According to Dale Kaplan, LCSW-C, MSWAC, Vice President of Clinical Services at Employee Health Programs, job loss and the instability of many businesses has recently emerged as a major problem in today’s workplace.

"Job loss affects not only the employees who are let go, but the managers and co-workers who remain at the company. Social workers," she adds, "are able to provide assistance such as implementation of comprehensive programs to reduce the potential for workplace violence and increase the potential for a smoother transition for the remaining employees."

The types of intervention offered during times of change that Kaplan refers to range from training supervisors how to manage employees during downsizing—with emphasis on spotting the troubled employee who may have a hard time with loss—to providing individual counseling to the employees who have lost their jobs.

Kaplan stresses, "Interventions are geared to helping managers and employees regroup so that productivity is not lost in spite of the potential for increased workload. They also help everyone maintain a positive sense of morale."

An employee assistance program (EAP) generally helps employees cope with job-related pressures or even personal problems that effect the quality of their work. Social workers may provide direct services to individuals and families, such as marriage and relationship counseling or child-rearing concerns. Social workers in EAP’s can also provide substance abuse treatment and referrals to specialized community programs. Many EAP’s also provide referrals for legal or financial issues which can also affect productivity. Social workers in the occupational setting may also consult with managers and supervisors, assist with organizational development, train staff, and help with administration of programs and the analysis of policies.

Dr. Dale Masi, LICSW, CEAP and CEO of Masi Research which specializes in EAP design says, "The goal of the employee assistance program is to help the employee deal with stressful issues and cut costs as well as raise productivity for the organization."

"For consumers," she adds, "it’s best to know what the EAP at your organization offers and to take advantage of the program. Many of life’s stressful situations may be helped by consulting a professional social worker through an EAP."

To interview an expert about workplace issues and Employee Assistance Programs or for more information about Occupational Social Work please contact NASW Public Affairs at 202-336-8228.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers with 153,000 members. It promotes, develops and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well being of individuals, families and communities through its work and through its advocacy.