Employee Assistance Programs Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

EAPs delivered by CDC are mental health and wellbeing services provided specifically to the needs of your organisation. Services are provided by qualified Psychologists and Counsellors in a confidential, short-term, solution focused way and include direct contact, resources and referrals. The goal is to address issues early before job performance is affected, to be supported and valued in the workplace and develop coping strategies.

Who can access it?

EAP services are available to all employees within the organisation as well as their immediate family members. Often if one family member is experiencing some issues it will affect other family members and in turn productivity in the workplace.

What kind of things do people seek support from EAPs for?

Any issues or difficulties causing an employee distress or concern. Most common issues include:

• Work related stress, problems with supervisors or co-workers
• Emotional stress
• Depression or anxiety
• Suicidal thoughts
• Grief and bereavement
• Relationship issues
• Addictions (drug, alcohol, sexual, gambling, internet etc)
• Domestic violence
• Financial problems

How confidential is it really?

Employee Assistance offered by CDC is strictly confidential. No Practitioner will ever share your information with your employer, family or friends and are bound by the Privacy Act. No EAP can be effective if you feel confidentiality is not at the heart of the service.

The only times a Practitioner is bound to pass on information if your file is subpoenaed, you disclose a criminal offence, you express an intention to harm yourself or another person or if a child is at risk.

Does my employer or supervisor have to know I’ve accessed the EAP?

No. Confidentiality extends into the workplace, your name or any details that identify you will never be shared with your employer. Data is collected and collated in terms of number of sessions provided to employees and an overview of the kind of issues people discuss i.e. 3 x employees used EAP during this time frame to talk about issues relating to stress.

How can I access the EAP?

There are a number of ways you can speak to a Practitioner, these include:

• Direct email to info@careerdevelopmentcentre.com.au
• Telephone call to CDC EAP on 1300 199 849

Following on from the initial conversation sessions can be set up using:

• Telephone session
• Skype session