Jacob Chmara, MA, TLLP

About Jacob Chmara

I see therapy as a road trip: you’re in the driver’s seat, and I’m in the passenger’s seat. You decide where you want to go, and I’ll help you get there. Oftentimes the obstacles along the journey become overwhelming, but you shouldn’t have to navigate them alone. Whether you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, work-related stress, behavioral issues, or just feeling stuck, I’m here to help. I treat each client as a unique individual with unconditional positive regard, and work to empower and support you in making the changes that you want to see.

I completed my BA in Cognition and Neuroscience from the University of Michigan and earned my Master’s in Clinical Psychology from the Michigan School of Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis. My experience includes working with both adolescents and adults in various outpatient settings. I draw from a wide range of techniques, knowledge, and experience to inform my practice, all tailored to address your unique needs.

I understand that starting therapy can be a daunting and scary endeavor. With me you’ll find a warm, compassionate, safe environment free from personal judgement. As an active, empathic listener, my goal is to help you feel understood, experience symptom relief, manage daily stress, increase awareness and create a deeper personal connection to yourself.

Unique Approach to Therapy

Connecting with each client is a vital part of my practice, unlike some providers in mental health, I view each person as important and not just “a number“. I find that checking in regularly with clients about their goals and current satisfaction helps foster a trusting client/provider relationship focused on individual growth. Also, I find it important to work with each person in identifying any barriers that may be present which could hinder therapy and medication from “doing their job“. I firmly believe that positive mental health and well-being does not happen in “a vacuum”, but many factors affect this, therefore a holistic approach is required to achieve lasting results.

Specialized & Extended Training

What makes Jacob Chmara stand out is his high level of education and experience. He, along with all Start My Wellness therapists, attends at least 120 hours of extensive ongoing training and personal development per year in treating anxiety, depression, work stress, and relationship problems. This rigorous instruction differentiates Jacob from others in the field and allows him to provide the highest quality of service to patients.