manager?
No approval is needed. You can make an appointment confidentially on your own.
Is there a cost to use the EAP?
No — the service is completely free to employees. Your employer covers the cost of a set number of sessions each year.
How many sessions do I get?
This varies by employer, but typically you’ll receive three to six free sessions per issue.
If you need more support, your counsellor can discuss ongoing options such as community services, private therapy, or referrals to your GP.
Can I access the EAP outside work hours or from home?
Yes. Many EAP providers offer flexible hours, including after-hours and weekend appointments, and can meet in person, by phone, or online.
Can my family or partner use the EAP too?
In many cases, yes. Most EAPs also cover immediate family members or household partners, though this can vary depending on your employer’s arrangement. Check with HR or your EAP provider to confirm.
Are EAP counsellors qualified?
Yes. EAP counsellors are qualified professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, or counsellors with extensive experience in workplace wellbeing and mental health.
What if I need help right now or after hours?
If you’re in crisis and can’t reach the EAP immediately, you can contact:
- Lifeline — 13 11 14 (24/7)
- Suicide Call Back Service — 1300 659 467 (24/7)
- Beyond Blue — 1300 22 4636 (24/7)
Then contact your EAP for ongoing support once you’re safe.
What kind of information does my employer receive?
Your employer may receive anonymous, statistical reports that show overall usage patterns (e.g. number of staff accessing the service or general themes).
No personal or identifying details are ever shared.
When should I call the EAP?
You don’t have to wait for a crisis. The EAP is there for any time you feel stuck, stressed, or uncertain — whether it’s about work, family, or personal life.
If something’s weighing on you, it’s always OK to reach out early.
💡 In summary
The EAP is your private, professional, and free support service.
It’s there to help you navigate life’s ups and downs — confidentially, compassionately, and without judgement.
If you’d like to know more about our Employee Assistant Programs (EAP), please contact us today. Alternatively, you can book a counselling session here.