Asian & Asian American Therapists in New York

Culturally Competent Care, by Licensed Asian Psychotherapists

Phronetic Psychotherapy was founded by an Asian psychotherapist, and most of our therapists identify as AAPI. We deeply understand the unique experiences and challenges of being an Asian American or Pacific Islander in New York, across the U.S., and even on a global scale. At Phronetic Psychotherapy New York, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate these complexities with care and understanding.

Our supportive and personalized approach is designed to help you explore your AAPI identity, embrace your unique perspective, and foster a sense of belonging and integration. Let’s move forward together—toward healing, growth, and self-discovery.

We accept most major commercial insurance plans, including Aetna, Wellfleet, Cigna, United Healthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Carelon Behavioral Health, for residents of New York.

Phronetic Psychothereapy,

a New York-Based, AAPI-Owned and Managed Virtual Psychotherapy Practice

Phronetic Psychotherapy is proud to be one of the first New York-based, Asian woman-owned, virtual psychotherapy practices. We wholeheartedly embrace the diversity of mental health needs and have expanded our services and expertise across many areas.

However, our heart and top specialty remain rooted in providing culturally competent care for the AAPI community. This is where we began, this is where we flourished, and we are here to help you flourish too.

Specialty Asian American Psychotherapy Services in New York

We take the concept of "specialty services" seriously. In psychotherapy, we refer to this as intersectionality—being Asian is not a mental health condition like depression or anxiety. However, this unique identity places individuals in situations where a therapist without AAPI lived experiences may struggle to relate, understand, or effectively provide treatment. Our AAPI therapists are uniquely equipped and highly experienced in addressing these nuanced challenges with care and cultural sensitivity.

Asian American & LGBTQ+

Culturally sensitive support for LGBTQ+ AAPI folks, addressing family expectations, cultural taboos, dual marginalization, and fostering self-acceptance and resilience.

Intergenerational Trauma and Family Dynamics

Therapy to heal intergenerational trauma and improve parent-child relationships, focusing on cultural conflicts, migration stress, and communication gaps.

Asian American Women’s Mental Health

Empowering Asian American women to overcome pressures from cultural expectations, perfectionism, and racialized misogyny.

Racial Trauma & Identity Work

Helping AAPI individuals process racism, microaggressions, and identity struggles while building pride in cultural heritage.

Mental Health Support for AAPI Professionals

Addressing burnout, imposter syndrome, and the “model minority” stress for AAPI professionals in high-pressure careers.

Interracial Couples & Communication

Supporting interracial couples in navigating cultural differences, improving communication, and fostering mutual understanding and respect.

Our Therapists

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.

Whether you’re seeking a therapist in NYC, guidance through life transitions, culturally informed therapy for Asians, or a way to boost your overall well-being by harnessing your strengths and potential, Phronetic Psychotherapy NY is ready to assist you.

We’ve made starting your journey with us easy, straightforward, and hassle-free.

Schedule a 15-minute Free Consultation

Easily Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation, Here.

Attend Your Free 15-minute Initial Consultation

Our intake specialist will contact you via text and email to assist with verifying your insurance or exploring self-pay and low-fee therapy options. You’ll also speak with your potential psychotherapist over the phone to determine if it’s a good fit.

Start Sessions With Your Therapist

You’ll meet with the therapist of your choice through our secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform to begin the transformative and empowering journey of self-discovery and meaningful change.

What It Means to Be AAPI?

Being an AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) in America, especially in a diverse yet complex place like New York City, often involves navigating a mix of cultural pride, systemic challenges, and identity struggles.

Clarice Fangzhou Hassan, LCSW, the founder of Phronetic Psychotherapy, understands these experiences deeply—both personally and professionally. It’s this connection to the AAPI journey that inspired her to become a therapist over two decades ago. Her commitment to helping others through these challenges laid the foundation for Phronetic Psychotherapy, where our work continues to honor and support the unique stories of AAPI individuals.

