Ivana Solar
Psychologist
Challenges and difficult moments inevitably arise in life. Feeling empowered and confident to overcome them and strengthening resilience are pivotal to sustainable mental well-being.
I specialise in:
About me
Hi! My name is Ivana, and I'm a psychologist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. I have a background in medical sciences, with a focus on neuroscience and psychology. I also have experience in film and television, having worked in the creative and production ends of the industry. I have a deep interest in narrative and its ability to shape emotional and lived experiences. This is one of the reasons why I believe that our experiences can shape our perceptions and that sharing our stories and reframing the narrative can lead to big, meaningful changes in how we perceive ourselves, others, and the world around us.
Alongside film and television, I have experience working with incarcerated young people, supporting them through behavioural rehabilitation for their reintegration into the community. My breadth of experience has taught me to keep an open mind when approaching problems, and to engage with clients with empathy and commitment to their goals and wellbeing.
Growing up in an immigrant household, I am familiar with the challenges and mental loads associated with displacement, identity struggles, and feelings of not belonging. Having lived in the Czech Republic, Australia, and the Netherlands, I also understand the challenges associated with adapting to new environments, languages, and cultures.
I approach my clients with a deep curiosity and respect for their individuality, experiences, and emotionality. It is sometimes challenging to hold space to unpack difficult experiences and emotions in our busy, demanding lives. I therefore aim to support my clients through their mental health journeys by creating a safe space for them and empowering them to be resilient and confident when faced with the realities of life’s challenges. I enjoy collaborating with my clients on their goals in a judgment-free space, where they can be their authentic selves without any expectations or demands.
I look forward to meeting you and working together on your journey to feeling more confident, resilient, and self-assured.
I speak:
Location:
Approach
My treatment approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and incorporates elements of DBT, ACT, mindfulness, and schema therapy. Our thoughts profoundly impact our emotions, and reframing unhelpful or dysfunctional thoughts can alter our emotional responses and improve well-being.
I use a client-centred approach and strive to help my clients feel empowered and confident in persevering through life’s inevitable, difficult moments. I approach my clients with a warm, friendly attitude, along with curiosity and eagerness to listen to and learn from them. Mental well-being doesn’t exist in a vacuum, so along with using evidence-based treatment techniques, I approach my clients holistically and with cultural sensitivity.
I believe that we all have unique attributes that we can harness to help us get through difficult moments in life, and sometimes we just need some guidance to realize them.
Experience
Clinical placement at The National Institute of Mental Health - Prague, Czech Republic
Youth justice support worker at the Department of Justice and Community Safety - Melbourne, Australia
Psychosocial support worker for oncological patients - Prague, Czech Republic
Volunteer at SOS Villages - Prague, Czech Republic, and across the former Yugoslav states.
Education
Master's of Clinical Psychology - Utrecht University, The Netherlands
Advanced Graduate Diploma of Psychology - Deakin University, Australia
Bachelor of Science - The University of Melbourne, Australia
- Pre-med with a focus on neuroscience and majoring in psychology
Bachelor of Arts - Amsterdam University College, The Netherlands
Services
Intro Call
Individual Session
Individual Session
Insurances
