The EAP is a resource that offers confidential evaluation, counseling, education, and referral services to Headquarters civil service employees and their families. These services are free of charge. Professional counselors, who help address an employee’s problems that can adversely affect job performance, reliability, and personal health, staff the EAP. A counselor discusses the problem with the individual and after assessing the problem, will provide short-term counseling. If needed, the counselor will also refer the individual to other professional services and resources within the community for further information and assistance. An EAP counselor is available 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week.

The EAP counselors will work with employees to help resolve a wide variety of problems including alcohol and drug abuse, work and family pressures, legal and financial problems, job stress, and other concerns which can affect their work performance and personal health.

In addition to counseling employees on an individual basis, the EAP often sponsors lunchtime seminars, sends out employee newsletters, and provides information designed to help employees establish a healthier and more rewarding lifestyle.

Yes. Supervisors and managers can call the EAP counselor to get assistance with employees who are experiencing personal or workplace problems that negatively impact their productivity, attendance, and/or conduct. The EAP counselor provides short-term problem solving and resource identification to the employees and managers with the goal of managing everyday people problems more effectively. The desired outcome is enhanced morale and productivity.

A telephone call is normally all it takes to make an appointment with the HQ EAP counselor. The EAP operating hours are flexible so employees can make appointments before, during, and after the workday. Counseling can be provided on-site or off-site (at the EAP Offices).

Yes, the employee’s privacy is protected by strict confidentiality laws and regulations and by professional ethical standards for counselors. The details of the employee’s discussions with the counselor may not be released to anyone without the employee’s written consent. There are a few exceptions to confidentiality. A counselor is obligated to violate confidentiality to prevent clear and imminent danger to the employee or others. In addition, in rare instances, a federal judge can order a counselor to release confidential information.

There is no cost to employees who receive counseling and other services provided by the HQ EAP. Costs for outside treatment and professional services, which can result in personal expense, may be covered by Federal Employee Health Benefits plan or private insurance. The EAP counselor will work with the employee to identify the best available outside treatment program and services in line with his/her individual finances.

The sooner an employee (or supervisor) seeks help, the sooner his/her problems can be resolved. Problems left unresolved can often lead to more serious situations with a greater risk that his/her health or job performance will be jeopardized. Employees are encouraged to take advantage of the help and support offered through the EAP, and to address their problems before they become serious.

During normal business hours call (202) 628-5100.
The 24-hour emergency number is: 1-800-247-3054.
HQs EAP coordinator: Cherie Zieschang 202-358-1569