35 Years of Support: The MGB Employee Assistance Program

Happy 35th Anniversary EAP!

This month we are marking 35 years of the MGB Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Created as a trusted resource for employees, managers, and hospitals—the EAP has consistently provided essential support during an ever-changing healthcare landscape.

Where it Began

MGH opened what would become the EAP in 1990, the year of the robbery at Isabela Stewart Gardener Museum, the construction of the first webpage, and Kevin McCallister being left home alone.

Eventually MGH and BWH combined programs, laying the foundation for EAP’s current system-wide reach, with an increase in staff and multiple offices.

EAP Staff – 2003

An Evolving EAP for the World you Live in

Whenever there are changes in healthcare or society at large, the EAP always pivots to meet the need. To ensure that everyone could receive EAP services during COVID, the program rapidly set up a remote network. As soon as it was safe to return, EAP clinicians were back in their offices seeing clients. In order to maximize access and convenience, the EAP permanently shifted to a care model that offers virtual and in-person appointments.

Recently the EAP created a new modernized website, designed to house program information, important updates, and well-being resources for mental and physical health. To aid accessibility, it was crucial that the site could be read in multiple languages. With it’s launch in 2021, eap.partners.org now provides a strong and nimble platform, keeping up-to-date with the work of MGB and the best interests of it’s diverse employee population. In addition to cataloging a broad set of topics, our online presence has broadened our capacity to deliver virtual content like webinars, remote monthly support groups and articles featuring the work and guidance of experts across the system.

EAP Staff – 2017

How the EAP is Helping Today

Comprehensive Support, When and Where You Need It

As todays’ dedicated healthcare workers navigate increasing complexities and stress, the EAP remains committed to their well-being. The service is free and confidential for all employees and their immediate family household members.

The 2025 EAP has the capacity to provide expert guidance and practical resources for a wide range of topics and concerns, including:

• Mental Health
• Well-being & Mindfulness 
• Substance Misuse & Addiction
• Workplace Issues 
• Employee Lactation Services
• Financial
• Legal & Immigration
• Housing
• Intimate Partner Violence
• Relationships
• Childcare & Parenting
• Eldercare
• Veteran Care 
• LGBTQ+
• Disability & Accessibility
• Grief & Loss
• Pet Care Resources 

One-on-One Assistance  
The EAP team of licensed counselors provides assessments, short-term counseling, and referrals.

Workplace Support
The EAP regularly collaborates with managers and teams, offering expert consultations. When a critical incident occurs or a group suffers a loss, you’ll see our team members onsite offering clinical and emotional support. In quieter moments, our staff can also reach you remotely via EAP webinars, and monthly virtual support groups.

Your Confidential Resource – Always On Call

Whether you’re facing personal challenges, workplace concerns, or family caregiving responsibilities, the EAP is here for you.

Appointments Available Weekdays, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Get help 24/7 at 866-724-4327 or request an appointment via our online form.
Your privacy is always our priority — EAP records are kept separate from medical and HR records.

• Meet with Us In-person: Join a member of our staff at your nearest EAP office locations
• Meet with Us Virtually: Connect with our staff over the phone or via a Zoom appointments
  
  

35 years of service to Mass General Brigham employees and their families is a mile-stone worth celebrating. The EAP staff is sincerely proud to have helped with problems, large or small, at work and  at home. We look forward to continuing to be here whenever you need us.