Use of EAP Should Be Voluntary, Not Required

Some members have required employees with unsatisfactory work performance to contact the Employee Assistance Program as part of a performance improvement plan. This approach goes against the voluntary and confidential intent and scope of service provided under the program. It also falls outside the contract MCIT has with the EAP.

The MCIT Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a risk management tool designed to provide MCIT member employees access to a qualified counselor to assist in resolving personal challenges that may affect performance at work. This voluntary program provides short-term, no-cost services for issues related to finances, work, substance use, stress, relationships and other life concerns.

Voluntary Use Fosters Trust Between Counselor and Employee

To receive optimal benefit from the EAP, there must be a level of trust between the qualified EAP counselor and the employee. Success requires a collaborative effort.

Employees who are required to contact the EAP as part of a performance improvement plan may be resentful and uncooperative with the EAP counselor. As a result, the employee may receive little to no benefit from the EAP and may be reluctant to reach out for needed assistance in the future.

Performance improvement plans should focus on job performance, rather than an underlying personal concern that may be affecting an employee’s performance. Instead of making the EAP mandatory, MCIT recommends that the EAP be presented to the employee as an optional resource to help the employee meet performance expectations.

The MCIT EAP is also available to provide support and consultation for supervisors who are working with employees with performance problems. For more information, contact the EAP at 1.800.550.6248.