Position Overview:
As a Child Life Specialist, you will be integral in providing psychosocial care for children and families facing healthcare challenges. You’ll create opportunities for play, self-expression, and therapeutic activities that promote healing and developmental well-being. You will work closely with patients and their families, helping them navigate medical experiences and cope with stress in a supportive and emotionally safe environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Psychosocial Care: Implement a program of psychosocial care aimed at reducing stress and promoting coping strategies for children and families.
- Therapeutic Play: Develop individualized care plans using therapeutic play techniques to foster healing, self-expression, and emotional growth.
- Family Support: Offer emotional support and guidance to families, helping them adapt to the child’s illness and navigate healthcare challenges.
- Procedure Preparation: Provide education and orientation regarding medical and surgical procedures, helping children and families understand and prepare for their healthcare experiences.
- Environmental Support: Maintain a clean and organized playroom and other designated areas that encourage play, creativity, and positive interaction.
- Clinical Education: Assist in educating clinical students and hospital staff on the psychosocial needs of children, promoting positive hospital-community relations.
Requirements:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Child Development, Creative Arts Therapy, or a related field.
- Certification: Eligible for and must obtain Child Life Certification (C.C.L.S.) within 18 months of hire. Creative Arts Therapy certification (A.T.R., M.T., etc.) is preferred, with eligibility to obtain certification within 24 months of hire.
- Experience: At least two years of experience in a medical or pediatric setting, with oncology experience preferred. Completion of a 600-hour internship in Child Life or a related field is required.
Skills:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills (both oral and written)
- Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient in medical terminology and record-keeping
- BLS/CPR/AED certification (American Heart Association )
Posted Salary Range: USD $31.96 - USD $38.85 /Hr. :This range serves as a good faith estimate and actual pay will encompass a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies and experience. The salary range or rate listed does not include any bonuses/incentive, differential pay or other forms of compensation that may be applicable to this job and it does not include the value of benefits.
At Catholic Health, we believe in a people-first approach. In addition to the estimated base pay provided, Catholic Health offers generous benefits packages, generous tuition assistance, a defined benefit pension plan, and a culture that supports professional and educational growth.
Work Location: In person