What It Means to Be AAPI in America

Straddling Two Worlds: We often find ourselves balancing our cultural heritage with the expectations of American society. This duality can leave us feeling isolated or as though we don’t fully belong to either culture.

Facing Stereotypes: We regularly confront harmful stereotypes, like the “model minority” myth, which places immense pressure on us to succeed while simultaneously dismissing our struggles and erasing the rich diversity within our communities.

Racism and Xenophobia: Many of us have experienced racism and xenophobia, especially during global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, which have heightened feelings of fear, anger, and vulnerability within our community.

Underrepresentation: Our voices are often missing from media, leadership roles, and mental health advocacy. This lack of representation can make it harder for us to see our experiences reflected or feel truly understood in broader society.

How about in NYC?

Well…Mixed.

Diversity and Opportunity: New York City is home to vibrant AAPI communities, from Chinatown to Jackson Heights. We feel a deep sense of pride and connection to our cultural roots here, with access to authentic food, traditions, and community organizations that help us stay connected to who we are.

Fast-Paced Stress: The competitive, high-pressure environment of NYC can amplify feelings of burnout for us, especially when we already feel the weight of pressure to achieve and succeed in every aspect of life.

Visibility and Invisibility: Even in a city as diverse as NYC, we may feel highly visible in our ethnic communities yet invisible in broader city life, such as in politics or decision-making spaces, leaving us to question our place in the larger narrative.

Do these experiences resonate with you?

Your unique AAPI experiences take many forms—observe with your eyes, connect with your heart, and trust your intuition.

  • The old lady stops you and speaks to you in Chinese, but you can’t speak fluently. You wish you could, so you could help her, but at the same time, you’re overwhelmed by a private feeling of annoyance and shame. Deep down, you secretly wish you didn’t “look Asian,” so situations like this wouldn’t happen to you—but then you feel deeply ashamed for even thinking that way.

  • You may have only encountered overtly rude comments, like a drunk homeless guy telling you to "go back to your country," but in more subtle ways, you feel unseen and unheard. You sense that you're not respected as an individual but are instead reduced to being "that good Asian friend." This leaves you feeling angry and confused.

  • You feel like when others talk about family issues, they’re referring to things like growing up in a single-parent home or not getting along with their sibling. But for you, it’s different—your mom wanted you to be an engineer, but you chose art school, and that started a whole scene. Your dad insists you get married before the age of 35 and have kids as soon as possible, but he’s also adamant that you don’t marry a non-Asian person. None of your colleagues seem to deal with things like this, and you’re not sure who you can really talk to about it.

    Therapy with us can help you build a strong set of tools to communicate, negotiate, compromise, and assert your needs effectively. Together, we can help you make your relationship loving and fulfilling again—or support you in confidently stepping into or out of one.

  • You’re not necessarily that “weirdo” who only talks about one old TV show. You have plenty of people to talk to, and the diversity of NYC is incredible. You’re even pretty extroverted when you need to be. But still—man, it feels so lonely, and you just can’t figure out why. Maybe it’s when your girlfriends casually mention finding the best dress colors to match their blonde hair, or when you realize you don’t really want to go to a party where you’re the only Asian person?

  • You are a third-year law student at Columbia Law, but it's not Stanford or Harvard, and you don’t feel even the tiniest bit of relief. You’ve been taught to be proud of your achievements your entire life and have been a true believer in meritocracy—but now, you’re also suffering because of it.

  • You’re in New York City, attending a great school with a strong major, or earning a desirable six-figure salary, or even starting your own business. Everyone around you sees you as reliable and high-achieving—some even call you a role model. But inside, you feel broken and barely holding it together under the weight of all that stress. We can help you find balance.

Mental Health Challenges for AAPI in NYC: Navigating Identity, Stigma, and Growth

Being part of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community comes with unique cultural, social, and systemic challenges that significantly impact our mental health. Despite the diversity within our community, shared experiences such as navigating cultural identity, combating stereotypes, and addressing mental health stigma connect us in powerful ways. At Phronetic Psychotherapy, we explore these challenges in depth, offering insights grounded in research to help us better understand our mental health journeys.

