Alexandra Calestini , LCSW

Alexandra Calestini is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in New York with 12 years of clinical experience supporting people through stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief while helping them strengthen self-esteem and self-compassion. She brings a down-to-earth, authentic approach that centers respect, empathy, and cultural awareness, and she prioritizes creating a non-judgmental environment where people can explore change and growth.

Her work integrates several evidence-informed methods, including client-centered techniques, cognitive behavioral strategies, dialectical behavior skills, mindfulness practices, and motivational interviewing to tailor care to each person’s goals. Alexandra focuses on practical tools as well as emotional processing so clients can build confidence, cope with difficult emotions, and move toward greater wellbeing.

She addresses a wide range of concerns beyond core specialties, including abandonment and attachment issues, body image and caregiver stress, co-morbidity and codependency, communication and control difficulties, dependent personality and dissociation, divorce and separation, domestic violence, family challenges, forgiveness work, and gender dysphoria. Alexandra emphasizes collaboration and empowerment, guiding people through the courageous work of change in a welcoming therapeutic space.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care with Alexandra Calestini

Alexandra Calestini draws on client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to guide her online practice. Client-centered therapy emphasizes a supportive, non-judgmental relationship and helps people explore their values, strengths, and goals while feeling heard and respected. CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, offering practical tools for anxiety, depression, and stress. DBT teaches skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and healthier interpersonal interaction, which can be especially useful for managing intense emotions and relationship difficulties.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Alexandra works with each person to assess their needs, preferences, and goals, and then tailors techniques from these approaches to find the best fit over time. This allows therapy to evolve as progress is made and new challenges arise.

Online therapy with licensed professionals offers flexible options such as video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, making it easier to access support around work, caregiving, or geographic limitations. These formats allow consistent, timely care while enabling therapists and clients to focus on practical strategies and emotional growth from the setting that works best for them.