When it comes to supporting employee well-being, both virtual mental health services and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) aim to provide access to care. But they’re not the same — and understanding the differences can help employers choose the right solution for their team.
What Are Traditional EAPs?
EAPs are typically bundled into insurance or offered as standalone services. They provide limited free sessions (often 3–6) with mental health professionals and support for issues like stress, grief, or substance abuse. While valuable in theory, most EAPs suffer from:
- Low engagement (often <5%)
- Limited access to therapists with long wait times
- Lack of awareness among employees
How Virtual Mental Health Is Different
Virtual mental health services, like those offered by First Stop Health are designed for ease of access and ongoing care. Employees can:
- Schedule phone or video therapy as soon as next day
- Choose from a network of licensed providers
- Access care confidentially through a simple mobile app
- Receive ongoing support beyond just a few sessions
- Care continuity with the same provider
It’s high-quality, stigma-free care that meets people where they are.
Which One Works Better?
For employers focused on outcomes, virtual mental health solutions often drive 5–10x higher engagement than traditional EAPs. That means more employees are actually getting help, and organizations see measurable benefits like reduced absenteeism, improved morale, and lower healthcare claims.
Final Word
Traditional EAPs can be a good starting point but they’re rarely enough on their own. Virtual mental health solutions offer a more scalable, accessible way to support employees’ emotional well-being in real time.
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As virtual care evolves, employers face a key question: Do your digital health solutions actually work together — or are they just a patchwork of point solutions?
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