Navigating Cultural Identity

For many of us in the AAPI community, navigating the balance between our cultural heritage and the expectations of American society can feel like walking a tightrope. We often feel torn between upholding traditional family values and adapting to Western norms. This cultural duality can leave us feeling disconnected, as if we don’t fully belong to either culture.

A 2018 study published in Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology found that AAPI individuals who struggle with bicultural identity integration often experience higher levels of stress and anxiety (Cheng et al., 2018). However, the same study highlights that therapy focused on exploring and embracing our cultural identity can reduce distress and promote well-being.

At Phronetic Psychotherapy, we use culturally competent approaches, such as narrative therapy, to help us process these identity conflicts. This allows us to create a stronger sense of self while honoring the unique aspects of our heritage.

Facing Stereotypes and Racism

We often find ourselves grappling with harmful stereotypes, such as the “model minority” myth. This stereotype paints us as uniformly successful, hardworking, and obedient, placing immense pressure on us to meet unrealistic expectations. At the same time, it erases the diversity within our community and dismisses the struggles many of us face.

Additionally, incidents of racism and xenophobia—amplified during global events like the COVID-19 pandemic—can lead to feelings of fear, anger, and vulnerability. According to a 2021 report by the Stop AAPI Hate coalition, over 11,000 incidents of anti-Asian hate were reported in the U.S. between March 2020 and December 2021, many of which involved verbal harassment and physical assault.

Experiencing racism is a significant risk factor for anxiety, depression, and PTSD among AAPI individuals (Gee et al., 2009, American Journal of Public Health). To address this, evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help us challenge negative thoughts and build resilience in the face of discrimination.

Stigma Around Mental Health

For many of us, mental health issues remain a taboo subject within our communities. Cultural beliefs about saving face, maintaining family honor, or viewing mental illness as a personal weakness often deter us from seeking help. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), AAPI individuals are three times less likely than white Americans to access mental health services.

This stigma can lead to feelings of shame and isolation, making it even harder to address mental health struggles. However, psychoeducation and culturally sensitive therapy can help us challenge these beliefs and normalize seeking support. Research shows that therapy tailored to our cultural background leads to better outcomes and greater satisfaction (Sue et al., 2009, Psychological Bulletin).

Unique Challenges in NYC

Living in New York City offers incredible diversity and opportunity, but it also comes with its own set of stressors. The high cost of living, fast-paced environment, and competitive job market can exacerbate feelings of burnout and anxiety. While NYC is home to vibrant AAPI communities, such as Chinatown and Jackson Heights, we may still feel invisible in broader city life or underrepresented in leadership roles.

To thrive in NYC, it’s essential to address the intersection of cultural and environmental stressors. At Phronetic Psychotherapy, we provide tailored support to help us navigate these challenges and build resilience in one of the most demanding cities in the world.

Family Dynamics and Intergenerational Conflict

Family plays a central role in many of our lives, but navigating family expectations can be a source of significant stress. Many of us face pressure to excel academically, pursue specific careers, or adhere to traditional gender roles. These expectations, often rooted in our parents’ immigrant experiences and sacrifices, can create tension and feelings of inadequacy.

Intergenerational conflict is common when our values or goals differ from those of our parents or elders. For example, we may prioritize individual fulfillment, while our parents emphasize family obligation. A 2015 study in Asian American Journal of Psychology found that unresolved intergenerational conflict is a strong predictor of depression and anxiety in AAPI individuals (Kim et al., 2015).

At Phronetic Psychotherapy, we use family systems therapy to help us navigate these dynamics, fostering understanding and communication within our families. By addressing the root causes of conflict, we can create healthier relationships while staying true to ourselves.

How Phronetic Psychotherapy NY Empowers AAPIs in NYC to Strengthen Mental Health and Embrace Our AAPI Identity: An Evidence-Based Guide

At Phronetic Psychotherapy NY, we understand the unique challenges faced by Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) individuals in New York City. Living at the crossroads of cultural heritage and societal expectations can often lead to feelings of isolation, stress, and identity conflicts. We are here to provide culturally competent, evidence-based care that empowers AAPI individuals to thrive emotionally, mentally, and socially while embracing the richness of their cultural identities.

