“The realization of one’s inner strengths and beauty serves to empower us to face the challenges of our daily lives and find a path to wellness. ”
Welcome!
Francesca is deeply committed to supporting individuals who are taking the courageous step to seek help. Whether clients are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, facing challenges in their relationships, or looking to deepen their connection with themselves, she offers compassionate guidance every step of the way.
In her work, Francesca creates a safe, non-judgmental space where clients’ thoughts, emotions, and experiences are met with care and understanding. She believes in nurturing both mind and body, helping clients restore balance and discover practical strategies to move toward greater clarity, connection, and fulfillment. Francesca approaches therapy with warmth, presence, and profound respect for each person’s unique journey.
Francesca’s Clinical Background
Service Locations
Westchester, NY - Pleasantville
Online in New York and New Jersey
Insurance Accepted
Aetna (including PPO, HMO, Meritain Health, 1199 SEIU National Benefits Fund and Aetna Student plans)
Wellfleet Student (NYU, School of Visual Arts, Sarah Lawrence College, etc.)
Northwell Direct
Out-Of-Network Benefits Reimbursement
Therapeutic Modalities
Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT)
Client Centered/Person Centered
Compassion Focused Therapy
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness-based Therapy
Clinical Expertise
Anxiety
Depression
Chronic Illness & Medical Conditions
Grief and Loss
Immigration
Parenting
Relational Issues
Trauma
Life Transitions
Client Focus
Adults & Older Adults
Couples
Working Professionals
Adolescents & Youth
Young Adults and Students
Immigrants
Parents
Education
Post Graduate Diploma -Social Work Administration, Hunter College
Master of Social Work, New York University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, State University of New York at Albany
Certifications and Training
Somatic Couples Therapy
Certified HIV Counselor
Identification and Reporting of Child Abuse and Maltreatment
Languages
English
Licenses
New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker
New Jersey (Telehealth) Licensed Clinical Social Worker
How Francesca Can Support You
With a background in psychotherapy and over 30 years of experience as a social worker in the healthcare industry, Francesca brings a broad and compassionate perspective to her work. She utilizes a holistic approach to support clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, many of whom are navigating grief, loss, and the need for empathy and strength during difficult times.
Francesca understands that anxiety and depression can deeply impact one’s experience of life, relationships, and inner peace. She recognizes the importance of nurturing the body, mind, and relationships to empower clients toward greater fulfillment. In a safe, non-judgmental space, Francesca collaborates with clients to develop strategies that foster balance, resilience, and peace.
Influences: my friends and family
Francesca’s Approach
Francesca views therapy as a collaborative journey to help clients reconnect with the meaningful aspects of life that may have been overshadowed by stress, anxiety, or depression. She provides a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can safely explore their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Francesca values the importance of building trust and rapport, recognizing that the therapeutic relationship itself is a powerful catalyst for growth and healing.
Grounded in a holistic perspective, Francesca believes healing begins by tending to both mind and body. She works to help clients cultivate balance, resilience, and clarity, guiding them toward greater presence, ease, and deeper connection with themselves and others. By integrating practical strategies with empathetic listening, Francesca empowers clients to develop tools they can use beyond the therapy room to enhance their overall well-being.
Rituals: daily walking, my yoga routine, tapping, dance
Why Work With Francesca?
Francesca understands how overwhelming and isolating life can feel when you’re facing challenges alone or caught in unhelpful patterns. She brings warmth, presence, and a deep respect for your unique story into every session, creating a space where you can be fully seen and heard. Her collaborative and compassionate approach means you’ll move at a pace that feels right for you, developing practical tools to manage everyday stresses while also allowing space for deeper healing and self-discovery.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself, Francesca is committed to helping you feel more grounded, empowered, and whole. Together, you’ll work toward reconnecting with your inner strength and the peace and fulfillment you deserve, building a foundation for lasting well-being and meaningful connection.
Library: Untangled (Lisa Damour), Becoming (Michelle Obama), Tuesdays with Morrie (Mitch Albom), Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety (Dr. John Duffy), The Power of Now (Eckhart Tolle)
About Francesca Bonavita
Francesca understands the complexities of life through her many roles as a daughter, mother, and partner. She believes that listening deeply, showing empathy, and practicing patience are key to fostering healthy and meaningful relationships. Francesca views the therapeutic relationship as a vital foundation for self-awareness, emotional health, and personal growth. She is dedicated to supporting clients on their journey toward healing and deeper connection.