Ana Stephanie Portka, L.M.F.T
Licensed Psychotherapist San Pedro
Psychotherapist~ Children, Adolescents, Adults Individuals, Couples, Families, Groups
My approach to therapy is person-centered and strength-based. In a supportive environment, I help you identify and use your strengths to improve areas in your life you want to change. With me, you will learn relaxation tools and will cultivate a present- oriented, non- judgmental attitude all while focusing on present thinking, behavior, and communication geared toward problem solving.
Due to a diverse and extensive training background, I am able to individualize your treatment by using techniques suitable to meet your needs and goals. Some modalities in which I have been trained include: Mindfulness, Client- Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF- CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Seeking Safety, Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP), and the Parent Project.
Working with clients in the Recovery Resilience and Reintegration (RRR) program with the department of mental health exposed me to diagnoses of all types at different levels of severity. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in peer groups, family sessions, and individually– both in English and Spanish. I have helped clients through crisis situations (including depression and suicidal ideation), work through past traumas, and overcome obstacles that get in the way of their success. Whether you need help working through difficult obstacles or need help becoming a better you, I am here to help you achieve a more gratifying life.
Professional Experience:
I have extensive experience conducting psychiatric assessments of clients’ needs, strengths, and medical necessity in English and Spanish. I also have experience assessing for and appropriately managing suicidal ideation, homicidal ideation, and neglect. I provide individual, group, and family therapy in English and Spanish to both children and adults. I collaborate with parents of young clients to assist in maintaining clients’ goals when needed. I have created and led psycho-educational workshops for parents and have also developed and facilitated groups on anger management and mindfulness for school- aged children.
Education
California State University, Fullerton, California
Master of science in counseling, Emphasis in bilingual- bicultural therapy
University of California, Irvine, California
Bachelor of arts in cognitive psychology, Minor in Spanish
Licenses & Certifications:
California Board of Behavioral Science
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #119872
Certification in Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Authorization
Certification in Parent Project
Certification in Managing and Adapting Practice (MAP)
Foreign Languages served
Spanish
“Just like children, emotions heal when they are heard and validated.”
– Jill Bolte Taylor
