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EAP Counseling vs. Therapy: 10 Common Questions

May 1, 2025 | Uncategorized

Racheal Gibbons
This blog post is by Tammy Hoyman, EFR’s CEO.
Curious about how EAP counseling differs from traditional therapy (also referred to as ‘outpatient counseling‘)? Whether you’re feeling stressed, supporting a loved one, or simply exploring ways to boost your mental health, this Q&A unpacks everything you need to know—from confidentiality and costs to session limits and referrals.
Dive in to learn why EAP counseling is a powerful, no-cost starting point for navigating life’s challenges—and how it can connect you to further support when you need it.

1.What is EAP counseling, and how does it differ from traditional outpatient counseling?

EAP counseling is an employer-sponsored benefit that offers employees and their family members an easy and confidential way to address life’s challenges, big or small. It’s a starting point where a trusted professional helps you understand your situation and identify practical steps forward.
Unlike traditional outpatient counseling, which typically involves diagnosis and longer-term treatment or therapy, EAP counseling is focused on immediate support, brief counseling, and referral. Usually, concerns can be addressed within 3-6 sessions. If it becomes clear you might benefit from additional or more specialized help, your EAP counselor will connect you with the right resources through a referral.
  • Easy access: There’s no cost to you, and confidentiality is guaranteed, eliminating common barriers like expense, uncertainty about where to start, or worries about privacy.
  • Immediate support: With short-term counseling developed around your specific situation, many people find the help they need quickly and conveniently.

2. How does the assessment and short-term counseling process work within an EAP?

When you reach out to an EAP counselor, you’ll connect with a master’s-level professional trained to provide support across a wide range of life issues. They’ll begin with a thorough assessment into your unique circumstances, understanding your immediate concerns and how various aspects of your life contribute to your well-being.
Together, you and your counselor will identify clear goals and focus on practical solutions for your sessions. EAP counseling is solution-focused, typically providing the help you need within 3-6 sessions. If you and your counselor believe you might benefit from additional or specialized support, they’ll discuss options and recommend resources beyond the EAP.

3. What if my concern extends beyond the scope of EAP counseling?

In about 25% of EAP cases, our counselor may recommend services that extend beyond the EAP’s scope—such as longer-term therapy or specialized treatment.

When that happens, your counselor will explain why the referral is needed and suggest at least three options, making sure to consider financial, transportation, and other personal factors that might affect your access to care.

The EAP takes the guesswork out of finding the right help, serving as a stress-free starting point for connecting with outpatient counseling or additional resources!

4. Is counseling available virtually, or do I have to meet in person?

EFR’s EAP is flexible, offering both in-person and virtual sessions—whichever fits your preferences!

Virtual counseling can be a great option if you have a busy schedule or face transportation hurdles.

At the same time, some people prefer meeting in person, and family or children’s sessions often work best when everyone’s together in the same room.

5. How do I know if my concerns are “big enough” for counseling?

EAP counseling is available to all eligible employees and family members—no diagnosis or clinical criteria required!

We encourage you to reach out early, even if it’s just a mild worry; concerns tend to grow when ignored.

Think of EAP counseling like a check-up—just like you’d get an annual physical or dental exam. If something’s on your mind, the EAP is here to help, no matter how big or small it may seem.

6. What if my spouse or child is having difficulties—are they eligible, too? 

Yes! EFR’s EAP covers employees and their household family members, even if the issue doesn’t directly involve the employee or the workplace.

That means your spouse, partner, or child can seek counseling on their own—you’re not required to participate in their sessions.

We believe supporting loved ones is a crucial part of supporting you.

7. How often can I use counseling through the EAP?

Most employees and their family members are eligible for 3 or 6 sessions of assessment, brief counseling, and referral each rolling year—depending on your employer’s plan.

If you’ve already used your EAP sessions for one concern (like stress or relationship issues) and a new circumstance arises later (such as a death in the family), the EAP may authorize additional sessions if you’re not currently in therapy.

Keep in mind that EAP counseling isn’t meant to replace ongoing therapy or outpatient treatment. Instead, it offers a short-term support system to help you navigate life’s challenges.

8. Will my employer or anyone else know if I use the EAP?

Your EAP sessions are protected by state and federal privacy laws.

No identifying information can be shared with your employer or anyone else without your written consent, except in rare cases involving child or dependent adult abuse or a credible risk of harm to yourself or others.

The only data your employer receives is aggregate (non-identifiable) usage—ensuring your privacy remains secure.

9. How much does EAP counseling cost me—and can I afford it?

EAP counseling is free for employees and their household family members—including college-aged dependents.

Since it’s an employer-sponsored benefit, you can access thousands of dollars’ worth of services each year at no out-of-pocket cost.

If you need additional care after using your EAP sessions, your counselor will suggest affordable, accessible options tailored to your needs.

10. I’m ready to get started! What do I do next?

Seeking help takes courage and resourcefulness, and it’s important to know you’re not alone—your EAP is here precisely for that reason!

Simply call 800-327-4692 anytime to speak with a master’s-level counselor for in-the-moment support and to access your EAP counseling or other EAP benefits.

On the call, you can expect the counselor to gather some demographic information from you, discuss what services you are seeking, and remind you of your other EAP benefits. The counselor will help connect you with an EAP counselor to get your first appointment scheduled!

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