Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.Can I attend the Employee Assistance Program on work time?
Yes. The university is committed to the Employee Assistance Program as a vital resource for the support of staff and faculty on this campus.
The EAP is good for individuals in our community and for the university as a whole. The Dean for Faculty and Staff Affairs
has requested that all supervisors release employees to seek counseling or consultation, on state time. “Because some employees will
have personal problems that may impact their job performance, it is important that we give employees an opportunity to meet our Employee Assistance Coordinator on University time.,
I encourage you to allow employees access to EAP services on state time.” (David L. Wagner, Dean Faculty and Staff Affairs, February 20, 1996)
When necessary, any employee who wishes to make an appointment with the Employee Assistance Program during work hours should talk to his or her supervisor. Supervisors should permit employees to take time away from their duties at the earliest opportunity.
Q2.If I have to tell a supervisor that I am using to the Employee Assistance Program, how is my confidentiality protected?
There is a difference between confidentiality and anonymity. When you tell a supervisor that you have an appointment with the Employee Assistance Program, the fact that
you are seeking assistance with the EAP clearly is not confidential. However, he/she should adopt an attitude respecting the private nature of this request.
Supervisors should limit their knowledge and questioning of the request to the practical aspects of arranging time away from duties, and should not inquire about personal aspects
of the request. You don't have to tell a supervisor of the confidential reason(s) for which you are using the Employee Assistance Program. What you tell the staff at the
Employee Assistance Program is confidential. Except as required by law, no information from the EAP is revealed to your workplace, or to anyone else, without your specific written instructions to do so.
If you want to remain anonymous -- if you do not wish your supervisor to know you are coming to the EAP -- please make an appointment on your day off
or during your lunch break.
Q3. What kind of program is the Employee Assistance Program at California State University, Sacramento?
The EAP at Sac State offers brief counseling (up to six sessions per year) and consultation for an employee or eligible family member experiencing a personal, family, or work related difficulty. We can see children, adolescents, adults and couples. We can often resolve issues within just a few visits. If after consultation we believe that you need assistance beyond what we can povide, we will help you with referrals in the community. We will work with your medical benefits to connect you with affordable resources. The costs of community referral services must be paid by the employee. We also offer consultation for supervisors regarding employee issues, as well as trainings and presentations on a variety of topics.
Q4. If I see an EAP counselor for six sessions, does that mean I can’t seek help if a new problem occurs?
You are always welcome to seek assistance from the EAP. If you have already used your six EAP sessions for the year and a new crisis arises, your EAP clinician will work with you to transition to on going assistance using your health benefits or other community resources.
Q5. Can my supervisor make me come to the Employee Assistance Program?
No. Use of the Employee Assistance Program is strictly voluntary. Supervisors or concerned family members may assist you in making appointments,
but the decision to come is yours alone. It is common, however, for co-workers, colleagues, friends and supervisors who notice troubling changes of behavior
or mood to recommend the EAP out of concern for a person’s welfare.
Q6. Does attendance at the Employee Assistance Program become a part of my personnel record?
No. Employee Assistance Program records are kept separate and confidential. They do not become part of your personnel record.
Q7. How long has the Employee Assistance Program been operating on campus?
The program was established in 1995.
Q8. How Do I Schedule an Appointment?
Please call the EAP between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding University holidays. An appointment will be arranged promptly.
Please do not use e-mail to request your appointment, as the Internet is not a confidential means of communication.
The EAP office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. If you have further questions about our services, please call us at 916-278-5018complete the Information Request Form or email us at; eap@csus.edu.
If you wish to make an appointment, please call us at 916-278-5018.
