Pastoral Counsellor

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

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider in Singapore seeks a qualified professional to deliver psycho-social-spiritual care and counselling to palliative patients and their caregivers. The ideal candidate will hold a degree in Social Work or a Master's in Counselling, possess strong communication skills, and have a minimum of 2–3 years experience in a healthcare setting focusing on pastoral care. Knowledge of vernacular languages is advantageous. This role offers the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of patients and their families.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years relevant experience in pastoral care and counselling.
• Preferred training in gerontology and/or palliative care.
• Interest in serving the elderly population.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to engage sensitively

Proficiency in vernacular languages

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.