MEET MORE OF OUR 2025 WOMEN OF DISTINCTION
When Lawanda Chambers founded LIFE Wellness & Counseling Services in 2018, she envisioned more than a counseling practice – she created a sanctuary for individuals and families seeking healing, dignity and hope. Inspired by her own journey and professional experience, Chambers built LIFE as a space for culturally responsive care where people are truly seen, heard and supported.
At LIFE, she leads a team providing therapy for trauma, depression, substance use, anxiety and ADHD. Her approach extends beyond the therapy room – every client’s progress creates a ripple effect that strengthens families and communities. “I couldn’t do this without my support systems,” she says. “Their belief in me fuels my mission to help others thrive.”
Chambers’ leadership reaches far beyond her clinic. She is the founder of Citizen Action Mental Health Consortium, serves as Vice President of Housing Resources, Inc., and advocates nationally through the Alzheimer’s Association AIM Network, advancing early detection legislation and equity in care. She also mentors emerging providers, equipping the next generation to serve with compassion and integrity.
Her vision for the future includes expanding LIFE Wellness across Wisconsin, redesigning policy, and creating a leadership academy for mental health professionals.
“Every barrier I’ve faced has become a blueprint for new opportunities,” she shares. “When life is life-ing, we’re here for the healing.”
“Instead of letting barriers stop me, I use them as blueprints to build pathways – not just for myself, but for others who need hope and healing.”
Q&A
What are some of the challenges you’ve overcome in your career?
One of the greatest challenges was building an organization during personal hardship. I had to leave my staff through a 90-day period when I was ill and had to take care of my mother who was having challenges with her health. It taught me the importance of preparation. It taught me that I had to learn how to trust others and allow them to step into their own strength. It taught me that I had to allow other people to be able to support me in the ways that I have always supported other people. The importance of preparation, delegation and empowering others is something that every leader must learn how to do.
Another challenge has been navigating systems that weren’t designed for women who look like me. Instead of letting barriers stop me, I use them as blueprints to build pathways – not just for myself, but for others who need hope and healing.
What are some of your goals for the future?
Looking ahead, my goals are to continue to expand LIFE Wellness. We want to be in other locations and other states and other places in Milwaukee and Racine and Kenosha. We want to strengthen the mental health consortium and step further into policy leadership around that care expansion.
I am preparing to run for Wisconsin 61 Assembly District because I believe our voices must be present where laws are written. I also want to keep mentoring the next generation of providers and opening spaces where healing and justice intersect. My ultimate goal is to make sure no one feels unseen, unheard or unsupported in their journey.
