Pastoral Counsellor

ST LUKE'S HOSPITAL; Singapore; On-site; SGD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Singapore is seeking a compassionate professional to provide psycho-social and spiritual care to palliative patients. Responsibilities include delivering mental health counselling and offering support to caregivers. Applicants should have a relevant degree and experience in pastoral care, preferably in a clinical setting. Strong communication skills and sensitivity to patients’ needs are essential. Proficiency in vernacular languages is an advantage.

Qualifications

• Recognised degree in Social Work, Master’s in Counselling or relevant qualifications.
• Minimum 2–3 years experience in pastoral care and counselling.
• Preferably trained in gerontology and/or palliative care.

Responsibilities

• Provide psycho-social-spiritual care to palliative patients.
• Deliver mental health counselling to chronic and complex patients.
• Offer emotional support to caregivers.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Experience in pastoral care

Vernacular language proficiency

Education

Degree in Social Work or Master's in Counselling

Job description

Responsibilities and Duties

Specific

• Provide psycho-social-spiritual care to palliative patients.
• Deliver mental health counselling to patients with chronic and complex medical conditions.
• Offer counselling and emotional support to caregivers.
• Provide pastoral care services to patients, caregivers, and hospital staff.
• Undertake administrative and programme‑related duties as assigned by the Programme Head/Lead.

General

• Assist in the preparation and maintenance of reports, documentation, and statistical data.
• Identify service gaps or areas for improvement, and recommend and implement appropriate enhancements.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of departmental and organisational needs.

Job Requirements

• A recognised Degree in Social Work, Master’s in Counselling, or other relevant qualifications in the provision of psycho-social-spiritual care.
• Candidates with training and exposure in gerontology and/or palliative care are preferred.
• Have been cross‑trained in one or more complementary care domains (e.g. gerontology, palliative care, mental health counselling).
• A minimum of 2–3 years of relevant experience in pastoral care and counselling, preferably within a healthcare or clinical setting.
• Demonstrated interest and commitment to serving the elderly population.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage sensitively with patients, caregivers, and staff.
• Proficiency in vernacular languages is an advantage, to effectively support clients who are non‑English speaking.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams.