Ian Watts

Finding the right therapist is a life-changing decision. A good therapist changed my life when I was struggling. That experience led me to train in this profession, and it’s how I know therapy works. Now, with a postgraduate-level qualification in Integrative Counselling as a BACP-registered therapist, I’m committed to offering others the same safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space that helped me.

My approach is person-centered and integrative, meaning I tailor each session to your unique needs. I believe you are the expert in your own life. My role is not to give advice but to help you explore your thoughts, make sense of past and present experiences, and develop new ways of coping.

I offer therapy for anxiety, depression, bereavement, trauma, relationship difficulties, disability, and domestic abuse. My practice is open to adults from all backgrounds, and I work in a way that respects each client’s individuality and values.

Sessions last 50 minutes and are available face-to-face in Chorlton, Manchester, or online via Zoom or Google Meet. My current availability includes all day Mondays until 8 PM, Thursday afternoons from 5pm until 8pm, and Saturday mornings. However, I aim to be flexible, so if these times don’t work, please reach out. Sessions are priced at £60.

I also offer coaching for those seeking personal or professional change. As an ILM-qualified coach, I use evidence-based techniques to help individuals set and achieve meaningful goals. Whether you want career development, improved confidence, or greater clarity in life decisions, coaching provides a structured, solution-focused approach to unlocking your potential. Sessions last 60 minutes and are available in-person and online for £70.

I offer a free 20-minute phone consultation to help you decide if we’re a good fit. This is your chance to ask questions, discuss concerns, and get a feel for how I work.

Hi, I’m Ian Watts Counselling. As a therapist with a background in men’s mental health and women’s trauma recovery, I help clients facing challenges such as depression, grief, infertility, and life transitions to build resilience, rediscover purpose, and create a fulfilling life. My practice provides a safe, confidential space where you can explore your thoughts, gain clarity, and develop strategies to move forward.

How I Can Help You

Depression

Depression can feel overwhelming, bringing sadness, hopelessness, guilt, or low self-worth. In therapy, we’ll explore these feelings and work towards reconnecting with hope and joy.

Men’s Mental Health

Men often face unique emotional challenges due to societal pressures. Whether it’s stress, anger, anxiety, or emptiness, therapy provides a space to unpack emotions and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Bereavement & Loss

Losing a loved one or experiencing other loss can leave you feeling adrift. I offer a compassionate space where you can process grief and find healing in your own time.

Trauma

Trauma isn’t just about what happened—it’s about its lasting impact. It can shape how you think, feel, and connect with the world. With specialised training, I offer a space to help you heal and move forward.

Disability

A new physical disability can bring overwhelming changes. Having lived experience following an accident, I understand its emotional impact. My therapy provides tailored support to help you adjust and embrace your strengths.

Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse isn’t just physical—it can be emotional, financial, sexual, or psychological. If you’ve experienced abuse, I offer a supportive space to help you process, rebuild confidence, and move towards healing.

Infertility

Infertility is a deeply personal journey, often accompanied by grief and frustration. I understand the emotional toll, especially for men who may feel overlooked. In therapy, we can explore these feelings, build coping strategies, and create space for healing.

Embarking on therapy is a significant step, and understanding what to expect can ease any apprehensions. At Ian Watts Counselling, I aim to make your initial experience as comfortable and productive as possible.

Pre-Session Assessment

To ensure our first session focuses entirely on you, I request that clients complete an assessment form prior to our meeting. This form gathers essential information about your background, current concerns, and goals for therapy. By reviewing this beforehand, I can tailor our session to your specific needs, allowing us to delve deeper into your journey from the outset.

First Session Overview

Our initial session typically lasts 50 minutes and serves as a foundation for our therapeutic relationship. We’ll begin by discussing the information you’ve provided, ensuring I have a comprehensive understanding of your situation. This conversation will cover:

• Confidentiality: I’ll explain how your information is handled and the limits of confidentiality.

• Therapeutic Approach: An overview of my person-centred and integrative methods, emphasising that you are the expert in your own life.

• Session Structure: Details about session frequency, duration, fees, and any other logistical considerations.

• Your Goals: Understanding what you hope to achieve through therapy, whether it’s managing anxiety, overcoming depression, or navigating life transitions.

This session is also an opportunity for you to ask questions, express any concerns, and determine if my approach aligns with your expectations. It’s important that you feel comfortable and supported as we embark on this journey together.

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but it’s a courageous move toward personal growth and healing. By providing preliminary information and understanding what to expect, our initial session can be more focused and beneficial for you.

I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward well-being.