USA Health provides spiritual health resources to employees
“Healthcare workers have to process and carry many emotions as they care for patients who are experiencing disease and traumatic events,” said Kim Crawford Meeks, manager of the Spiritual Care and Counseling Department. “Safe and sacred spaces to aid in the processing of emotions are vital to our health and ability to sustain this type of work.”
By Michelle Ryan
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Spiritual health and counseling support are vital for USA Health employees, helping to foster resilience, reduce burnout, and improve both patient and staff well-being, which ultimately leads to better care and a more positive work environment.
Health system employees, especially those in direct patient care, often face immense stress and emotional challenges. USA Health’s Spiritual Health and Counseling Department provides resources and strategies for assisting them in managing stress, finding meaning in their work, and maintaining emotional well-being.
“Healthcare workers have to process and carry many emotions as they care for patients who are experiencing disease and traumatic events,” said Kim Crawford Meeks, BCC, MDiv, manager of the Spiritual Care and Counseling Department. “Safe and sacred spaces to aid in the processing of emotions are vital to our health and ability to sustain this type of work.”
USA Health is supported by four board-certified chaplains, including Crawford Meeks, who are available to support employees, patients and families.
“Interfaith chapels at each hospital are sacred spaces that many visit daily for prayer, a moment of quiet, a special ceremony, or support from the chaplains and counselors,” Crawford Meeks said. “At Providence and Children’s & Women’s Hospital, unique spaces are set aside for use by appointment with or without the support of chaplains and counselors.”
The Serenity Room at Providence features a counseling space that includes a swing chair, and a water view.
“It is a place to relax, practice deep breathing, stillness, quietness, or to pray,” Crawford Meeks said. “We have art therapy, relaxation, and coping resources available to practice in the space.”
Located on the second floor of Children’s & Women’s Hospital, the Wave Wellness Room features resources that engage all five senses, as well as resources that employees can take with them.
“The Wave Wellness Room is a space for employees to take a break,” she said. “The space includes resources to aid in self-care through all five senses and resources for coping to take away.”
Chaplains and counselors are available to meet employees in any of these spaces, or they are available to visit departments or units to provide support at their convenience.
Contact the Spiritual Health and Counseling Department to schedule a 15-minute appointment at the Serenity Room at Providence. Crawford Meeks stressed that employees throughout the system have access to this resource.
For the Wave Wellness Room at Children’s & Women’s, contact the department for the code to enjoy the space for 10- to 15-minute sessions, or to meet a chaplain or counselor there for support.
