Living Stories is owned and operated by Jessica Ignjic. Jess holds a Masters in Social Work, is AASW Mental Health accredited and has over 15 years’ experience working with a diversity of people with a broad range of needs. She has worked in an extensive range of areas including domestic and family violence, parenting, child protection, young people, drug and alcohol, mental health and specialist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing.

Jess is an experienced counsellor however also has extensive experience in areas such as management, leadership, community development and senior practice which gives her a broad depth of knowledge and awareness. With strong values and commitment to social justice and human rights, Jess works in a way that is accountable and ethical.

Jess employs a person-centred approach to practice; supporting people to find meaning in their own unique stories and re-author a narrative that is meaningful and empowering. Jess recognises people as the expert in their own life and draws on strengths-based modalities. Jess specialises in several theoretically informed practice models including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Ego State Therapy (based on the theory of structural disassociation of the personality), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing.  Jess has undertaken training in Gottman’s Research Based Relationship Counselling and incorporates Focused Psychological Strategies with research based relational interventions. 

Aside from her role as a counsellor, she also works in a private capacity as a Social Work Consultant providing a range of contractual work to government, non-government and private agencies.

Jess can provide counselling services in a broad range of areas which includes but is not exclusive to:

  • Family and relationship issues
  • Couples
  • Parenting
  • Workplace challenges
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Identity and self-compassion
  • Trauma and life events
  • Drug and alcohol issues
  • Domestic and family violence
  • Anger management