Human Services Internship

Overview

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 semester Minimum Age Requirement: 21 years Schedule Availability: Monday–Friday Timeframes Available: Morning, Afternoon, and Evening hours Responsibilities Client Populations Served Interns will gain experience working with diverse populations, including: Young Adults (18–30) Adults Older Adults (65+) Individuals with Mental Health Needs Individuals with Substance Use Disorders Individuals Coping with Domestic Violence Individuals Experiencing Homelessness LGBTQIA+ Individuals Veterans and Military Families Low-Income Individuals and Families Families, Parents, and Caregivers Victims of Crime or Trauma Programs & Services Interns will primarily engage in: Inpatient Services: Crisis unit, substance use residential treatment, and supportive housing Outpatient Services: Employment support, helping clients obtain and maintain employment Common Client Needs & Challenges Clients often experience: Mental health symptoms Substance use disorders Housing instability and financial hardship Fieldwork Role & Responsibilities Interns will participate in structured, supervised activities such as: Observing group and individual sessions Monitoring clients with staff present on units Shadowing employment specialists Participating in groups and outreach activities Observing direct care services Qualifications Preferred Skills & Qualifications Ability to take direction and apply feedback Understanding of professional boundaries Strong professionalism and reliability Interest in recovery-oriented care Must be enrolled in the Human Services Program Keys to Success Successful interns will: Demonstrate compassion and empathy Understand the complex challenges of the populations served Maintain professionalism and boundaries Practice consistent…

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