MATEJA JAGODIC THERAPY
My Approach to Therapy
I believe that early and significant relationships in our lives shape how we perceive ourselves and relate to the world, and are therefore worth exploring.
Neurobiology confirms that our brain is intricately wired to facilitate relationships and connections with others from the very first moment of our lives- we mirror and imitate, adjust our responses and behaviors to secure other’s acceptance, and may suffer in the absence of welcoming and attuned relationships. In order to navigate complex relationships in our lives, we create an internal system of the world we are tasked with navigating - we create a “relational blueprint” that helps us navigate the world in a way that makes sense for and from our early experiences. But often times this “blueprint” doesn’t seem to work for the rough waters of adulthood - for big life transitions, traumatic events, relationships, disappointments, unknowns, etc. That’s why we often find ourselves disoriented and struggling to make sense of our experiences.
Therapy can be a space in which to explore this blueprint and begin to understand how particular past dynamics or experiences continue to impact the present reality, and which coping mechanisms may need to be changed.
Therapeutic Orientation
I primarily resonate with a relational psychodynamic model of therapy, also utilizing trauma theory, existential insights, attachment theory, and family systems as lenses to help my understanding and inform my listening.
I work with adult clients (individuals and couples) who are adjusting to significant life changes or events, are experiencing symptoms of depression and/or anxiety, or simply need more insight into their own functioning (motivation, conflict patterns, communication concerns, anger management, etc).
A Bit About Me
I received my Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology from The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, with a Concentration in Trauma and Abuse.
I am committed to providing trauma- informed care so safety and choice are of greatest priority. I am aware of power dynamics at play in our daily lives, am committed to recognizing my privilege and pursuing anti-oppressive work within my self and my practice.
My work as a therapist has been largely shaped by my own season of sitting in the client’s chair (well, couch), my experiences as an immigrant, and navigating rough waters of my own life.
Beyond my work, I love a good cup of coffee, roadtrips, spending hours by the water, and connecting with people (and pets) I hold dear.