Zalak Desai, MHC-LP
Session Rates and Insurance Info
Clinician is In-Network with Northwell and Aetna insurance plans
$120 per session for Individual therapy (For Out-of-Network clients only)
Areas of Focus
Anxiety, Depression, Cultural Identity, Relationships, Family Issues, Trauma, PTSD, Anger, Life Transitions, Sex Addiction, BIPOC Mental Health
Key information:
License: New York
Treats: Individuals
Ages: 15 years old and above
Language: English, Hindi, Gujarati
Office Hours: Mon-Sat: Mornings, Afternoons, Evenings
ABOUT Zalak Desai
Zalak Desai is a Mental Health Counselor who works with Individuals to address a range of emotional and relational challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and questions of identity and belonging. She creates a collaborative, culturally attuned space where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.
Zalak’s therapeutic style is warm, culturally responsive, and grounded in evidence-based practices. She integrates approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), mindfulness, and attachment-based theory, tailoring treatment to meet each client’s unique goals. She earned her Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from New York University.
Zalak brings particular passion and sensitivity to working with people of color, immigrants, and those exploring the layered complexities of cultural identity. She also supports couples in rebuilding trust, deepening emotional connection, and developing healthier communication patterns by helping them move from disconnection toward greater intimacy and mutual understanding.
Faq
What should I expect from my first therapy session?
During your first session, your therapist will ask you questions to get to know you and understand your reasons for coming to therapy. Your therapist will want to learn about your history, what’s going on with you now, and learn about what you want to get out of therapy. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask them questions about how therapy works so you know what to expect.
How long will I be in therapy for?
The amount of time therapy takes is different for each person. If you’re dealing with a short-term stressor that you want resolved, that will typically take less time than a problem you’ve been dealing with for a long while. For some, therapy is short-term, taking just a few months until they are satisfied with their progress. For others, therapy will become a part of their routine, helping them manage ongoing concerns in their life and having a safe outlet for them to explore themselves, their patterns, and understand themselves on a deeper level.
Virtual therapy: How does it work?
With the rise in virtual therapy, it makes sense to want to know more about how it works. Research shows that virtual therapy has the same benefits as therapy that takes place face-to-face. Virtual therapy is an effective way to fit therapy into your busy schedule, as it allows you to talk to your therapist in the comfort of your own home. With virtual therapy, you avoid the hurdles that can happen with face-to-face appointments, such as scheduling conflicts, traffic, and travel time. In order to make the most of your virtual session, meet with your therapist in a private space in your home and have a good internet connection.
How do I pick the right therapist for me?
You’ve decided to take that next step and start therapy, and it can feel overwhelming to decide on a therapist. That’s why we offer a complimentary consultation call with a Looking Glass Intake Coordinator to help you make an informed choice. Every therapist has different strengths and styles that they bring to sessions. When you are in the process of selecting a therapist, talk to your coordinator about what you want to get out of therapy so you can rest assured that you are matched with the right person for you. After all, therapy is all about creating a space where you feel comfortable to open up, so finding a therapist that you click with is the first step on your journey!
How do I know if therapy is working?
Starting from your first session, you and your therapist will talk about what you want to get out of therapy. You may come in with a very specific goal or you may use therapy as a space to talk about ongoing events in your life. Regardless of your therapy goals, your therapist will create a comfortable space for you to talk about how therapy is going so you are both on the same page about the process. Ultimately, you will get more out of therapy if you are willing to put more into it. Growth takes place when you are willing to reflect on yourself and take what you are learning during sessions out into the world with you. Below are a few signs of progress that clients typically note:
- You start noticing that your symptoms (anxiety, depression, panic attacks, etc.) are less frequent or intense than before.
- You’re able to function better at work, school, or in your personal relationships.
- You start to find that you have a better understanding of yourself, your feelings, and your behaviors. You’ve gained insights and are making connections that you didn’t make before.
- You might be using new coping skills that you’ve learned in therapy and they’re helping in your daily life.
- People close to you may tell you that they have noticed positive changes.
Do you accept my health insurance?
Looking Glass Psychology is Out-of-Network with health insurances. If you have an Out-of-Network or PPO insurance plan, your insurance will refund a large portion of each session, as long as you have met your Out-of-Network deductible. After each appointment, we’ll supply you with a receipt called a superbill or reimbursement form. To submit for a partial refund, simply log into your health insurance portal to enter the information listed on your superbill. If you have an Out-of-Network plan and have met your Out-of-Network deductible, your health plan will mail the partial refund in the form of a check to your home a few weeks after each appointment.
Questions? Email info@LookingGlassNYC.com or chat with us live during business hours by clicking the “Message Us” button on this page.
Questions? Email info@LookingGlassNYC.com or chat with us live during business hours by clicking the “Message Us” button on this page.
When can I book an appointment with you?
Your appointment request is our top priority, so we’ll get you on the schedule as soon as possible – no waitlists, and no hassle. Many of our clinicians offer both in-person and video appointments in the early morning, afternoon, late evening, or even weekends.
To request an appointment, click the following link: https://LookingGlassNYC.ClientSecure.Me
Prefer to chat with us live on our encrypted and secure client messaging app, Klara? Click the “Message Us” button on this page or text (646)350-2202 during business hours to start the conversation. App installation is not required to chat with us through Klara.
To request an appointment, click the following link: https://LookingGlassNYC.ClientSecure.Me
Prefer to chat with us live on our encrypted and secure client messaging app, Klara? Click the “Message Us” button on this page or text (646)350-2202 during business hours to start the conversation. App installation is not required to chat with us through Klara.
How quickly can I expect a response after submitting the contact form?
We understand the importance of timely communication, especially when it comes to mental health services. Our team endeavors to respond to all inquiries as quickly as possible, typically within one business day. If you reach out over the weekend or during a holiday, you can expect a response on the next business day.
Is the information I provide in the contact form confidential?
Absolutely. Your privacy and confidentiality are paramount to us. The information you provide in the contact form is securely transmitted and handled with the utmost care and discretion. It will only be used to respond to your inquiry and to provide you with the information or services you have requested.
What states and cities does Looking Glass Psychology provide therapy in?
Looking Glass Psychology is based in New York and provides in-person and virtual therapy services across the state of New York and in New York City. This flexibility allows us to cater to clients who prefer the convenience of remote therapy due to distance, mobility, or scheduling constraints. Contact Looking Glass NYC today to learn about how to get started with our therapy services.
Here for you
Conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, a couple blocks away from Grand Central Station, we are serving clients across New York City.