About Ally Legard - MA

Ally has been dedicated to serving clients in the mental health field since 2020, primarily focusing on children and adolescents. Drawing on her experience as a former Division 1 track and cross country athlete, she brings a holistic approach to counseling, addressing not only mental but also physical well-being, including aspects like exercise, nutrition, hydration, and sleep. Alaska, where she currently resides, provides her with ample opportunities for adventure. When not working, Ally enjoys skiing (backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing), hiking on Alaska's stunning trails, pack rafting and fly fishing in the backcountry, and spending time with family and friends.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Ally earned her Masters of Counseling from Oregon State University - Cascades in Bend, Oregon, in 2023, following her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. She completed a CACREP-accredited internship at Tumalo Community School in Bend, Oregon, and gained practicum experience at High Desert Middle School. She has also worked as the school counselor at Homer Middle School, and the Head of the Bay K-12 schools. She is supervised by Mary Kuepper, LPC-S, who specializes in serving kids and families.

EXPERIENCE

Throughout her career, Ally has had the opportunity to work with individuals struggling with various mental health difficulties. She specializes in work with kids aged 3 to 17 who are dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, as well as the traumatic experiences that provoke these symptoms. Additionally, she has worked with kids who are going through family changes such as separation, divorce, grief and loss. She has supported boys in behavioral residential services who have experienced abuse and neglect. She has also worked with neurodivergent individuals whose ages range from thirteen to twenty five. Her experience includes PTSD, eating disorders, anger management, social skills, friendship problems, sexual/physical trauma, life transitions, and family interventions.

COUNSELING PERSPECTIVE

Ally fosters a safe and welcoming environment where clients can build rapport before addressing challenging topics. Ally believes in the power of healing through a trauma-informed and client-centered approach. She understands that each individual's journey is unique, and strives to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves freely. Using evidence-based techniques like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy, she collaborates with clients to develop coping strategies and positive self-talk, focusing on their strengths and abilities. Ally uses play (games, art, activities) in her work with kids, allowing their interests to guide each session. Ally believes the counseling doesn’t always have to take place in a traditional office, and is willing to utilize ecotherapy (hiking, walking on the beach) with clients who feel more comfortable in these settings. Ally wants to empower her clients to make counseling their own, this is why she customizes each session to her client’s needs and interests.

Ally is deeply committed to supporting children and adolescents with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and behavioral difficulties, taking into account their family dynamics, social environments, and school experiences to provide holistic care