FAQ
1. What is an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)?
An EFAP is an employer-sponsored benefit that assists the employer, its employees and their family members get the help they need with any number of issues that have an impact on individual, family and workplace wellness and health. Employer-sponsored refers to the fact that the employer pays for the program on behalf of all of its employees (regardless of their position within the company) and their immediate family members. The EFAP at Personal Support Network provides many effective Services & Supports in Fort McMurray.
2. When or why would I use the EFAP?
Although we all have the ability to solve most of our own concerns and stressors, it is often more helpful than we think to talk to a professional about these things. PSN’s staff will assist you to clarify the issue of concern, provide an objective assessment of the situation and discuss options to address your concerns/stressors. If you are unsure whether PSN is the right place to get the help you are looking for, give us a call anyway and we’ll be sure to refer you to the appropriate service or support if it’s not something PSN provides directly.
3. Can my employer make me go to PSN?
The services and supports at PSN are voluntary and as such, you cannot be forced to attend. There are circumstances however, where your employer may request that you attend if your work performance is not meeting company standards.
4. How does the EFAP benefit my family members?
Any of the services and supports available to you through the EFAP are also available to your immediate family members. Your company extends this benefit to them at no charge as well. To clarify, ‘immediate family members’ include your children/dependents who are still covered by your extended health benefits and elderly parents whom are living in your household and whom you are the primary caregiver for.
5. I want to access the services at PSN but not sure what to expect.
During your initial call, you will be asked what company you (or your family member) work for to ensure your eligibility for service. A first appointment will be made at the time of your call and subsequent appointments will then be made between you and the counsellor you are seeing. If you are dealing with an urgent issue, please advise the PSN staff person when you call that you need to be seen as soon as possible. At your 1st appointment, the focus will be on getting to know you and the issues/concerns that brought you to PSN. The counsellor will guide you through this process and together you will develop some goals that will assist you in meeting your needs. The session will be about 1 hour. After this 1st appointment, you will attend regularly (typically every 2-3 weeks or as needed) until you have completed your goals or until you are no longer in need of support.
