Therapy Online Australia

Employee Assistance Programs

If you're currently employed, your workplace may offer confidential, short-term counselling through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). This support is free and available to you — and often your family — even if work isn't the main source of your stress.

How It Works

1. Ask If Your Workplace Offers EAP

EAP is often available through HR, People & Culture, or Wellbeing teams. It's free, confidential, and doesn't require a GP referral. You can usually find this information in your onboarding documents or staff portal.

2. Get the EAP Contact Details

If your workplace uses an EAP provider, you'll receive a contact number or email address. You can typically call directly or self-book online — no need to inform your manager.

3. Choose a Therapist

Most EAP services match you with a therapist. Some may offer choice between psychologists and counsellors. If your employer allows you to select your own, you can book with one of our listed therapists and have your sessions reimbursed.

4. Use Your Free Sessions

EAP generally covers 3–6 free sessions per year, depending on your employer. If you need further care, your therapist can refer you to long-term support via Medicare, NDIS, or private options.

Important Information

Confidential

Your employer does not know what you discuss or even that you used the service, unless you choose to disclose it.

No Referral Required

You can book sessions directly — no GP or paperwork needed.

Short-Term Support

EAP is designed for immediate challenges like stress, burnout, grief, anxiety, workplace conflict, or relationship strain.

Follow-Up Options

If you need more support after your EAP sessions, we can help you transition to Medicare or private sessions.

Service Comparison

Service	Who It's For	Sessions Covered	Referral Needed?	Cost to You
EAP	Employees & families	3–6 sessions	No	$0
Medicare	Anyone with MHCP	Up to 10/year	Yes (GP)	Partial rebate
NDIS	Eligible participants	Varies	No GP needed	Covered by plan
Private	Everyone	Unlimited	No	Full fee (some insurance rebate)

Frequently Asked Questions

EAP is completely confidential. No personal information is shared with your workplace.

Some EAPs allow this, others assign you one. If you prefer to choose your own, you may be able to book privately and be reimbursed — check with your HR or provider.

Yes — many EAP services offer phone and video counselling. Check with your EAP provider.

You can transition into private or Medicare-supported therapy. Many therapists can help you make that shift smoothly.

If you were recently employed, many EAPs extend access for a few months after you leave. It's worth asking your former HR team.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) for Mental Health Support