Today we’d like to introduce you to Chaka Smith.
Hi Chaka, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I am a woman that has lived life according to the concept of the golden rule; do unto others as you would have them do unto you. It was upon this foundation that I was raised by my parents Charles and Shirley Smith. Born in Anderson, South Carolina, I came from what society may consider humble beginnings, but by my definition, it was rich beyond measure in love, support and Christian beliefs.
Obtaining a quality education was always a necessity for me. When asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I was always say “a professional”. After graduating from T.L. Hanna High School, I continued to advance my education and obtained my BA in Psychology from Winthrop University in 2002. I then went on to receive an MA in Counseling in 2005 from Webster University. I received my license in Counseling in 2008. I also have a PHD in General Psychology with a specialization in Education.
Grateful for the knowledge gained of understanding the human mind, I was eager to begin helping people. I started applying my expertise during undergrad as a Residential Counselor at New Hope Beginnings in Rock Hill, SC. I later counseled at numerous organizations including Greenville Mental Health, New Foundations, Daymark Recovery Services and Anderson Oconee Behavioral Health to name a few. But a dream became realized in 2011 when I opened my own practice, Mainstream Therapeutic Services LLC. It was through this venture that I am able to help those in need of any type of mental therapy, all while having control over developing and tailoring services based on clients’ actual needs.
In 2013 I founded Start Tomorrow Today, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families or individuals through dire situations by uplifting and empowering them with faith, self- worth, relationships and leadership. Since origination, STT has been active in the community of Anderson County with workshops, clothing drives, and other events to assist people in need. Since starting STT, I have started a trucking company and brokerage firm called Mainstream Trucking Services and is Co Owner of Mainstream Printing Company. Regardless of being CEO of Mainstream Therapeutic, Owner of Mainstream Trucking, and CEO of STT, I am also an active member in several other organizations. Memberships include the United Way of Anderson County, Former President of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Kappa Zeta Omega Chapter, American Association of Christian Counselors and Extraordinary Women, American Psychological Association, American Counseling Association, National Association of Mental Illness, National Society of Leadership and Success, Rotary International, The African-American Leadership Society of Anderson County, WEBNC, AAWTA, and Young Women’s Association at Welfare Baptist Church. My most recent awards are the 2018 Athena Young Professionals Leadership Award, 2019 African American Leadership Society’s Community Trailblazer Award, and being recognized as one of the Anderson Independent Mails Top 20 under 40 emerging leaders, one of the 2020 SC Black Pages Top 20 under 40, and the 2022 SC Heroes in the Community Award presented by Jack Daniels.
I have also authored 3 books; Start Tomorrow Today, Courageous Charlie’s Adventures, and Start Tomorrow Today; Moving Forward Regardless of Obstacles.
The name Chaka means “life” in Hebrew and that word is synonymous with my personal purpose of making the lives of those around me better. Each goal that I have achieved is ultimately selfless and humanitarian in effort. The path has not been easy, but it has been worth it.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Throughout my journey, I have faced numerous challenges and obstacles that have shaped me both personally and professionally. These trials, though difficult, have ultimately propelled me to where I am today. Without them, I would not have developed the resilience, skills, and perseverance necessary to overcome adversity.
I have experienced significant life events, including marriage and divorce, the fluctuating success of my businesses, and the profound loss of my mother in 2022. Each of these struggles has had a profound impact on the direction of my life and has influenced the person I am today.
As a single mother for the past 10 years, I am incredibly proud of my two sons, Mason (11) and Jamison (3). They are my driving force, my constant inspiration, and everything I do is with them in mind. They are my greatest source of motivation and the reason I continue to push forward in every aspect of my life.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a licensed psychotherapist in the state of South Carolina and the founder of Mainstream Therapeutic Services, established in 2011. Through Mainstream, I provide a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment where clients can work toward positive life changes. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals, couples, and families, I am committed to guiding clients through their unique journey of healing and personal growth through psychotherapy.
It is an honor to witness the transformative journey that clients undergo as they work towards achieving their goals. Being part of their process of healing and self-discovery is incredibly fulfilling, and I deeply value the trust they place in me as we collaborate to overcome challenges and create lasting change. Helping others reach their fullest potential is a privilege, and I remain committed to offering the guidance, compassion, and expertise needed to facilitate their success. I offer individual and group counseling. I am in the process of offering retreats. You can receive my services virtually or in person.
How do you think about luck?
I wouldn’t say that “Luck”, whether positive or negative, has played a role in my personal and professional journey. God’s grace and Mercy is what has brought me this far. I do also believe that success in both life and business is also largely shaped by resilience, preparation, and the ability to adapt to challenges. While fortunate circumstances can provide valuable opportunities, it is often how one responds to unexpected events both favorable and unfavorable—that defines progress. In my experience, embracing a mindset of growth, learning from setbacks, and staying committed to my values have been more impactful than relying on luck alone. Ultimately, I see luck as a factor, but one that works in tandem with hard work, perseverance, and intentional decision-making.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drchakasmith.com
- Instagram: iamchakasmith
- Facebook: Chaka Smith
- LinkedIn: Chaka Smith PhD
