Frances Pagnotta
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 guide clients through a strength- based approach, helping them recognize their own resilience and capabilities so they can build practical solutions from a place of confidence.
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.
First session
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.
Strengths
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.
Ideal clients
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.
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.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 115919
- New JerseyLicense 44SC05382400