Ally is one of our resident counselors and a Supervisee in Social Work (under Stephanie's supervision), specializing in working with youth, adolescents, and young adults! Ally's focus areas include: anxiety, depression, low-self-esteem, and substance. Ally's core approach utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and play therapy strategies. 

 

She received her Bachelor's degree in Social Work, with a minor in Psychology, and a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from VCU. Ally has 10 years of clinical experience with at-risk youth and families. She has worked with clients facing a wide array of challenges, including trauma, domestic violence, substance abuse, behavioral challenges, and cognitive and developmental delays.

 

Her work experience ranges from working with clients in the home, the nonprofit sector, and school environment. Ally previously was a Therapeutic Day Treatment Clinician, Behavior Specialist, and Crisis Counselor in the alternative school setting. Additionally, Ally was a Special Education Teacher for a period of time. Ally transitioned into FCPS as a School Social Work Intern, as well as an Intern for Communities in Schools of Richmond. In addition to working in private practice, Ally currently works as an FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist.

 

Ally has worked outside of the school setting as an Intensive In-Home Clinician, Children's Enrichment Intern at a homeless shelter, and a Social Work Intern at a non-profit to help adult women facing a multitude of challenges while reintegrating into the community. As a therapist, Ally wants to assist client in discovering their inner strengths, providing supportive techniques to overcome challenges, and empowering clients with the tools they need! ​