Children and Youth Grief Counsellor

DO NOT APPLY ON CHARITY VILLAGE - If you meet the qualifications and are interested in applying, please send your cover letter and resume to Anna Lewyckyj, Director of Clinical Programs, at alewyckyj@hospicemississauga.ca with the subject line "HUUG 2026."

POSITION: Children and Youth Grief Counsellor, HUUG (Help Us Understand Grief) Program for Palliative and Bereavement support.

START DATE: January 12, 2026. This is a maternity leave contract position for up to 18 months.

LOCATION: Community-based role within Mississauga and Brampton.

HOURS: 37.5 per week (flexibility required to include evenings and occasional weekends)

CLOSING DATE: Posting will remain open until position is filled.

Hospice Mississauga is a non-profit organization supporting individuals and families living with life-threatening illnesses. Our mission is to provide compassionate care, support, and advocacy to alleviate the distress caused by life-limiting illness and loss. Our services include hospice counselling, spiritual care, the HUUG Children’s Program, wellness, bereavement support, and our future Hospice Centre (coming in 2027).

We are seeking a Children and Youth Grief Counsellor for our palliative and bereavement children’s program (up to the age of 18).

WHAT WE OFFER

• A professional, caring culture with motivated and innovative staff.
• Starting salary range $57,193.50 – $63,043.50 with progression to a maximum of $78,650.00
• Paid Professional Development.
• Pension plan (HOOPP, optional).
• Flexible work schedule
• Generous vacation and sick time (20 days of vacation, pro-rated).
• Monthly phone and data allowance.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Children’s Grief Counsellor provides emotional and psychological support to children who themselves or their families are experiencing terminal illness or death. Through individual and group counselling, the counsellor helps children process grief, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build resilience. The role involves collaborating with medical teams, educators, and family members to ensure holistic care. The counsellor will conduct home/hospital/school visits, provide educational sessions, and facilitate group support.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree required in a relevant field (e.g., Child Life, Social Work, Psychology). A bachelor’s degree with extensive related experience may be considered.
• Minimum 2 years of experience working with children in a hospice or palliative care setting.
• Proven ability to connect with and relate to children/ youth and their caregiver(s).
• Comfortable discussing death and end-of-life topics.
• Skilled in establishing and nurturing relationships.
• Excellent listening, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Experience providing one-on-one and group support.
• Ability to interact compassionately and respectfully with diverse cultures and faith groups.
• Strong professional boundaries.
• Knowledge community resources.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Additional language is an asset.
• Access to a car is required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide individual counselling using age-appropriate techniques to help children cope with grief.
• Educate and guide parents/guardians on communication strategies and coping mechanisms for themselves and their children.
• Facilitate peer support groups and activities for children.
• Conduct initial assessments and develop individualized care plans.
• Offer support during periods of acute distress.
• Collaborate with medical professionals, educators, and families to ensure comprehensive care.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records.
• Participate in community outreach to raise awareness about pediatric hospice care and grief support.
• Engage in peer support networks for professional growth and continuing education.
• Adhere to ethical standards, respecting the autonomy and dignity of all served individuals.
• Participation in organizational and team meetings as required.
• Other duties as assigned.

We thank all applicants, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.