An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a voluntary, work-based, employer-sponsored program that  offers free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up services  to employees who have personal and/or work-related problems. EAPs address a broad and complex body of issues affecting mental and emotional well-being. EAP counselors also work in a consultative  role with managers and supervisors to address employee and organizational challenges and needs.

1. What types of problems are seen through EAP? Although you may call for any type of concern,  the most common problems include: problems with a supervisor or co- worker, depression or anxiety,  grief and bereavement, family, marriage and other relationship issues, domestic violence,  addictions (drug, alcohol, sexual, gambling, shopping, internet etc.), eating disorders, child and  adolescent issues, child-parent problems, stress related illness, coping with chronic illness.
2. Who can use the EAP? In general, all employees and their dependents are eligible to use EAP services. Often, when one family member is experiencing some difficulties, it affects  other family members as well. You can contact the EAP to verify your eligibility.
3. What are the EAP counselors qualifications? All EAP providers have a master’s degree/licensure in Social Work. Occasionally, second-year master’s of social work interns are utilized. All  counselors are able to provide assessment, diagnosis, creation of a treatment plan, treatment,  referrals, and follow-up.
4. Does using EAP affect my job? No record of your contact with EAP will be provided to your employer without your written consent. If your job performance is significantly affected, your  supervisor may recommend EAP to you as a resource to help resolve any personal or work related  problems that may have negatively impacted your performance. The goal is to improve your personal  well- being and work performance. Again, no information is shared without your written consent and  even with consent the only information that is shared is attendance, goals, and progress toward  goals. What you and your counselor talk about is between you and your counselor.
5. How do I get started with EAP? Visit our website, www.clinicalassociates.org and click the “Request an Appointment” button or call our office at 607-936-1771. Our intake coordinators will  ask you routine questions to help schedule you with the best counselor for your needs.
6. How quickly will I will be seen by an EAP counselor? We are committed to scheduling new  referrals within 3-5 days, except in instances when the employee’s personal schedule prevents a  visit within that time frame. Urgent situations may be scheduled within 24-48 hours. EAP is not a  substitute for 911 emergency calls nor medical mental health, or any other life threatening crisis.  These types of issues should be referred to 911 or the nearest emergency department.
7. How many sessions do I get? Most commonly, five sessions are available; however, there are some plans which offer more or less. When scheduling your first session we will let you know how  many sessions are provided under your employer’s plan.
8. What happens if I use all of my available EAP sessions and I still need help? We are able to bill most insurances if additional sessions are needed to resolve your issue. You will be responsible for any co-pays associated with your insurance.
9. What happens at the first appointment? When you arrive, you will be asked to sign new client  paperwork. These forms allow the counselor to gather important information and allows you the time  to focus on the issues of most importance to you when you meet with your counselor. EAP provides  counseling for a variety of issues that can be handled within a brief time frame. While some issues  brought to EAP can be addressed within a few sessions, other issues are more complicated or longstanding, and cannot be handled within the scope of EAP. Your counselor will help you understand the anticipated timeframe for treatment and talk with you about your options beyond EAP, if needed.
10. Where are the EAP offices located? We have offices in Corning, Elmira, Ithaca, Bath, and a location opening in Horseheads in late 2022.

•  77 E. First St., Corning

•  311 W. Water St., Elmira

•  323 N. Tioga St., Ithaca

•  209 Liberty St., Bath

In-person, virtual and phone appointments are available.

Call or visit our website for any additional questions you may have.