Psychotherapy Practice – Michelle L. Bakalarski, LMFT
Located at 2425 Porter Street in Soquel, California, Michelle L. Bakalarski operates an individual psychotherapy practice with a mailing address at 7960 Soquel Drive, Suite B393, in Aptos, CA. She holds a California Marriage and Family Therapist license number 152843 and EMDRIA Certification, reflecting specialized training in trauma-informed and somatic therapeutic approaches. She also holds a Certified Trauma Professional designation.
The practice offers an integrative clinical approach that combines EMDR with Somatic Internal Family Systems, known as IFS. This integration is framed around neurodiversity-affirming care and trauma-informed practice. The stated clinical focus is on clients who feel stuck in their therapeutic progress or are experiencing difficulties that prior treatment has not resolved.
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a structured therapy approach recognized for work with trauma and distressing memories. IFS is a model that engages distinct internal parts of a person’s psychological experience. The combination of these approaches within a somatic framework reflects the practice’s orientation toward working with both the body and the mind.
Individual therapy sessions are available both in person at the Soquel office and via telehealth for California residents. Prospective clients can schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation before committing to ongoing sessions. This consultation is offered as an initial step to determine whether the therapeutic approach and the prospective client are a good match.
Bakalarski’s background includes previous professional experience in business and time working as a stay-at-home parent prior to her transition into mental health practice. This varied personal history informs how she describes her work with clients navigating complex personal and professional changes.
The practice accepts multiple forms of payment, though specific insurance plans are not named on the homepage. Prospective clients are encouraged to contact the practice directly for coverage and billing information.
The office phone is (831) 251-4922. Email contact is michelle@mlbpsychotherapy.com.