Bereavement Services Manager in Oklahoma Career Overview
As a Bereavement Services Manager, you play a vital role in guiding individuals and families through one of life's most challenging experiences: grief. This position serves as a bridge between bereaved individuals and the resources they require, allowing you to make a significant impact in the lives of those coping with loss.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leadership and Coordination: You oversee a team that provides emotional and practical support to grieving families, ensuring that services are delivered compassionately and effectively.
- Program Development: You design and implement bereavement programs that address the diverse needs of the community, promoting healing and support.
- Community Education: You advocate for awareness about grief and loss by conducting training sessions or workshops that equip the community with resources and coping strategies.
- Collaboration: You work alongside healthcare professionals, counselors, and community organizations to create a holistic approach to bereavement care, fostering a network of support.
- Crisis Management: You navigate sensitive situations with empathy, providing immediate assistance and long-term strategies for individuals and families in grief.
The importance of this role cannot be overstated. As a Bereavement Services Manager, you contribute to the emotional well-being of the community, facilitating healing processes and offering hope during difficult times. Your leadership not only empowers your team but also ensures that those grieving feel understood, supported, and cared for. In a world where loss is inevitable, your expertise and compassion are essential to fostering resilience and recovery in individuals facing grief.
Bereavement Services Manager Salary in Oklahoma
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Bereavement Services Manager in Oklahoma
To pursue a career as a Bereavement Services Manager, you will need to obtain specific educational qualifications and training. The following degree programs are particularly relevant to this field:
Bereavement Services Manager: Some institutions offer specialized degree programs specifically focused on bereavement services management. These programs provide targeted knowledge and training in grief counseling and support.
Business Administration and Management: A degree in business administration or management can provide you with essential skills related to organizational management, finance, and human resources, which are important for overseeing bereavement services.
Counseling Psychology: Studying counseling psychology equips you with an understanding of human behavior and mental health, along with therapeutic techniques that can help you support grieving individuals and families.
Funeral Service and Mortuary Science: This program focuses on the practical aspects of funeral services and care for the deceased, incorporating legal, ethical, and business concepts that are crucial for managing bereavement services effectively.
Pastoral Counseling: A degree in pastoral counseling emphasizes spiritual care and support for individuals dealing with loss, preparing you to incorporate religious and cultural sensitivities into bereavement services.
It is also beneficial to pursue internships or volunteer opportunities within the field to gain practical experience and understand the specific dynamics of bereavement services.
Best Schools to become a Bereavement Services Manager in Oklahoma 2024
University of Phoenix-Arizona
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Liberty University
- Plan, direct, or coordinate the services or resources of funeral homes.
- Includes activities such as determining prices for services or merchandise and managing the facilities of funeral homes.
Bereavement Services Manager Required Skills and Competencies in Oklahoma
Empathy and Compassion: To effectively support individuals experiencing grief, you must possess a strong ability to empathize with their feelings and provide compassionate care.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential. You will need to convey sensitive information clearly and compassionately to bereaved families, staff, and community partners.
Organizational Skills: You must manage multiple tasks efficiently, often coordinating various bereavement services while keeping records and documentation accurate.
Interpersonal Skills: Building trust and rapport with grieving families and colleagues is vital. Strong interpersonal skills will enable you to connect meaningfully and work collaboratively within a team.
Crisis Management: You should be prepared to handle unexpected situations and crises with calmness and sensitivity, providing immediate support to those in need.
Cultural Competence: Being aware of and respecting diverse cultural attitudes toward grief and loss will enhance your ability to serve a wide range of families sensitively and effectively.
Leadership: As a manager, effective leadership skills will allow you to inspire and guide your team, ensuring a cohesive approach to bereavement services.
Problem-Solving Skills: You will face various challenges in your role, so the ability to think critically and develop effective solutions is important for meeting the needs of those you serve.
Attention to Detail: Managing documentation, service protocols, and compliance with regulations requires meticulous attention to detail.
Emotional Resilience: Working in bereavement services can be emotionally demanding. You should cultivate resilience to maintain your well-being while providing support to others.
Knowledge of Grief Counseling Techniques: Familiarity with various grief counseling methodologies will enable you to provide effective support and resources to individuals and families.
Advocacy Skills: You may need to advocate for bereavement resources and policies, promoting awareness and support for individuals navigating their grief journey.
Job Duties for Bereavement Services Managers
Consult with families or friends of the deceased to arrange funeral details, such as obituary notice wording, casket selection, or plans for services.
Direct and supervise work of embalmers, funeral attendants, death certificate clerks, cosmetologists, or other staff.
Schedule funerals, burials, or cremations.
Data base user interface and query software
- HMIS Advantage
- Twin Tiers Technologies CIMS
Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- funeralOne Life Tributes
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Social
- Looking for ways to help people
- Understanding people's reactions
Job Market and Opportunities for Bereavement Services Manager in Oklahoma
The role of a Bereavement Services Manager is becoming increasingly important in Oklahoma, reflecting broader trends in the healthcare and wellness sectors. As communities recognize the importance of grief support, the demand for professionals in this field continues to grow. Here are key insights regarding the current job market and opportunities for Bereavement Services Managers in Oklahoma:
Growing Demand: There is an increasing awareness around mental health and wellbeing, especially in the context of loss and grief. Many healthcare facilities, hospices, and long-term care facilities are expanding their bereavement services to offer holistic support, creating more job openings for professionals in this niche.
