Briefly explain what your Staff Organization does/its mission:
Employee Assistance provides no-cost confidential counseling and referrals for UC Berkeley faculty, staff, visiting scholars, and postdocs.
How does your Staff Organization benefit UC Berkeley staff?
Employee Assistance offers a supportive, confidential, and non-judgmental space for staff to consult, problem-solve, and explore professional or personal issues. Clients often share that they appreciate speaking with a mental health professional who understands campus dynamics and can offer guidance about on- and off-campus resources. Employee Assistance also assists staff in demystifying their mental health benefits and connecting them with mental health providers who meet their needs.
How can UC Berkeley staff find out more about your Staff Organization?
To schedule an appointment, call (510) 643 7754 or email employeeassistance@berkeley.edu. Additionally, you can stay connected about upcoming events and offerings through our listserv.
What kinds of events and/or outreach does your staff organization engage in?
Each semester, we offer stress management workshops to all UC Berkeley staff, faculty, and postdocs. Workshops are also available to departments upon request. Our monthly meditation and support groups offer a welcoming space to faculty and staff while also encouraging community engagement. On May 1st, we hosted our 2nd Annual Mental Health Awareness Day to raise awareness and destigmatize discussing and taking care of our mental health. This all-day event included workshops and experiential activities as well as campus and community partners. There are additional workshops to support mental health throughout May that cover disability management, living with illness, and ongoing resources through the elder care and BIPOC support groups.
What’s the best part of being in this Staff Organization?
Getting to work with a diverse group of faculty and staff from various departments and in different roles across campus. It is extremely rewarding to know our work can benefit both the individuals we serve as well as the greater UC Berkeley community.
What are your Staff Organization's current and future goals?
Employee Assistance aims to remain responsive to the campus community and their needs, especially as it relates to underserved communities. This includes expanding on workshop topics, resources, and support group offerings for staff.
Where can people find out about your Staff Organization?
Join the Employee Assistance listserv here.
