When trying to balance omega 3 to omega 6, does ala count the same as epa and dha?

Yes and no: alpha linoleic acid and alpha linolenic acid respectively start the omega 6 and omega 3 cascades. Each has to be treated by an enzyme that is common to both of them. The omega 3 cascade gives rise to EPA and DHA. Therefore they depend on the health of the enzyme delta 6 desaturase that depends on good nutrition to provide vitamins that it requires for its function.

Let your body do the: balancing. Rather than taking pharmacologic doses of supplements, try to eat foods that are rich in the Omega fatty acids. Eat Oily fish (Tuna, Salmon,Swordfish etc) 1- 2 times per week then let your body take in what it needs from what it is offered. Your body can only use vitamins, and trace elements to its capacity. More than that makes your sweat smell like fish, and it is just wasted.