Just as impactful as hearing from an advisor is hearing from a fellow entrepreneur. We had the chance to ask the owner of Employee Business Solutions, Christopher Brekka, about his journey in this industry. As he brings behavioral health to organizations, he shares what he wishes he knew when he got started and where he sees the industry going.
- Tell us about how you got started and your background.
CB: I have a background in behavioral health spanning over three decades, my journey began in clinical practice before transitioning into an administrative role overseeing various behavioral health hospitals. Observing the significant business influx through Employee Assistance Professionals (EAP) referrals, I pursued certification as an EAP specialist. This strategic move not only established credibility but also fostered stronger collaborations with referring EAPs. Subsequently, recognizing an untapped market opportunity in 1999 amidst Managed Care Companies’ acquisition spree of EAP providers, I founded Employee Business Solutions, Inc. EAP to address this niche market demand and enhance service provision in the industry.
- What challenges did you face when starting your business?
CB: Numerous unexpected challenges arose when launching the business, including locating a suitable site, deciding on communication systems, and educating Human Resource personnel on the benefits of EAP services for their organizations. Each hurdle required careful navigation and strategic planning to ensure a successful start. Moreover, the process involved a sense of starting anew, requiring perseverance and adaptability to overcome obstacles and establish the business effectively in the industry. The journey demanded resilience and resourcefulness to address these unforeseen obstacles and pave the way for sustainable growth and impact in the EAP sector.
- What resources or information did you wish you had when you got started?
CB: Resources I desired when starting Employee Business Solutions / Treatment Resources, included guidance from a business consultant or support from the Small Business Administration. Additionally, increased financial assistance would have been beneficial, especially since traditional banking avenues were not conducive to the startup process. Investing my personal savings to launch Employee Business Solutions / Treatment Resources, highlighted the lack of external financial support. Access to knowledgeable mentors or entrepreneurial support programs could have provided valuable insights and assistance in navigating the challenges associated with starting a business. These resources could have potentially eased the financial burden and streamlined the initial setup process.
- What do you think is next for healthcare?
CB: The future of healthcare is poised for significant transformation with advancements such as telemedicine and artificial intelligence. This rapid evolution may see a shift towards less personalized care, focusing more on medical procedures and hospital admissions. Satellite emergency rooms are emerging, potentially reducing the reliance on traditional hospitals. The integration of virtual nursing into healthcare facilities reflects the increasing adoption of advanced technologies. In-person visits may become supplemental to virtual healthcare, reflecting a broader trend towards remote care and patient monitoring. As technology continues to advance, the healthcare landscape is likely to undergo substantial changes in the way services are delivered and accessed.
- What is next for your business?
CB: Continuing to evolve Employee Business Solutions / Treatment Resources, to address the needs of our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) clients remains at the forefront of our business strategy. Enhancing the accessibility of resources for our clients is a current priority, ensuring ease of use and comprehensive support. Our growth trajectory is fueled by ongoing efforts in marketing and networking across various sectors, including businesses, government agencies, municipalities, and corporations that recognize the benefits of prioritizing their employees’ well-being. By solidifying these connections and underscoring the value of our services, we aim to fortify our position within the industry and further expand the positive impact we deliver to organizations and their workforce.
For more information on Employee Business Solutions, be sure to check out their website at www.ebs-eap.com.