Employee Assistance Program

Overview of the Pacific
Employee Assistance Program

Sometimes personal problems can get in the way of your job performance. To help you through difficult times, your company may offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

The purpose of an EAP is to provide access to counseling and referral services for your company’s employees and their dependents having personal problems. You may call to arrange an interview or ask your supervisor to schedule it for you. In either case, all records are confidential. Strict state and federal laws protect your right to privacy.

EAP counselors provide help and guidance with child and family issues, marital difficulties, emotional stress, job-related stress, drug and/or alcohol problems, or any combination of these. Whether you need help with a small or large problem, Pacific Employee Assistance offers confidential, professional help. Referrals are also available if you need assistance with financial or legal matters.

Acceptance of a referral for EAP services is voluntary. Job security and promotion opportunities depend solely on your job performance and will not be affected by participation in the EAP. If personal problems interfere with your job performance, then it makes good sense to seek professional help.

The discussions between you and the EAP counselor are strictly confidential. Neither your company nor co-workers will know of your request for help if you or your dependents use EAP services on your own. If a supervisor refers you to the EAP, he or she can only be told of your decision to use the program if you sign a written release of information. This may be necessary if a leave of absence is needed in order to resolve a problem.

Your company will pay for two to five assessments, counseling and/or referral visits per contract year for employees or their dependents. For help beyond the EAP, such as inpatient treatment, you may have coverage through your medical insurance. You must go through your employee assistance program to get authorization for such treatment. Costs not covered by insurance are your responsibility. The EAP counselor can provide assistance in locating community services that have fees based on your ability to pay.

For more information, please call Pacific Employee Assistance at 253-697-8350 or toll free at 1-877-223-7428.