Ian Saunders, NCPS

Ian Saunders is a counsellor with 18 years of experience based in the United Kingdom. He runs a independent practice and offers a mix of in-person, telephone and online sessions depending on availability. He works with adults on issues such as addiction, relationships and trauma, and uses straightforward, practical conversations to help people move forward.

Over nearly two decades he has developed particular experience with alcohol and drug misuse. He also helps people dealing with anger, low self esteem and the fallout from betrayal and infidelity. His additional focus areas include codependency, communication and control issues, and process addictions such as gambling or compulsive behaviours.

Ian’s approach is grounded in Client-Centred Therapy, which means sessions are shaped around the person in front of him. He also uses Motivational Interviewing to support change and Solution-Focused Therapy to build on what’s already working. Sessions tend to focus on clear goals, small practical steps and honest conversation.

People who feel stuck by shame, guilt or conflicted loyalties may find his style direct but supportive. He aims to help clients identify priorities and try manageable changes between appointments. Ian explains things plainly and avoids jargon so people can act on ideas right away.

To start, clients complete a short matching questionnaire and then arrange sessions around his availability. Fees vary with location and the subscription model is cancellable at any time.

How his approaches shape online therapy

Client-Centred Therapy places the person at the centre of the work. It involves listening closely and adapting sessions to what the client needs each week. This approach can help people who want a supportive space to talk through problems and make sense of feelings.

Motivational Interviewing is a conversational method that helps people find their own reasons to change. It is useful for substance misuse, process addictions and other areas where motivation can ebb and flow. Solution-Focused Therapy looks for small, practical steps and builds on what already works, making it helpful for people who want focused, goal-oriented sessions.

Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the process. The therapist will work collaboratively to decide which methods suit the client's goals and preferences. That discussion usually happens in early sessions and can be adjusted as work progresses.

Practical benefits of online work include easier fitting of sessions into a busy week and fewer travel demands. Telephone or video options can make short check-ins simpler and allow continuity when in-person meetings are difficult. Confirm the current session options before booking so arrangements match personal needs.