Human Services Internship

Chestnut Health Systems is committed to serving underserved populations through comprehensive behavioral health care, including mental health, substance use treatment, and primary care services. The organization provides both outpatient and inpatient treatment, with a strong focus on supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and other significant life challenges.Chestnut Health Systems™ is a leading provider of integrated health care services. Since 1973, Chestnut has grown to more than 800 committed, compassionate employees providing substance use, mental health, and primary care treatment to patients in Illinois and Missouri. We provide fully integrated care for all our patients by combining behavioral health care services with our community-based primary care health centers. Chestnut also conducts research and training throughout the U.S.A. Internship Overview Chestnut Health Systems is seeking compassionate and motivated students for a Human Services Internship. This opportunity provides hands-on exposure to behavioral health and integrated care services, allowing interns to learn directly from experienced professionals while supporting individuals and families in need.Internship Capacity: 3–4 students per semesterMinimum Age Requirement: 21 yearsSchedule Availability: Monday–FridayTimeframes Available: Morning, Afternoon, and Evening hoursResponsibilities Client Populations Served Interns Will Gain Experience Working With Diverse Populations, IncludingYoung Adults (18–30)AdultsOlder Adults (65+)Individuals with Mental Health NeedsIndividuals with Substance Use DisordersIndividuals Coping with Domestic ViolenceIndividuals Experiencing HomelessnessLGBTQIA+ IndividualsVeterans and Military FamiliesLow-Income Individuals and FamiliesFamilies, Parents, and CaregiversVictims of Crime or Trauma Programs & Services Interns Will Primarily Engage InInpatient Services: Crisis unit, substance use residential treatment, and supportive housingOutpatient Services: Employment support, helping clients obtain and maintain employment Common Client Needs & Challenges Clients Often ExperienceMental health symptomsSubstance use disordersHousing instability and financial hardship Fieldwork Role & Responsibilities Interns Will Participate In Structured, Supervised Activities Such AsObserving group and individual sessionsMonitoring clients with staff present on unitsShadowing employment specialistsParticipating in groups and outreach activitiesObserving direct care servicesQualifications Preferred Skills & Qualifications Ability to take direction and apply feedbackUnderstanding of professional boundariesStrong professionalism and reliabilityInterest in recovery-oriented care Must be enrolled in the Human Services Program Keys to Success Successful Interns WillDemonstrate compassion and empathyUnderstand the complex challenges of the populations servedMaintain professionalism and boundariesPractice consistent self-careAre you intrigued by this opportunity but unsure if it’s the right fit? Chestnut is committed to supporting the next generation of behavioral health professionals through hands-on learning and mentorship. We encourage students from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply.Chestnut Health Systems is a leader in the effort to achieve health equity, providing high-quality health and human services in underserved communities. We deliver trauma-informed, fully integrated care by combining behavioral health with community-based primary health care. Chestnut’s research division is nationally recognized for its contribution to evidence-based practices. Our empathic and innovative employees live our mission of making a difference.