Preparing for Your First Session

Prepaing for your First Session

Before you see your EAP Counselor the following is information you should know:

  • First having personal problems in one's life can happen to anyone.
  • It doesn't mean you are "weak", "crazy" or a "failure".
  • Seeking help shows a sign of strength rather than weakness.
  • Your sessions are confidential and not shared outside of your session unless you sign a release of information or the law requires disclosure.

Why Should I Go to Your EAP Counselor

Some reasons to utilize your EAP benefit:

  • Step parenting
  • Family problems
  • Stress
  • Sadness/Depression
  • Fears
  • Life crisis
  • Marital problems
  • Anxiety
  • Divorce
  • Loss of a loved one
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Substance abuse

    • These are just some examples and not a complete list.

How Can an EAP Counselor Help You?

An EAP counselor can assist you with the following:

  • Assist you in identifying and clarifying a problem
  • Assist you in developing a plan of action
  • Assist you in handling a crisis by sorting out your options
  • Assist you in resolving more complex issues by providing guidance to additional services

When I Call 1-800-300-0628 what will they ask me?

Saint Barnabas Employee Assistance Program Access Center Clinicians will ask the following questions:

  • Your name
  • Identification of your problem or concern.
  • Company you are employed by
  • Your date of birth
  • Your insurance information so that if at all possible a counselor in your insurance panel will be provided
  • Counselor preferences, for example; male, female, location, etc.
  • You will be provided a name and telephone number of a counselor to allow you to schedule an appointment at your convenience.

What Should I do Before Seeing a Counselor?

Before you have your first appointment, you may want to consider the following:

  • Write down a list of questions and or concerns and bring the list with you. This will help you focus on what is bothering you.
  • Write down the problem and the history of the problem, bring notes, records and documentation to help you remember the details.
  • If appropriate and with the counselors awareness, bring family members or significant people involved with the problem to the first session.

What will happen at my first counseling session?

Just relax, the counselors office will be comfortable, quiet and designed for a private, confidential conversation.

  • The counselor will have you complete forms
  • The counselor will ask you questions that will help assess your problem.
  • The counselor will discuss with you your problem and concerns and possible options.
  • Depending on your need for treatment you may return for additional sessions or,
  • A referral to a specialist or other clinician may be recommended.

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