About Aliya Esmail

Registered Clinical Counsellor

North Vancouver, BC

My Background

Like many of my clients, I grew up in a family shaped by generational patterns that held unhealthy messages.

This deeply affected the way I saw myself and caused a great deal of distress. I internalized harmful beliefs about food, about my body, and my worth that kept me disconnected from who I really was.

Eventually, I was able to move through these struggles and reconnect with my true self. Now, I help others do the same.

I do this work for those who feel stuck, isolated, and hopeless about how food controls their lives.

I know healing is possible. I've experienced it, and I've seen it in others. I'm here to help you walk toward it.

My Mission

I'm here to be a fierce ally for those with a difficult relationship with food. This means helping clients unlearn the stories that tell them their bodies are not good enough and their worth depends on their appearance.

I'm committed to advocating for social justice for marginalized communities -- including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, trauma survivors, and those who have been silenced or overlooked. I use my voice and resources to help create safer, more inclusive spaces for those who need them most.

My Strengths: Empathetic, Authentic, and Respectful

I'm warm, honest, and grounded. I make an effort to make sure you feel safe in therapy. I bring deep empathy and attunement into every session and gently challenge old patterns when helpful.

I believe that laughter sometimes helps when things feel heavy, in celebrating the small wins, and in offering honest reflection with kindness and care.

My approach is collaborative. We'll move at a pace that feels safe for you while working towards the growth and freedom you want.

I bring a culturally informed, socially conscious lens to therapy. I'm East Indian, was raised in Canada, and spent my childhood in Kenya. I've also lived in England and Germany.

This layered cultural background gives me a deep respect for the complexity of identity and how culture, community, and systems impact how we view ourselves and others.

I'm resourceful and will work tirelessly to help you achieve what you want and need.

Expertise and Experience

Formal Education

Adler University
Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology
Thompson Rivers University
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism

Professional Counselling Membership

Related Therapy Training and Experience

Certified in Workplace Violence Prevention
Clinical experience supporting clients with eating disorders, trauma, and identity struggles in community and mental health clinic settings
Additional coursework in Psychology and Business (UBC)
Former volunteer at Battered Women's Support Services crisis line
Certificate in Digital Marketing

Student member of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC)