Discover The Emotional Compass, a compassionate framework developed by Dana Millar, CCC, to help explain emotions, unmet needs, protective patterns, and the path toward regulation, connection, and healing. The Emotional Compass Understanding the Patterns that Keep us Stuck One of the questions I hear most often is, "Why do I keep reacting this way when I know better?" The answer usually isn't a lack of willpower. Often, our emotions, nervous system, and protective patterns have been shaped by earlier experiences and unmet emotional needs. The Emotional Compass is a framework I developed by bringing together ideas that have shaped my work over many years. It integrates insights from several evidence-informed approaches into a compassionate map that helps explain why we can become stuck, how our protective patterns develop, and how healing can unfold. It isn't a diagnostic tool or a treatment protocol. It's simply a compassionate guide that helps many people make sense of their emotions, unmet needs, and the patterns that may no longer be serving them. You don't need to understand every part of the map right away. Like therapy itself, it becomes more meaningful over time Bringing the Emotional Compass into Therapy Understanding our patterns is often the first step toward meaningful change. While The Emotional Compass can help make sense of your experiences, healing doesn't happen simply by understanding the map. Therapy offers the opportunity to explore your emotions, unmet needs, and protective patterns within a safe, supportive relationship—at a pace that feels right for you. Over time, many people find they become less overwhelmed by their emotions, more connected to themselves, and better able to respond with curiosity rather than self-criticism. If you're wondering whether this approach feels like the right fit, I'd be happy to meet with you for a complimentary 15-minute consultation. Book a Complimentary Consultation Download the Emotional Compass Download a printable PDF to keep for your own reflection or to revisit between sessions DOWNLOAD THE EMOTIONAL COMPASS Sharing the Emotional Compass You're welcome to download and share the Emotional Compass for personal educational use with attribution. Please do not modify, remove attribution, or reproduce this framework for commercial purposes without written permission. Explore Related Topics Anxiety & Panic Trauma & ART Self-Esteem & Self-Worth Emotional Eating & Binge Eating General Counselling FAQs Healing begins not by judging ourselves, but by becoming curious about what our emotions have been trying to tell us all along

Anxiety counselling for women in North Vancouver & online. A warm, paced approach to quiet the worry and find what's underneath. Free consult available Anxiety & Stress: About Counselling for Women Experiencing Anxiety & Panic Attacks Is Anxiety Making Life Feel Harder Than It Needs To Be? Do you find yourself constantly overthinking, worrying about what others think, or imagining the worst-case scenario? Maybe you're exhausted from second-guessing yourself, replaying conversations in your head, struggling to relax, or feeling like you're always "on." Anxiety can show up in many ways: racing or obsessive thoughts difficulty sleeping panic attacks perfectionism people-pleasing irritability constant sense that something terrible is going to happen avoiding social situations, people and activities rehashing or planning conversations While anxiety is designed to protect us, it can begin to take over our lives when it becomes persistent and overwhelming. You don't have to keep managing it alone. I get it - I've been there, too Having worked through my own social anxiety, I understand how limiting fear and self-doubt can feel. I know what it's like to replay conversations, avoid situations that feel uncomfortable, and miss opportunities because anxiety convinces you it's safer not to try. I also know that change is possible. Whether you're struggling with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, relationship anxiety, or chronic stress, therapy can help you better understand what's happening and develop new ways of responding. Our work together is collaborative, non-judgmental and tailored to you How Counselling Helps Your Anxiety and Panic Attacks I help women in North Vancouver and throughout British Columbia learn how to relate differently to anxiety so it no longer controls their decisions, relationships, and daily lives . My work draws from evidence-based approaches including: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help you respond differently to anxious thoughts and focus on what matters most. The Change Triangle® to identify patterns such as overthinking, avoidance, and self-criticism that can keep anxiety going. Emotion-Focused Therapy for individuals (EFT) to understand and process the emotions beneath anxiety. Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to reduce the impact of distressing memories and triggers Mindfulness and somatic approaches to help calm the nervous system and reconnect with the present moment. Trauma-informed care that prioritizes safety, collaboration, and respect. Anxiety Doesn't Have to Run Your Life Therapy won't eliminate anxiety completely, but it can help you feel more grounded, confident, and able to handle life's challenges without being controlled by worry. Together, we'll work to build practical tools, increase self-confidence, and help you create a life guided by your values rather than fear. f you're looking for anxiety counselling in North Vancouver or online throughout British Columbia, I invite you to head over to my contact page or book a free consultation to see if we're a good fit.

Find compassionate therapy for women in North Vancouver. Dana Millar provides professional counselling for anxiety, depression, and self-esteem challenges. Home: Welcome COUNSELLING FOR WOMEN IN NORTH VANCOUVER & ONLINE ACROSS BC Support for women who are ready for meaningful change Compassionate therapy for women navigating anxiety, self-esteem, body image, emotional eating, and relationship challenges in North Vancouver and online across British Columbia. Book a Free Consultation Learn More About Me Location North Vancouver and Online Across BC COMPASSIONATE CARE A warm, non-judgemental space to explore, heal, and grow EVIDENCE-BASED Approaches including ACT, EFT, and trauma informed therapies FOCUSED ON YOU Personalized support that honours your story 15+ YEARS EXPERIENCE Canadian Certified Counsellor, Member CCPA Hi, I'm Dana, a counsellor and recovering people-pleaser. If you’re finding it hard to show up as yourself, feeling “not good enough,” rejected, or broken, you’re not alone—and I’m so glad you’re here Do you any of these sound like you? feeling like an imposter turning to food or other compulsive behaviours for comfort overthinking every interaction feeling stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns criticizing yourself and never feeling "good enough" Maybe you're tired of feeling like an imposter, overthinking every interaction, or feeling stuck in relationships that leave you feeling rejected, anxious or insecure. On the outside, it may look like you're holding it all together, but inside you're overwhelmed, second-guessing yourself, and wondering why you don't feel good enough. For over 15 years, I have helped women navigate anxiety, heal emotional wounds, and break free from patterns that keep them stuck. I specialize in supporting women who struggle with low self-esteem, body image concerns, binge eating, depression and relationship challenges that may be rooted in attachment wounds or early trauma. If you are someone who worries about what others think, if you tend to feel responsible for everyone's happiness, or struggle to show yourself the same compassion you offer everyone else - you don't have to keep managing it all on your own. Together, we'll explore what's keeping you stuck, develop new ways of responding to life's challenges, and help you build a healthier relationship with yourself. My goal is to help you build greater confidence, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being. You are not broken! Your struggles don't define you and change is possible. Home: Services Areas of Practice Support tailored to what you are carrying relationships Anxiety and Stress Quiet the inner dialogue and regain a sense of steadiness and calm. Depression & Low Mood Find your way back to energy, meaning and a sense of motivation Relationships & Attachment Understand your patterns and create healthier, more secure connections Self Esteem & Body Image Build a kinder and more compassionate relationship with yourself and your body. Trauma & PTSD Process the past so it no linger defines the present Emotional & Binge Eating Break the cycle of food restriction, loss of control and shame Schedule a Session with Dana Millar Counselling Finding the right therapist is important, and I want you to feel comfortable and confident in your decision. If you'd like to learn more about me, ask questions, or get a sense of whether we're a good fit, I invite you to book a free 15-minute consultation. Counselling sessions are 55 minutes and cost $165. Many extended health plans cover services provided by a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), and direct billing is available upon request. You can also visit the FAQs page for answers to common questions. ⭐ Verified 5/5 Rating on Sun Life Provider Search ⭐ Submit I look forward to connecting! 1940 Lonsdale Ave, Suite 107 North Vancouver, BC Home: Contact Summer Hours Mon-Wed 3 pm - 8 pm Sun 10 am - 5 pm or email me for a different time Mail Home: Opening Hours

Find answers to common counselling questions about fees, insurance coverage, online therapy, confidentiality, and what to expect in therapy. Frequently Asked Questions Everything You Need to Know About Starting Your Therapy Journey Finding the right therapist is an important part of the healing process, and having questions is completely natural. Below are answers to some of the questions I hear most often. If you'd like to know more, I'd be happy to connect with you during a complimentary consultation. Insurance, Fees & Logistics Information about fees, insurance, cancellation, online therapy, confidentiality and other practical ideas Getting Started Answers about how to book, what to expect in your first session, and how to know if counselling is right for you. The Therapy Process Learn about session length, how therapy works, how long it might take, and what progress can look like. Fees and Logistics Do you offer in-person counselling or online sessions? Yes, I offer secure online counselling for clients across British Columbia, as well as in-person in North Vancouver. Do you accept extended health benefits? Yes. I'm a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC). Please check with your benefits provider to make sure they cover clinical counselling or psychotherapy provided by a CCC. I can provide a receipt at the end of our session that you may submit for reimbursement. How much does counselling cost? My fee is $165 for a 55 minute session. You can pay online using the Jane app or e-transfer. Can you provide direct billing? Yes. I offer direct billing with many extended health insurance providers. This means I can often submit claims on your behalf at the end of our session, reducing or eliminating out-of-pocket costs whenever your plan allows. What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy? Life happens, and I understand. I kindly request 24 hours notice for appointment cancellations or rescheduling. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice may be subject to a fee. Do you offer a free consultation? Yes. Finding the right therapist is important, and I want you to feel comfortable and confident in your decision. If offer a 15 minute consultation so you can learn more about me, ask questions, or get a sense of whether we're a good fit, How do I know if we're a good fit? A strong, safe therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in successful therapy. That's why I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation. This gives us a chance to connect briefly, discuss what's bringing you to therapy, and allow you to get a sense of my approach, tone, and presence. If it feels like a good fit, we can move forward together. Getting Started I've never been to therapy before. What happens during the first session? There's no pressure to have everything figured out or know exactly what to say. Our first session is focused on getting to know one another. We'll discuss what's bringing you to therapy, explore your goals, and begin understanding what support would feel most helpful for you. You only ever share what feels comfortable and manageable. We move entirely at your pace. Do I need a doctor's referral to book a session? No. You do not need a referral from a family physician or general practitioner to work with me. You can reach out directly to book a consultation or therapy appointment and discuss what you hope to experience, change, or work through. The Therapy Process What will we actually do in therapy? Therapy with me is collaborative, personalized, and tailored to your unique needs rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. I integrate evidence-based approaches that support both the mind and nervous system, including: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) AEDP & The Change Triangle As well as somatic and mindfulness tools Together, we'll identify patterns, build emotional awareness, strengthen coping strategies, process difficult experiences, and move toward meaningful change. How long will I need to be in counselling? Healing is unique to every individual, so there is no set timeline. Some clients experience significant relief and clarity within a few months, particularly when focusing on a specific concern. Others choose to stay in therapy longer to explore deeper, lifelong patterns. We'll regularly check in and make sure our work together continues to align with your goals. Is what I share confidential? Yes. What you share during our sessions is private and protected. I follow strict professional, ethical, and legal standards of confidentiality. Online sessions are conducted through a secure FIPA/PIPEDA-compliant platform. There are a few legal exceptions to confidentiality including: Risk of serious and imminent harm to yourself Risk of serious and imminent harm to others Suspected abuse or neglect of a child Court-ordered disclosure where legally required Are you a psychologist? Can you prescribe medication? I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) registered with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I am not a psychologist, psychiatrist, or medical physician. As a counsellor, I do not diagnose mental health conditions or prescribe medication. If medication support is something you'd like to explore, I'm happy to collaborate with your family physician, psychiatrist, or other healthcare providers as part of your care team. What if I'm in crisis or need urgent support between sessions? My practice is not an emergency or crisis service, and I am unable to provide urgent same-day support. If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, please access immediate support: Call or Text 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline (Canada) Available 24/7 Crisis Centre BC 1-800-784-2433 Emergency Services Call 911 When appropriate, we can work together to create a support plan for the time between sessions. Book a Free Consultation

Dana Millar is a North Vancouver counsellor with over 15 years of experience supporting women with anxiety, body image, self-esteem, and relationships. A LITTLE ABOUT ME What Working With Me Is Like Therapy with me is deeply collaborative, supportive, and tailored to your unique needs. Book a free consultation Collaborative Therapy is a partnership. We'll work together at a pace that feels right for you Compassionate A warm non-judgemental space where you can show up as you are, Practical & Meaningful We'll explore patterns and build tools that create real, lasting change. Qualified and Evidence Based Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology. MY PATH My Path to Becoming a Counsellor My path to becoming a counsellor began as a teacher and school counsellor. With degrees in Education, Women & Gender Studies, and a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology I became increasingly interested in how our early relationships and cultural conditioning shape the way we see ourselves. I saw how struggles with self-worth, ADHD, people-pleasing, anxiety, and body image affected girls and women in every part of life—from relationships and career decisions to the way we speak to ourselves every day. Beyond my training, my own experiences with social anxiety, body image challenges, and poor boundaries deeply shape my work. They have given me true empathy for how hard this process can be, and a firm belief that developing a healthier relationship with yourself is possible at any stage of life. Areas Of Focus I support women whose struggles with self-esteem, anxiety and relationship challenges are often rooted in attachment wounds or early trauma. Together, we'll explore what's keeping you stuck, build practical tools for coping, and create meaningful changes that align with the life you want to live. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, questioning your self-worth, struggling with your relationship with food or your body, or navigating a significant life change, therapy can help you reconnect with yourself and move forward with greater confidence and clarity. THERAPY MODALITIES I USE I draw from a range if evidence based approaches, always tailored to you and your goals. Please view the FAQs page to find out more. Modallities Anxiety & Overthinking Low Self-Esteem and Self-Worth Relationship Patterns People-Pleasing Body Image Food Struggles Life Transitions ADHD & Emotional Regulation Attachment Wounds Trauma Starting Your Journey Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially if you've spent a long time trying to manage everything on your own. You don't need to have the right words, a clear plan, or even know exactly what's wrong before reaching out. You simply need a place to start. If you're looking for a compassionate counsellor for women in North Vancouver or online throughout British Columbia, I'd love to support you on your journey toward healing, self-understanding, and lasting change. Please go to the contact page or book a free consultation to find out if we'd be a good fit. Book a free consultation

Find compassionate answers to common questions about binge eating, emotional eating, therapy, trauma, shame, and recovery. Learn how counselling can help you build a healthier relationship with food Binge Eating & Emotional Eating Frequently Asked Questions ANSWERS, SUPPORT, AND A PATH FORWARD Many people wonder whether what they're experiencing is "serious enough" to seek help. You don't need a diagnosis to benefit from therapy. If you regularly feel out of control around food, eat to cope with difficult emotions, experience guilt or shame after eating, or find that thoughts about food take up too much space in your life, therapy can help. Whether your experience meets the criteria for Binge Eating Disorder or feels more like emotional or compulsive overeating, we'll work together to understand what's happening—with curiosity rather than judgment. You don't need a diagnosis to deserve support. If your relationship with food is causing distress, taking up too much mental space, or leaving you feeling ashamed or out of control, therapy can help. 1. Is what I'm experiencing "serious enough" to seek help? The truth is that therapy isn't reserved for people with a diagnosis. If your relationship with food is causing distress, leaving you feeling ashamed, consuming too much of your mental energy, or preventing you from living the life you want, you deserve support. You don't have to wait until things become worse before asking for help. 2. Can therapy really help with binge eating and emotional eating? Yes. Research shows that therapy can be highly effective because it addresses the emotional, psychological, and behavioural patterns that keep binge eating going—not just the eating itself. 3. Why do I keep binge eating even when I don't want to? This is one of the questions I hear most often. If binge eating were simply about food, you probably would have solved it by now. For many people, eating has become an understandable way of managing difficult emotions, reducing stress, soothing loneliness, or finding comfort during overwhelming moments. Sometimes these patterns develop gradually over many years. Other times they have their roots in earlier experiences that taught your nervous system certain ways of coping. That doesn't mean you're lacking self-control. It means your mind and body found a way to cope that made sense at the time. 4. Will you tell me what I should eat? No. My role isn't to prescribe diets, meal plans, or tell you what you should or shouldn't eat. Instead, we'll explore your relationship with food and the emotional patterns that influence your eating. My goal is to help you develop a greater sense of trust in yourself, rather than relying on rules, restriction, or self-criticism. 5. What types of therapy do you use for binge eating and emotional eating? Every person's relationship with food is different, which is why I tailor therapy to your unique experiences and goals rather than following a single approach. I draw from several evidence-based therapies that work together to address both the symptoms and the underlying patterns that contribute to binge eating: Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) helps us understand and process the emotions that often drive the urge to overeat. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) teaches practical skills for responding differently to difficult thoughts, cravings, and emotions while helping you move toward the life you want to live. When earlier experiences continue to influence your relationship with food, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) can help your brain process those experiences so they are less likely to continue affecting how you think, feel, and respond today. I also integrate mindfulness, self-compassion, and attachment-informed approaches to help you develop a kinder, more trusting relationship with yourself and with food. Please view the Binge Eating FAQ page if you'd like to know more. Many people believe that binge eating is about willpower More often, it's an attempt to cope with difficult emotions, stress, or earlier experiences. Therapy helps you understand those patterns with compassion —not criticism. 6. Do I have to diet to stop binge eating? No. In fact, strict dieting often makes binge eating worse. Therapy focuses on understanding the emotional, psychological, and behavioural factors that contribute to binge eating so you can develop a healthier, more sustainable relationship with food. 7. Is online therapy effective for binge eating? Yes. Many clients find online counselling to be just as effective as meeting in person. Virtual sessions offer a private, comfortable space to explore your relationship with food while making therapy easier to fit into your life. I provide online counselling for adults throughout British Columbia, as well as in-person therapy in North Vancouver. 8. How long does binge eating therapy usually take? Everyone's journey is different. Some people begin noticing changes within the first few months as they gain new tools and a better understanding of their eating patterns. Others benefit from longer-term therapy to work through deeper emotional wounds, perfectionism, or long-standing struggles with self-esteem and body image. We'll regularly check in about your progress and adjust our work to meet your goals. 9. What if I feel ashamed to talk about my eating? Shame is one of the biggest reasons people wait to seek help. Many of my clients worry they'll be judged for their eating habits in therapy. Having experienced my own struggles with compulsive behaviours, I understand how heavy shame can feel. Please know you'll be met with compassion, understanding, and curiosity—not judgment. My goal is to create a space where you can talk openly about your relationship with food without criticism or shame. 10. Can unresolved trauma contribute to binge eating? For some people, binge eating develops as a way of coping when emotional needs—such as comfort, safety, connection, or acceptance—haven't been consistently met. Over time, food can become a reliable way of soothing difficult emotions. Those patterns can continue into adulthood, influencing how we think, feel, relate to others, and respond to difficult emotions—even when we don't immediately recognize the connection. Not everyone who struggles with binge eating has experienced trauma, and not everyone who has experienced trauma develops difficulties with food. However, earlier experiences can continue to influence how we think, feel, and respond in the present—even if we don't immediately recognize the connection. When that's the case, simply trying to change eating behaviours often isn't enough because it doesn't address what's driving the behaviour beneath the surface. If earlier experiences continue to affect your relationship with food, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) may be one approach we consider. ART helps your brain process unresolved experiences so they are less likely to continue influencing your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours today. Rather than focusing solely on stopping binge eating, we'll work together to understand what your eating has been helping you cope with and develop healthier, more compassionate ways of meeting those needs. Every person's story is different. Together, we'll take the time to understand what has shaped your relationship with food and choose an approach that feels right for you. If you're looking for a compassionate counsellor for women in North Vancouver or online throughout British Columbia, I'd love to support you on your journey toward healing, self-understanding, and lasting change. Please go to the contact page or book a free consultation to find out if we'd be a good fit. Book a Free Consultation

Heal old relationship wounds and take steps towards building healthy connections Relationship & Attachment counselling for women in North Vancouver We all long to feel loved, chosen, and connected. But when we're stuck in unhealthy relationship patterns, love can feel confusing, painful, and all-consuming. You may find yourself chasing emotionally unavailable partners, staying too long in relationships that hurt you, or feeling anxious and preoccupied about where you stand with someone. You may even push away caring, emotionally available partners because true intimacy feels unfamiliar or uncomfortable. Relationships : Services How Do You Know If You Need Relationship & Attachment Counselling? Perhaps you've found yourself asking: Why do I get so attached to people who aren't good for me? Why am I attracted to people who don't seem interested in me? Why do I constantly worry about being rejected, abandoned, or cheated on? Why do I keep ending up in the same unhealthy relationship patterns? Why do relationships feel so much harder for me than they seem to for other people? Many relationship struggles are rooted in attachment wounds—experiences that taught us, often early in life, to question our worth, fear rejection, or believe that love must be earned. These wounds can show up as people-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries, fear of abandonment, jealousy, anxiety, emotional withdrawal, or choosing partners who are unavailable. Understanding Your Relationship & Attachment Patterns Many of the women I work with know exactly where their relationship patterns come from, yet still find themselves stuck repeating them. Insight is important, but insight alone doesn't always create change. Together, we'll explore the experiences, beliefs, and emotional wounds that may be influencing your relationships today. As we begin to heal these underlying patterns, it often becomes easier to communicate your needs, trust yourself, establish healthy boundaries, and build more secure and fulfilling relationships. How Relationship & Attachment Counselling Can Help Whether you are: • Recovering from a painful breakup or divorce • Struggling with anxious or insecure attachment • Feeling stuck in a toxic relationship • Constantly worried about your partner leaving you • Finding yourself caught in cycles of people-pleasing or over-functioning • Avoiding relationships altogether because getting close feels unsafe Therapy can help you make sense of what's happening and begin creating lasting change. My work draws from approaches such as: Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), AEDP and The Change Triangle®, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) . In particular, ART can help process the emotional wounds and beliefs that continue to influence current relationships, helping you move beyond awareness and toward meaningful change. Building Healthier, More Secure Relationships You don't have to stay stuck in patterns of anxiety, self-doubt, or fear of rejection. Together, we can help you develop a more secure relationship with yourself, heal old attachment wounds, and create healthier, more satisfying connections with others. If you're a woman looking for counselling in North Vancouver or online throughout British Columbia, I invite you to head over to my contact page or book a free consultation to see if we're a good fit. All relationship structures, identities, and expressions of self are welcome. Book now Relationships : FAQ

