Choosing an Employee Assistance Program? Here’s what you need to know
This blog contains:
- What is an EAP service?
- Is EAP counselling worth it?
- Choosing the best EAP service.
- EAP and professional development.
- How much does EAP cost in Australia?
- About our EAP service.
What is an EAP service?
An Employee Assistance Program is a confidential counselling service provided by an organisation to its employees, and immediate family, in support of employee health, wellbeing and overall functioning. Typically, counselling is provided by psychologists and allied health professionals on a short to medium term basis. EAP sessions are traditionally provided face to face, however, since Covid ‘telelink’ sessions have also become popular.
Most EAP providers also provide a ‘Manager Assist’ program. Manager Assist programs support managers with the various challenges of leadership, people management, change management, navigating complex personalities and team dynamics.
Is EAP counselling worth it?
EAP services promote a culture of wellbeing which directly impacts staff morale, engagement and productivity. EAPs also reduce compensation claims and staff turnover, and the associated costs of hiring and re-training. Data published by PwC has shown every dollar spent on EAP and related programs in Australia returns $2.30 in the above benefits.
Choosing the best EAP service.
When EAP services were only available face-to-face the physical location of the provider was important. However, the recent introduction of convenient telelink options allows employers to select providers based on more important factors. Most importantly, it allows employers to select a provider that aligns with their values.
So how do you know an EAP provider’s core values?
EAP and Professional Development
The best indication of an EAP provider’s core values are the training workshops and seminars they offer. Most EAP providers offer discounted professional development training to their clients, and the topics they offer are a window into their own core business.
For example, at Braddesmond.com our training programs reflect our commitment to EQ leadership, positive teams and wellbeing at work. Other providers may bring a more technical focus, for example project management or financial management assistance. Others may bring more of an HR or a legislative focus, for example OH&S compliance or cross-cultural awareness etc.
How much does EAP cost in Australia?
Cost can vary widely. Surveys of EAP providers show fees ranging from $160 per hour – to the upper limit of the APS recommended fee of $280 per hour. Most providers also charge annual contract or subscription fees.
About our EAP service.
Our psychologists provide professional, evidence-based counselling for all personal and professional issues. Also, our ‘Manager Assist’ service helps leaders with the specific challenges of team building, staff motivation, supporting staff through change, and dealing with difficult personalities. In situations where an organisation experiences an unexpected stress or traumatic event, we also provide timely critical incident debriefing.
As an early adopter of online services, we specialise in telelink sessions for maximum convenience. In addition to this user-friendly service delivery our use of virtual infrastructure allows us to maintain fees at the lower end of the above range. We do not charge up-front contract fees, and our clients enjoy a 30% discount on our professional development training programs.
Contact us to learn more.