Charlene Zhen (she/her)

I’m a clinician based in New York City, working with Asian Americans, adult children of immigrants, professionals, and couples. Many of my clients navigate cultural expectations, family pressures, career demands, and relationship challenges while also grappling with anxiety, burnout, or perfectionism. Having spent nearly a decade in corporate and tech start-up environments, I bring first-hand insight into the stress and pressures of fast-paced careers.

In therapy, we explore how family patterns, cultural context, and past experiences shape your present thoughts, emotions, and relationships. We also examine what’s happening in your life now, including recurring patterns, emotional habits, and internal conflicts, helping you understand what drives your choices and reactions. My approach is psychodynamic, culturally informed, and reflective. Therapy is collaborative and focused on insight, emotional clarity, and long-term growth. This is a space to slow down, reconnect with your emotions, and build a life that feels true to who you are.

I also work with couples feeling disconnected, stuck in conflict cycles, or struggling with communication. Therapy can help you navigate cultural dynamics, life transitions, and longstanding patterns to better understand each other and strengthen your connection.

I hold a Master of Social Work from Columbia University and studied English literature and business administration at the University of Southern California. My clinical training includes both individual and couples therapy, with a focus on psychodynamic and psychoanalytic approaches.