How Many Sessions Do EAPs Cover?

Key Takeaways

• Most EAPs include 3–6 free sessions per year.
• Sessions typically reset annually—either by calendar year, financial year, or based on when you first accessed the service.
• Renewal policies can vary by organisation, so always check with HR or your EAP provider.
• Knowing your reset date helps you plan support proactively.

Research indicates that up to 42% of Australian workers do not disclose their mental health challenges at work. This reluctance underscores the importance of initiatives like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide employees with confidential support avenues outside their immediate work environment.

Despite the benefits, traditional EAPs often face underutilisation, partly due to many employees’ being unaware of how much support is available.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) offer a range of benefits to employees, including access to therapy sessions at no cost.

The one common question is: How many sessions does EAP cover?

How Many Counselling Sessions Are Covered By Employee Assistance Programs?

Typically, EAP ranges from 3 to 6 sessions, depending on the program and employer. These EAP sessions are completely confidential, and employers do not receive information about which employees utilise this benefit.

Sessions are arranged promptly, often within 3 to 5 business days, helping employees access support quickly. It’s important to check with your company’s HR department to understand the specific details of your EAP benefits.

Whether you’re facing work stress, personal issues, or need support for a specific challenge, EAPs offer a valuable resource to help employees maintain mental well-being without financial burden.

What Topics Can Be Discussed During EAP Counselling Sessions?

EAPs typically cover a wide range of issues and concerns that employees may face, both personal and work-related. While specific services can vary depending on the provider and employer’s contract, EAPs commonly assist with:

1. Work-related Stress: Including job dissatisfaction, workload management, and workplace conflict.
2. Personal Relationships: Such as marital or family issues, communication problems, and relationship conflicts.
3. Mental Health Concerns: Including anxiety, depression, grief, and coping with traumatic events.
4. Substance Abuse: Support for employees dealing with alcohol or drug-related issues.
5. Life Transitions: Assistance during major life changes like relocation, retirement, or adjusting to new roles.

EAPs are designed to provide early intervention and support, aiming to improve employees’ wellbeing and performance. It’s advisable for employees to review their EAP benefits to understand the scope of assistance available.

Also See: How HR Teams Can Help Under Pressure Employees

Can I choose my own therapist through the EAP Sessions?

Yes, typically you can choose your own therapist through the EAP program. You can select a therapist or EAP counsellor from this list based on your preferences, such as location, specialty, or other criteria.

Alternatively, some EAP programs will complete the therapist matching service on your behalf, once you have provided information about your presenting issue and preferences. It’s important to confirm with your EAP provider about their specific procedures for therapist selection.

‍

What happens if I need more sessions beyond what EAP covers?

If you require additional sessions beyond what the EAP covers, you have several options:

• Accessing a Mental health treatment plan: You can continue to access Mental health treatment by visiting your GP and accessing a Mental health treatment plan where you are eligible for Medicare rebated sessions.
• Self-Pay: You can choose to pay for sessions out-of-pocket directly to your therapist.
• Private health insurance: Depending on your level of cover some health insurances will cover mental health treatment rebates.

It’s beneficial to discuss these options with your therapist and see what options might be available to you.

When Do The Number Of EAP Sessions Reset?

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) typically undergo review or renewal on a periodic basis, usually aligned with EOFY or a calendar year.

Employees should be clear on the availability of EAP sessions within their organisation, as many variables impact the number of sessions available to them. Additionally it is important to consider the ongoing support needs and financial implications once these sessions have been completed.

‍

Related Articles

• How Much Do EAPs Cost?
• Mental Health Leave Expained
• How To Respond To A Critical Incident
• What is a Notifiable Incident At Work?

‍