Employee Assistance Program

Practical support for your people and your organization

Today’s multigenerational workforce brings together people at different ages and stages of life, each with their own needs and priorities. Wawanesa’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) gives Plan Members and their families confidential support for mental health, everyday challenges, family needs, work and loss.

More than traditional counselling, the EAP brings practical services and digital resources together in one convenient experience. Plan Members can choose how they access care, while Plan Sponsors can support a healthier, more resilient workforce through life’s many stages.

Support across every aspect of life

Mental and emotional wellbeing

Confidential, flexible mental health support for Plan Members and their families.

Learn more

Confidential individual, couples and children's counselling
Full spectrum of mental health — stress, anxiety, relationships and overall wellbeing, regardless of severity
Flexible access: in-person, virtual or phone
Plan Members self-select the counsellor that fits their needs
Culturally relevant care, including Indigenous-led support
Dedicated children’s mental health program
Digital tools to build coping skills and resilience
Integration with extended health care coverage for a longer-term counsellor relationship[1]

Everyday support

Practical support for life's everyday demands — financial, legal and personal wellbeing, all in one place.

Learn more

Financial guidance and resources for topics such as budgeting, investing, retirement planning and taxes
Access to legal information and guidance for wills, estates, family matters and consumer concerns
One-to-one health and wellness coaching from qualified practitioners

Family and caregiving

Support for Plan Members at every family stage, from raising children to caring for aging parents.

Learn more

Parenting and family support, from family planning through caring for children and teens.
Eldercare and caregiving guidance to help navigate responsibilities and family dynamics.
1 on 1 life coaching for childcare, relationships, and major family changes, including consultations with pediatric sleep, parenting, and eldercare specialists.

Work and career

Support that helps Plan Members grow, navigate changes, and manage everyday workplace pressures, with resources for managers too.

Learn more

Career development and growth support, including guidance through career transitions and workplace change.
Support for managing workplace stress and conflict.
Manager resources to help leaders support their teams through challenging situations.

Support through loss

Compassionate, guided support to help Plan Members manage the logistical, administrative and emotional aspects of losing a loved one.

Learn more

Access to Solace, a digital platform that helps Plan Members through the logistical, emotional, and administrative sides of loss.
A personalized care plan, curated resources, and dedicated support to help manage the affairs of a loved one who has passed.

Subject to the Plan Sponsor’s Extended Health Care coverage and included counselling benefits. ↩

Accessing support

Plan Members and their families can access confidential, professional support through one convenient digital experience.

Group Benefits Online brings EAP and other health and wellness services together in one place. Plan Members can sign in using their existing Wawanesa account and book phone, video or in-person support at a time that works for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Plan Members access the program?

Plan Members can access EAP services through the Wawanesa mobile app or online portal using their existing account.

Is the EAP confidential?

Yes. EAP services are confidential. Plan Sponsors do not receive individual Plan Member information or details about how a person uses the program.

Who can use the EAP?

Eligible Plan Members and their dependents may use the program. Eligibility depends on the plan design.

Can Plan Members access counselling in person?

Depending on location and individual needs, counselling may be available in person, virtually or by phone. Appointment lengths may include 30, 60 or 90 minutes.

Can Plan Members choose a counsellor?

Yes. Plan Members can choose based on preferences such as language, cultural considerations and area of expertise.

If the fit is not right, they can select another professional. Introductory consultations may also be available.

How much counselling is included?

The EAP provides short-term counselling for eligible Plan Members and dependents. Hours vary by plan design and renew annually; consult the contract for details. Following the use of sponsored EAP hours, Plan Members can continue working with their same counsellor and additional sessions may be covered through extended health benefits or a Health Care Spending Account or paid privately.

Is there a cost to use the EAP?

Eligible EAP services are included in the benefits plan at no additional cost to Plan Members. Costs for support beyond the included EAP hours and services depend on the group plan and available coverage.

Wawanesa’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is delivered in partnership with GreenShield Health (GS Health), a trusted provider of mental health and wellbeing services. Services are available in English and French. All services are confidential, and Wawanesa does not access or store personal information shared through the program. EAP services are provided by GS Health and may evolve over time. The availability and scope of specific services are determined by the provider and may change or be withdrawn on reasonable notice. Wawanesa does not guarantee the continuation, quality, or availability of these services.

Are you a Plan Sponsor?

Contact your Advisor to learn more about our product suite and how Wawanesa can support your business.

Are you an Advisor?

Please contact your Wawanesa Regional Group Manager or National Manager if you would like more information about the products and services we offer.