A Northeastern Human Resources program offers free, confidential counseling sessions and legal services. Here’s what it includes — and how to get it.
What is it? Northeastern’s Employee Assistance Program offers up to six free counseling, coaching or expert advisory sessions for employees going through tough moments, big life transitions and struggles ranging from financial problems to health issues. And it’s confidential: Employers won’t know, for example, if a staffer seeks help for depression or addiction through the EAP. The benefit is accessible anytime to all U.S.-based employees through the provider New Directions and to Canadian employees through Lyra Wellbeing, an international partner.
What does it include? The partial list of resources accessible through the platform includes: counseling, therapy, life and career coaches, financial advisers, legal help, doulas, child care advisers, lactation consultants, adoption experts, elder care services, hospice advisers, addiction help and college consultants.
How much does it cost? Nothing. The sessions with service providers coordinated through the EAP are free, and the New Directions and ICAS World sites are useful online hubs for educational resources on related topics.
How do I get it? Go to the New Directions portal or the Lyra Wellbeing portal and enter the employee code, “northeastern university.” Then follow prompts to access the service you want (couples counseling, say), and fill out an intake form that leads to a list of covered providers. For some referrals, like coaching, call the EAP specialist line at 800-624-5544 in the U.S. or +1 647 258 5435 in Canada.