Spiritual Counselor
The information described in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature of the work performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
Job Summary
Responsible for providing spiritual and emotional support to patients and their families as a part of the interdisciplinary health care team. Acts as a liaison between patient/family and community clergy. May mentor new and/or volunteer spiritual counselors. Works effectively and cooperatively in the workplace. Location/Department specific tasks and competencies may apply.
Essential Functions
Assure spiritual assessment of patient and family/caregiver is provided and appropriate services are rendered in a timely manner. Support the interdisciplinary team through active participation in the preparation, evaluation and implementation of the plan of care to ensure continuity and comprehensiveness of care. Provide direct spiritual care to patients and family/caregivers in accordance with the objectives outlined in the plan of care. Document correctly and succinctly in the patient record per established policy and procedure. Maintain accurate records of service utilization and related quality assurance activities and program development. Consult and provide education to the interdisciplinary team members, patients and families about spirituality and related care and services. Establish and maintain effective relationships with community clergy. Maintain current knowledge and expertise in clinical spiritual care. Identify, demonstrate and effectively apply knowledge of diverse spiritual, religious, lifestyle, cultural, belief and value systems. Maintain ability to effectively utilize Microsoft Office and department specific software applications. Communicate effectively and cooperatively in the workplace. Actively contribute to the achievement of Quality Improvement and Lean Process Improvement activities. Complete all mandatory learning requirements in a timely manner. Maintain current Licensure and/or certification as required. Attend and actively participate in all department, team and/or committee meetings. Comply with all Skagit Regional Health, department and location specific policies and procedures. Perform other duties as assigned by Supervisor or designee.
Other Skills
Effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills required. Must be able to effectively utilize Microsoft Office and department specific applications to perform work. Well developed problem solving skills required. Knowledge of and experience in the areas of suffering and loss, family therapy and group process development and facilitation. Knowledge of and sensitivity to a wide variety of spiritual, religious, lifestyle, cultural, belief and value systems. Ability to coordinate work schedule with requirements of position (may include overtime, on-call and weekend work).
Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, climbing and driving all day. The employee must frequently lift or move objects and patients weighing over 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to focus. This position requires working in a variety of communities and patient homes for which there is little control over environmental conditions. Skagit Regional Health offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, 457b/401a (retirement), long term disability, and paid time off to all employees holding an FTE of 20 or more hours per week. Eligible employees also receive sick time pay.
