Community-Based Therapist (Young Adults)

Lawrence Hall; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 57,550 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

401(k) with employer match

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Wellness Reimbursement Program

Job summary

A nonprofit social services agency in Chicago seeks a Community-Based Therapist to support young adults transitioning to independent living. You will provide trauma-informed therapy, collaborate with case management, and help stabilize placements. This role requires a master’s degree in social work and a valid Illinois driver’s license, with an annual salary between $57,550 and $63,000 plus benefits including medical, dental, and 401(k) plans.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Doctorate required in Social Work or related field.
• LSW or LPC upon hire; LCSW or LCPC is required upon eligibility.
• Valid Illinois driver’s license and reliable personal vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual, group, and family therapy for older adolescents.
• Support placement stabilization and crisis response for youth.
• Collaborate with various parties to meet youth needs.

Skills

Communication skills

Trauma-informed care

Field-based work with youth

Education

Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work or related field

LSW or LPC upon hire; LCSW or LCPC required upon eligibility

Job description

Community‑Based Therapist – Transitional & Independent Living Program (TLP)

Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and neighborhoods affected by lasting trauma. We foster healing and growth through empowerment, respect, safety, and teamwork.

Our Transitional and Independent Living program supports young adults as they move from shelters, residential treatment centers or Foster Care into more independent living environments. Through specialized care, clinical support, skills training, academic assistance, and career development, we help them learn to live successfully on their own and build a life they love.

About the Role

Be the support a young person needs to thrive. As a Therapist in our Older Adolescent Program, you’ll work with youth ages 17‑21, helping them navigate challenges, build life skills, and achieve stability. You’ll provide trauma‑informed individual, group, and family therapy, stabilize placements, and guide youth toward independence. Your work will have a direct impact on young people’s growth and their ability to form supportive relationships in their communities.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual, group, and family therapy for older adolescents in care.
• Support placement stabilization, crisis response, and safety planning for youth and staff.
• Collaborate with case management, foster families, schools, and external providers to meet youth needs.
• Maintain accurate clinical documentation, treatment plans, and progress reports.
• Facilitate trainings and provide consultation to staff on trauma‑informed practices.
• Respond to on‑call and after‑hours crises as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work or related human services field.
• LSW or LPC upon hire; LCSW or LCPC required upon eligibility.
• Valid Illinois driver’s license and reliable personal vehicle.
• Strong verbal and written communication and computer skills.
• Ability to work with youth impacted by trauma in a field‑based environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with adolescents, transitional‑age youth, or youth in care.
• Knowledge of trauma, attachment, adolescent development, and trauma‑informed care.
• Experience in group facilitation or residential/child welfare settings.

Additional Information

Full‑time, Monday‑Friday, with flexibility for evenings, weekends, and on‑call crisis response. Frequent travel to TLP, ILO, and community locations throughout Chicagoland. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds and kneel and return to standing for physical intervention skills.

Compensation, Benefits & Perks

Salary: $57,550‑$63,000/year, based on experience.

Average of 17‑25 days PTO + 9 holidays.

• Medical insurance – HMO and PPO options
• Dental insurance – HMO and PPO options
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) with up to 5% employer match and auto‑vesting
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) – Medical and Dependent Care
• Pre‑tax Commuter benefits – Parking and Transit
• 100% employer‑paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Children
• Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
• Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability
• 100% employer‑paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and life resources
• Wellness Reimbursement Program
• Employee Referral Bonus up to $1,500
• Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed employees
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness

How to Apply

Submit your resume here. We look forward to learning more about you!

Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application.

This position meets the FLSA requirements for Exempt.

Equal Opportunity Employer – M/F/D/V.

Following job offer acceptance, all new hires are required to complete a background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Individuals who have lived outside of Illinois may also be subject to out‑of‑state checks, which can take up to eight weeks to process. While these checks are pending, candidates should continue completing all other pre‑boarding requirements. Employment may begin once all pre‑boarding steps are complete and DCFS clearance has been received.