In-Person in Santa Monica, CA 90404
Online in California, Washington
As a feminist therapist, I help examine stressors experienced as a result of biases, oppression and discrimination. I love working with folks who want to dig deep into the disconnects they’re experiencing: where stress, anxiety, or overwhelm is causing them to feel out of balance. I will give you the tools to take control of your life and uncover who you truly are, so you can resurface empowered and confident and live authentically.
Client Focus
Session Format: Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Senior, Young Adult
Demographic Expertise: LGBTQ+, Women clients.
Languages: English
Treatment Approach
- Biopsychosocial
- Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
- Compassion Focus Therapy
- Eclectic
- EMDR
- Feminist
- Person-Centered
- Psychodynamic
Approach Description: As a system focused, feminist therapist I specialize in helping high-functioning and introspective folks struggling with loss of identity due to the impacts of disempowering societal, cultural, and political causes. I will call out the stressors in your life caused by the things you can’t control and help you explore how childhood and intergenerational trauma, capitalism, the patriarchy, and institutional oppression impact you and your mental health.
Education & Credentials
Michelle Parrella LCSW
- Female
- License # 26719
- Licensed in CA
- Practicing Since 2015
Education: University of Riverside, Bachelor of Psychology - 2001
California State University Long Beach, Master of Social Work - 2003
Thesis: Perceived Effects on Intimate and Peer Relationships of Adult Children of Lesbians
Finances
Fees
- Average Session Fee $250
- Affordable sliding scale therapy: apply if you may be eligible.
- I have a limited number of reduced fee openings for clients who are seeking a therapist and are interested in working with me. If you are one of those clients, please contact me to explore further
- Out of Network
Michelle Parrella Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in Santa Monica, CA 90404
- Available Online for residents of California, Washington
- Online Therapy Details: All virtual sessions are hosted via a HIPAA secure platform
You want to stop feeling empty and disconnected. You want to feel comfortable in your own skin and live with purpose. You want to better understand yourself and your feelings and learn skills to break through this stalemate. You’re yearning to feel comfortable in your own skin, live with purpose and build more meaningful connections. Everything feels so big, you feel isolated and you’ve been feeling this way for far too long. It’s hard to find happiness in day-to-day life amid feelings of anxiety or burnout.
Understanding and loving yourself takes work, and asserting your identity can feel overwhelming. You deserve support from someone who truly gets it - someone who can give you concrete tools to flip the scripts, manage stress, reduce your anxiety and help uncover your authentic self. I provide empowering counseling for women, LGBTQ+, and survivors of suicide loss. Together we'll examine the narratives and behaviors preventing you from being your greatest self, identify your strengths and cultivate the insight you need to live your best and most authentic life.