Meet a Therapist in Alberta: Danielle Morran
May 23, 2023
Get to know Danielle Morran, a therapist who works with anxiety, overwhelm, and relational stress, in this interview from our Meet a Therapist in Alberta series. Danielle shares what led her to this work, the best advice she's ever received, and what she'd tell someone who's nervous to start therapy.
What led you to become a therapist?
I know firsthand how helpful it can be to have support where you are seen, heard, and safe to be authentically you.
I've also had support that was subpar, and I know the impact that can have on someone. I saw the potential in becoming a therapist to raise the standard of care, support, and relationship I could offer others.
Do you ever get overwhelmed by the stuff people tell you?
I don't usually feel overwhelmed by what people tell me. I feel an immense amount of gratitude to come alongside people in their journey of growth.
I know it takes bravery and vulnerability to share things with others, but I also know this is where the healing happens. I think of it as sitting in the mud with people. It can feel uncomfortable in the mud, but to get out, you have to acknowledge you're in the mud in the first place.
What would you tell someone who's nervous to start therapy?
I would say, of course you're nervous, especially if you've never been to therapy, or if you had an experience that was less than positive.
I believe seeking support takes a great deal of bravery. When we don't know what to expect, or we're facing challenges in our lives, 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 warmer weather), going for walks, and reading.
I also love anything crafty, as long as it doesn't include sewing. The pyjama 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 always changing, so it makes sense that the way we navigate things would change too.
As we grow and learn, we want to be able to use what we've learned. And when the way we're doing things isn't working anymore, we don't need to stay committed to it. We can adapt.
What's your favourite show or movie?
I'm a huge fan of Schitt's Creek.
I've watched it many times, and it makes my heart happy.
What are you reading right now?
I'm reading Fallen by Karin Slaughter.
I've fallen in love with the Libby app. It has really fed my love of reading.
What's your favourite food?
I would eat sushi every day. It's just delicious.
What's your wish for your clients?
My wish for my clients is to feel safe enough to show up authentically in their lives, and in their relationships with themselves and others, so they feel seen, heard, and a deep sense of belonging.
Anxiety Therapy in Alberta
If anxiety, stress, or family conflict has been weighing on you, reaching out for support can help.
Anxiety therapy offers a space to understand what's driving the worry and build tools to manage it. A therapist can help you and your family find calmer, more connected ways forward.
You can feel more like yourself again.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you or someone you care about is in crisis or at risk of harm, please get help now. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. You can also call or text 988 any time for suicide and crisis support. For more options, see our crisis support page.
About Danielle
Danielle Morran is a Canadian Certified Counsellor who works with adults and families navigating anxiety, overwhelm, and relational stress through somatic and attachment-based therapy.
Therapy Alberta is a free digital mental health library offering psychoeducation and video courses on mental health, therapy and trauma-sensitive care, with a private community in Alberta.