Child Life Specialist

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, & vision plans
• Life Insurance available
• Future Security – 401(k) with employer matching
• Educational Assistance – Tuition Reimbursement
• Competitive Pay & Full Benefits – salary and package designed to reward expertise and dedication
• Paid Time Off – generous PTO for work/life balance

Role

Child Life Specialist – MUST BE A CERTIFIED CHILD LIFE SPECIALIST. Position located at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne, IN.

Schedule

Part‑time, day shift – Monday‑Friday 8:00 am‑4:30 pm (may vary based on hospital need); occasional weekends.

Job Summary

The Behavioral Specialist is responsible for providing therapeutic interventions and behavioral support to patients in a hospital setting. This role involves assessing patient needs, developing behavioral management plans, and working collaboratively with healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes. The specialist supports patients in managing emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges, with a focus on enhancing overall well‑being.

Essential Functions

• Assess patients' emotional, psychological, and behavioral needs and develop individualized care plans in collaboration with the healthcare team.
• Provide therapeutic interventions such as counseling, behavioral therapy, or play therapy (where applicable for children) to assist patients in managing emotional and behavioral difficulties.
• Support patients in coping with hospitalization, treatment plans, and medical procedures by offering emotional and psychological support.
• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
• Facilitate group sessions, workshops, or educational programs aimed at improving patients' coping mechanisms and overall mental health.
• Monitor patient progress and adjust behavioral management plans as necessary to ensure effective care.
• Document patient interactions and maintain accurate, confidential records in accordance with hospital policies and regulatory requirements.
• Educate patients' families and caregivers on behavioral management techniques and strategies to support recovery and well‑being outside the hospital.
• Act as a liaison between patients, families, and the healthcare team, ensuring all parties are informed and supported throughout the care process.
• Participate in continuing education and professional development to stay current with best practices in behavioral health and therapy techniques.
• Perform other duties as assigned, maintain regular and reliable attendance, and comply with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Health or related field (required)
• 1–2 years of experience in a behavioral health or clinical setting (required)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of child development, behavior management, and therapeutic techniques (if working with children)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage patients and families effectively
• Proficiency in behavioral assessment and intervention planning
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team
• Compassion, empathy, and patience when working with diverse patient populations
• Organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly in maintaining patient records

Licenses and Certifications

• De‑escalation training certification within 30 days of hire (required)
• BCLS – Basic Life Support (required)
• CCLS – Certified Child Life Specialist (preferred)