Discover trauma informed care for adults through Accelerated Resolution Therapy to heal unresolved trauma and transform your life. Trauma Therapy & Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) HEALING THAT GOES BEYOND TALK Perhaps you've noticed patterns in your life that don't make sense. You may find yourself overthinking, struggling with self-worth, turning to food or other substances or behaviours for comfort, or relating to others in ways that don't feel good to you. Often, these patterns can have their roots in earlier experiences—even when we don't immediately recognize the connection. Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) helps your brain process those earlier experiences so they are less likely to continue influencing how you think, feel, and respond today. Evidence based care in a compassionate, supportive space Trauma-Informed Approach Focussed on safety, choice, and empowerment Evidence-Based Methods ART supports faster, lasting relief Whole-Person Healing Supporting mind, body and nervous system Lasting Change Move forward without being held back by the past Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) addresses all forms of trauma and attachment wounding. Once the underlying trauma is processed, the destructive coping mechanisms we unconsciously developed to survive are naturally reduced—and often entirely eliminated. You don't have to stay stuck in unhelpful patterns. If you're wondering whether ART could help, you're welcome to book a free consultation or get in touch through the contact page. I'm happy to answer any questions and help you decide whether it's the right approach for you. Have questions? You might find the answers in our FAQ page. VISIT OUR FAQS Or book a free consultation or get in touch - I'm here ot help. CONTACT ME

Discover effective Binge Eating & Overeating therapy in North Vancouver and online across BC. Get the support you need to overcome binge eating today. Overeating & Binge Eating Therapy IN NORTH VANCOUVER When Food Has Become More Than Food If you find yourself binge eating or overeating when you're stressed, overwhelmed, lonely, anxious, or emotionally exhausted, you're not alone. Many women use food to cope with difficult emotions—and it doesn't mean you're weak or lacking willpower. Maybe you promised yourself that this time would be different, only to end up eating more than you intended and feeling guilty, ashamed, or frustrated afterward. You might swing between trying to be "good" with food and feeling completely out of control. Over time, eating can become exhausting, and food can begin to feel like both your comfort and your greatest source of distress. Therapy can help you understand the patterns beneath the behaviour, respond differently to difficult emotions and build a more peaceful relationship with food and yourself. Book a Free Consultation UNDERSTAND Explore emotional triggers, experiences and patterns that drive overeating RESPOND DIFFERENTLY Learn practical tools for handling cravings, urges, and difficult emotions FIND FREEDOM Build a healthier relationship with food based on trust. You're Not Alone BINGE EATING IS NOT A LACK OF WILLPOWER One of the biggest myths about binge eating is that it happens because someone lacks discipline. Most people I've worked with have actually spent years trying incredibly hard to control their eating. They've dieted. They've restricted. They've followed food rules. They've blamed themselves when those strategies didn't work. Yet the cycle continues. That's because binge eating is often serving a purpose. Food may be helping you: soothe anxiety numb difficult emotions escape loneliness cope with overwhelm manage stress provide comfort during difficult seasons of life When we understand what food has been helping you manage, meaningful and lasting change becomes possible Why The Cycle Keeps Repeating Many women become trapped in a painful cycle: Stress or difficult emotions ↓ Food provides temporary relief ↓ Guilt, shame, or self-criticism ↓ More stress and emotional overwhelm ↓ Turning to food again This cycle can feel exhausting. The good news is that the cycle is learned, which means it can be unlearned. Therapy helps you develop healthier ways of responding to difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences so food no longer has to carry the burden. Healing your relationship with food isn't about more restrictions. It's about learning to respond to your needs with greater understanding, compassion and care. My Approach Compassionate, Evidence-Based Therapy For Binge Eating I don't believe binge eating is something that needs to be judged or fought against. I see it as a signal that something deeper needs attention, care, and understanding. My role is to help you uncover what's driving the behaviour while providing practical strategies that create meaningful change. Together we'll focus on healing the underlying patterns, not simply controlling the symptoms. ACT ACCEPTANCE & COMITTMENT THERAPY ACT helps you develop a different relationship with cravings, uncomfortable emotions, and self-critical thoughts. Instead of getting pulled into an endless struggle with food, you'll learn how to