What is EAP counselling? How can it help my workplace?

Creating a workplace where people feel supported, heard, and valued takes more than good intentions. It requires the right systems in place, especially when it comes to mental health.

One of the most effective tools employers can offer is EAP counselling. Short for Employee Assistance Program, EAPs give staff access to confidential, professional support when they’re going through a tough time—whether that’s personal, work-related, or a mix of both.

For employees, it’s a chance to talk things through with a trained therapist. For employers, it’s a way to invest in people, improve wellbeing, and build a healthier, more engaged team.

What is EAP counselling?

EAP counselling is a professional support service offered by employers to assist employees with mental health, emotional, and personal challenges that may be affecting their wellbeing or job performance.

These services are:

• Free for employees to access

• Voluntary and confidential

• Delivered by qualified professionals such as psychologists, social workers, and counsellors

• Usually available via phone, video, or in-person sessions

Employees do not need to be facing a crisis to use EAP counselling. Support is offered for everything from workplace stress and burnout to relationship issues, grief, financial pressures, and other issues.

Unlike many EAP services that stop once the allotted sessions are used, Talked’s Beyond EAP is designed with continuity in mind. If an employee wishes to continue seeing their therapist beyond the employer-funded sessions, they can do so through Medicare, private insurance, or even self-funded sessions. if eligible.

This seamless transition means employees don’t need to start over with someone new—they can continue building on the progress they’ve already made with a therapist they trust.

Is EAP confidential?

Yes, EAP counselling is strictly confidential. Any personal information shared during a session is protected and cannot be accessed by your employer without your permission.

Employers receive only de-identified, aggregated data (e.g., number of sessions used, general topics) to help them understand usage trends—not the details of who accessed the service or why.

This confidentiality is a cornerstone of trust and one of the main reasons employees feel safe using their EAP.

Why do companies offer EAP counselling?

Employers who offer EAP counselling are investing in the long-term success of their people and their organisation. While there are many factors that go into running a company, the key to operating like a well-oiled machine is the employees. So, from a leadership standpoint, it makes sense to protect this incredibly valuable piece of the puzzle.

Key benefits for employers include:

• Improved employee productivity and focus at work

• Fewer workplace conflicts

• Reduced absenteeism and presenteeism

• Enhanced employee engagement and retention

• Better support during sensitive times (e.g., bereavement, separation) or critical incidents (e.g., layoffs, leadership changes)

Common issues addressed in employee counselling

Therapists involved in EAP are trained to assist with a wide range of personal and professional concerns, including:

Personal and emotional issues

• Anxiety and depression

• Grief and loss

• Family or relationship difficulties

• Parenting concerns

• Substance use

Work-related challenges

• Burnout or chronic stress

• Workplace conflict

• Bullying or harassment

• Adjusting to change or remote work

• Career transitions

Practical life stressors

• Financial difficulties

• Legal concerns

• Work-life balance

• Coping with illness or caregiving responsibilities

Each counselling or therapy session is tailored to the individual, with a solution-focused and supportive approach.

How to choose a quality EAP provider

Not all EAP services are created equal. If you're an employer looking to support your team with a program that truly makes a difference, it's important to partner with a provider that offers both comprehensive support and genuine care.

Look for a provider that:

• Offers confidential counselling and therapy with qualified, accredited professionals

• Provides 24/7 access to mental health assistance

• Supports remote delivery, especially if you have remote teams

• Tailors services to your business size, industry, and specific employee needs

• Includes dedicated support for managers and HR teams, such as consultations and guidance

• Has trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices

• Is transparent about usage trends and reporting—sharing only de-identified, aggregate data

How to access EAP counselling

For employees:

• Contact your HR or People & Culture department for instructions on how to access your EAP.

• Sessions are confidential, and you don’t need to tell your manager why you're attending.

• If you're unsure whether your company offers an EAP, ask discreetly or check with your wellbeing officer.

For employers:

• If you don’t currently offer EAP for mental health, now is the time to consider it. Many providers offer flexible packages based on company size and budget.

• You can also try a pay-as-you-go service like Talked, so you don’t have to spend on unused therapy credits and focus on services your team actually loves and needs.

Wrapping up

Mental health concerns are on the rise across Australia. Plus, with hybrid working, economic pressures, and increased life stress, employees are more likely than ever to benefit from early intervention and support.

EAP counselling empowers employees to take control of their wellbeing, while employers benefit from a happier, more engaged, and stable workforce. It’s not just a win-win—it’s a strategic decision backed by data.