When families face the uncertainty of chronic and terminal illnesses, Lisa Mitchell, MSW, DSW, stands beside them, offering guidance, support and a compassionate presence.
As a palliative care social worker at St. Francis Medical Center, Lisa plays a vital role in helping patients and their loved ones navigate some of life’s most challenging moments.
“I provide psychosocial and emotional support for patients and families facing advanced illnesses,” Lisa explains. “I assist the palliative care team in patient-family care conferences, help with goal-setting and advance care planning and ensure psychological, social, emotional and spiritual needs are met.”
Since joining St. Francis Health in 2021, Lisa has made a profound impact, providing coping strategies and connecting families with essential community resources to improve their quality of life.
A Calling Sparked by an Unexpected Opportunity
Lisa’s journey into healthcare wasn’t always part of her plan. While pursuing her master’s in social work at Grambling State University, a professor often spoke about the importance of hospice care. Though Lisa didn’t initially consider this path, a classmate later encouraged her to apply for an open position.
“I thought of Dr. Grubbs and decided to give it a chance,” she recalls. “That decision led me to my first job after graduation, and I worked in hospice care from 2006 to 2020.”
Through that service Lisa discovered a deep passion for helping families during life’s most vulnerable times.
Family, Faith and the Power of Perseverance
Lisa credits much of her success to the unwavering support of her late mother, Emma Mitchell, and her two sons, Ty and Tre.
“My mother faced so many obstacles, but she never wavered in her faith. She taught me that while weapons may form, with faith in God, they will not prosper,” Lisa says.
Her sons are also a driving force behind her determination.
“They encourage me to live my best life,” Lisa says. “As a first-generation college graduate with two bachelor’s degrees, a master’s, and a doctorate, I wanted to show them that anything is possible.”
Honoring Black History: Strength, Resilience and Education
For Lisa, Black History Month is both personal and professional.
“It’s a time to acknowledge a heritage that is strong, resilient, powerful, intelligent, and creative,” she says. “Professionally, it’s about creating a space where others can recognize and be educated on the many contributions made by African Americans.”
This year’s theme, African Americans and Labor, resonates deeply with Lisa. She reflects on the historical fight for labor rights and the countless African Americans who shaped a more efficient and innovative workforce, often risking everything to demand fair treatment.
One figure who stands out to her is Shirley Chisholm, the trailblazing congresswoman who became the first Black woman to run for president.
“She fought tirelessly for change, and one of my favorite quotes from her is: ‘We must reject not only the stereotype that others have of us but also those that we have of ourselves.’”
Emphasizing Self-Care in an Emotionally Demanding Role
Lisa’s work can be emotionally and mentally exhausting, making self-care essential. However, she admits that prioritizing rest wasn’t always easy.
“In the beginning of my career, I didn’t focus on self-care. But now, I make it a priority,” she says. “Sometimes, I take a mental health day to recharge — whether that’s reading, napping or simply stepping away to reset.”
Leaving a Lasting Impact
Lisa hopes her career inspires others to reject limitations and embrace their full potential.
“It doesn’t matter where you come from or the obstacles placed in front of you,” she says. “What matters is that you don’t place limitations on yourself.”
Our Commitment
Our ministry’s commitment to a culture of belonging supports culturally competent care education for our team members all year long, including during Black History Month each February.
