What are the responsibilities and job description for the 2025-2026 General Counseling Internship position at Youth Outreach Services?
2025-2026 General Counseling Internship
Department: Counseling
Locations:
📍 Central: 3445 N Central Ave, Chicago, IL 60634 (Spanish-speaking preferred)
📍 Melrose Park: 4419 W North Ave, Melrose Park, IL 60160 (Spanish-speaking preferred)
📍 Pilsen: 1942 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608 (Spanish-speaking preferred)
Schedule:
- Minimum 16 hours per week (24 hours preferred)
- Hours: Monday - Thursday, 12 PM - 8 PM (Fridays optional, 9 AM - 5 PM)
- All interns must have a valid driver’s license and access to a car.
Position Overview
Are you a passionate Master’s-level student in counseling or social work looking for hands-on experience in the field? Youth Outreach Services (YOS) is seeking counseling interns to support youth ages 12-21 dealing with mental health and substance use challenges.
As a Counseling Intern, you will:
✅ Conduct individual counseling sessions to help youth address substance use and mental health issues.
✅ Complete intake assessments and maintain client progress notes weekly.
✅ Lead or co-lead group counseling sessions (e.g., all-girls group, drug/alcohol treatment, anger management).
✅ Use the 7 Challenges Program to guide clients through self-reflection and informed decision-making.
✅ Engage with families, referral sources, and community partners to ensure comprehensive support for youth.
✅ Organize occasional group outings and alternative peer activities for clients.
This internship provides valuable clinical experience while allowing you to make a real impact in the community.
Internship Details:
📅 Duration: August - June (Not accepting summer interns at this time.)
💰 Unpaid Internship (Eligible for Academic Credit)
🏫 YOS is an approved site for many colleges/universities and can coordinate with your school.
How to Apply:
📩 To Apply: Submit your application here!
- Cover Letter – Explain why you are interested and what you hope to gain.
- Resume – Include relevant experience and education.
- References – Contact info for three references (past employers or school personnel).
- Combine all documents into one PDF file.
Application Requirements:
- Cover letter
- Resume
- List your preferred office locations (rank in order of preference)
Qualifications:
✔ Strong interpersonal and communication skills
✔ Master’s-level student in counseling or social work
✔ Must have a valid driver’s license and access to a car
✔ Ability to work Monday - Thursday schedule 12 pm-8 pm
This is an excellent opportunity for students looking to gain hands-on counseling experience in a supportive, community-focused environment. Apply today and make a difference! 🚀
Youth Outreach Services is a drug-free workplace and compliance with this policy is a condition of employment and continued employment.
COVID-19 Policy: In compliance with Illinois Executive Order, Youth Outreach Services is requiring all employees to be fully vaccinated against or an approved exemption. Approved exemptions will require weekly testing for COVID-19.
Youth Outreach Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
