What is solution-focussed counselling?

Solution-focussed counselling focusses on solutions rather than the problems themselves. It highlights your strengths, competencies and possibilities instead of perceived weaknesses and limitations. The primary benefit of solution focused counselling is that you use your inner resources to solve your life’s challenges with the assistance of a counsellor.

Will everyone in my organisation know that I am seeing a counsellor?

Confidentiality is the hallmark of your ACCESS Programs.  All ACCESS Counsellors are bound by strict professional codes of ethics and confidentiality.

What you talk about with your Counsellor is not shared with anyone else, unless you give your written consent.

Your employer receives regular statistical reports on the number of employees who have contacted ACCESS Programs, however NO identifying information is reported at any given time. That means that your employer will not know who, when or why an employee contacted ACCESS Programs.

What are the exceptions to confidentiality?

Your personal information will be passed on only if your file is subpoenaed, you disclose a criminal offence, you express an intention to harm yourself or another person or if a child is at risk.

Is it true that people who are weak and unable to cope on their own seek counselling?

It’s not accurate to generalise that people who seek counselling are weak or unable to cope on their own. Counselling is a valuable resource for individuals facing various challenges, and seeking help is a sign of strength!

People pursue counselling for numerous reasons, such as managing stress, improving relationships, coping with grief, or addressing mental health concerns. You may wish to contact ACCESS Programs for work related or personal reasons – or both! It’s a proactive step towards personal growth and well-being. If you have specific concerns or want more details, feel free to ask.

Is counselling only for people with serious mental health problems?

Everyday concerns have the possibility of building up over time and spiralling out of control if not dealt with instantly. Counselling offers you a chance to deal with concerns by discovering your strengths in order to find effective solutions that work for you.

What kind of problems or concerns can be addressed in EAP counselling?

ACCESS EAP offers counselling to employees and – in most instances – their family members to address a wide range of problems or concerns. The most common include:

  • Emotional stress
  • Work – related difficulties and stress
  • Anxiety
  • Career concerns
  • Marital or family problems
  • Coping with change
  • Alcohol and other drug issues
  • Interpersonal conflict
  • Grief and loss
  • Depression

Why should you include family members?

Research shows that stress from family issues is key reason for absenteeism and presenteeism. Providing an EAP that is accessible to family members will not only contribute to preventing these and other problems but also be a sign of understanding and care for employees as people.

Is having low utilisation a sign that everybody is happy? Surely low utilisation is saving money on counselling sessions?

Low utilisation is usually a sign of the EAP not being well publicised or supported. It may also mean a level of organisational mistrust in some cases. If staff aren’t getting help then it may lead to far more costly absenteeism or workers compensation claims.

Do EAP counsellors need specific expertise?

Yes, counsellors need more than clinical expertise. They need to be able to understand ‘system’ and context. They also need to be able to work with two clients: the organisation and the individual.  Our people are professionals with the right background and training to understand the best way to empower you to deal with your situation.

What is the EAP counselling ‘bubble of confidentiality and safety’.

For the EAP to be successful at prevention and early intervention it needs to be separate from workers compensation and other processes. At its best the EAP counselling session needs to provide a safe and secure and confidential space for the employee to be open and honest about the issues. If the employee thinks that the counsellor will be asked to write a report or communicate with others in power they may self-censor or skew the focus of the counselling session. This may potentially mean that they don’t address their issues properly, ultimately leading to a worsening of their situation or a workers compensation claim.

Why are out of hours appointments so important?

ACCESS has structured in afterhours appointments on Wednesday and Thursday evenings till 9.00pm and Saturday mornings till 12:30pm to ensure access for staff who cannot get time off work or who need to attend with other family members. It also supports the confidentiality of the program.

EAP providers can often use national call centres, why doesn’t ACCESS?

Our service is about building strong trusted partnerships. When you contact us you will talk directly to the people who will support you from intake to case closure. All our staff including reception and administrative support staff will get to know your organisation. They will know you and understand your needs and be able to be supportive and responsive.