UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital Chaplain Earns Board Certification Through Association of Professional Chaplains

For the past two and a half years, Claudia Dorsch, MAPCC, LPC, CGP, CCTP has been providing Spiritual Care services to patients, families, and team members at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital. Recently, Claudia earned her board certification through the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC).

This board certification included rigorous coursework, case studies, and application that aligned to competencies of Integration of Theory & Practice, Professional Identity & Conduct, Professional Practice Skills, and Organizational Leadership.

“In healthcare, board certification is truly a professional standard,” Claudia said. “Chaplains should also live up to the professional standard that is board certification. There are numerous professional organizations to facilitate this process and ensure members are meeting certain requirements.”

Claudia has guided Finley Hospital patients, families, and team members through trying times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, end of life situations, tragedies, and more. As Claudia reflects back on the work she does each and every day, she believes it to be her life’s calling.

“When I realized I needed to be board certified to have the function and reach that professional standard was about seven years ago,” Claudia said. “I was already in seminary studying pastoral care, and it quickly became evident my calling was to walk alongside people and be their cheerleader, listen to their journey, reflect upon what makes sense to them, and do what would help them find the strength and courage to continue on in their lives.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Claudia Dorsch, MAPCC, LPC, CGP, CCTP is the Chaplain at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital and recently earned her board certification from the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC).