Licensed to practice in 2 states and accepts 34 insurances. Specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders and 6 more.

Frances Pagnotta

(she/her)

LCSW, 34 years of experience

Clients say this provider is

Open-minded
Authentic
Warm
VirtualAvailable

About me

Welcome. I'm glad you're here. I offer a warm, open, and intentional space where healing begins. I support clients facing anxiety, depression, relational issues, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm with empathy, care, and support. I typically work with individuals feeling stuck, whether in patterns of anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles- who are seeking support and change. I combine insight-oriented and evidence-based methods, drawing from psychodynamic, interpersonal, and cognitive behavioral frameworks. I aim to help clients explore deep emotional and relationship patterns, while also providing practical tools to address current challenges and foster growth.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

In our first session, I'll take the time to get to know you and what brings you to therapy. We'll talk about your goals, what you'd like to change, and any challenges you've been carrying. I'll also answer questions you might have so you can feel comfortable with the process. My focus is on creating a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and where you can share openly at your own pace. Together we'll begin to shape a path forward that feels right for you.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I bring a warm, genuine, clear, and collaborative communication style. I listen deeply, reflect on what I hear, and respond with true understanding. Clients often describe feeling safe, seen, and accepted as they share without judgment, allowing exploration into their inner world with clarity and compassion. I believe that the most meaningful goals are created with clients, not for them. I help break intentions into realistic, achievable steps, while always honoring the client's pace and personal values. I'll regularly revisit goals with my clients to reflect progress, celebrate strengths, and adjust as life evolves.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

My ideal client is someone who feels stuck in patterns of anxiety, sadness, or relationship struggles and is looking for support to make lasting changes. They want to better understand themselves, improve their connections with others, and find more balance and peace in their daily lives.

Specialties

Top specialties

Anxiety

Depression

Other specialties

Bipolar Disorder

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Self Esteem

Identifies as

Serves ages

Location

Virtual

My treatment methods

Psychodynamic

I use a psychodynamic approach to help my clients understand how past experiences shape present struggles. Together we explore patterns in thoughts and relationships, building insight that supports growth, healing, and more fulfilling connections.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I utilize CBT to help my clients recognize unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with healthier, more balanced ways of thinking. Together, we focus on practical skills and strategies that reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, while building resilience and confidence in daily life.

Couples Counseling

In couples therapy, I help partners improve communication, build understanding, and strengthen their bond. Together, we work through challenges and create healthier ways of relating to support a more secure relationship.

Compassion Focused

I utilize this type of therapy to help my clients build self-compassion, reduce harsh self-criticism, and feel more at peace with themselves. In our work together, we'll use mindfulness and compassion based strategies to quiet the inner critic and create space for healing.

Attachment-based

In attachment-based therapy, I help my clients explore how early relationships shape their current patterns of connection and trust. Together, we work on building healthier attachments, fostering security, and creating more fulfilling relationships.

, 7 ratings

1 rating with written reviews

March 11, 2026

I really feel Frances "sees" me. I never feel judged or like I have to sugar coat my feelings. What I appreciate the most is that she reminds me that the work I am doing on myself is a process. Some days I feel as though I have made great decisions, and others I feel as though I haven't...and Frances has taught me that each type of day is just as important to my growth and the work I'm doing on myself. I'm really grateful for her knowledge, perspective, and guidance.

Verified client, age 35-44
Review shared after session 8 with Frances