Cynical Psychotherapy

Khana Kleyn, MS, LMHC, is a mental health care provider specializing in logotherapy and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) at Cynical Psychotherapy in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City.

Khana hails from Russia, Colorado and New York. She has an excellent sense of humor that is counterbalanced with her deep, existential views on life and life’s processes.  

Khana holds a master’s degree in industrial psychology from Brooklyn College, as well as a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University, C.W. Post. 

Khana specializes in trauma processing, attention disorders, grief counseling, chronic illness support, and family (marriage/divorce/co-parenting) therapy. Khana is experienced and very comfortable working with survivors of emotional, sexual and physical violence, as well as those recovering from narcissistic relationships. 

Khana is qualified to provide evaluations and letters for various communal/career needs. Mental health can affect all areas of life, and Khana is skilled in identifying what is stopping individuals from progressing to the next stage in their careers and personal lives.  

Khana’s approach to therapy is to create organic dialogue and genuine trust between therapist and patient. Khana excels in person-centered, active listening, as well as validation for the extreme suffering we humans endure throughout our lives. After exploring the components that make up an individual, and when the patient feels safe and heard, Khana guides the patient gently and carefully in the rewriting of their life narratives to a place of strength and resilience.

Khana uses an eclectic mixture of modalities, including DBT (helping individuals rediscover the value in themselves), logotherapy (finding purpose and meaning in one’s experiences, both negative and positive), as well as CBT. Khana has also undergone extensive clinical training with the underprivileged/high-risk population. 

Khana is diagnosed with ADHD herself, suffers from chronic illness, and has been married for almost two decades. She is the proud mother of three children. Khana’s range of life experiences helps her view the patients’ world through a realistic lens and with sincere empathy. Khana works with people of all ages and backgrounds.

In her free time, Khana enjoys watching documentaries and starting new hobbies.

With a strong background in school social work and neurodivergence, I bring a unique perspective to my therapeutic process. It is vital to me to build a strong and genuine connection with all of my patients.

Using an eclectic collection of therapeutic modalities, I address each individual’s distinct needs and goals. My goal is to empower you to overcome challenges and more importantly, spark positive, lasting energy and passion for your life.

I am excellent at working with individuals of all ages, with a specialty in children. I am very adept at advocating for my client, by working with parents and schools to ensure the patient’s needs are being addressed fully.

Most importantly, I provide a warm, empathetic, and professional environment where clients feel unconditionally understood, safe and supported on their journey to well-being.

Carmen Torres is a psychotherapist dedicated to providing compassionate, culturally responsive care to children, adolescents, and young adults. 

Carmen holds a BA in Psychology, MA in Mental Health Counseling, and an Advanced Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders from Brooklyn College. Carmen is currently finishing an Advanced Certificate in Play Therapy to further enhance her work with children and neurodivergent individuals. 

At the very heart of Carmen's work is the belief that true healing and real growth occur through meaningful connection. Her goal is to create an authentic and supportive therapeutic space where clients feel safe to explore their experiences, develop a sense of self, and build upon their strengths. 

Carmen has a particular passion for working with the neurodiverse community, especially individuals on the Autism Spectrum, providing them with a tailored approach that meets their unique needs. Through her work, she aims to create an inclusive space where clients can feel safe and heard. 

Carmen facilitates in-person social skills, art and play based groups for children and teens on the autism spectrum, integrating play and creative expression to support social, emotional, and developmental growth. 

In her free time, Carmen loves to do various artistic ventures. She has been a fan of Bob Ross from a young age. 

I grew up in a town called Wappingers Falls (right outside of Poughkeepsie.) My interest in mental health began at an early age. I had the privilege to grow up alongside my younger sister, who has cerebral palsy. I was always curious about how she experienced the world—what felt different for her, what she needed and wanted socially, and how I could help her navigate environments that were not designed with her in mind.

Alongside my burgeoning psychological curiosity, I adapted a natural caregiving role in my family, as well as community. I spent much of my younger years involved in caring for my siblings and other children in my neighborhood. These experiences deepened my interest in how people develop, communicate, cope, and connect with others.

My fascination with psychology, as well as my longstanding commitment to caring for others led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology. I attended school in Albany for graduate school, and relocated to New York City to deepen my clinical training.

I am especially drawn to understanding the essence of the human experience from the inside—the way history, society, and individuality shape someone’s life.

I enjoy swimming and reading. My favorite author is Paul Auster (who was a Brooklyn resident himself.)