December 1, 2025
Click Here To Download the PDF
Boston, MA — Modern Assistance Programs, Inc. is proud to announce its new role as the Behavioral Health Consultant for the International Ironworkers Union. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of union members and their families across North America.
For 38 years, Modern Assistance has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with organized labor. Founded on the belief that every worker deserves access to compassionate, high-quality behavioral health support, the organization has grown into a trusted partner for dozens of labor unions, benefit funds, and welfare plans nationwide. This new collaboration with the Ironworkers Union continues a long-standing relationship rooted in respect, shared mission, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by union tradespeople.
“Ironworkers routinely perform some of the most physically and mentally demanding work in the world,” said John Christian, President and CEO of Modern Assistance. “Mental health is safety. It’s stability. It’s family. Our team is honored to bring our decades of clinical experience, labor-focused programming, and crisis response expertise to support the men and women who build our cities, bridges, and infrastructure.”
________________________________________________
Modern Assistance’s behavioral-health model is built specifically for the labor community— prioritizing immediate access, culturally attuned care, and a practical, stigma-free approach to support. As part of this partnership, Modern Assistance will provide:
24/7 behavioral-health consultation and crisis support
Clinical guidance and triage for members, leadership, and benefit funds
Training for peer-support programs and job-site mental-health awareness
Strategic advisement to strengthen mental-health policies, safety initiatives, and benefit design
________________________________________________
Mental health continues to be a critical issue in the trades. High physical stress, unpredictable schedules, financial pressures, and exposure to trauma contribute to elevated rates of anxiety, depression, substance use, and burnout across the construction industry. For nearly four decades, Modern Assistance has worked to reduce these burdens—helping thousands of workers access care, return to stability, and stay safe and productive on and off the job.
“This partnership isn’t new—it’s a continuation of a relationship built on trust and a shared mission,” said Shaun Gavin, Director of Behavioral Health at Modern Assistance. “Union members show up for their communities every day. Modern Assistance has been showing up for them for 38 years, and we’re honored to expand that commitment to Ironworkers across the country.”
“ Michael Hess, Eastern Regional Director for IMPACT, emphasized the value of the collaboration: “The partnership between Modern Assistance and the Ironworker’s IMPACT Program will be a tremendous benefit to members and their families. From my first-hand experience, members will be treated with kindness and respect and receive the immediate care they deserve.”
“ Wayne Creasap, Director of the National Safety and Health Department of the Ironworkers International, echoed this commitment: “The Iron Workers and IMPACT are committed to supporting mental health in the construction industry. While many local unions and contractors offer Member or Employee Assistance Programs, some situations require additional expertise or resources. To fill these gaps, we’ve partnered with Modern Assistance to provide grief counseling, crisis management, and behavioral health consulting to IMPACT, the International, and Local leadership on an as-needed basis. This ensures help is always available.”
________________________________________________
With this announcement, Modern Assistance strengthens its national footprint in behavioral health and reaffirms its dedication to the labor movement— a mission that has guided the organization since day one
Shaun Gavin, LMHC, LADC I, CADC, SAP, CEAP
Director of Behavioral Health and Outreach
Modern Assistance Programs, Inc.
Phone: 617-774-0331 ext. 201
Email: sgavin@modernassistance.com
Click Here To Download the PDF
Nationwide Employee Assistance Programs with Local Behavioral Health Support
Modern Assistance delivers comprehensive EAP services across all 50 states, with specialized regional behavioral health expertise that understands local workplace cultures and mental health resources.