PFV Counseling • Pierre Vilanoba, MA, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #116891
3468 Mt Diablo Blvd, Suite B201, Lafayette, CA 94549
I was born in Lille, France, and at the age of eleven went to boarding school in Paris to study ballet at the Paris Opera. After my schooling, I danced with the Paris Opera Ballet for many years before leaving France to join San Francisco Ballet, where I retired as principal dancer in 2013.
My affinity with psychology grew while I was earning my bachelor degree during the last years of my dancing career. Soon after graduating I joined the Masters Program in Counseling Psychology at the Wright Institute in Berkeley, while also teaching ballet to young dancers. This combination enhanced my desire to provide services to performing children, adolescents, and young adults, as well as professional-track athletes. I am fascinated by the intricate interactions between the physical, emotional, and psychological demands that artists and athletes alike are facing.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life endangering illness, and trauma. I am also working with youth with eating disorders. In addition to teaching classical ballet, I previously worked at La Cheim, an agency providing services to adults with severe mental illness. While at Le Cheim, I led a group which addressed suicidal ideation. My private practice is located in Lafayette, CA, and I am part of the Bay Area Psychotherapy Training Institute (BAPTI) community.
I strive to build trusting relationships with my clients and offer them a safe environment where they can express and explore their struggles, associated feelings, and gain insight.
M.A. Counseling Psychology
The Wright Institute
B.A. Performing Arts
Saint Mary's College
English
French (native)
Dancers, athletes, and performing artists are exposed to an array of challenges such as rejection, injury, negative self-image, and emotional and psychological abuse which can manifest in many different ways. Additionally, a career requiring high physical abilities is time limited. This early transition requires an adjustment that will be accompanied by a fear of the unknown, loss of identity, and self-esteem issues.
Having been a dancer in two internationally renowned ballet companies I have experienced those challenges. I can help you navigate those hurdles and help you gain insight that will allow you to achieve your goals.
I am committed to providing a space where you feel safe, respected, and truly heard. Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation for exploring and understanding the experiences that shape our lives. My goal is to create a warm, supportive environment that encourages insight, self-discovery, and personal growth.
While my work is grounded in a psychodynamic approach, I integrate evidence-based practices to address your unique needs and goals effectively. Together, we will work to develop coping strategies, deepen your self-awareness, and foster lasting change. My role is to walk beside you on this journey—helping you not only overcome challenges but also thrive and prepare for the future with confidence and clarity.
Sliding Fee Scale available: Please contact me to discuss how I can meet your needs within the range of my fee.
• Superbill provided for client submitted insurance claims
• 48 hour cancellation policy
