

Find mental health support in Astoria with Aetna coverage through Headway. Our network of 8,464 licensed providers offers flexible in-person and virtual sessions with copays as low as $0-$30. Start your free consultation today and connect with a therapist within days.
Hello, I’m Sydney Lerner, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in New York. I offer therapy in Midtown Manhattan and virtually across the state. I work with teens and young adults navigating OCD, anxiety, depression, relationship stress, and family dynamics. My approach is relational and psychodynamic, exploring how past and present relationships shape emotions and patterns. For clients who have completed OCD treatment in the past, I also integrate ERP knowledge to support long-term growth. I earned my BA from Johns Hopkins, my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern, and completed a year-long psychodynamic training at the National Institute of the Psychotherapies.
I've worked successfully with race-and class-diverse, LGBT and straight clients from teens to seniors. Many are new to NYC or in other life transitions. Clients come with anxiety, identity issues, relationship or work problems, trouble managing anger...My style is warm yet analytical, and interactive. I encourage laughter! I find that people want to understand themselves, break free from self-damaging patterns, and live more fully--and joyfully.
Hi there and welcome!
My priority is supporting clients on their journeys towards personal healing & growth.
In 2010, I received my MSW/LMSW. While doing outpatient clinical work at the NYC non-profit agency JBFCS, I became an LCSW. In 2016, I began to establish my private psychotherapy practice, focusing on young and professional adults presenting with a broad variety of life challenges.
As a licensed psychologist, I help clients achieve their goals and overcome challenges through a collaborative and evidence-based approach. Using a culturally responsive cognitive behavior therapy framework, I create a safe space for self-exploration and making meaningful change. Working together, my clients have reported improved mood, relationships, and self-image. I have helped clients change unhelpful habits, adjust to life transitions, and reach their goals.
Hi, I’m Chamin!
I bring over 25 years of experience to my work with individuals, couples, and groups, helping them move from feeling overwhelmed to truly empowered. My expertise has led to regular media contributions on platforms like The TODAY Show and CBS Sunday Morning, and I am the author of Seeking Soulmate: Ditch the Dating Game and Find Real Connection. I founded Chamin Ajjan Psychotherapy to provide a warm, welcoming, and supportive space where clinical excellence meets compassionate care and a little pop culture when I can throw it in. We are the regional clinic for the National Social Anxiety Center providing evidence-based treatment that upholds the rigorous standards of the organization. I am dedicated to helping you navigate life's challenges with a collaboration rooted in deep experience and practical, effective tools.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in individual and couples therapy. I have over twenty years of experience working with a wide variety of clinical problems. I am most interested in working with individuals who are curious about themselves and who believe that they may find some relief from their struggles by examining their thoughts and feelings in the context of their relational history.



Headway makes it easy to get affordable in-network mental health care with Aetna — from finding the right therapist or psychiatrist, to understanding costs, to booking your first session.