We recently connected with Tugba Guven and have shared our conversation below.
Tugba , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
The greatest act of self-love is to no longer accept a life you are not happy with.” This quote became my mantra over the past year, echoing in my mind as I faced a growing sense of dissatisfaction, especially with my work life. I was deep in the corporate world, a world that drained me. As a therapist, I’m fully aware that change is inevitable, yet I found myself resisting the most important change: the one I needed to make in my own life.
Every morning, I woke up dreading the day ahead, knowing something needed to shift but unsure of how to make it happen. For years, I had been dreaming of traveling and taking time off to reset. But I knew that my current job would never allow me the freedom I craved. So, I made the difficult decision to quit, terrified that I might regret it once I returned. Little did I know that this journey would completely transform me.
During the months I traveled, I learned more than I ever expected—about myself, the world, and the endless possibilities that lay ahead. I immersed myself in different cultures, exploring how others live and cope. I also took part in an introductory art therapy program in Spain, discovering how art therapy can open doors to the subconscious and offer a unique form of treatment for mental health disorders. One of the most profound experiences was attending a devotional arts retreat in Poland, followed by a visit to family in Turkey. These moments of reflection, learning, and connection gave me the clarity I had been searching for.
When I finally returned to New York, I realized I was ready to start something new. I made the bold decision to open my own practice. It’s a journey that still fills me with nerves as I continue to grow, but whenever doubt creeps in, I think of my father. He immigrated to the U.S. at just 19 years old, not knowing any English, working in various restaurants until he eventually opened his own Turkish restaurant, which is still thriving today. If he could build something from nothing, I know I can, too.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I was studying speech pathology in college, following a path I thought was right, until one therapy session changed everything. I had sought therapy for academic stress, and during that very first session, I looked at my therapist and said, “I want to sit where you’re sitting. I want to be a therapist.” It was a powerful moment of clarity. That’s when I made the decision to change my major to psychology.
Looking back, I realize I was seeking to understand myself. As a second-generation Turkish American, I was constantly navigating two very different worlds—one rooted in individualism, where I’d often hear, “Do what’s best for you,” and another grounded in collectivism, where every decision I made had ripple effects on my family. This push and pull became central to my identity, and it’s why, in my practice, I focus on working with second-generation adult children of immigrants who face similar challenges.
Through my own healing journey, I also rediscovered the power of art. I’ve always loved arts and crafts, reading, writing, and visual expression. It wasn’t until I began exploring psychodrama that I saw how creativity could be used as a profound tool for healing. That experience changed my life, and I knew I wanted to build a practice where art is a central part of the therapeutic process. I believe creativity holds the power to transform, to heal, and to help us create the lives we envision for ourselves.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
For me, I’m realizing just how powerful social media can be in growing my clientele. I’ve been working on creating a sense of community there, though I’m still figuring out exactly how to make the most of it. But I’ve also seen the immense value of networking. I’ve been attending various workshops that align with my interests and have been connecting with other entrepreneurs, learning from their journeys.
Reaching out to other practitioners—doctors, psychiatrists, and other professionals—has been another effective strategy for gaining referrals. But what’s become really clear to me is the importance of showing up as my authentic self. By being fully myself, I’m finding that the right clients, those who are the best fit, are able to find me, and we’re able to do the meaningful work together.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
I think one of the key factors that helped build my reputation within my market was being truly honest with myself about what I could offer and who I am as a therapist. Niching down was a big part of that. I specialize in working with clients who face anxiety, depression, or trauma, particularly when it comes to relationships and family dynamics. I’ve focused on helping adult children of immigrants and individuals from Middle Eastern and Asian backgrounds because I understand firsthand how culture deeply influences our experiences.
By creating a space that acknowledges and respects those cultural complexities, I’ve been able to connect with clients who are seeking that level of understanding. I believe that by being honest with myself about my strengths and who I’m best suited to work with, I’m also being honest with the world. Instead of trying to work with everyone, I’m focused on those I can genuinely support, and that has been instrumental in shaping my practice.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Talkswithtea
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/tugba-guven-new-york-ny/1050185
