THE SELF SPACE
IT’S OK NOT TO BE OK
In the trendy district of Shoreditch in London (close to the hustle and bustle of start-ups and agencies), we have discovered a new concept that offers completely new access to psychological counselling.
“EVERYDAY MENTAL MAINTENANCE” is the claim and they offer primarily 30 or 50 minute sessions on site or as video call as well as special offers for multiple bookings, for couples or students.
In a time in which mental illnesses and even just the fears of a burn-out are constantly growing, SELF SPACE creates an easily accessible offer in a friendly and contemporary way. For many people the hurdle to go to a psychiatrist is still high and then they expect the grey eminence and the dark leather sofa.
The SELF SPACE is more like a tiny, young boutique and has no room for sofas at all. Instead you can flexibly book sessions online and also choose the therapist. All of them are professionally trained and the promise is “a good conversation with a qualified person”.
The founder Jodie Cariss told THE GUARDIAN: “Therapists don’t have all the answers. It’s not our job to fix the client. We didn’t break it; we can’t fix it. All we can do is shine a light where the client may not have been looking. At Self Space, we really advocate the concept that everyday mental maintenance is an essential part of surviving.”
While there is criticism that therapy needs a fixed process and commitment, we also see the chance of a low entry hurdle and contemporary flexibility. In an increasingly complex world, we need a wide range of experts who can support us in a wide variety of life situations. This also reminds us of the Society of Grownups or the School of Life – after whose model the Brainery (formerly: modern life school) opened in Germany.
Take a look at the page and the services of – you feel better right away.
The design is by Hannah Alice: www.hannahalice.co.uk