Changing the culture and preconceived notions around mental health has been a long and ongoing journey, one that involves offering the right, tailored solutions for individuals—ultimately, creating a safe space for yourself.

Self Space was founded in 2018 by therapists Jodie and Chance, who are on a mission to democratise on-demand therapy on the high street, bypassing the traditional queuing system and rigid structures of conventional existing services. They aim to create a sense of openness and proximity for anyone who wants to share their woes through a conversation with one of their fully registered therapists. Jodie and Chance are bringing mental health therapy back where it belongs (daily practice and maintenance) through real and meaningful conversations in physical spaces curated to make you feel at ease. But don’t worry if you can’t make it to one of their locations; they’ll be happy to support you with the same warmth through one-on-one conversations online.

Following its success, the company has expanded its offerings to the workplace. Companies have been working to address mental health related challenges for many years, encouraging the meaningful involvement of employees and their representatives with lived experiences of mental health conditions. However, the rigid structure, lack of reasonable accommodation, and slow implementation of organisational interventions and changes often result in minimal success in improving wellbeing in the workplace. By partnering with Self Space, companies introduce a way to properly support their employees beyond a mindfulness app or a stagnant EAP. Self Space can provide, for example, 1:1 therapy, mental health workshops, and leadership training. 

Self Space will also be launching a great initiative in 2025 with a pay-it-forward scheme, partnering with charities and nonprofits to provide free therapy to those for whom cost is a barrier.

Beyond the subject of mental health, which can be daunting and still very much taboo, Self Space has built a brand that reflects who they are: true to themselves, genuine, and community driven. When you step into one of their locations, you will be pleasantly surprised to find an inviting space, specifically curated by Jodie and Chance, that makes you feel welcome with its bright, thoughtful colours, and comfortable seating. You will never again be filled with the anticipation and unease that comes with sitting in most dreary waiting rooms. If you do experience a short wait for your therapist, you’ll always be welcome to play one of Self Space’s card games, 'Deep and Meaningful', which is sure to steal a smile and a laugh before your session.