If you’re committed to digging deep and taking action, this is the therapy practice you've been searching for.

Counseling in Santa Monica, Ca

Specialized Therapy for High-Achieving Women & Trauma Survivors

- Michelle Parrella, lcsw

I know how important it is to feel seen and supported during your healing journey. My approach is both professional and deeply personal. I’ll hold you accountable, challenge you when needed, and offer the compassion and guidance you deserve. Whether we’re meeting in person or online, I’m committed to helping you create meaningful change in your life.

Gain Clarity, Build Confidence, and Live the Life You Want

I'm here to help you navigate through the confusion, so you can focus on what you do best

Treatments & Specialties

Have Questions?

Grief from losing a loved one to suicide is uniquely complex, and it can feel impossible to navigate alone. This therapy provides a compassionate space to process your feelings, honor your loss, and find a way forward. Together, we’ll work to rebuild hope and create space for healing, one step at a time.


survivors of suicide loss therapy

Whether you’re working through trauma, stress, or identity challenges, Individual therapy blends traditional talk therapy with action-oriented techniques to help you better understand yourself, manage anxiety or stress, and create meaningful change in your life. Together, we’ll work on building the tools you need to live with more balance and confidence.

Individual therapy

Change doesn’t have to take forever. With ART, you can experience relief from phobias, trauma, or overwhelming emotions in as few as 1–5 sessions. This powerful, eye-movement-based therapy is ideal for busy schedules or those seeking immediate results without sacrificing depth.


Accelerated resolution therapy (ART)

Imagine making months of progress in just a few days. EMDR Intensives are a focused approach to addressing trauma, anxiety, or emotional blocks that hold you back. With personalized attention and targeted sessions, you’ll leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more empowered to move forward. Perfect for those who want deep, transformative results without the wait.


EMDR Intensives

Rebecca D.

Michelle’s responses, insight, and recommendations are always very forward thinking and realistic. Even if it’s “I totally hear what you’re saying. But one thing I thought of was while you were talking was… or what it we looked at it from this perspective…” helping hold up a no judgement but productive mirror.

"Michelle is a great active listener, empathetic, non judgmental, and responds like a real human and not a therapy robot."

Colleague and therapist
Katrin K.

Someone who will support you and cheer you on, but also call you out when you are getting in your own way. She has a way of really listening deeply and asking the right questions at the right time. Therapists aren’t mind-readers, but Michelle is about as close as you can get. She is smart and intuitive and really dedicated to her clients.

"Michelle is like the wise best friend you wish you had."

SS

Michelle seems to get to the point without all the skirting around. Michelle can smell bullshit pretty quickly and really gets to the root of people.

"What I appreciate in a therapist is someone direct, not awkward or shy with me, and honest."

Caroll G.

She gives good insight and it's refreshing to hear a different perspective when I can't get out of my own headspace of stubbornness. I am incredibly grateful for her guidance and would highly recommend her to anyone seeking a compassionate and skilled therapist.

"When I talk with Michelle, I feel empowered and supported."

Coaching client
Georgiana A.

She is both professional and warm, she listens intently and gives you a wealth of knowledge that you can take and use in your life. She makes you feel empowered to make positive change. I highly recommend her, for anyone who is seeking help.

"Michelle has the gift of a true healer."

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