Empowering Clients Through Therapy and Nutritional Counseling to Heal Trauma and Overcome Eating Disorders

Hayley Miller, LPCC, RD, CEDS-C, is a therapist and registered dietitian who combines psychotherapy with nutritional counseling to help clients overcome eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, and relationship issues.

Through her practice, Hayley Miller Counseling, Hayley offers an eclectic approach to treatment, blending cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy to create a holistic path toward healing.

Founded in 2017, Hayley’s practice has grown to support women, non-binary individuals, and transgender individuals aged 14 and above.

With a deep passion for helping others and an entrepreneurial spirit, Hayley offers a personalized and client-centered approach that brings lasting transformation.

An Eclectic Approach to Healing

What sets Hayley Miller Counseling apart is her ability to combine both CBT and psychodynamic therapy.

“Most treatments for eating disorders and trauma use only one of these techniques,” Hayley explains. “But I’ve found that blending both allows my clients to feel better faster and create lasting change in their lives.”

For Hayley, the goal isn’t just temporary relief but helping clients build lasting resilience.

“The people I work with have often experienced deep wounds, whether from eating disorders, trauma, or anxiety,” she says.

“By using this eclectic approach, I can offer them more effective solutions that address the root causes of their struggles.”

Building a Business From the Ground Up

Before starting her own practice, Hayley was working at a center, but after losing her job due to funding cuts, she realized that working for someone else was no longer an option.

“I wanted to be in charge of my own finances and my own job security,” she recalls.

“The layoff was the push I needed to take the leap and start my practice.”

However, the road to success wasn’t smooth. “In the beginning, getting referrals was a huge challenge,” she admits.

“I took insurance at first, which brought in some clients, but then I had to chase down insurance companies for payment. When I switched to private pay, referrals dropped but people stayed longer, which worked better in the long run.”

Hayley’s ability to adapt has paid off. Today, her mix of local and national marketing has led to more consistent referrals.

Despite facing challenges such as financial stress and the cyclical nature of business, Hayley has built a practice that aligns with her strengths and passion for helping others.

Client Success Stories

One of Hayley’s proudest moments was working with a client who was able to make life-changing decisions after a period of healing.

“I worked with a client who overcame an eating disorder, and they were able to find the job they felt they truly thrived in,” she shares.

“They also moved to a place that felt like home and were finally able to reduce the triggers from their past traumas.”

For Hayley, moments like these are the heart of her work.

“Seeing clients move through difficult phases of life and finally feel free from their struggles is what makes everything worth it,” she says.

Navigating the Stress of Entrepreneurship

Running a private practice can be rewarding, but it also comes with unique challenges.

“The hardest part of entrepreneurship is ensuring a steady stream of clients while managing the financial aspects of the business,” Hayley confesses.

“The summer months tend to be slower because of vacations, and this can cause financial anxiety.”

But Hayley doesn’t let stress derail her.

“I’ve learned to manage the ebbs and flows of my business by staying proactive in networking and maintaining strong relationships with referral sources,” she says.

“I’ve also worked part-time at other outpatient practices when necessary to bring in additional revenue during slow times.”

Self-care is a big part of how Hayley manages stress.

“I hike weekly to stay grounded, and I make sure to take time for hobbies like reading, journaling, and yoga,” she shares.

“I also rely on my own therapist and consultants to support me. Managing my well-being is essential for me to continue helping my clients.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Hayley’s vision for her business is to build more financial security and create a fuller client schedule.

“I’d love to buy a condo or house with my partner,” she says. “And having more consistent clients will help me achieve that.”

While Hayley acknowledges the challenges of the current economic climate, she is hopeful for the future.

“The down economy and slow periods in the summer have been tough, but I remind myself that these times also give me space to recharge,” she says.

“Ultimately, I want to increase my visibility and continue building a practice that can serve even more people who need my help.”

Why Hayley’s Work Matters

Through Hayley Miller Counseling, Hayley has created a space where clients can feel truly seen and heard.

Her eclectic approach to healing trauma and eating disorders has provided many people with lasting change, helping them to rebuild their lives and relationships.

“I’m passionate about what I do,” she says.

“This isn’t just a career for me—it’s a calling. I’m so grateful to be able to support people through such transformative moments in their lives.”

Connect with Hayley Miller:

Website: hayleymillercounseling.com

Instagram: @hayleymillercounseling