Unalome Counselling
The Unalome (pronounced ooh-na-loam) is a Buddhist/Hindu symbol that perfectly encapsulates this crazy journey we call life, as well as the therapeutic journey. The spiral can symbolise our state before therapy, where we are feeling directionless, or in a fog. The swirls symbolise the twists and turns of life- our fears, anxieties, victories and successes. Sometimes, these twists and turns make us feel like we are lost, or our lives are a mess! This is all part of the journey of therapy toward, hopefully, the straight line- or light at the end of the tunnel. It reminds us that though life may be full of obstacles, we are each forging our own paths through sometimes challenging times, to reach that 'better place'. I would like to be your companion on your journey as we navigate these twists and turns and try to find a new direction for you to head in.
About
Ian Holmes
Let's face it, sometimes, life just gets on top of us and we need to talk it through. Friends are great, but often counselling can be more effective because we are unrelated to the rest of your life and relationships and we can be more objective. Plus, the sessions are all about you! I work in a non-judgemental, compassionate, authentic, and down to earth way and I have many hours of one to one sessions in a variety of settings.
I am a fully qualified person-centred counsellor from the Masters programme at University of Salford (professional practice). I am a fully registered member of the BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy). I have 15 years experience working in mental health- both inpatient and in the community. I have 8 year's experience with the NHS and have also worked for the local borough council and private charities and organisations. My specialties include working with addiction, bereavement, child loss, miscarriage, depression and anxiety- though I am happy to work with a wide range of issues if I we both feel I am the right therapist for you. I have previously worked in substance misuse rehabilitation, the community drug and alcohol team and for a counselling charity specialising in working with bereaved parents. I have also worked with adults and adolescents under section in mental health wards. I am comfortable and have experience of working with a mix of genders and cultures.
I do not consider myself an expert in your life- YOU are the expert and I am the guide. My main training and therapeutic model also espouses this. I also have some training in CBT and Motivational Interviewing that I can integrate where appropriate during our treatment. I have lived experience in recovery from mental health issues and addiction and I feel this allows me to empathise more fully. It is also good for you to be aware your therapist is human too! Therapy can, and perhaps should be, difficult at times- and I can promise you integrity, challenge, straight-talking and a healthy dose of humour too!
01.
I offer individual therapy sessions both online and in-person. Face to face sessions are more expensive in order to cover costs. I offer a free initial 20 minute consultation where I can get to know you and you can see if you feel we 'click'- after all, choosing the right therapist for you is very important! Some people only need 6-12 sessions, whilst others feel they need more. I offer discounts for block bookings and also students in training.
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Investment-
Online Session- £50
Face to Face Session- £60
Block of 4 or 6 Sessions- £180/£260
Students in Training- £35
02.
I am lucky enough to live in the beautiful surroundings of Saddleworth. Nature can be such a great healer- it certainly is for me! I have undertaken further training in delivering therapy outdoors and using nature as part of our session. So, if you'd rather meet for a walk and talk session, I'm happy to do this within Saddleworth and surrounding areas. If there's somewhere else you'd rather meet in Greater Manchester, we can discuss this further.
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Investment-
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£50 per session
Block of 4 or 6- £180/£260
03.
If you are in early recovery, or struggling with addiction, I can offer recovery coaching sessions. These are only offered online- or, in the right circumstances, as a walk and talk session. Some people don't want to have to visit statutory services and prefer the anonymity and expertise of private coaching. Please be aware these are not counselling sessions and do not work to a model of therapy. These will be much more direct, straight-talking and based on a wealth of personal and professional experience- with over 10 years professional experience in helping people thrive and overcome their addictions.
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Investment-
Online Session- £60
Block of 4 sessions- £220
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Get in Touch
Feel free to call, text, or email to arrange a free 20-minute consultation. It's important we feel that we are the right fit for each other and this also gives you chance to ask any questions. If I'm unavailable when you call, please leave a voicemail and I will get back to you as soon as possible. You can also use the contact form opposite. I look forward to hearing from you!
07804617225
Useful resources and musings...