We use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to provide tailored care that addresses these challenges. Our evidence-based approaches are rooted in understanding the cultural, social, and personal complexities of the AAPI experience.

1. Psychodynamic Therapy: Understanding the Root of Our Struggles

Psychodynamic therapy focuses on exploring the unconscious influences of our past, including childhood experiences and family dynamics. For many AAPI individuals, unspoken expectations and intergenerational trauma play a significant role in mental health challenges.

At Phronetic Psychotherapy NY, we work with you to:

  • Identify how your upbringing and cultural background shape your thoughts, behaviors, and emotional patterns.

  • Process unspoken conflicts, such as the pressure to uphold family honor or meet traditional expectations.

  • Foster self-awareness and self-compassion, helping you break free from patterns that no longer serve you.

Research has shown that psychodynamic therapy can lead to long-term improvements in self-esteem and interpersonal relationships, particularly for individuals navigating complex family dynamics (Shedler, 2010, American Psychologist).

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Reshaping Negative Thought Patterns

CBT is a highly effective, evidence-based approach that helps reframe negative thought patterns and behaviors. Many AAPI individuals struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or self-doubt, often stemming from cultural or societal pressures.

With CBT, we help you:

  • Challenge and reframe unhelpful beliefs, such as "I have to succeed to be worthy" or "I can't show weakness."

  • Develop practical strategies to manage anxiety, depression, and stress in a fast-paced city like NYC.

  • Build resilience and confidence by focusing on what you can control.

Studies consistently demonstrate that CBT is effective in treating anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions (Hofmann et al., 2012, Cognitive Therapy and Research).

3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Managing Emotions and Building Relationships

DBT is particularly useful for AAPI individuals who feel overwhelmed by intense emotions or struggle with relationships due to cultural or intergenerational differences.

At Phronetic Psychotherapy NY, we use DBT to:

  • Teach skills like mindfulness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance.

  • Help you navigate challenging conversations with family or colleagues while maintaining your boundaries and values.

  • Strengthen your interpersonal effectiveness, helping you build healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

DBT has been shown to be particularly effective in reducing emotional dysregulation and improving overall life satisfaction (Linehan et al., 2006, Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology).

Our Culturally Competent Approach

What sets us apart at Phronetic Psychotherapy NY is our deep understanding of AAPI cultural nuances. Many of our therapists identify as AAPI, bringing lived experience and cultural awareness to our sessions. We understand the importance of:

  • Cultural Sensitivity: We respect your values, traditions, and cultural identity, ensuring that therapy feels relevant and empowering.

  • Addressing Stigma: We actively work to reduce the stigma around mental health in AAPI communities, creating a safe and supportive space for you to open up.

  • Holistic Care: We integrate your cultural heritage into therapy, helping you see it as a source of strength rather than a barrier.

Strengthening the AAPI Experience in NYC

At Phronetic Psychotherapy NY, we don’t just help you manage mental health challenges—we empower you to embrace your identity and thrive. Our work is about building resilience, fostering self-acceptance, and helping you create a meaningful life that honors both your cultural heritage and personal aspirations.

Whether you’re navigating identity conflicts, intergenerational family dynamics, or the pressures of NYC life, we’re here to support you. Together, we can help you turn your struggles into opportunities for growth and transformation.

What We Offer for Our Fellow AAPIs

At Phronetic Psychotherapy, we tailor treatment to your unique needs. Our options include:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): To change thought and behavior patterns.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): To help regulate emotions and reduce anxiety through mindfulness.

Culturally Competent Approach: Therapy that feels relevant and empowering

Psychodynamic Therapy: To Understand the Root of Our Struggles

“I will always remember how I felt as a young Asian adult in New York, completely out of my comfort zone. I often wished that someone had been there for me, someone who could have told me how much I could benefit from therapy. That's why I'm here now.”

