Get to know Danielle, an Anxiety Therapist at Therapy Alberta, in this interview blog.
What led you to become a therapist/psychologist/social worker/counsellor?
I know firsthand how beneficial it can be to have support where you are seen, heard, and feel safe to be authentically you. I have also had experiences where I had support that was subpar and the impact that can have on someone. I knew the potential of becoming a therapist and elevating the standard of care, support, and relationship I could provide to others.
Do you ever get overwhelmed by the stuff people tell you?
I don’t typically feel overwhelmed by things people tell me, I feel an immense amount of gratitude to be able to come alongside individuals in their journey for growth. I know that it takes bravery and vulnerability to share things with others, but I also know this is where the healing happens. I think about it as sitting in the mud with people, it can feel uncomfortable in the mud but to get out you must acknowledge you are in the mud in the first place.
What would you tell someone who’s nervous to start therapy?
I would say of course you are nervous, especially if you have never participated in therapy or had a prior experience that was less than positive. I believe that seeking support takes a great deal of bravery. When we don’t know what to expect or are experiencing challenges in our life it can be really scary to think about starting therapy. But I also know it can be really scary to think about things staying the same as they are right now.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy spending time with friends and family, being outdoors (mostly in the warmer weather), going for walks, reading, and anything crafty as long as it doesn’t include sewing (the pajama pants I attempted to make in grade 7 still haunt me).
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Do something until it doesn’t work anymore, then do something else. This advice was given to me when I was a new mom but I think it works for just about anything. Life is ever-changing and it makes sense that our way of navigating things would also change. When we are growing and learning we want to be able to utilize our newfound knowledge when we navigate things in life, and when the way we are currently doing so is not working for us we do not need to stay committed to the original way of doing things, we can adapt.
What’s your favorite show (movie)?
I am a huge fan of Schitt’s Creek. I have watched it many times and it makes my heart happy.
What are you reading right now?
I am currently reading Fallen by Karin Slaughter. I have fallen in love with the Libby app. It has enabled my love of reading.
What’s your favorite food?
I would eat sushi every day, it is just delicious.
What’s your wish for your clients?
My wish for my clients is to feel safe enough to be able to show up in their life and relationships with themselves and others in an authentic way so that they feel seen, heard, and a deep sense of belonging.
Danielle Morran is an anxiety therapist who specializes in working with families, teens, people-pleasing women, and mothers with anxiety stress, emotions, and conflict. Danielle is a Certified Canadian Counsellor and practices narrative therapy, functional family therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and CBT.