Medically reviewed by Kevin Wandler, MD, Chief Medical Advisor
If you’re struggling with alcohol or drug use and aren’t sure where to start, you may already have a helpful resource through work: an employee assistance program, or EAP. Many employers offer EAPs as a free, confidential benefit. For many people, a call to the EAP is a practical first step toward assessment, referral and treatment.
What an EAP Is
An EAP is an employer-sponsored program that helps employees handle personal challenges that may affect their well-being or work. Services vary, but they often include:
- Short-term counseling sessions at no cost to you
- Assessments for substance use and mental health concerns
- Referrals to treatment programs and other resources
- Support for family members, often including household members
- Help with related stressors, such as legal, financial or work-life concerns
EAPs are separate from your health insurance. The EAP helps you figure out what you need and where to go, while treatment such as detox, residential care or outpatient programs is usually billed to your health plan.
Why an EAP Can Be a Good First Step
Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. An EAP can make it simpler:
- Easy access: EAPs can usually be reached by phone, and many offer online options.
- Confidential assessment: a counselor can help you understand your situation and what level of care may fit.
- Guided referrals: instead of searching alone, you get help identifying appropriate programs.
- Workplace guidance: EAP staff can often explain how leave and benefits typically work.
How EAP Confidentiality Works
EAPs are generally confidential. What you discuss with an EAP counselor usually isn’t shared with your employer without your written consent. Employers typically receive only overall usage information that doesn’t identify individuals. There are limited exceptions, such as situations involving a serious risk of harm or legal requirements.
If your employer formally referred you to the EAP, such as after a workplace incident, the employer may be told whether you participated or followed recommendations, usually with your consent. Ask the EAP up front what will be shared and what you’re being asked to sign. This is general information, not legal advice.
What to Expect When You Call
- Find the number. Look in your benefits materials, on your employer’s intranet or ask HR.
- Complete an intake. You’ll share basic information and what’s going on.
- Talk with a counselor. Expect questions about your substance use, mental health, safety and goals.
- Get recommendations. The counselor may suggest short-term counseling or refer you to a higher level of care, such as addiction treatment services including detox or residential treatment.
- Connect with treatment. You’ll typically contact the recommended program, which can verify your health insurance benefits.
Be as honest as you can about how much and how often you’ve been using. If you drink heavily or take benzodiazepines daily, say so, because withdrawal from those substances can be life-threatening and needs medical supervision. That information helps the counselor recommend a safe starting point.
Questions to Ask Your EAP
A few questions at the start can help you understand what the EAP can offer and what comes next:
- How many counseling sessions does my benefit include, and do they reset each year?
- Can you assess whether I need detox, residential treatment or outpatient care?
- Can you refer me to programs that are in network with my health plan?
- What, if anything, will be shared with my employer, and will I be asked to sign a release?
- Can my spouse or other household members use the EAP too?
Write down the answers, along with the counselor’s name and any case number, so follow-up calls go more smoothly.
ComPsych, Uprise Health and Promises DFW
ComPsych and Uprise Health are companies that provide EAP and behavioral health services to employers. Both appear on the in-network list for Promises Dallas-Fort Worth. If your employer works with one of them, you can learn more on our ComPsych and Uprise Health pages. As with any plan, coverage depends on your specific benefits, medical necessity and prior authorization.
From EAP Referral to Treatment
After an EAP referral, your next steps may include verifying insurance, arranging leave through FMLA or your employer’s policies, and planning for admission. Promises DFW offers medical detox, residential treatment, an in-person partial hospitalization program and a virtual intensive outpatient program, along with aftercare planning for every client. Some people start with a higher level of care and step down over time, while others begin with virtual IOP so they can keep working.
If You’re a Family Member
Many EAPs extend services to spouses and household members. If you’re worried about a loved one, the EAP may help you understand options and cope with stress. Treatment that includes family therapy can help families heal together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my employer know I called the EAP?
Generally not. EAPs are confidential, and employers usually receive only overall usage information. Formal referrals can work differently, so ask what will be shared.
Does the EAP pay for rehab?
Typically not. EAPs usually cover short-term counseling and referrals, while treatment is billed to your health insurance.
Can I call the EAP about a mental health concern instead?
Yes. EAPs commonly help with depression, anxiety, stress and grief as well as substance use, and they can refer you to mental health treatment when needed.
What if my employer doesn’t offer an EAP?
You can contact a treatment center directly or call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential referral information.
Take the Next Step
Whether you start with your EAP or call us directly, help is available. See our insurance options, contact us, or call (469) 546-9303.