CRSS Internship Background Checks
I am currently in a CRSS program at an agency in Chicago. We will be finishing the education/classroom component within the next few weeks and have been asked to start looking into internship placements. During the internship presentation after class today, background checks were mentioned, which I had anticipated. However, it was also mentioned that internships will also do a DCFS clearance before placement.
I have a DUI on my record. I knew this would come up, but as a career that encourages lived experience, I was told at the beginning of the program this would not be an issue. However, I had my children in the car with me when this happened, so on the state registry I have an indicated finding. The DCFS check was not disclosed to me at the beginning of the program when I told the success coaches.
While I intend to finish out the classroom hours, I am hesitant to begin searching out an internship if this is going to be fruitless. My end goal was to work in CRSS SUD treatment and recovery centers. I have already begun taking CADC classes over the summer with an end goal (5+ years) becoming an addiction counselor. I was a teacher for 16 years, so I knew the DCFS indication would rule out any future in education; however, I was under the impression that an indicated finding would only apply to employment involving children.
What has the application process for internships been for others? Obviously, this is probably a more unique situation. When I spoke with my supervisors after the presentation, they really didn't have an answer for me, but said they'd look into it. Just trying to get a feel before applying for Amazon jobs until this is off my record.
Thanks in advance for any advice.