Ally Bares
MSE, LPC, NCC

Olive Branch Counseling, LLC

I believe we all strive to be the best versions of ourselves, working towards self-understanding, fulfillment, and authenticity. Further, I believe each of us is capable of reaching these goals. However, we’re often blocked by our environment.

Society has taught us to think, feel, and behave in ways that may not align with who we are as individuals. As a result, we’ve internalized messages about who we’re “supposed” to be, and how we “should” act. This incongruence leads to feelings of shame, guilt, inadequacy, hopelessness, and distress.

Similarly, from a trauma-informed perspective, I ask clients to look at what happened to them that brought them to this place instead of viewing the concern as something wrong with them. Often the “problem” to work through in counseling is simply a way we’ve used our strengths, skills, and resilience to adapt to our environment to protect ourselves.

Removing all judgment and coming from a place of acceptance and understanding, we’ll explore how you came to develop these self-preserving methods. Then, we’ll help you find new ways to cope and protect yourself in healthier, more sustainable ways. Ultimately, you will be able to embrace and manifest who you truly are.

As a counselor, I’ve adopted a trauma-informed, person-centered approach that encourages clients to accept and honor their true selves to lead more authentic and fulfilling lives. I practice CBT, DBT, brainspotting, art/play, and sand tray therapy. I work with individuals and couples of all ages who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, and adjustment-related challenges. I am also available to see clients at schools within the Omro, Ripon, and Winneconne districts.