We know it can be daunting to get help for mental health and addiction issues. It is hard to know what facility is the best addiction treatment center in your area, and what will be personally best for you. We recommend calling and speaking directly with a staff member at the facility you are considering–not a phone rep in another state who has likely never even been to the facility! When you call Centered at 678-977-6467, you are speaking with Reed Smith, the cofounder who also happens to teach at least two groups per week, so you’re getting a true glimpse of what your experience will look like when you enroll in services with Centered. Since you can’t always speak to every staff member at Centered as they are usually busy helping our amazing clients, here’s a brief glimpse about one of our team members, our Clinical Director Tammy Cha, LMSW.
Tammy Cha, Clinical Director
Hello, I’m Tammy Cha, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with a passion for mental health and well-being. With years of experience in the field, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and find their path to emotional balance and resilience.I believe in the power of healing, and my mission is to provide compassionate support to those seeking guidance on their mental health journey. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, recovering from unhealthy substance and/or alcohol use, or seeking personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you.
My personal journey navigating through a generation and culture marked by mental health stigma and lack of awareness propelled me into the mental health field. Experiencing the importance of professional help firsthand, thanks to my mom’s support, motivates me to let those who are in emotional and mental discomfort or pain know that they aren’t alone and that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
2. Where are you originally from? What do you like most about the Atlanta/Georgia area?
I was born in Seoul and raised in Orlando, but I now call Atlanta home. I love Atlanta for its vibrant diversity and cultural richness–especially the wide array of cuisine the city has to offer from southern to ethnic, and the wonderful people I’ve encountered. The city’s blend of urban and suburban landscapes, coupled with a diverse climate, contrasts with my Floridian experience of only two seasons – hot and really hot!
3. What is your favorite part about your job?
The most fulfilling aspect of my job is witnessing the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Meeting new people and observing their journey toward positive transformation never fails to inspire me. Seeing individuals evolve into their best selves is the highlight of my work.
Meet my beloved canine companions, Grobie and Gummibear. They’re rescued mutts but as any good rescue dog owner would ask, “Who really rescued who?”
Grobie, my pumpkin spice colored/mixed breed aka nice way of saying mutt, was rescued from a kill shelter in Louisiana. Gummibear, my cream colored/mixed breed is a rescue who came all the way from rural South Korea. She also comes from a high kill, vulnerable area where illegal dog meat trade occurs. They are the first and last part of my day. Not only do they bring me so much joy, but they elevate my oxytocin levels, enhancing my overall well-being. They truly are my emotional support fur babies! I may or may not be biased but they are seriously THE BEST! And yes, I am so unapologetically crazy about my dogs. 🙂
Grobie and Gummibear, beloved fur babies of our Clinical Director
