Hospice Spiritual Care Counselor

Cedarhurst Senior Living•Saint Louis, MO

40d

About The Position

The Hospice Spiritual Care Counselor (Counselor), reporting directly to the Executive Director, provides spiritual and emotional support to patients, families, caregivers, and staff throughout the end-of-life journey. This role conducts spiritual assessments, participates in the interdisciplinary care team, collaborates with community clergy, and provides individualized support to patients and families that respects the diverse beliefs, values, and cultures of those served. The Counselor also contributes to bereavement support, education, and volunteer program development in alignment with Dover Health's mission and values.

Requirements

Ordained, commissioned, or credentialed by an organized religious group and one (1) of the following:
Completed one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
Minimum of a bachelor's degree with emphasis in counseling, theology, or related subjects.
Must be comfortable in an interfaith setting and open to diverse lifestyles, cultures, beliefs, and values.
Must possess a deep understanding of the emotional and spiritual needs of patients and families during end-of-life.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required.
Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of current automobile insurance are required.
Within ninety (90) days of hire, must complete training on:
Common spiritual issues in death and dying
Comparative religious perspectives on death and dying
Spiritual assessment skills
Individualizing care to patient beliefs
Varied spiritual practices and rituals
Commitment to Dover Health's mission and values.

Nice To Haves

Hospice experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive spiritual assessments for patients as part of the admission process.
Provide individualized spiritual and emotional support to patients and families in accordance with their religious preferences, cultural values, or definition of spirituality.
Assist in developing and implementing the interdisciplinary patient care plan as it pertains to spiritual care.
Collaborate with local clergy, faith leaders, or spiritual resources when requested by the patient or family.
Participate actively in Interdisciplinary Group (IDG) meetings and Quality Assessment & Performance Improvement (QAPI) activities to support holistic, patient-centered care.
Provide consultation and education to the IDG on spiritual care issues and ethical considerations.
Provide bereavement and spiritual support to patients, families, and staff as needed, including conducting religious services, prayers, worship, rituals or funeral/memorial services when appropriate or requested.
Educate staff and volunteers on spiritual care matters
Develop, train, and coordinate the hospice volunteer program.
Evaluate patient and family responses to spiritual counseling and adjust interventions as needed.
Maintain and submit accurate written clinical records per agency policy, including initial evaluations, care plans, and daily notes.
Confirm scheduling of visits weekly and coordinate with Case Managers to ensure care is aligned with other staff visits.
Pursue ongoing professional development through continuing education, workshops, conferences, and research.
Collaborate with other professionals in resolving spiritual or ethical issues related to patient care.
Other duties as assigned.