Internships at LCFS
Gain valuable experience from dynamic professionals who embrace welcoming and inclusive environments and make a positive impact on children, families and communities.
Our internships provide students with meaningful learning opportunities which engage the students and where they can demonstrate their skills and abilities. LCFS of Illinois’ field instructors have decades of experience and enjoy sharing their knowledge and skills with passionate individuals who are eager to learn from recognized innovators in child welfare practices. You can expect to be challenged and be ahead of the curve as you start
your career in social or human services.
Internship Opportunities
How To Apply
Learn With UsInternship Opportunities
Opportunities are available at our office locations throughout Illinois and span several program areas, including child welfare and counseling. In some instances, our administrative departments will also provide internship opportunities for those who seek to gain experience in the non-profit sector.
How To ApplySubmit your resume with a cover letter indicating your area of interest, availability to complete your internship hours, and other identifying factors related to your major so that we can determine if a match is possible. Resumes and cover letter should be sent to Internship@lcfs.org. Resumes are accepted on a revolving basis and are referred to designated agency field instructors. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for updates on our postings.
Learn With UsMeet some of our dedicated interns and staff as they share what it means to be a part of the LCFS team of champions serving children and families throughout Illinois!
Kristina Sosa
Former Clinical Intern, 360 Youth Services
“During my internship as a clinical therapist at 360 Youth Services, I had the incredible opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. The supportive environment fostered by the counseling team allowed me to apply the skills and knowledge I gained in school while also learning from experienced professionals in the field. I was able to engage with clients and participate in therapeutic interventions, all while receiving valuable supervision and feedback. The experience not only deepened my understanding of clinical work but also reinforced my passion for helping young people navigate their mental health challenges. I’m truly grateful for the mentorship, the hands-on experience, and the positive impact that 360 Youth Services has had on my development as a clinician. This internship has been an invaluable step in my career, and I am confident the skills I’ve gained will serve me well in the future.”
Olivia LaVallie
Former Clinical Intern, 360 Youth Services
“My internship at LCFS was a truly rewarding experience that helped me grow both personally and as a clinician. I gained valuable clinical knowledge, felt consistently supported by my supervisors and colleagues, and was encouraged every step of the way. The collaborative and welcoming environment helped me build confidence in my skills and affirmed my passion for working with youth. I’m grateful for the guidance I received throughout my time as an intern and am excited to continue my journey in the field as the Clinical Intake Coordinator at 360 Youth Services.”
Hannah Wasson
Former Child Welfare Intern
“I am very thankful for the memories made with the Oakbrook office staff and the wonderful families I was able to work with!”
Andrea Richards
Former Child Welfare Intern
“I have had a great time interning at LCFS, the staff is all incredibly supportive, and I have learned so much that will help me strive within the field of social work in the future.”
Jazmin Hurley
Former Child Welfare Intern
“Upon starting my internship at LCFS, I was so terrified, but immediately felt like I was welcomed into a family. I was eager to learn a lot about child welfare and all the child welfare specialists and supervisors were eager to teach. Seeing how hard they worked and how much they cared for each family they served stirred up my love for child welfare. So much so that I applied and accepted a position to work with LCFS!”
Juana Nunez
Former Adoption Intern
“My time at LCFS has been nothing short of a great learning experience! Before starting my internship with the adoption department, I thought I knew what the adoption process consisted of. Shortly after my first day with LCFS, I learned that the adoption process entailed much more than what I had expected. Since the beginning, I have felt welcomed and supported by the adoption team. I feel comfortable asking them questions, and I am always welcome to observe them as they work with their clients. Being here just five months, I am now working on two cases with prospective adoptive parents. I feel prepared to take on these cases because of everything I have learned from observations, discussions with the team, and reflection with my supervisor. Although I have learned so much already, I am looking forward to learning from hands-on experience, and I am grateful to LCFS for giving me that opportunity.”
Beth Evans, MSW
Child Welfare Supervisor
“Our work environment is a great place for students to gain real life experience. The difference between the classroom and work with actual families is often very eye opening for the student. I find it very rewarding to share my knowledge with students that are just starting out in our field. They are eager to learn. If they are a good fit, then it is a smooth transition to becoming a Child Welfare Specialist within our LCFS family.”
Brandy Barry
Clinical Intern
“During my internship in the Clinical Department at Lutheran Child and Family Services, I gained invaluable hands-on experience in working with children and families facing complex challenges. This opportunity allowed me to develop essential skills in conducting assessments, implementing therapeutic interventions, and providing support to both clients and their families. I had the privilege of learning from experienced clinicians and working collaboratively to address trauma, emotional regulation, and behavioral issues. Through direct involvement in treatment planning and client progress, I deepened my understanding of the importance of a trauma-informed approach and the critical role of empathy and patience in fostering positive outcomes. This experience has strengthened my passion for working in child welfare and has equipped me with practical tools that I will carry forward into my future career.”
Shafeen Fatima
Clinical Intern
“My 2025 internship at Lutheran Child and Family services provided me with valuable experience. This experience included many responsibilities that gave me a better idea about what knowledge and areas are my strengths and weaknesses regarding clinical social work. I have developed many skills and have a much greater concept of what to expect in the social work field. I am lucky that this internship helped to confirm that I enjoy what I am studying for. This is due to the wonderful opportunities to learn and apply myself that include the conducting sessions to attending training to advocating for my clients. Other things I have valued most about my internship at LCFS include the supporting environment, the commitment and camaraderie of the staff and the encouragement to grow from the people around me. The connections I made both with the staff and clients will stay with me throughout my career.”