Clarice Fangzhou Hassan, LCSW

Founder and CEO

Clarice has many meaningful identities—she’s an Asian woman, a first-generation immigrant, an entrepreneur, an accomplished psychotherapist, a wife and mother, and even an amateur pianist. However, one of the identities closest to her heart is her experience as a psychotherapy patient for eight years.

As an Asian woman, Clarice understands the unique challenges that come with navigating mental health in a culture where seeking help is often stigmatized. Her own journey has taught her the importance of not staying stuck—whether in mental health struggles or in therapy itself. Her goal as a patient was always to grow, heal, and move forward, and this deeply informs her mission as a leader.

Clarice is passionate about empowering the mental health of Asian individuals and communities. At Phronetic Psychotherapy, she is dedicated to helping the therapists in her practice guide their patients— including those from AAPI backgrounds—toward meaningful change and healing. Her ultimate goal is for every patient to leave therapy feeling empowered, with their goals fully achieved and their sense of identity strengthened.

We’re proud to offer not only high-quality therapy, but also a simple, stress-free process to get started with us.

We understand that taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, and that's okay. We're here to support you every step of the way.

While you focus on the important work of personal growth and transformation, let us take care of the rest—whether it’s scheduling your appointments or handling insurance details. You’re not alone in this journey, and we’re here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Start Therapy to Enhance Your AAPI Experience in NY Today,

with a Fellow AAPI Therapist Who Understands You and Accepts Your Insurance

Immediately Accessible

You can start your first session with Phronetic Psychotherapy in as little as 24 hours—we're here when you need us!

Flexible Scheduling

You can attend therapy from the comfort of your home, at a time that works best for you, any day of the week, Monday through Sunday, 9 AM to 9 PM. Morning, afternoon, evening—your call.

Insurance Friendly

We accept most major commercial insurance plans, including Aetna, Wellfleet, Cigna, United Healthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Carelon Behavioral Health, for residents of New York.

You are bright and full of potential, but perhaps you’re unsure about what you truly want from life. You may feel sad, lonely, angry at times, and often without love. You’re not alone. We understand your desire to thrive—in your career, school, or professional life—and we also understand the fear that things might never change. But change is possible, and we are here to help.

At Phronetic Psychotherapy New York NY, we’ll explore both your past and your present to help you better understand yourself and create meaningful change. Our approach is warm, open-minded, and collaborative, with growth rooted in both our work together and the courage you already hold within yourself.

Attachment

Anxiety & Stress

Depression

AAPI Mental Health

BIPOC Experiences

Professional Development

Grief & Loss

Personal Growth & Self-Esteem

Trauma

Grief & Loss

Relationship & Couples

LGBTQ+

School Issues

Eating & Body Image

Anger Management

Emotional Wellbeing

Bipolar Disorder

New Parenthood

Family & Communication

Immigration Experiences

Same-Day Psychotherapy Appointments Available. We are Ready When You Are.

Receive Therapy At Home

Immediately available, private virtual therapy for New Yorkers—grow and change from the comfort of your own home.

New To Therapy

We guide you through the entire process. Your intake coordinator will assist you in verifying your insurance, explaining your copay and deductible (or breaking down these intimidating terms if they’re unfamiliar), and helping you register. We’ll provide support every step of the way until you feel as comfortable and confident as our other established clients.

Connect With Your Therapist

We will ensure that you work with someone you feel comfortable with and connected to! All of our therapists offer a 15-minute consultation to get to know you, and we make sure it’s a good match before moving forward.

Book a free 15-minute phone consultation.

We’re excited to hear from you! To get started, our intake specialist will schedule a quick 15-minute phone consultation to verify your insurance and match you with the therapist who’s the best fit for your needs.

We’ll respond to all messages within 48 business hours.

If this is an emergency, please call 911 or reach out to a crisis counselor at 1-888-NYC-WELL. We’re here for you!

Or Contact Us Directly.

To verify your insurance coverage, please email us using the form below. For all other inquiries, we respond within 48 business hours.

Phronetic Psychotherapy LCSW PC | Making You Happen Though Action