An employee assistance program (EAP) is an employee benefit program that assists employees with personal problems and/or work-related problems that may impact their job, performance, health, mental & emotional well-being. EAPs generally offer free & confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, & follow-up services for employees & their household members. EAP counselors also work in a consultative role with managers & supervisors to address employee & organizational challenges & needs. Many corporations, academic institution and/or government agencies are active in helping organizations prevent & cope with workplace violence, trauma, & other emergency response situations. There is a variety of support programs offered for employees. Even though EAPs are mainly aimed at work-related problems, there are a variety of programs that can assist with problems outside of the workplace. EAPs have grown over the years & are more desirable economically & socially.

Small businesses can especially benefit from EAP programs. Even though they may have fewer employees & may not see the need to implement an EAP program, small business owner’s bottom line can suffer quicker due to decreased performance & productivity & workplace negativity. An employer that provides an effective, full-service EAP can help both themselves & employees by lowering risk & liability, improving employee satisfaction, & especially decreasing the stress on small business owners.