Ian Smith, BACP

Ian Smith is a counsellor based in the United Kingdom with ten years of experience. He works with people facing stress, anxiety, addictions, low mood and relationship strain. He also supports those dealing with trauma, grief, parenting pressure and questions about identity and intimacy. Ian aims to make the first conversation simple and easy to begin.

Ian creates a calm space where people can talk about what matters to them without fear of judgement. He starts from where the person is right now and builds on what already helps. Conversations focus on practical steps as well as understanding feelings and patterns.

His approach draws on several recognised methods, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Attachment-Based work. He uses techniques from these approaches to help people spot unhelpful thoughts, manage difficult emotions and find clearer values to guide change. Sessions are collaborative and paced to each person’s needs.

Over a decade, Ian has worked across social services and mental health settings. That background informs his practical, down-to-earth style and his comfort with complex situations like co-morbidity, caring roles and long-term health issues. He supports people coping with life transitions, anger and self-esteem struggles, and those seeking coaching-style help to move forward.

People who choose Ian can expect respectful listening, straightforward feedback and a focus on usable tools. He will work with clients to agree goals and check progress along the way.

How Ian’s approaches translate to online counselling

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice unhelpful thoughts and choose actions that match their values. It can support those coping with anxiety, depression and life changes. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on spotting thought patterns that keep problems going and practising practical skills to change them. It is often used for anxiety, low mood and stress. Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early relationships influence current patterns and can help with intimacy, relationship strain and attachment-related worries.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work. Ian will discuss different methods with each person and decide together which fits best with their goals and preferences. That collaborative process can include trying techniques from different approaches and adjusting as needed.

Confirm current online session options before booking, as specific formats are not listed in the biography. Online therapy can still fit into busy lives by making appointments easier to schedule, reducing travel time and allowing shorter check-ins when needed. It also makes it possible for people living outside the therapist’s local area, including international clients, to work together. Practical arrangements such as session length and timing are agreed with the therapist to suit everyday routines and commitments.