Sometimes it’s tempting to take the path of least resistance, or in this case, the path with the fewest numbers behind the dollar sign. In a world riddled with taxes, subscription fees and additional charges, having to spend money on one more thing makes the free option appealing, no matter the quality. That is, until you receive the poorly constructed product, and you are forced to live with the consequences of excessive frugality. 

Sometimes you end up paying the price for inexpensive or free items in other ways, such as time, energy and resources. So when businesses ask why they should pay for an employee assistance program (EAP) when there are plenty of free or heavily discounted resources available, our response tends to tread on cautionary. Free services could save you some money, but they can’t provide the care other EAPs, such as those offered by Mazzitti & Sullivan, promise to provide employees. And a robust employee assistance program will yield lasting dividends in the form of employee retention, productivity and satisfaction, all benefits that free alternatives can’t hope to match.

Access to a real person – all day, every day

Free EAP services might have their telephone lines open every day of the year, but the service is usually automated. But when situations arise, it’s comforting for callers to know there will be a real person picking up the receiving line, whether it’s 4:00 p.m. on a normal business day or 1:00 a.m. on a holiday. For real help, you know you’d prefer to speak with a real person, every time.

Access for family members

From time to time, a situation has the capability to affect everyone in the home. When these circumstances arise, it’s important to note that a paid EAP offers redemptive benefits for immediate family members, whether you’re dealing with financial issues, the loss of a loved one or even a move. However, most free EAPs only provide services to direct employees and those who are considered eligible after consultation. With a paid EAP, you’re guaranteed care for all members of the employee’s household.

For many employees, knowing their family is also receiving the care they need can provide a sense of peace and a feeling of comfort, knowing their employer cares for not only their well-being, but the health of their family as well.

More than an over-the-phone service

Free EAP services offer telephonic counseling and coaching services. Paying for an EAP gives you a whole realm of services, with virtual, face-to-face and over the phone options. This means individuals can choose their method of counseling based on their needs and comfort levels. If face-to-face sessions spark anxiety more so than a virtual session, your employees can choose this option. Or, if they can’t leave the home, but naptime offers just the right amount of time for an over-the-phone coaching session, a dedicated mother working from home can receive the services she needs thanks to the EAP you chose

Options for employees and employers alike

With an all-inclusive EAP service, HR, management and supervisors are guaranteed unlimited consultation services as well as employees. Sadly, this service isn’t available with free EAP services. It’s important to take care of everyone within the business. It goes without saying, but the healthier the people within the company, the healthier the working environment and the better the company runs on the whole. This is why it’s important to take care of everyone, from the CEO to the dedicated part-time associate. 

Personalized help when you need it

Mazzitti & Sullivan EAP allows you to benefit from a dedicated and personal Client Solutions Specialist (CSS). These individuals stand ready and waiting to answer calls and offer the help an individual might need. Instead of a computerized voice, your call will be greeted by a kind, professional individual who personally helps you to find the solutions you need. They not only take the time to understand each particular situation, but they also offer a human touch a computer never could provide. 

Skip the free, opt for the effective

Your company, your employees and you will feel the effects of a free EAP versus one offered by services such as Mazzitti & Sullivan EAP. With access to a real counselor 24/7, and a dedication to kindness, professionalism and the human connection, these services are invaluable to the health and well-being of your business. Call 1-800-543-5080 today, or reach out online to put proven, effective employee assistance programming to work for your business today, no matter the size.