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Elena Chambers, LLMSW

Limited Licensed Master Social Worker

Ann Arbor & Virtual

Hi, I’m Elena! I’m a clinical social worker here at the Ann Arbor location of Mala Child & Family Institute. My top specialties include trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, and self-esteem. I provide a safe and supportive space to process emotions and support clients in gaining insight into their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach is collaborative and insight-oriented. I utilize modalities such IFS (internal family systems), psychodynamic therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness-based/somatic approaches to facilitate self-reflection and increase self-confidence in clients. 

I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan, where I focused on evidence-based approaches to support mental wellness for youth, adults, and families. My past professional experience includes working in the Ann Arbor Public Schools as a paraprofessional, as well as leading school-based social/emotional learning groups during my internship with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan. 

Reaching out for support can be hard and I deeply honor the courage and vulnerability of each of my clients. As your therapist, I will hold a safe and affirming space to explore emotions, gain insight, and process trauma as we work together to help you reach your goals. 

work with Elena

  • Masters of Social Work, University of Michigan

    • ADHD, Autism, & AuDHD

    • Anxiety, Panic Disorder & Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

    • Chronic Pain or Illness

    • Depression

    • Grief & Loss

    • Learning Differences & Academic Challenges

    • Life Transitions

    • Physical Disabilities or Injuries

    • Self-Esteem

    • Sleep Issues

    • TNB/LGBTQIA2S+ Issues

    • Trauma & PTSD

    • Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

    • Internal Family Systems (IFS)

    • Play Therapy

    • Preteens

    • Teens

    • Adults

    • Blue Cross Blue Shield

    • Aetna

    • Priority Health

Therapy for complex PTSD at Mala Child and Family Institute—serving Plymouth, Ann Arbor, Farmington Hills, and nearby Michigan communities with trauma-informed, relational, and integrative care for children, teens, and adults.

Get to know Elena

  • I worked in the Ann Arbor Schools for a year between my undergraduate and graduate degrees and felt that it was so rewarding to be able to help young people through emotions, conflicts, and tough situations in life. I wanted to continue to provide spaces where kids feel seen and heard, and that is one of my primary goals as a therapist!

  • I love being able to see the growth in my clients. It is an honor to be with you on your journey and learn about your life.

  • In therapy, I want to prioritize what is most important to you! I adapt the structure of sessions to fit client needs. We might do an activity together (like drawing or playing a game), talk about what is going on in your life, or problem-solve together with something that’s been on your mind. Incorporating play into therapy is very important to me, and a lot of therapeutic work also may happen playing with the toys in my office.

  • Therapy is YOUR space to talk about what’s important to you. We will go at the pace that is right for you and work together to help you reach your goals.

  • LGBTQIA+ rights—especially ensuring that young people in this community feel supported and understood.

  • When I make choices in my life, I like to ask myself “What decision would I feel most proud of in 20 years?” This helps me to tap into my gut feelings and values.

  • I play the violin!

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