Specialist Certificate in Palliative Support

Workshop Description

18-hour interactive virtual certificate course

This 18-hour certificate course focuses on specific conditions with a strong emphasis on the support worker’s role. It does not include introductory material, allowing learners to build on existing knowledge and experience. The course takes a deeper dive into each topic, providing PSWs with comprehensive, practical information to enhance their confidence and effectiveness in supporting clients. 

The course is graded and includes 1-2 assignments.  Students successfully completing the course will receive a certificate. A pre-course consultation meeting with the trainer is included to help identify specific content areas your organization would like addressed and to tailor the course accordingly.  We will also conduct a pre-session learning evaluation and can include an exemption process for students who have taken one of Capacity Builders 3-hour Dementia workshops. 

Benefits of the Specialist Certificate in Mental Health: 

• A longer format allows time to explore conditions and concepts in greater depth, leading to stronger knowledge retention and application in real-world situations. 
• PSWs have more opportunity to practice and refine specific skills—such as communication, engagement, and assessment—through discussion, reflection, and assignments. 
• With time to absorb content and receive feedback, PSWs gain confidence in supporting clients with complex mental health needs. 

Topics Covered: 

• Palliation Across Cultures 
• Supporting Person to Live Until They Die 
• Pain Assessment and Monitoring 
• Comfort Measures 
• Supporting and Working with the Client’s Family and Other Supports 
• Terminal Lucidity and other Phenomenon of a Person’s Last Days 
• Ethical/Legal Concerns 
  

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for PSWs who are ready to deepen their knowledge and expand their skills in this specific area. It is best suited for PSWs who are confident in foundational client care and are seeking more advanced training to better support clients with complex needs. This course is not appropriate for support workers who are new to the role, or new to working with palliative clients.