Aging Population: Oklahoma's demographic trends indicate a growing elderly population that often requires end-of-life and bereavement support services. This trend increases the demand for qualified managers who can lead these initiatives effectively.
Community-Based Programs: Various non-profit organizations and community groups are developing programs focused on grief support and bereavement counseling. Such initiatives provide opportunities for Bereavement Services Managers to work in diverse settings and expand their reach.
Geographical Hotspots: Major cities in Oklahoma, such as Oklahoma City and Tulsa, are hotspots for employment in this field due to their larger healthcare systems and a higher concentration of support organizations. These areas often feature hospitals, hospices, and community health services that actively recruit for bereavement support roles.
Networking Potential: Professional organizations and networking events in Oklahoma can be advantageous for Bereavement Services Managers seeking to connect with peers and enhance their career prospects. Locating local chapters of national organizations can provide resources and advocacy for job opportunities.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Bereavement Services Managers often work alongside psychologists, social workers, and healthcare providers, fostering job security through interdisciplinary collaboration. This synergy allows for improved service delivery and opens up cross-functional roles that may require bereavement expertise.
Increasing Public Awareness: Successful public campaigns about mental health and grief have created a more open dialogue regarding bereavement services. As communities strive to provide better support, the value of Bereavement Services Managers is gaining recognition.
The evolving landscape of grief support in Oklahoma presents various pathways for those interested in pursuing a career as a Bereavement Services Manager. By staying informed about local trends and engaging with community needs, you can position yourself effectively within this growing job market.
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Additional Resources To Help You Become a Bereavement Services Manager in Oklahoma
National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA)
- Website: nfda.org
- Offers a wealth of resources including continuing education, professional development, and updates on industry trends relevant to bereavement services.
American Association of Death Educators and Counselors (ADEC)
- Website: adec.org
- Provides resources for professionals working in death education and bereavement support, including a directory of specialists and training programs.
Hospice Foundation of America
- Website: hospicefoundation.org
- Features information on hospice care, grief support, and various resources related to bereavement, including publications and educational materials.
The Center for Loss and Life Transition
- Website: grief.com
- Offers extensive materials on grief and loss, including articles written by Dr. Alan Wolfelt, a prominent figure in the field of grief counseling.
American Psychological Association (APA) - Grief and Loss Resources
- Website: apa.org
- Provides research-based information and guidelines on grief and loss, as well as links to mental health resources for further support.
National Alliance for Grieving Children
- Website: childrengrieve.org
- Focuses on resources for children and families experiencing grief, including training and educational materials for professionals.
The Compassionate Friends
- Website: compassionatefriends.org
- A national organization that offers support to families grieving the loss of a child, with resources for support groups and information on coping with grief.
Books and Publications
- "On Grief and Grieving" by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler
- "The Year of Magical Thinking" by Joan Didion
- "Understanding Death: 10 Ways to Help the Grieving" by Dr. Alan Wolfelt
Oklahoma State Department of Health - Bereavement Resources
- Website: ok.gov/health
- Offers state-specific resources and links for grief support services available in Oklahoma.
Local Libraries and Universities
- Many public libraries and universities in Oklahoma offer a variety of resources and programs focused on grief support and bereavement education. Check local listings for workshops and access to academic publications.
Utilize these resources to further your understanding and capability as a Bereavement Services Manager, ensuring you remain informed on best practices and emerging trends in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bereavement Services Manager in Oklahoma
What does a Bereavement Services Manager do?
A Bereavement Services Manager oversees the planning and implementation of support services for individuals and families experiencing grief and loss. This includes managing grief counseling programs, leading support groups, and ensuring that staff are trained to provide compassionate care.What qualifications are needed to become a Bereavement Services Manager?
Typically, a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field is required. Additional certifications in grief counseling or a master’s degree can enhance your qualifications. Experience in a healthcare or mental health setting is often essential.What skills are important for a Bereavement Services Manager?
Key skills include strong communication and interpersonal abilities, empathy, organizational skills, and leadership capabilities. You should also possess crisis intervention skills and a strong understanding of grief processes.Where can I find job opportunities for Bereavement Services Managers in Oklahoma?
Job opportunities can be found in hospitals, hospice care organizations, funeral homes, non-profit organizations, and counseling centers. Networking with professionals in the field and attending relevant conferences can also help you discover openings.Is certification necessary for this position?
While not always required, certification in grief counseling, such as from the American Academy of Bereavement, can be advantageous. It demonstrates your commitment to the field and can increase your employability.What is the typical salary for a Bereavement Services Manager in Oklahoma?
Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and organization size. On average, you can expect to earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually.What are the challenges faced by Bereavement Services Managers?
You may encounter emotional stress as you deal with clients in sensitive and painful situations. Balancing administrative duties with direct client care can also be demanding. Maintaining self-care is essential to prevent burnout.What kind of work environment can I expect?
Bereavement Services Managers typically work in an office setting but may also spend time in community outreach settings or at clients’ homes. The work environment is often collaborative, requiring teamwork with therapists, medical staff, and volunteers.Are there advancement opportunities in this career?
Yes, with experience, you can advance to higher administrative roles within your organization, such as Director of Support Services or Executive Director, where you would oversee broader programs and staff.How can I gain experience in bereavement services?
Volunteering or interning with hospice organizations, grief support groups, or counseling centers can provide invaluable experience. Participating in workshops and training programs focused on grief and loss will also be beneficial.