Meet Ian

Hi, I’m Ian Conroy, Founder of Take Control Alcohol Support.

I’m an experienced Registered Social Worker with over 25 years’ experience supporting adults through change. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with people from a wide range of backgrounds, helping them overcome challenges, build confidence and make meaningful, lasting changes in their lives.

Although I am now based in Cumbria, I previously lived and worked in London for many years. I now provide confidential online alcohol support to adults across England through secure Zoom consultations, including clients in London and the South East.

My approach is based on Motivational Interviewing—a collaborative, evidence-based approach that helps people explore their relationship with alcohol, strengthen their motivation for change and build confidence in making choices that fit their lives. You don’t need to have reached crisis point or decided to stop drinking before seeking support.

I understand that asking for help can feel like a big step. My aim is to provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly, explore your goals and develop a healthier relationship with alcohol at a pace that feels right for you.

Whether your goal is to cut down, stop drinking, or simply gain a better understanding of your relationship with alcohol, every session is tailored to your individual circumstances. There are no lectures, no labels and no judgement—just practical, compassionate support focused on helping you take back control.

Online consultations mean you can access professional guidance from the comfort of your own home, wherever you are in England.

I believe lasting change often begins with one conversation. If you feel ready to explore your relationship with alcohol, I’d be delighted to work alongside you.

Professional Background 

For more than 25 years, I’ve worked as a Social Worker across health and social care services, working with adults through a wide range of life challenges.

Throughout my career I’ve supported people experiencing alcohol-related difficulties, mental health challenges and other issues affecting wellbeing, relationships and everyday life.

My approach combines professional knowledge with compassion, respect and practical support. Every person is different, and I believe support should always be tailored to the individual rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

I’m committed to maintaining the highest professional standards through ongoing training, professional registration and continuing professional development.

✓ 25+ years’ experience in social work

✓ Registered with Social Work England (Registration No. SW23811)

✓ APT Accredited Motivational Interviewing Practitioner (Level 2)

✓ Advanced Practitioner Member – Addiction Professionals 

✓ Based in South Lakes, Cumbria, providing confidential online consultations  to adults across England

My Approach

Every conversation is collaborative, respectful and confidential. Rather than telling you what to do, I’ll help you explore your own strengths, build confidence and develop practical strategies that fit your life.

You do not need to stop drinking before seeking support. If you’re thinking about making a change, that’s enough to begin.

My approach combines professional knowledge with compassion, respect and practical support. Every person is different, and I believe support should always be tailored to the individual rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

My Values

I believe lasting change comes from understanding, not judgement.

Everyone’s relationship with alcohol is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. My role is to provide a safe, confidential space where you can explore what matters most to you, identify your goals and develop practical strategies that work for your life.

Whether your aim is to cut down, stop drinking, or simply regain a greater sense of control, we’ll work together at a pace that feels right for you.

If you’d like to explore whether this support is right for you, you’re welcome to book a free, confidential 20-minute introductory consultation. We’ll talk about your goals, answer any questions you have, and you can decide whether you’d like to take things further. There’s no pressure or obligation.

A little about me

I’ve spent more than 25 years working with adults across health and social care, supporting people through some of the most challenging periods of their lives. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that meaningful change rarely comes from being told what to do—it comes from feeling understood, listened to and supported.

Away from work, I enjoy spending time outdoors in the Lake District, where walking helps me switch off and keep a healthy balance. I also enjoy travelling, discovering new places and experiencing different cultures and local food. I believe the same principles apply to changing our relationship with alcohol – finding a healthy balance that works in everyday life.

I believe everyone has the capacity to make meaningful change when the time feels right. It’s a privilege to work alongside people as they take those first steps.

If you’ve read this far, thank you. Reaching out isn’t always easy, but it can be the beginning of something positive. If you’d like to explore your relationship with alcohol in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space, I’d be delighted to hear from you.