Certified Child Life Specialist for Sickle Cell

Medical University of South Carolina • Charleston, SC

8d

About The Position

This is a new and exciting position at our hospital, designed to expand psychosocial services for pediatric patients living with Sickle Cell Disease. The Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) for the Sickle Cell Program will provide dedicated, developmentally appropriate support across both inpatient and outpatient settings. The role focuses on addressing the unique psychosocial, emotional, and developmental needs of this population, including support during painful episodes, frequent hospitalizations, and complex care journeys. A critical component of this role will involve creating and leading a structured transition-to-adult-care program, ensuring patients and families are prepared for long-term success. The Specialist will work closely with the multidisciplinary hematology team, including physicians, nurses, social workers, psychologists, and case managers, to provide patient- and family-centered care throughout the continuum of treatment. This new role will support patients ages 0-19 years and their families as they live with Sickle Cell Disease. The ideal candidate will have experience with program development, advocacy and work well both independently and with teams. This role reflects a dedicated investment in the psychosocial care of Sickle Cell patients and their families. It offers an exciting opportunity for leadership, innovation, and growth within a growing Child Life Department.

Requirements

• Master's degree in child Life or bachelor's degree with 2 years of work experience in a child life setting.
• Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) credential required.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team.
• Commitment to health equity, pediatric medical emotional safety and trauma-informed care.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with the needs of children living with sickle cell disease or other chronic illnesses preferred.
• Experience or interest in transition-to-adult-care initiatives strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide consistent Child Life coverage to sickle cell patients admitted for acute pain crises, procedures, and other medical needs, throughout the Children's Hospital.
• Normalize the hospital environment through play, peer interaction, and therapeutic activities.
• Create and facilitate coping strategies to assist with pain management, extended admissions and overall coping.
• Attend sickle cell clinic visits and outpatient infusions to offer procedural support, education, therapeutic play and activities and continuity of care.
• Provide diagnosis specific education to patients and families as they move through the life span.
• Build long-term therapeutic relationships with patients and families by maintaining a consistent presence in the outpatient setting.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees