Residential Counselor

We are seeking a Residential Counselor to join our team in the Central Region, supporting clients in our residential substance use and mental health treatment programs. This role provides direct client support in a structured, therapeutic environment and works closely with clinical and medical staff to promote recovery and ensure a safe, supportive setting.

Are you passionate about helping individuals on their recovery journey while working in a team-based environment? This position offers the opportunity to build meaningful connections with clients while supporting daily program operations and reinforcing recovery-focused behaviors.

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.

This position is looking to fill Full-Time, Part- Time, or PRN schedules.

Pay Range: The anticipated starting pay for this position is $17.00 – $18.00 per hour.

Schedule: 7 am to 3:30 pm or 3p to 11:30 pm

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment by supervising clients and supporting daily program operations
• Collaborate with clinical and medical staff to support treatment goals and client care
• Provide behavioral and emotional support while reinforcing program expectations and guidelines
• Complete and maintain accurate documentation, including progress notes, admissions, discharges, attendance, and EMR records
• Assist with documentation required for local and state funding requirements
• Provide appropriate interventions within scope, including crisis intervention, case management support, and psychoeducational groups
• Assist clients with daily living activities and facilitate recreational, leisure, and skill-building groups
• Participate in team meetings, supervision, and client staffing to support coordinated care
• Monitor client activity, ensuring awareness of client location, safety, and interactions
• Assist with vital signs and medication observation as appropriate
• Promote recovery-oriented, trauma-informed care emphasizing respect, empowerment, and wellness
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold Chestnut’s customer service standards
  
  

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience in substance use treatment, behavioral health, or related field preferred
• Must obtain Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) certification within 2 years of hire
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and electronic medical record (EMR) systems
• Valid driver’s license and insurability preferred
  
  

Pay Range: The anticipated starting pay for this position is $17.00 – $18.00 per hour, with additional shift differential for overnight hours. Compensation is based on factors such as experience, skills, education, and internal equity.