notice urges without automatically acting on them and make choices that align with the life you want to build. EFT EMOTION FOCUSED THERAPY Many struggles with food have emotional roots. EFT helps you better understand your emotional world, process difficult feelings, and develop healthier ways of meeting your emotional needs. As emotional awareness grows, many people find food becomes less of a coping tool. ART ACCELERATED RESOLUTION THERAPY Sometimes binge eating is connected to unresolved life experiences, difficult memories, or a nervous system that has learned to stay in survival mode. When appropriate, ART can help reduce the intensity of distressing experiences so that they no longer create the same emotional impact. Many clients notice greater calm, emotional regulation, and a reduced need to turn to food for comfort ✓ Eating without guilt ✓ Trusting yourself around food ✓ Feeling calmer around cravings ✓ Experiencing fewer binge episodes ✓ Letting go of constant self-criticism ✓ Feeling more connected to your body ✓ Having healthier ways to manage stress and emotions Recovery isn't about becoming perfectly disciplined. It's about creating a life where food no longer feels like the solution to every difficult feeling. Imagine If Food Took Up Less Space In Your Life Binge Eating Often Isn't Just About Food Many women struggling with binge eating are also dealing with: body image concerns low self-esteem perfectionism people-pleasing harsh self-criticism feelings of never being good enough As we work on healing your relationship with food, we often find ourselves healing your relationship with yourself as well Learn More About Self-Esteem & Body Image Therapy You Don't Have To Do This Alone Whether you're struggling with binge eating, finding yourself stuck in emotional eating patterns, or simply want food to take up less space in your life, support is available. If you're looking for binge eating therapy for women in North Vancouver or online counselling anywhere in British Columbia, I invite you to head over to my contact page or book a free consultation to see if we're a good fit. If you have questions around compulsive or binge eating, please visit my Binge Eating FAQs section for answers to common questions.

Experience expert mental health support with our online counselling services. Book now for video counselling near me. Online Counselling for Women Across BC Get Support Wherever You Are Although many people will be new to the idea of online or video counselling, it is actually more pleasant and less awkward than you might expect. Appointments for online counselling can be conducted by video via a secure and easy online platform. As long as you have a quiet and private space, and a strong WiFi connection, online counselling in British Columbia may be a good option for you. Tips to make the most of your online counselling session: Find a quiet space free from distractions and close the door Turn off your other electronic devices or notifications that might distract from your counselling Let others know that you will be unavailable for the hour during your session Jot down your ideas about what you would like to talk about Consider planning some time for yourself afterwards before you transition back into your day. Make sure you have a strong wifi connection and your microphone and camera are enabled on your device It's okay to feel nervous. I get a little nervous too! Choosing a therapist is an important decision, and I want you to feel comfortable and confident in your choice. If you have questions, I invite you to visit my Frequently Asked Questions page or my contact page to arrange a complimentary consultation. If you're ready to begin, you can book an appointment below. Book a 15 minute consult

Do you struggle with body image or low self-esteem? Dana Millar Counselling can help you overcome body image issues and cultivate lasting self-esteem. Self Esteem and Body Image Therapy for Women in Vancouver What do you see when you look in the mirror? Are You Tired of Being Critical Of Your Body? Are you frequently comparing yourself to other women, criticizing your appearance, questioning your worth, or waiting to feel better about yourself before you fully live your life. You might look like you have it all together on the outside, but inside you're carrying self-doubt, insecurity, and a relentless inner critic. No matter what you accomplish, it never quite feels like enough. You may find yourself obsessing over your body image, experiencing low self-esteem, seeking reassurance from others, struggling with emotional or binge eating, or worrying about what people think of you. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. Many of the women I work with have spent years believing that if they could just lose weight, be more productive, more successful, or somehow become a different version of themselves, they would finally feel confident and at peace. Unfortunately, the goalposts keep moving, and the feeling of "not enough" remains. How do I know if I have healthy Body Image and Self Esteem? Signs of low self-esteem and poor body image often show up in how we talk to ourselves and how we cope with difficult emotions. You might recognize yourself in these signs: Frequent Body Checking: Constantly looking in mirrors, comparing your appearance to others, or avoiding reflections entirely. A Loud Inner Critic: Experiencing a persistent mental commentary that focuses on your flaws, mistakes, and perceived inadequacies. Emotional Disconnection: Feeling overwhelmed by shame or anxiety about your body, and trying to numb or avoid those feelings. Life on Hold: Waiting to try new activities, date, or socialize until your body looks a certain way or until you feel "good enough." Conversely, healthy self-esteem doesn't mean you love how you look every single day. It means practicing body neutrality and self-acceptance—knowing