Charlene Zhen, LMSW(She/Her/Hers)

Charlene Zhen is a psychodynamic therapist based in New York City who works with adults and couples. Many of her clients are high achieving and outwardly capable, yet feel anxious, burnt out, or disconnected internally. She frequently works with Asian American clients and adult children of immigrants who are navigating cultural expectations, family pressure, identity questions, and relationship patterns.

Her approach is psychodynamic and culturally informed. In therapy, she helps clients explore how early relationships, family dynamics, and cultural context shape present emotions, choices, and ways of relating. Sessions focus on recognizing recurring patterns and understanding what drives emotional and relational reactions. This insight oriented work supports greater clarity, self understanding, and agency.

Charlene’s style is thoughtful, grounded, and collaborative. She listens closely and asks reflective questions that help clients slow down and make meaning of their experiences. She aims to create a therapeutic space where clients do not have to perform or present a polished version of themselves.

Before becoming a therapist, Charlene spent nearly a decade working in tech startups. This experience informs her understanding of performance pressure, perfectionism, and burnout in high demand environments. She holds a Master of Social Work from Columbia University and sees clients in person in Manhattan.