Did you hear? Albemarle County and Albemarle County Public Schools will welcome GuidanceResources as our new Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider beginning September 1.

What is the Employee Assistance Program?

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers counseling, legal and financial consultation, work-life assistance, and crisis intervention services to you and family members in your household.

Why provide an EAP?

Because we care about you and your dependents. The EAP can be used free of charge as needed when you or your dependents are facing emotional, financial, legal or other concerns.

Are the services confidential?

Yes, the EAP is strictly confidential. The only information shared with your employer is participation data with no names, employee IDs, etc. Here is an example of reporting we receive: During January – March 2018, 32 employees and 26 dependents called our EAP to access services.

Why might my family or I use the services?

There are many reasons to use these services. You may wish to contact the EAP if you:

• Are feeling overwhelmed by the demands of balancing work and family.
• Are experiencing stress, anxiety or depression.
• Are dealing with grief and loss.
• Need assistance with child or elder care concerns.
• Have legal or financial questions.
• Have concerns about substance abuse for yourself or a dependent.

What happens when I call?

When you call, you will speak with a GuidanceConsultant, a master’s- or PhD-level counselor who will collect some general information about you and will talk with you about your needs. The GuidanceConsultant will provide the name of a counselor who can assist you. You can then set up an appointment to speak with the counselor over the phone or schedule a face-to-face visit.

What counseling services does the EAP provide?

You and your family members may receive up to 5 counseling sessions each per topic. The EAP provides free short-term counseling with counselors in your area and/or over the phone who can help you with your emotional concerns. If the counselor determines that your issues can be resolved with short-term counseling, you will receive counseling through the EAP. However, if it is determined that the problem cannot be resolved in short-term counseling in the EAP and you will need longer-term treatment, you will be referred to a specialist early on and your health insurance coverage will be activated.

Can my children use the EAP?

Yes. The EAP is a confidential benefit for you and your children.

What if I am using Optima EAP currently?

If you are currently in counseling through Optima EAP, you will be able to complete the five sessions covered by Optima, then you can continue seeing the same counselor by using your health insurance (per the usual process).

How can I learn more?

We will provide more information through a variety of upcoming communications, including a home mailing with a pocket card, emails, a website, brochures, and posters, so be on the lookout for more information about this free benefit from BeWell Albemarle and GuidanceResources.

Questions, Problems, Concerns?

Please direct inquiries about the program to bewell@albemarle.org or call Leanne Knox, Program Manager, Wellness & Safety, in Human Resources at 434-296-5827.

Beginning September 1, you may contact GuidanceResources directly for more information or assistance.