Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) provide free and confidential short-term counseling services to support the wellness of all Thomas County Schools' teachers and staff. These programs are available to help employees manage a range of personal and professional challenges, such as stress, anxiety, family issues, or other concerns that may impact their well-being or job performance. Thomas County Schools offers two voluntary EAP options, ensuring accessible support for all eligible employees.

Local Option: Thomas County Schools and Archbold Memorial Hospital Partnership

Thomas County Schools has partnered with Archbold Memorial Hospital to provide a dedicated Employee Assistance Program for district employees. This long-standing partnership offers support services at no cost to any full-time TCS employee seeking assistance. To access this service:

  • Request a Referral: Employees can request a referral for support either through their building supervisor or directly by contacting Dr. Brecca Pope, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services. You can email Dr. Pope at bpope@tcjackets.net
  • Confidential and Secure: All referrals are strictly confidential between the employee and the medical provider. Records of counseling sessions are securely maintained by Archbold Memorial Hospital and are not shared with the school district. Employees can trust that their privacy is fully protected throughout the process.

This local option reflects Thomas County Schools' commitment to supporting its staff's mental health and well-being with a familiar and trusted local partner.

 

GaDOE Option: Georgia Public Education Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

In addition to the local option, Thomas County Schools also offers access to the Georgia Public Education Employee Assistance Program (GaDOE EAP). This program is a collaboration between Acentra Health and the Georgia Department of Education, available at no cost to the school district, its schools, or employees.

  • Eligibility: The GaDOE EAP is available to PreK-12 teachers and K-12 employees who work at least 29 hours per week.
  • Accessing the Benefit: To utilize this benefit, qualifying employees can contact Acentra Health directly, ensuring complete confidentiality. The school district is not notified of your participation unless you choose to share this information.
  • Contact Information: Phone: Call Acentra Health at (866) 279-5177.
  • Online: Visit www.eaphelplink.com and use the code: GaDOE to log into their interactive website.

Both options provide convenient and confidential support tailored to the unique needs of Thomas County Schools employees. Whether you prefer the local connection through Archbold Memorial Hospital or the state-provided program through GaDOE, help is available whenever you need it. Your well-being is our priority, and these resources are here to support you.

GA DOE EAP (Acentra Health)


The Acentra Health Employee Assistance Program provides professional support for everyday challenges such as stress, relationships, and emotional concerns.

The program includes:

  • Up to 4 free counseling sessions per issue, per year with a licensed professional counselor 
  • Free 30-minute consult with an experienced attorney with reduced fees for additional time and services
  • Free 30 minute consult with a financial professional with reduced fees for additional time and services
  • Referrals to available care and resources for your loved ones
  • Assistance finding services for such daily life issues as home repairs, moving, pet care and travel planning

Employees and their dependents up to age 26 can access counseling 24/7/365 by calling (866) 279-5177.

Explore Acentra Health for additional materials and online seminars covering a variety of development topics. Use code GaDOE when logging in to the website.