Definition - What does Preferred Employee Assistance Program mean?
A preferred employee assistance program, or EAP, refers to an employee assistance program that offers counseling services targeting specific circumstances related to family affairs, individual predicaments, or workplace dilemmas. These programs are sponsored by employers in which qualified counselors assist employees with personal situations that pose counterproductive activity both at home and work. Companies use these programs as a corrective measure for employees dealing with life struggles inhibiting their job performance.
SureHire explains Preferred Employee Assistance Program
A preferred employee assistance program, or EAP, works to handle mental and emotional problems that disrupt the lives of employees both at home and work. Life can present difficult circumstances for many employees, which can often lead to self-destructive tendencies including alcohol and/or chemical dependency. These events can catalyze different types of problems, often resulting in family strife, contentious relationships at work, and violent/criminal behavior. Employees may also experience marital separation or divorce, workplace disciplinary action resulting in suspension and, potentially, termination. Preferred EAP is a system comprised of certified counselors specially trained to assist employees combating addictive behaviors, familial disturbances, financial concerns, or health-related setbacks.