One of the main questions we hear from employees who wish to use EAP services is, "Is it confidential?" Even though seeking counseling is becoming more and more accepted as a healthy way to overcome problems, people still want to maintain their privacy.

At ERC, we respect your privacy. No one outside the EAP will know that you are using the service unless you want them to. Assurance of confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of your Employee Assistance Program.

For Your Information

• State and Federal confidentiality laws prohibit the EAP from disclosing clinical information or identifying any client without the client's written consent.
  
• The written consent process includes executing a form which specifies in writing exactly what information is to be disclosed, to whom, for what purpose, and the time period that release will be in effect. This assures that the client is informed and agrees with the disclosure of information about them.

Common Questions

1. Will my employer know that I use the EAP?
   No. No one will know unless you want them to.
   
2. Will I run into someone from my company while I am there?
   We try very hard not to have two employees from the same company cross paths in our office. Whenever possible, our attempts at preventing this from happening include staggering appointments and providing alternate waiting rooms. If you have a specific concern about this please mention it when you schedule your appointment.
   
3. What information does the company receive?
   The only information that is given to the company is a quarterly report consisting of statistics of how many people use the EAP. No information is shared that would identify anyone using the EAP.

Confidentiality Law Exceptions
There are a few exceptions to the confidentiality law:

1. If a client presents serious danger to him/herself or someone else.
   
2. If a counselor recognizes that child or elder abuse/neglect is occurring.
   
3. If a qualified court order is issued in conjunction with either a criminal or civil case.

In those situations the EAP is bound to take the action necessary to protect the individual even if it takes informing others.