Diana Sarkis, M.Ed., RCC (she/her)

Registered Clinical Counsellor (#19267)

Who I See

A lot of the people I see in my practice find it hard to enjoy life because they are overwhelmed by painful or difficult feelings. Sometimes these feelings aren’t related to any specific incident, but rather what seems like a lifetime of feeling unseen, unheard, and like everyone else’s opinions and feelings matter more than theirs. They may notice that they don’t speak up in relationships or at work because they don’t want to look foolish or “stupid.” They anticipate being criticized, so they dismiss their thoughts, feelings, ideas, and needs. They put themselves down a lot, sometimes out of the belief that it will be less painful than if others put them down first. Over time, however, they often feel dissatisfied, resentful, or envious of others. They find it difficult to enjoy being in the moment with other people because they’re self-conscious and constantly fighting back painful thoughts telling them that no one likes them or they’re not enough in some way.

When this pattern continues for a long time, people may start withdrawing from friendships and relationships, fearing that others will discover that they are weak, flawed, or don’t have much to offer. They may keep themselves from dating, looking for a satisfying career, or going after their dreams because they can’t bear the thought of failing or being rejected. Or they may behave in ways that create trouble later, such as by trying to control others, procrastinating, or trying to be perfect. Regardless of what their outside behaviour looks like, on the inside, they often feel anxious or depressed, and ashamed for feeling this way. It can feel like there is no way out, and yet they long for nothing more than to feel that they belong, are loved, and have people in their lives who care for them. These are basic human needs that we all have. And we all deserve to have these needs met.

In addition to EFT, I often incorporate aspects of other evidence-based therapies into my practice, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I offer sessions both in person at our Burnaby office and online.

Our counselling relationship will be a collaborative one, where you set the pace and decide what feels important for you to talk about, and I offer some ways of working through an experience. You are in control of what you share with me, how much detail you provide, and when. My role is to support you as you explore important parts of your life and your experience.

When we sit down together, you can expect me to be calm, accepting, supportive, and non-judgmental. All you require is a sense of curiosity about yourself and the willingness to allow various feelings, thoughts, and body sensations to be uncovered and experienced. As you learn to befriend your body, express your deeper feelings and needs, and discover what makes you uniquely you, we uncover the inherent goodness and authenticity that has been there all along. Through this process, you will transform the relationship you have with yourself into one that is more accepting and peaceful.

About Me

I completed my Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in Counselling Psychology at the University of British Columbia and am registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. I have practised individual counselling in private practices and in a community counselling centre. I have also co-facilitated mindfulness groups for adults and teens who struggle with anxiety, and parenting groups for parents with children aged 0-5.

Most of all, I am passionate about helping people transform their pain into a life that includes more peace, joy, and connection.