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 semester
• Minimum Age Requirement: 21 years
• Schedule Availability: Monday–Friday
• Timeframes Available: Morning, Afternoon, and Evening hours

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

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.