H.L. McConnell

HL has dedicated himself to providing compassionate spiritual care in medical settings since 2016. With a rich background in Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) and extensive hands-on experience, HL completed an internship and residency at Tampa General Hospital, a renowned not-for-profit, academic medical center and level 1 trauma center. During his time at TGH, he provided care in various challenging settings, including traumatic events, palliative care, end-of-life support, and specialized pediatric units like the PICU, Pediatric Dialysis, and Pediatric Day Hospital.

After leaving Tampa General in May 2023, HL joined Good Shepherd Hospice as a Chaplain offering holistic care and counsel to patients, families, and staff. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to supporting those in need through life's most challenging moments.

In addition to his practical experience, HL pursued advanced education in Pastoral Counseling at Asbury Theological Seminary and is ordained by the Federation of Christian Ministries. He is also a member in good standing with the Presbyterian Church USA, further strengthening his foundation in providing holistic, emotional, and spiritual caregiving.

Rooted in the Christian tradition but embracing a broader humanist approach, HL has extensive experience offering care to people from all faith traditions and walks of life, including the LGBTQ+ community. He honors each individual's life, affirming their worth, and assisting them in processing past trauma and present emotional challenges. He reflects back to each person their inherent value, sacredness, and sufficiency.

Driven by the belief that every person deserves love, compassion, and quality care, HL ensures that patients recieve the utmost respect and support at all stages of life. He offers comfort and assistance tailored to each person's needs, whether its providing a reassuring presence, empathic listening, grief support, or music therapy. HL also has significant experience helping patients and families navigate through family crises, which often arise during end-of-life situations.

HL's interventions include providing a non-anxious presence, empathic listening, emotional and spiritual support, grief support, and music therapy with soft instrumental guitar, including both spiritual and non-spiritual songs. He also facilitates small grief rituals to help patients, caregivers, families, and staff process and honor their grief.

With a compassionate heart and a commitment to holistic care, HL is dedicated to being a source of solace and support to those navigating life's most challenging moments, including marginalized and underrepresented communities.