Dr. Marcela Bonafina

I offer specialized, expert-led treatment for individuals seeking a level of care beyond general therapy. My work focuses on PNES, functional neurological disorders (FND), and complex trauma at the intersection of neurology and psychology.

Many I work with have pursued prior treatment without resolution and are now seeking a more precise, sophisticated approach. I also work with high-functioning individuals navigating internal strain—perfectionism, complex relational patterns, and decision-making challenges—who are ready for deeper, more rigorous work.

My approach is structured, focused, and grounded in neuropsychology and evidence-based methods, including CBT (with exposure), somatic awareness, and depth-oriented psychotherapy. This is a deliberate, high-level process designed to reduce symptoms, restore clarity and control, and support lasting transformation.

I maintain a limited caseload to ensure depth, continuity, and a high standard of care.

I do not offer couple's therapy through Headway.

INDIVIDUAL PSYCHOTHERAPY

Initial Phase

We begin with a careful, in-depth understanding of your experience—your history, current symptoms, and the patterns that feel most persistent or unclear. From the outset, we establish a structured framework to guide the work.

Stabilization and Capacity Building

Early work focuses on developing internal stability. This may include regulating physiological responses, pacing the process, and strengthening your ability to tolerate and work through discomfort—creating the conditions for deeper change.

Focused Exploration

We examine underlying patterns across thoughts, emotions, relationships, and behavior. This includes identifying protective responses, unresolved experiences, and aspects of yourself that may have remained unintegrated.

Integration and Change

As clarity increases, we work toward integrating these elements into a more coherent and flexible internal structure, while building practical strategies to reduce symptoms and improve functioning.

A Deliberate Process

Progress is often nonlinear. Over time, the work leads to greater clarity, improved regulation, and a more stable, grounded sense of self.

Why This Work

I bring an integrated clinical and neuropsychological perspective, with training in trauma, neuroscience, and evidence-based psychotherapy. My approach is structured, precise, and individualized—designed for complex presentations that require more than general therapy.

I work collaboratively and with intention, maintaining a focused process aimed at meaningful, lasting psychological change.

I do not offer couple's therapy through Headway.

The initial session is focused on developing a clear and thoughtful understanding of your situation. We will review what brings you in, your current symptoms, and relevant aspects of your history, including medical, psychological, and relational factors.

This is a structured yet collaborative process. I will ask targeted questions to clarify patterns and begin forming a clinical framework that guides treatment. We will also discuss goals, expectations, and whether this approach is the right fit for you.

There is no expectation to “have everything figured out.” The first session is about clarity, direction, and establishing a working foundation for meaningful change.

I do not offer couple's therapy through Headway.