Blog > Aetna Funding Advantage Employee Assistance Program: Supporting Employee Mental Health for Small and Mid-Sized Businesses

Aetna Funding Advantage Employee Assistance Program: Supporting Employee Mental Health for Small and Mid-Sized Businesses

November 11, 2026

Employee well-being is an essential part of building a healthy, productive, and successful workplace. While health insurance provides important medical coverage, employees also need access to resources that support their mental and emotional health.

For small and mid-sized businesses, offering accessible mental health support can make a meaningful difference. That’s why the Aetna Funding Advantage (AFA) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a valuable benefit for employers looking to support their workforce.

Included with every Aetna Funding Advantage plan, the EAP provides members with access to counseling services and a nationwide network of mental health professionals.

What Is the Aetna Funding Advantage Employee Assistance Program?

The Aetna Funding Advantage Employee Assistance Program is designed to help members access mental health support when they need it.

Members receive three counseling sessions per year, included with every AFA plan. These sessions give employees an opportunity to speak with a professional and receive support for personal, emotional, or everyday challenges.

One of the program’s biggest advantages is its flexibility. Members can access counseling through several convenient options:

In-person counseling: Meet with a mental health professional face-to-face.
Video sessions: Connect with a counselor remotely.
Chat support: Access support through online communication.
Phone counseling: Speak with a professional over the phone.

These options make it easier for employees to find support in a way that works with their schedules, preferences, and individual needs.

Expanded EAP Network: More Ways to Access Mental Health Support

Aetna has expanded its Employee Assistance Program network by adding three recognized providers: Alma, CVS MinuteClinic®, and Talkspace.

These additions give AFA members more ways to connect with mental health resources.

Here’s a closer look at the providers:

1. Alma

Start Care with Alma | Therapy is “Better with People” — Alma

Alma is part of the expanded EAP network, helping members connect with mental health professionals and explore available counseling resources.

2. CVS MinuteClinic®

3 Steps to Help Reduce High Cholesterol | CVS HealthHUB

CVS MinuteClinic® has joined the EAP network, adding another provider option for AFA members seeking accessible care and support.

3. Talkspace

Talkspace – #1 Rated Online Therapy, 1 Million+ Users

Talkspace offers a digital platform for accessing mental health services, giving members another convenient way to connect with support.

In addition to these providers, members can access a nationwide network of licensed mental health professionals.

How Can Employees Access EAP Services?

AFA members can find participating providers, explore available resources, and learn more about their EAP benefits by visiting:

resourcesforliving.com

This online resource provides access to the expanded provider network and available mental health support options.

Employees can explore their choices and determine which services best fit their needs.

Why Is an Employee Assistance Program Important for Small and Mid-Sized Businesses?

For small and mid-sized businesses, offering meaningful employee benefits can help create a more supportive workplace.

An Employee Assistance Program provides several advantages:

Accessible mental health resources: Employees have access to counseling services when they need support.
Flexible counseling options: In-person, video, chat, and phone sessions provide convenient ways to connect.
Additional employee benefits: EAP services add value to an employer’s overall benefits package.
Employee well-being: Providing mental health resources demonstrates an employer’s commitment to supporting its workforce.
Expanded provider choices: Access to Alma, CVS MinuteClinic®, Talkspace, and a nationwide network gives members more ways to explore available support.

Investing in employee well-being is an important part of building a workplace where people feel supported and valued.

Explore Aetna Funding Advantage with Cosmo Insurance Agency

Choosing the right employee benefits package involves more than comparing health insurance premiums. Employers should also consider the additional resources and services available to their employees.

With Aetna Funding Advantage, small and mid-sized businesses can provide employees with health coverage that includes an Employee Assistance Program offering three counseling sessions annually, flexible access options, and an expanded mental health provider network.

At Cosmo Insurance Agency, we help businesses explore employee benefits solutions and understand the options available to their workforce.

Whether you’re reviewing your current group health plan or exploring new coverage for your business, our experienced team can help you evaluate your options.

Ready to explore Aetna Funding Advantage for your business?

Contact Cosmo Insurance Agency today!