The Ease Program FAQ

Is it confidential?

Absolutely! If you refer yourself to the EASE Program no one will ever learn of your participation. Your privacy is protected by both state and federal confidentiality laws.

What is a mandated referral?

While the vast majority of people refer themselves to the EASE Program, occasionally a supervisor will require or strongly encourage you to see one of our counselors. This circumstance arises when your supervisor notices a drop in job performance that may be a result of something negative and/or distracting going on in your personal life. Rather than poking his or her nose in your private affairs your supervisor may steer you to the EASE Program.

If my supervisor mandates a referral is it still confidential?

Yes! The only information your counselor will convey back to your supervisor is (1) if you made and kept your appointment (2) if you are/are not following the counselor’s recommendations and (3) if you will require any time off of work to comply with the counselor’s recommendations. The CONTENT of what you and the counselor discuss is private and confidential.

Who in my family, besides me, can use the EASE Program? OR: Who is a “dependent?”

Certainly all members of your immediate family who are living at home with you. We will endeavor to extend the benefit to everyone who is so close enough to you that “their problems become your problems.” So, for example, in the past we have made the EASE Program available to cohabitating but unmarried partners, grown children and, sometimes, grandchildren.

How do I make an appointment?

Just call 618.233.EASE (3273) or 800.487.4900. If no one is available to answer your call you may leave a detailed, confidential voicemail message and you will receive a prompt call back.

Do you work with young children?

Providing psychotherapy to kids is a time-intensive specialty that goes beyond the scope of the EASE Program. However we often work with parents to help them address their child’s difficulties and, if desired, we can provide a referral to a competent child therapist.

What are the kinds of problems you see?

It is a long list. We see almost every imaginable problem, from mood disorders (like depression or anxiety/panic) to family difficulties (rebellious teenagers, marital issues), to addiction/abuse, to burnout/stress, to work-life balancing, to grief counseling, to much, much more. If you have a specific concern just call and ask if we can help. If we can’t offer the best kind of assistance we can always refer you to someone else, but usually, we can.

How much does it cost?

The EASE Program is a benefit provided to you by your employer. There are no deductibles, no co-pays and no insurance. In other words: there is no cost to you.

Where are you located?

Our main office is located in Copper Bend South in building number 956. The street address is 2900 South Frank Scott Parkway West, Suite 956, Belleville, Illinois. If you are not local to the Belleville area, we can offer phone counseling or we can help find a counselor a little closer to you.

What are your hours?

We are available by appointment only. We have day and evening hours.

How long does it take to get an appointment?

If your schedule is flexible we can see you within 1-2 business days. If your schedule is full and you require a specific time/day then it can take longer. Worst case: a week.

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