Foundations of Compassionate Care

The subject introduces theoretical frameworks, key definitions, and conceptual and philosophical perspectives underpinning contemplative approaches to mindful and compassionate care. The subject examines how contemplative approaches may provide a counterbalancing force to address the problems care workers face, such as burnout and compassion fatigue. Students will explore different meanings of “care” as applied in professional care settings, and how care work and the wellbeing of the care worker might be enhanced by contemplative practices. The subject identifies the similarities and differences among professional care models to support students working across different disciplines. Students will explore real-world examples of contemplative care, including working in diverse cultural settings, and with trauma-informed approaches, to understand how mindful and compassionate care fits within broader health and wellbeing models. Students will delve into the psychological and spiritual aspects of care, including a broad range of interventions, frameworks, communication styles, population-informed practices, and strategies for personal wellbeing. Students will learn factors that are important in the design, implementation, and evaluation of contemplative care practice.