Broker & Consultant: Company Background


Claremont is a "high quality, high touch" independent EAP provider, specializing in customer-tailored programs. Claremont serves high tech companies, union groups, public sector agencies, law firms, non-profit agencies, manufacturing companies, and virtually every other type of employer, including many with populations outside of California.

In addition to clinical sophistication, effective application of employee assessment/organizational consulting requires expertise in both health care benefits and in workplace human resource issues. Claremont's staff and associated consultants have extensive knowledge in both of these fields and are able to design service plans that bridge the gap between health care and the "world of work."

Tom Bjornson is the Founder and President of Claremont Behavioral Services and Chairman of Claremont Partners, Inc., a Claremont Behavioral sister company. He initiated the EAP at San Francisco's Pacific Gas & Electric, co-founded Occupational Health Services (OHS) and founded the EAP component of United Behavioral Health (UBH). He has pioneered the development and installation of EAPs and other innovative workplace behavioral health programs since 1970. Mr. Bjornson is a national expert who has had the unique opportunity of witnessing and helping shape the evolving field of workplace assistance and human resource programs.

Tom Farris, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist and the Vice President/Clinical Director of Claremont Behavioral Services. He is also the Chief Operating Officer of Claremont Partners, Inc. Dr. Farris has been with Claremont Behavioral since 1991 and has been involved in virtually every facet of the company. He has extensive experience handling EAP cases including management consultations and cases involving substance abuse, violence in the workplace, psychiatric emergencies, workplace conflicts, traumatic incidents, psychological and family issues and other areas. He has also been instrumental in developing Claremont Behavioral's database, computer systems, operating procedures, and expanding the services available under the EAP. Prior to joining Claremont Behavioral, Dr. Farris served as Director of Emergency Services for a Community Mental Health program in Alaska.

Laurie Slez is the Director of Account Services for Claremont Behavioral Services and Claremont Partners, Inc. Ms. Slez is a Licensed Health and Life Agent and has extensive knowledge and experience in the field of health services. She has worked in every functional role within Claremont Behavioral. Currently, she oversees new business development and supervises the Sales and Service Representative team. Ms. Slez has been with Claremont Behavioral since 1993 and has been instrumental in developing its current client base.