This lively panel discussion will take you beyond the idea of online counseling as something new, and discuss the clinical advantages in EAP settings, cost effectiveness to employers, platforms that utilize blended technology and cutting edge application such as CBT self-help, avatar therapy and virtual reality therapies. Participants can look forward to hearing a summary of new and relevant research, as well as a look into the future that includes a peek into virtual worlds and artificial intelligence. Enjoy a demonstration of a multi-media enriched platform for conducting online counseling and hear about the benefits of incorporating online counseling into your EAP's suite of offerings!

Learning Objectives:
1) Identify key elements that will attract EAP users to online interventions;
2) Define the difference between synchronous and asynchronous interventions
3) demonstrate an understanding of avatars and their use in counseling interventions.