Life’s challenges, whether personal or professional, can sometimes feel overwhelming. Recognizing this, organizations like Penn University offer a valuable resource to their faculty and staff: the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Administered by Health Advocate, Penn’s EAP is a confidential service designed to provide support and guidance through life’s ups and downs. This program offers 24/7 access to counseling and referral services, ensuring that help is always available whenever and wherever you need it.
Comprehensive Support Services Through Health Advocate EAP
The Health Advocate Employee Assistance Program is designed to be a comprehensive support system. Whether you prefer to connect by phone, email, webchat, video, or face-to-face, EAP services are readily accessible. Health Advocate ensures you are connected with the right professionals, including masters-level clinicians, work/life specialists, medical bill negotiators, and financial and legal experts. Furthermore, recognizing the diverse needs of today’s workforce, Health Advocate offers multi-language support capabilities.
Counseling Services: Your Well-being is a Priority
Penn’s EAP, powered by Health Advocate, provides free counseling for faculty, staff, and their eligible family members. These confidential counseling sessions address a wide spectrum of concerns, such as:
- Navigating Life Transitions: From joyous occasions like welcoming a new child or getting married to significant changes like moving or career advancement, EAP offers support in managing the stress associated with both positive and challenging life events.
- Addressing Personal and Professional Challenges: EAP provides assistance for more serious issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, burnout, grief, relationship difficulties, and workplace conflicts.
Each family member is entitled to up to eight free counseling sessions per distinct issue each year, starting from the initial consultation. Should your needs extend beyond this short-term framework, Health Advocate will assist in coordinating with your health insurance provider to ensure continuity of care. In situations requiring longer-term therapy, referrals within your insurance network can be facilitated even before the initial eight sessions are concluded. Health Advocate counselors are accessible around the clock, 24/7, at 1-866-799-2329. Face-to-face sessions can be arranged through a referral to a counselor during your first call. Routine appointments are typically scheduled within three days, with immediate attention available for emergencies.
Legal and Financial Guidance: Expert Assistance When You Need It
Beyond counseling, the Health Advocate EAP extends its support to legal and financial matters. Penn faculty, staff, and their families can access confidential resources and guidance on a range of legal and financial topics, ensuring holistic well-being.
Management Resources: Supporting Leaders and Teams
The EAP also provides valuable resources specifically for managers. These resources include coaching for navigating interpersonal dynamics within teams, critical incident debriefings to support staff after traumatic events, and organizational development services to enhance team effectiveness and workplace well-being.
Your Privacy Matters: Confidentiality Assured
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the Health Advocate Employee Assistance Program. Penn ensures direct access to EAP services, reinforcing its commitment to privacy. Health Advocate rigorously protects your information, often exceeding HIPAA standards. All EAP communications, including online interactions, are confidential. Faculty and staff can utilize these services with complete confidence, knowing their privacy is protected and their employment will not be affected. If you have any concerns regarding confidentiality, you are encouraged to contact a Health Advocate counselor anonymously at 1-866-799-2329.
Helpful Resources to Enhance Your Well-being
To further support emotional well-being in the workplace, EAP offers resources like the webinar Managing Emotional Health at Work. This resource helps individuals understand the impact of emotional health in professional settings, identify key indicators, and learn supportive approaches for positive outcomes. Additionally, resources addressing critical issues like opioid abuse are available, providing essential information and preventative strategies.
Contact the Employee Assistance Program:
For immediate and confidential support, reach out to the Health Advocate EAP:
- Call: 1-866-799-2329
- Schedule via Penn Cobalt: Penn Cobalt EAP Appointment
- Email: [email protected]
- Visit (PennKey Required): www.healthadvocate.com
For general inquiries, contact Penn Human Resources:
- Online: Contact us online
- Phone: 215-898-7729
The Advocate Health Care Employee Assistance Program, through Health Advocate, is a valuable resource designed to support the well-being of Penn faculty and staff. Don’t hesitate to utilize these confidential services – your health and well-being are paramount.
