Hospital Seeking Interns For Clinical Pastoral Education Program

DANBURY — For those who believe they can make a difference through faith and a desire to help others with health concerns, Danbury Hospital has an educational experience waiting for you. A key element in enhancing spiritual care at the hospital has been the development of a new Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Program, led by Spiritual Care Director Rabbi Jeffrey M. Silberman, DMin, DD, BCC.

As a Planetree organization dedicated to supporting every patient’s mind, body and spirit, the hospital is seeking chaplain interns for this hands-on program for clergy, seminarians and qualified laypersons of all religious traditions. Chaplain interns spend time with patients and their families to address spiritual and emotional issues, while earning educational credit for CPE — one of four units required in the nationally accredited program for certification as a professional chaplain.

While spiritual care does not emphasize a specific religious affiliation, the program includes expert teaching by an experienced chaplaincy professional and seminary faculty member.

CPE at Danbury Hospital is designed to help interns develop their listening skills to explore different spiritual answers to life’s questions. Modern chaplaincy in the health care setting calls for individuals who can become more patient-centered and culturally literate, providing spiritual and emotional support on a multifaith level.

“Spiritual needs and religious beliefs affect how a person manages under stress, and can factor into health care decisions. We strive to nurture the spirit as a basic element of patient care that can improve patient satisfaction and even contribute to successful medical outcomes,” said Rabbi Silberman.

“Spirituality is not particular to specific religious affiliation. It’s a connection that an individual feels for their own spiritual resources, whether that means internal strength or faith in a ‘higher power.’ We are here to help people access their own spiritual resources so they can better cope with current circumstances,” he explained.

Chaplain interns at Danbury Hospital provide a supportive presence, build trust, actively listen and encourage reflection, help clarify issues for the patient and when appropriate, lend an alternative theological perspective. Prayer and religious rituals are also offered if the patient requests.

For more information on the Clinical Pastoral Education Program, call the Spiritual Care Department at Danbury Hospital at 203-739-7059 or visit DanburyHospital.org and find information about this program under the News banner. An online application is available by clicking through the story whose headline begins Lessons In Faith.