Investing time in yourself is an investment worth making
Piedmont Psychotherapy is a premier mental health practice located in the heart of Oakland, California. Our team of dedicated and experienced therapists, led by Jen Valera, LCSW, is committed to providing compassionate and effective psychotherapy services to individuals and families in the East Bay area.
Our Services
At Piedmont Psychotherapy, we offer a wide range of psychotherapy services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Our services include individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. We specialize in a variety of evidence-based practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy.
Our therapists are trained to work with clients facing a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions. We are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and work towards healing and growth.
Individual Therapy
Our individual therapy sessions provide a confidential and supportive space for clients to work through their unique challenges and goals. During individual therapy sessions, clients can expect to build a trusting and collaborative relationship with their therapist, who will help them explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a non-judgmental and accepting environment. Our therapists utilize evidence-based practices to help clients develop healthy coping strategies, enhance their self-awareness, and cultivate resilience.
Couples Therapy
Couples therapy provides a safe and supportive space for couples to explore their relationship dynamics and work towards strengthening their connection. Our therapists utilize evidence-based practices, such as emotion-focused therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, to help couples identify and address patterns of conflict, enhance communication skills, and deepen their emotional connection.
Family Therapy
Family therapy is a collaborative approach that involves the entire family system in the therapeutic process. Our therapists work with families to identify and address patterns of interaction that may be contributing to family conflict or disconnection. By exploring the unique perspectives and needs of each family member, our therapists help families build stronger connections and develop healthy communication patterns.
Group Therapy
Group therapy offers clients the opportunity to connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges and experiences. Our group therapy sessions are led by experienced therapists who facilitate discussions and activities to help group members develop healthy coping strategies, increase self-awareness, and build social support.
At Piedmont Psychotherapy, we believe that therapy is an investment in oneself. Our team of therapists is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to help clients achieve their mental health goals and live fulfilling lives.
Our Team
Our team of therapists at Piedmont Psychotherapy is comprised of highly trained and experienced clinicians, each with their unique areas of expertise. Our therapists hold advanced degrees in psychology, social work, or related fields, and are licensed by the state of California. We are committed to ongoing professional development and utilize evidence-based practices to provide the highest quality of care.
Jen Valera, LCSW
Jen Valera, LCSW, is the founder and clinical director of Piedmont Psychotherapy. She is a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Jen specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a holistic and integrative approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy.
Eleanor Wohlfeiler, MFT
Eleanor Wohlfeiler, MFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 10 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Eleanor specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a collaborative and strength-based approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and attachment theory.
Madhu Marchesini, LCSW
Madhu Marchesini, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Madhu specializes in treating depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a holistic and integrative approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy.
Emily Semow, PsyD
Emily Semow, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals and families. Emily specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a collaborative and strength-based approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness.
Sarah Campbell, MFT
Sarah Campbell, MFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 5 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Sarah specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a holistic and integrative approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy.
Laura Matthews, LCSW
Laura Matthews, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Laura specializes in treating trauma, depression, and relationship issues. She utilizes a holistic and integrative approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy.
May Chao Heller, LCSW
May Chao Heller, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. May specializes in treating depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a holistic and integrative approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy.
Olisha Hodges, LCSW
Olisha Hodges, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Olisha specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a collaborative and strength-based approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and attachment theory.
Lena Nathanson, MFT
Lena Nathanson, MFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 5 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals and families. Lena specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a holistic and integrative approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy.
Cassidy Smith, MFT
Cassidy Smith, MFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 5 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals and families. Cassidy specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a holistic and integrative approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy.
Vanessa Hernandez, MFT
Vanessa Hernandez, MFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 5 years of experience providing psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Vanessa specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. She utilizes a collaborative and strength-based approach, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and attachment theory.
Conclusion
At Piedmont Psychotherapy, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care to help our clients achieve their mental health goals. Our team of experienced therapists is committed to creating a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and work towards healing and growth. We believe that therapy is an investment in oneself, and we are honored to be a part of our clients' journeys towards mental well-being.
Exceptional Therapy Experience
Overcoming Severe Depression and Suicidal Thoughts
The reviewer, Isabella Dow, shares her incredible journey of overcoming severe depression and suicidal thoughts with the help of Jennifer, a therapist. Isabella's struggle with mental health issues had been ongoing for some time, with two previous therapists and online therapists failing to provide her with the necessary support.
Identifying the Root Cause
Jennifer's approach stood out from the beginning, as she delved deeper into Isabella's past, uncovering the root cause of her emotional pain. Through intense sessions, they explored how Isabella's upbringing and her parents' inability to express emotions healthily had contributed to her feelings of worthlessness and suicide.
Gratitude and Progress
Isabella is deeply grateful to Jennifer for helping her pinpoint and address the underlying issues, rather than just treating the symptoms. This breakthrough has been life-changing for Isabella, and she credits Jennifer for her progress.

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