What you should know about the new employee assistance program

Accessing wellness resources in the workplace can feel especially challenging during moments of stress or crisis. Employee assistance programs (EAPs) are set up to provide assistance and make these challenges more manageable.

Northwestern recently launched a new EAP, SupportLinc, for faculty, staff and their household members, which offers free, confidential and 24/7 access to mental health and well-being services and resources, including short-term counseling.

“This program addresses our community’s request for enhanced services in the area of health and well-being,” said Lorraine Goffe, vice president for human resources and chief human resources officer. “We know that some of our employees have been experiencing burn-out as a result of the pandemic, and SupportLinc offers many services to help mitigate that.” 

> Employees and managers can register now for an upcoming virtual info session to learn more about SupportLinc.

Here’s what to know about Northwestern’s new employee assistance program:

• Supports Northwestern’s strategic priority of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, featuring access to a diverse network serving more than 60 languages and the ability to request a provider by specialty, ethnicity, religion and gender.
• Up to 10 short-term counseling sessions per life issue are available for employees and household members, including children older than one, dependents up to 26 years old and other household family members and roommates.
• A licensed clinician care advocate will provide guidance throughout the experience.
• Digital support programs include text coaching, self-guided behavioral health programs and anonymous virtual support groups.
• Financial and legal consultations are available, including identity theft recovery assistance and work/life trainings.

“We have heard that participants are especially pleased with the interactive nature of the program, the high-touch service available 24/7/365 by phone and the ability to do their own scheduling,” said Goffe. “We hope to receive more feedback so we can continue to be responsive to the needs of our community.” 

Access to Humana services ended on Sept. 30. However, employees who are using Humana’s short-term counseling sessions will be able to continue through Dec. 31, 2022.

With questions about the new employee assistance program, contact wellbeing@northwestern.edu.