Employee assistance for law enforcement: A brief review

A brief review of the concept and practice of providing various services to police employees similar to those in private industry is presented. These include Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that may be either internal or external in relation to the structure of the organization. Such efforts may also be found in law enforcement organizations. In addition, a hybrid model for law enforcement is examined. This involves a working alliance between an internal Peer Support Program and an external EAP. This model may provide immediate assistance to an otherwise resistant population and, in turn, pave the way for additional aid from mental health professionals. Confidentiality issues are presented. A brief review of recommended peer supporter characteristics is offered. Author Note: David B. Goldstein has been a police officer for approximately 25 years. He is presently The Chief of Police in Winthrop, MA. He retired from the NH State Police with the rank of Captain. He has a Ph.D. in Human Services/Criminal Justice, M.S. in Public Health, and a B.A. in Psychology. He is a Peer Supporter/Counselor, Crisis (Hostage) Negotiator, Polygraph Examiner, and Forensic Counselor. Chief Goldstein is a Fellow of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and a Diplomate (Crisis Intervention & Forensic Traumatology) of the American College of Forensic Examiners, International.