What is an Employee Assistance Programme?
An Employee Assistance Programme (“EAP”) provides professional, confidential counselling services to employees of an organisation and members of their immediate families.
What is covered under the programme?
As part of an EAP, employees can seek help on any personal or professional problem which has a negative impact on their physical or mental health, their quality of life, preventing them from working to their full potential. Anxiety, stress, depression are often causes for EAP consultation.
Who pays for the EAP?
The programme is fully financed by the organisation which establishes the scheme and makes it available to employees on a strictly voluntary, confidential and free basis.
Why are such programmes established?
This scheme is based on the simple premise that one works better when one does not suffer. These programmes create a protected space in which the employee can seek expert help with complete independence and anonymity. This attention to the needs of employees allows the organisation to better anticipate problem situations which trigger costly deterioration of staff morale and social relations within the organisation.
Is the programme effective?
Clinical experience shows, particularly within a brief therapy framework, that even with a limited number of sessions, effective support based on listening, informing and counselling can be provided in a beneficial manner to the person. The implementation of such programmes has shown a decrease in absenteeism and conflicts, generating a more productive work environment.
What happens during a counselling session?
During the initial contact, the employee will be directed to a professional. The counsellor will start by listening to the concerns expressed and will ask questions to better apprehend the problem. He might at this stage provide an initial feedback. The counsellor will then seek to explore the employee's expectations and problem solving. Finally counselling will centre on a choice of strategy allowing the individual to reduce his difficulties and a plan of action will be devised together. Such a programme can be spread over a few sessions. If there is recognition that a medical or specialised treatment may be required, referral can be made with the agreement of the person.
Can the employer know what has been said in a consultation?
Absolutely not. A prerequisite for any therapeutic relationship is complete trust with the counsellor which can only be achieved within absolute respect of confidentiality. This is an essential component of the Code of Ethics which binds all the AXIS MUNDI professionals.
What are the qualifications of the EAP professionals?
AXIS
MUNDI EAP professionals are psychologists, generally in the clinical field. They often have additional psychotherapeutic training in brief therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, family therapy or specific topics. They are associated to the network for their specialty in issues relevant to EAP programme and corporate work.
How long does it take to get an appointment with a counsellor?
A consultation can be arranged within two to three days of the employee's call. In case of emergency, it is possible to meet a counsellor on the same day.
In case of a problem, can an employer force an employee to use the services of the EAP?
No. The decision to consult a counsellor must be strictly voluntary. However, if an employee appears to be suffering, the employer can suggest to him in private that EAP services are available to him.
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How long are counselling sessions and where do they take place?
A counselling session typically lasts between 40 and 50 minutes and will take place either telephonically or in our Employee Assistance Centre which is located 29 rue François 1er, 75008 Paris (metro: George V)
