Often employers and employees have questions about what drug and alcohol treatment entails. There are different types of treatment programs depending on the nature of the problem, the recommended treatment, and the insurance coverage. Here are the different types Fully Effective Employees refers to:

• Drug and alcohol information class
  This program consists of a one-day informational session and the employee is provided a certificate at the end of the session. The program is recommended when the employee is not found to have a substance abuse problem, but is at high risk if their use continues.
• Self–help groups
  The most common type is Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Groups meet at all times of the day, as well as evenings and weekends. Groups are free ( or a nominal donation), non-denominational and confidential. Members should meet with a sponsor in addition to attending meetings to help maintain support and sobriety.
• Out-patient treatment
  Usually meets several times per week for a set period of time based on diagnosis and needs. Be aware if an employee tells you that his out-patient treatment takes place every day so he needs time off from the job. This is seldom the case and you may want to verify his schedule with the EAP.
• In-patient treatment
  Usually prescribed when out-patient treatment has not been successful. Can be combined with detox if needed or after detox is completed at a different facility. Can be 10 to 30 days or more. Most out-patient and in-patient treatment programs include education and support for family members affected by the disease of addiction.
• Residential treatment
  Recommended in early recovery, when maintaining post treatment requires additional support. Can be a longer term treatment program or a 24/7 monitored sober living environment, requiring abstinence and random drug testing. One can live there for months as long as they remain sober.
• Continuing Care
  May consist of an out-patient program after in-patient treatment, or a step down to less frequent out-patient treatment, weekly and then monthly support meetings, individual therapy or a combination of the above.
• At Fully Effective Employees, an EAP counselor will provide support and assistance during the employee’s treatment, and afterwards for up to two years, to ensure he or she is remaining both clean and sober and successful at work.
• For more information about our employee assistance services, please call us at 425-454-3003 or send an email to audreyr@fee-eap.com.