Employee Assistance Program

What is an Employee Assistance Program?
An employee assistance program, or EAP, is a counseling service for employees and their eligible dependents who may be experiencing personal or work place problems. The Hartford Fire Department contracts with Pathways EAP on Prospect Avenue in Hartford, CT. You may contact them directly at 860.233.6228.  Identify yourself as an HFD employee or dependent. You can reach the EAP Liaison (Lt. Mark Horan) by calling 860.761.4248. any time of day, any day of the year. Everyone has problems from time to time. Usually, we work them out. But sometimes problems persist, becoming serious enough to affect us both off and on the job. At such times, an EAP counselor can help.

Why Does the Harford Fire Department Offer an EAP?
First, it’s smart business. If you’re doing well and day-to-day problems aren’t a distraction, you are more likely to be alert, motivated and concentrating on your job. This means we have a safer, more productive organization. We care about our employees. It’s that simple.

What Types of Problems Does an EAP Handle?
The EAP handles a wide range of problems. These include problems related to:

• Family
• Marital
• Stress
• Financial
• Substance Abuse 
• Work Place 
• And many others

Call 860.761.4248 for more information about these services.

Will the Counselor Keep my Problem Confidential?
Yes. Absolutely. Confidentiality is a requirement and a guarantee we make to all employees. Without it, the EAP wouldn’t work. Every counselor knows this rule. No information goes anywhere without your request and written permission. Remember, too, counselors are specially trained in EAP work. They handle delicate issues, and they have the knowledge and skills to assist you toward solving your problems.

When Can I Schedule an Appointment?
Appointments at Pathways are scheduled during the regular work day:  evening times are available upon request. Just call 860.233.6228 and tell the receptionist that you are from HFD. To access the departments EAP Liaison (Lt. Mark Horan) call 860.761.4248.

What is an EAP Counselor?
An EAP counselor is someone educated, trained and experienced in helping employees and their eligible dependents solve their problems or referring them to other professionals or organizations in the community who can. EAP counselors typically are experienced in dealing with problems in substance abuse, behavioral health, relationships, work place and numerous social  situations that plague all of us at one time or another.

How Much Will the EAP Cost Me?
The first 6 sessions are included in the city's contract with Pathways. These EAP services are offered at no cost to all Fire Department employees and their eligible dependents. After the 6 sessions your insurance will cover additional services. You are encouraged to use EAP services whenever you need help or information to best handle your job or family responsibilities.

            REMEMBER, EAP SERVICES ARE COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL.
       FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT LT. MARK HORAN AT 860.761.4248