Child Life Therapist Degree

Job Description

The Child Life Therapist strives to reduce the impact of stressful or traumatic life events and situations which affect the development, health and well‑being of infants, children, youth and families. Reporting to the Manager of Child Life Services, the Child Life Therapist assesses, develops and implements evidence-based, developmentally and psychologically appropriate programming and interventions to prepare clients and families for any diagnostic/treatment procedures.

As a member of multidisciplinary pediatric teams, the incumbent shall advocate for/represent Child Life on committees, rounds, conferences, hospital and community initiatives where there is concern for the psychosocial, emotional and developmental needs of children, youth and families.

Preference for this position will be given to HSAS members in accordance with the terms and conditions of the SAHO/HSAS Collective Agreement.

• Bachelor's degree from an ACLP endorsed program

• Obtain child life certification within 1 year of employment as a Child Life Therapist
• Bachelor's degree with a focus on Child and Family studies is acceptable
• Bachelor's degree with a focus on Child Psychology is acceptable
• Bachelor's degree with a focus on pediatric development is acceptable
• Bachelor's degree with a focus on Child & Youth is acceptable

• Basic
  - Written Communication Skills
• Basic
  - Verbal communication skills
• Basic
  - Organizational skills

• Knowledge and understanding of Client and Family Centred Care practices
• Ability to communicate child life practice and psychosocial issues of C & Y & families
• Ability to communicate child life practice and psychosocial issues of infants
• Knowledge of ethical principles of pediatric healthcare & child life profession
• Ability to use skilled judgement to plan appropriate interventions
• Ability to work as a member of a team
• Ability to operate related equipment & carry out the duties of the position
• Ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team
• Ability to assess patients & families applying theories of human growth & development
• Knowledge of the ACLP Child Life Competencies
• Ability to provide psychosocial preparation for procedures & medical interventions
• Knowledge of the role of community supports for the child/adolescent and family
• Knowledge of the ACLP Code of Professional Practice

• Previous experience as a Child Life Therapist would be considered an asset
• Registered/eligible for registration as Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS)
• Registered/eligible registration with Association Child Life Professionals (ACLP)