Employees Resources

FAQ on the Employee Assistant Program

  1. What is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

    The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free, voluntary, and confidential information, assessment, and referral service available to all New York State employees, retirees, and their family members. EAP provides confidential assistance for personal or work-related problems, including family, marital, medical, financial, legal, grief and loss, elder care, and substance abuse.

  2. Who is eligible to use the EAP?

    All New York State employees, retirees, and their family members are eligible to use the EAP.

  3. Is EAP Assistance Confidential? 

    Yes, EAP is a confidential information, assessment, and referral service. Confidentiality is maintained, except in cases required by law, imminent threat of bodily harm, or suspected child abuse.

  4. What kind of assistance does the EAP provide?

    The EAP does not provide direct therapy but serves as a link between employees and skilled professionals in the community. It offers confidential assistance and referral services to help employees with personal or work-related problems.

  5. How can employees seek assistance from EAP?

    Employees can seek assistance from EAP through self-referral, supervisor referral, or third-party referral. They can leave a message on the confidential voice mail system or email the EAP coordinator. In crisis situations, they should call the EAP main office or dial 911.

  6. What types of issues can EAP help with? 

    EAP can provide assistance with unmanageable anxiety or fear, uncontrollable emotions, feelings of hopelessness or depression, increased or ongoing stress, difficulty coping, conflicts in relationships, low self-esteem, reliance on alcohol or drugs, and other personal or work-related problems.

  7. Does EAP provide therapy?

    No, EAP does not provide direct therapy. It serves as a link between employees and skilled professionals in the community for appropriate counseling or assistance.

  8. Is the use of EAP services mandatory?

    No, the use of EAP services is voluntary. Employees can choose to seek assistance based on their own needs and preferences.

  9. What if an employee is in a crisis situation?

    In a crisis situation, employees should immediately call Erie County Crisis Services at (716) 834-3131 or dial 911 for immediate assistance.

  10. How can employees access the EAP services?

    Employees can access the EAP services through self-referral, supervisor referral, or third-party referral. They can leave a message on the confidential voice mail system at (716) 878-6699 or email eap@buffalostate.edu. In crisis situations, they can call the EAP main office at (800) 822-0244 or dial 911.

     

    Resources for Employee Assistance and Work-Life Balance:

New York State Work-Life Services Buffalo State Employee Assistance Program Parent Network of Western New York