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 self-care

Are 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.