your worth as a human being is completely separate from your physical appearance or temporary failures. Self-Esteem & Body Image: About What does healthy self esteem look like? You are Flawsome You accept your imperfections as a part of wonderful you, and value your body for all the things it can do. You are Loved You know that people love and value you for who you are, regardless of your size, your IQ, or if you're sporting a few blemishes. You don't have to change yourself to be worthy of love. You were born worthy. You take care of yourself You spend time doing things you enjoy, you sleep well, and you eat well without worrying about your weight or counting calories. One of the most rewarding parts of my work is helping women reconnect with their inherent worth and develop a kinder, more compassionate relationship with themselves. Meaningful change doesn't happen overnight, but it is possible. Looking for Support With Binge Eating? Because our relationship with our body often affects our relationship with food, I also provide support for emotional eating and binge eating. Learn more about Binge Eating Counselling If you're looking for self esteem or body image counselling in North Vancouver or online throughout British Columbia, I invite you to head over to my contact page or book a free consultation to see if we're a good fit. Building Self-Worth From the Inside Out Healthy self-esteem doesn't mean loving the way you look every day or feeling confident all the time. It means recognizing that your worth is not determined by your appearance, your accomplishments, or other people's approval. Together, we'll explore the experiences, beliefs, and emotional wounds that may be shaping the way you see yourself today. We'll work to develop a more compassionate and stable sense of self-worth so you can spend less time fighting yourself and more time living your life. Imagine Feeling Good Enough Not because your body changed. Not because everyone approved of you. Not because you finally got everything right. But because you've learned to value yourself exactly as you are. My approach draws from evidence-based therapies including: • Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) to explore feelings such as shame, rejection, and inadequacy. • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help you respond differently to self-critical thoughts and move toward what matters most. • Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to process difficult experiences that may be contributing to low self- esteem, body image concerns, or emotional eating. • AEDP & The Change Triangle® to help understand and work through the emotions that often exist beneath anxiety, self-criticism, and perfectionism. Book now Self-Esteem & Body Image: List

Struggling with depression? Find compassionate, professional support at Dana Millar Counselling. Start your journey toward feeling better in North Vancouver. Counselling for women with depression Feeling exhausted, disconnected, or like you're just going through the motions? Lacking motivation, struggling to get out of bed, feeling hopeless, inadequate, or weighed down by helpless thoughts? Whether you're dealing with depression, a temporary low mood, or grief that you can't seem to shift, we can work through it together. Depression & Low Mood: About How do I know if I have depression or low mood? Depression can develop for many reasons, including difficult life experiences, trauma, loss, chronic stress, relationship challenges, divorce, illness, perimenopause, menopause, or like many women, simply carrying too much for too long. Whatever the cause, one thing is certain: you're tired of feeling this way and want things to change. What does depression feel like? You may find yourself thinking: "I can't do this anymore."
 "I feel like I'm functioning in slow motion."
 "I can't get myself off the couch."
 "What's the point?"
 "I have no energy."
 "I can't concentrate."
 "Nobody really cares." For many women, depression doesn't always look like sadness. It can show up as constant self-criticism, irritability, emotional eating, perfectionism, people-pleasing, feeling disconnected from yourself, or a persistent belief that you're somehow not enough. You may continue showing up for everyone else while quietly struggling beneath the surface. Am I broken? If you're struggling with depression, you are not broken, weak, or damaged—but you may be carrying more pain than anyone realizes. Depression can affect every part of life. You may feel exhausted, disconnected, hopeless, or stuck. Things that once felt easy may now take tremendous effort. You might find yourself withdrawing from others, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, or being harder on yourself than you would ever be on someone else. In therapy, we'll explore what depression is taking away from your life—and what you want to move toward instead. What would be different if you weren't carrying this weight every day? How would you spend your time? What goals, relationships, or experiences would matter most to you? Many women cope with depression in ways that provide temporary relief but create additional challenges over time, such as overeating, substance use, isolation, or self-criticism. Rather than focusing on blame or judgment, we'll work to understand these patterns and develop healthier, more sustainable ways of coping. My approach is compassionate, practical, and tailored to your unique circumstances. Together, we can help you better understand your experiences, build effective coping strategies, reconnect with what matters to you, and begin creating meaningful change. If you'd like to learn more about me or how counselling can help, I'd like to invite you to reach out to arrange a free consultation or head over to my contact page to see if we're a good fit. Free 15 minute consultation Depression & Low Mood: FAQ