The Meaning Behind BonaVita
The name BonaVita draws from the Latin words bona, meaning good, and vita, meaning life. Together, they reflect the concept of a good life—not as a life free from distress or adversity, but one characterized by meaning, connection, agency, and engagement with what matters most.
This philosophy is central to our approach to psychological treatment. We believe meaningful change extends beyond symptom reduction. Effective therapy can help individuals develop a deeper understanding of themselves, strengthen their relationships, navigate difficult emotions and experiences more effectively, and make choices that are increasingly aligned with their values.
In this sense, BonaVita reflects our belief that psychological health is not defined simply by the absence of symptoms, but by the capacity to engage more fully and intentionally in one’s life.
Our Approach
At BonaVita Psychology, we believe exceptional mental health care is both compassionate and grounded in science. Our mission is to provide individualized, evidence-based treatment utilizing Cognitive and Behavioral (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapies (DBT) that helps clients create meaningful, lasting change.
We primarily work with adolescents, adults, parents, and couples experiencing a broad range of emotional and interpersonal challenges, including including mood, anxiety, eating, and personality-related concerns, as well as those navigating significant life transitions, relationship difficulties, or other life stressors.
Our commitment to evidence-based practice means we use treatments that are supported by scientific research, stay current with the latest developments in clinical psychology, and routinely monitor treatment outcomes to ensure therapy is helping clients make meaningful progress toward their goals. We maintain fidelity to evidence-based treatments while taking a collaborative, personalized approach that reflects each client's unique needs, values, and goals. We believe effective care should be both personalized and accountable.
Above all, we strive to create a warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel understood, supported, and empowered to build a life worth living.
Meet The Team
Dr. Lauren Bonavitacola
Founder and Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Isabella Kahhale
Postdoctoral Clinician