How do you work with clients with bipolar disorder?
I typically use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy alongside watching patterns of behaviors, moods, or episodes. I pay attention to the intensity and the duration and frequency of an episode. We work together on reframing negative thoughts, utilize de-escalation techniques to help when feeling overwhelmed, and motivation techniques were needed.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Ana Alicia Potthast, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with extensive experience and training in behavioral health, diagnostics, addiction, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault, maternity and fertility issues, grief and loss, hoarding, family dynamics and conflict, marital issues, sexual orientation and gender identification and expression, adjustment issues, stages in life, and many other situations that bring a client to seek counseling.
I provide a collaborative and open approach therapeutic style, without any judgment to each client's unique situation. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I have a passion for assisting client's to reach their full potential and treatment goals.
I obtained an Associate of Applied Science in American Sign Language from San Antonio College in San Antonio, TX, and then graduated with a Bachelor and Master of Social Work from Texas State University in San Marcos, TX, before obtaining a Doctor of Social Work from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, California.
I am an affirming ally for LGBTQIA clients, and this is a Safe Space. I am presently on the Board of Directors for Fiesta Youth, a member of PFLAG San Antonio, a Federal Club member for the Human Rights Campaign, and a former Steering Committee member for the Human Rights Campaign San Antonio. I was the first recipient of the Pride Center San Antonio Community Circle Award for my volunteer work in the community.
Additionally, I work in the medical field, and I have extensive court room testimony experience regarding recommendations for contested custody situations and child welfare situations.
I also have a passion for working along-side clients who are living with addiction, and the trauma and hardships they experience as they navigate towards a life of sobriety.
I am a wife and mother, and I enjoy hobbies of going to concerts, volunteer work, geocaching, American Sign Language, watching documentaries, dancing, and spending time with family, friends, and my many pets.