Jirina Zahradnickova

My name is Jirina Zahradnickova and I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist (PsyD) based in California working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults who are seeking tools to manage life challenges ranging from job stress, infertility, health, anxiety, depression, or simple to complex trauma. My approach is eclectic using a strength-based approach, relational, cognitive behavioral, narrative, mind, body, and spiritual approaches to help my clients feel better and thrive.

My approach

My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. Initially, I like to hear from each client what types of therapies they have participated in, what was helpful and what was not helpful. I'd like to understand each client's short- and long-term goals for themselves. I like using Cognitive Behavioral approach to help me to understand each client's perspective and reality so that together we can have a clear understanding of their present reality and how we may work together to achieve their goal(s).

My focus

I have found that my approach is a good fit for adults who want to take an active role in creating the best possible life for themselves and understand that life is about learning and growing from challenges encountered in everyday life and even from major life altering experiences. I find that an eclectic approach allows me to be flexible in meeting my client's needs whether a person is dealing with job stress, depression, infertility, or trauma because the expression of these issues is a unique experience for each client.

My communication style

Safety. Compassion. Curiosity. Humor. My goal is to create a safe environment where open communication can take place. I believe this is achievable by embodying curiosity about each client's reality and employing compassion for the human condition and struggles. Enlisting humor, when appropriate, is icing on the cake. My communication style is personable, clear, and collaborative.

My journey to mental healthcare

My first exposure to the counseling profession was in high school with my academic and career counselor who was instrumental in guiding me academically which in turn motivated me to make good choices. I decided that I wanted to do that for others because I wanted a job that made a difference. I enjoy earning money, making a difference in people's lives. I love hearing about the meaningful changes clients make on their journey to create a life that brings meaning to them.

My goals for you

My approach to setting goals with each of my clients is collaborative in defining what it is that each client wants to accomplish in our time together. In the beginning, it is important to build trust and get comfortable with what it means to be in therapy. Next is working together to identify short- and long-term goals that best serve each client's circumstances and mapping out how to achieve them.

My first session with you

What you may expect during our first session together is for us to spend the majority of the time talking about what has brought you to therapy, how you have been feeling recently and me asking questions to help me better understand some of why you may be feeling that way. In the first session, I also need to communicate my ethical responsibility to you. The initial session is about creating a connection and helping me to get a sense of where we should go from there to address your concerns. Each client is unique, and I like to listen first rather than assume I know what is best for you in moving forward.