Residential Counselor

Chestnut Health Systems; Bloomington (IL); On-site; USD 23,419 - 24,796; Full time

Job summary

Chestnut Health Systems is seeking a Residential Counselor to join their team in Bloomington, Illinois, providing support in residential substance use and mental health treatment programs. The role involves direct client support in a therapeutic environment, working alongside clinical staff to promote recovery.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma and good communication skills, with preferred experience in substance use treatment. This position offers full-time, part-time, or PRN schedules with a pay rate of $17.00 to $18.00 per hour.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Experience in substance use treatment or behavioral health preferred.
• Must obtain CADC certification within 2 years.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe, therapeutic environment.
• Collaborate with clinical staff to support treatment goals.
• Provide behavioral and emotional support.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Basic computer skills

Ability to work with diverse populations

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Electronic medical record (EMR) systems

Job description

Overview

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.

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

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent.
• 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: $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.

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.