Specializes in:

• Assessment and Care Plan Development
• Chronic condition coordination, management, education, and support; specialty in diabetes
• Adjustment to illness and decreased functional status, depression, anxiety, grief
• End of life Concerns, palliative care, hospice care
• Advance directives, durable power of attorney decisions
• Oversight and advocacy for those residing in a facility or senior care community

Jennifer Derner has over 20 years of experience as a social worker across the healthcare continuum, primarily in primary care and hospice care. With her experience providing care management for adults with complex medical conditions, she is well versed in navigating health systems and coordinating care. Jennifer has advanced training and certification in diabetes care and education, in addition to extensive experience with a broad range of health conditions. She taught group classes for diabetes self-management and was a lifestyle coach for a diabetes prevention program. Jennifer’s experience as a care manager and psychotherapist has helped clients address the mental health needs of living with chronic conditions.

In over a decade of experience as a hospice social worker, Jennifer supported clients and families at the end of life, providing counseling and care planning services to clients in their homes and care facilities. For clients wishing to establish or update their advance directives or durable power of attorney, Jennifer can facilitate discussions for decision making, sharing wishes with loved ones, and/or communicating with the client’s attorney.

Jennifer utilizes a comprehensive, holistic approach when working with her clients. She explores the client’s beliefs, support system and strengths, tailoring care to each person’s unique needs. As a care manager, she collaborates with clients and families to develop realistic, achievable plans to reach their goals. Jennifer aims to provide support, resources, and education that can empower clients to maintain or improve their independence and quality of life while also helping them plan to avoid crisis driven decision making.

Jennifer received a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, a Master of Social Work from Saint Louis University, and a certificate in Healthcare Management from Cornell University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is a long-term member of the Social Work Leaders in Healthcare of Metro St. Louis, previously holding numerous leadership positions.

Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys walking, photographing nature, traveling, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, and exploring creative arts. She has always enjoyed writing for her career and aspires to be an author someday. In her spare time, Jennifer volunteers at the Lambert Airport USO, a non-profit that supports U.S. military members and their families.