Options That Work For You: The Free Benefits of the EAP

As we continue along in Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to look at what happens after you make the brave decision to reach out to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Employees who have used the program tell us that getting help feels easy, and that the extra hand and peace of mind are incredibly worth it.

 

An Employee’s Experience: Removing Logistical Hurdles

Another employee noted how intimidating it can be to start therapy, especially when dealing with the usual logistical hurdles like waitlists and out-of-pocket costs. They shared that the EAP removed those barriers entirely. All they had to do was decide they were ready for help, log into the portal, and easily find a provider

Because the first eight sessions are free, it gave them the time to figure out if the therapist was a good fit without any financial risk. They noted that having a dedicated professional available to help them navigate relationships was a big relief and provided great peace of mind.

This employee's advice to others is that you have absolutely nothing to lose by trying. Because there are no costs or barriers, it is a great opportunity to get support from someone whose entire job is to just listen and let you unload—so why not give it a try?

 

Comprehensive Support and Fit Flexibility

Because finding a standard therapist can be notoriously difficult, employees may assume the EAP will be just as frustrating. However, the EAP bypasses these hurdles. The program provides 8 free, solution-focused counseling sessions per incident, per year. Providers are expected to have availability for an appointment within two weeks of your initial contact. You also have the flexibility to choose between in-person, telehealth, phone, or chat options to ensure you receive the exact kind of support you need.

But what happens if the counselor—or attorney or financial specialist—you are referred to doesn't feel like the right match? The EAP is built with fit flexibility. If a provider is not a good fit, you can simply call back and request more options. You are never penalized for saying no to a referral that doesn't work for you. The goal is to ensure you find the support that meets your clinical, cultural, gender, and location preferences.

Find Your Fit

Employees can contact the EAP:

📞   24/7 by phone: 888-270-8897

🌎    through the EAP website: Guidanceresources.com (Use Web ID: SOKEAP)

We’ve also created step‑by‑step account registration instructions to help with online account registration.

If you would like support before or while you are getting connected to the EAP, please reach out to us. We care about your wellbeing and are happy to help support you.

Jeff Stolz (jeffreystolz@ku.edu)

Gail Tiemann (gtiemann@ku.edu)

Office of Mental Health and Wellbeing | KU Wellness

Register at Guidanceresources.com

-- May Lunch-N-Learn --

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Demystified

Thursday, May 21, 12:00-12:50pm

Virtual on Teams

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For Mental Health Awareness Month, we are featuring the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and its many free and confidential resources for KU/KUMC employees: mental health counseling; legal services, financial guidance, and work-life services, including childcare, eldercare, and relocation support. Join this webinar with Natalie McGee, EAP Account Manager, to learn how to get connected and what to expect when you do.

Presenter: Natalie McGee, ComPsych Account Manager

-KU employees can register below through My Talent

-KUMC employees, please email wellness@ku.edu to register

Register for May 21 Lunch-N-Learn

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