In Other News..
In Other News..
Embedded Files
Guest on BBC Solent...
Guest on BBC Solent Radio
Guest on BBC Solent Radio
Katie Martin - Chris Jarvis sits in 07/07/25
Katie Martin - Chris Jarvis sits in 07/07/25
While we were enjoying the Sham Rocks Festival in New Milton, an American lady approached me. She was really curious about our Listening Post - and ended up inviting me to her radio show on Spectrum on Air. (Yes, I still need to follow this up... life and work got in the way.)
A few weeks later, we were at The Big Eat Festival at Royal Victoria Country Park - there by invitation, with our Listening Post again. We shared a space with Fiesta.FM, had long conversations with their team, and they too invited me to come into their studio. (Same excuse… still not followed up yet.)
Not long after that, we were at the Urban Wild Festival, where Xan Phillips from Voice FM got his recorder out and did a mini-interview with me on the spot. He also asked if I’d ever thought about having my own radio show...
And then - when I got home from Urban Wild - there was an email waiting for me. The Southampton Mental Health Network had put my name forward as a guest speaker on BBC Solent. I felt honoured, seen, and appreciated… So yes please!! Thank you so much!!
I exchanged a few emails with Katie Martin about the topic we’d be discussing - I was there to represent the Southampton Mental Health Network as a member, as well as share a bit about the work I do as a counsellor and head honcho of KvLS, our low-cost counselling service.
I figured out how to get there, where to park, made a crib sheet with talking points… and yes, a list of replacement curse words (it is the BBC, after all).
When I arrived (way on time), I naturally tried the wrong entrance first. After a walk around the building, I found the right door and was greeted by a lovely, helpful receptionist. She let me know that Katie Martin wasn’t in that day, and that Chris Jarvis would be hosting instead. Hmm… I didn’t know who he was - but while I was waiting, I heard his voice live on air, upbeat and inviting, talking about the Mela Festival next week (which we’ll also be attending with our Listening Post!).
The producer came to collect me from reception (apologies - so much going on in my head, I’ve forgotten your name). She offered me a drink, which I politely declined - I didn’t want to be that guest who knocks tea all over the studio. She explained that Chris Jarvis would be hosting - I might know him from CBeebies? She took me through to the green room (yes, the sofas were green) and completely put me at ease. She was genuinely interested in the topic of boundaries, which I was there to talk about. She also told me that Sue Hayward from The Hayward Hub, and Chair of Trustees for the Network, had done an excellent interview the week before - and had sung my praises. Of course, that made my stress levels climb a bit!
Anyway, it was time to sit in the studio, across from Chris Jarvis. I recognised him immediately - and he made me feel completely at home. He’s a genuine radio wizard, somehow managing two live broadcasts at once (BBC Solent and BBC Dorset!). He asked me a bunch of thoughtful questions, and seemed genuinely interested in what I had to say.
I had the feeling he was looking for advice for the listeners - and while we therapists don’t really give advice, I did my best! Of course, I couldn’t help myself and turned a few questions back on him - because therapy is often about helping people find their own answers.
I was meant to mention the Network’s membership offer: just £2 a year for anyone living or working in postcodes SO14–SO19 (including individuals and organisations), all working toward making Southampton a mental health friendly city. But the conversation flowed in other directions, and I just about managed to squeeze a mention in at the end!
I really enjoyed our chat - even a listener’s question didn’t throw me.
Time flew, and afterwards I had no idea what I’d said or whether it made any sense at all. I landed back in my body feeling like I’d done a full-body workout!
The producer told me I’d done well and asked if I’d like to come back… Yes please!!
I made it home, talked to the husband, made him listen and critique my “performance”… and then I had a snooze.
One down - how many more to go?
Feel free to invite me to any other radio show - I love radio!
Kirsty x
Ps. If you would like to hear what I said - it is on BBC Sounds for the next 28 days! I'm on about an hour and fifteen minutes in...
🌟 Southampton Mela Festival!
🌟 Southampton Mela Festival!
We’re delighted to announce that KvLS once again, will be part of the Mela Festival in Hoglands Park, Southampton this July - a free event that brings together the rich mix of cultures, music, dance, food, and community that make our city so vibrant.
Amidst the colour and celebration, you’ll find us at the KvLS Listening Post - a quiet, welcoming space where you can pause for a moment, take a breath, and reconnect with yourself.
The Mela Festival is a joyful day out, but we know that even in the middle of celebration, life can still feel heavy. Sometimes it helps to have a space that’s just… still. That’s where we come in. Our Listening Post offers a chance to sit, reflect, talk if you want to, or just be present. You don’t need to book or say anything special - just drop by, take a seat, and know that you’re welcome.
We believe that looking after our mental health should be part of everyday life, including the fun and busy days. The Listening Post is about bringing that support into the heart of the community - making it accessible, visible, and part of the celebration.
If you’re attending the festival, come find us. Whether you want to chat, ask questions about counselling, take a mindful pause, or simply say hi - we’d love to see you there.
July 2025
Now in Bournemouth too!
Now in Bournemouth too!
We’re thrilled to announce that KvLS has expanded to Bournemouth!
For a while now, we’ve known that the need for affordable, community-based counselling reaches beyond Southampton – and we’re proud to now offer our service in Bournemouth too.
We support individuals, couples, carers, friends and family members – helping you make sense of what’s happening and how you feel about it.
Whether you're based in Bournemouth, Southampton or anywhere else in the UK, we offer both in-person and online therapy options that are grounded, supportive and real.
Come talk to us. We're here.
June 2025
Learning from Trauma
Learning from Trauma
Why we created “Learning from Trauma”
At KvLS, we believe that understanding our experiences is a powerful step toward healing. Many of us live with the ongoing impact of trauma - sometimes without even realising it. The way we think, feel, relate to others, and even how we hold ourselves physically can be deeply shaped by past events.
Our Learning from Trauma workshop is created to offer a space for people who want to understand this better. Over ten weekly sessions, we explore what trauma does to the body and mind, how we’ve learned to adapt or survive, and why we might turn to substances or other 'bad' habits to cope with everyday life.
This isn’t a therapy group, but it is therapeutic. It’s a space where we bring together evidence-based knowledge and personal reflection, all held safely by trained therapists.
We look at key ideas from neuroscience, psychology, and trauma theory, and we make sure these ideas are accessible and meaningful – even if you’ve never done anything like this before. Most importantly, we invite you to reflect on what this means in the context of your own life.
The group is supportive, structured, and grounded. You don’t need to share your personal story unless you want to - you’ll have space to think, learn, and connect.
If you’re curious about why you respond the way you do, if you’re tired of surviving and want to start understanding - this could be the right next step.
Please see the picture for details, and if you’d like to register, just drop us a message. We hope you’ll join us.
June 2025
Mental Health Awareness Week May 2025
Mental Health Awareness Week May 2025
🌿 CONNECT 🌿
🌿 CONNECT 🌿
This week is all about looking after your mental wellbeing, and today we're starting with one of the most powerful tools we have: connection.
When we connect - with a friend, a neighbour, our community, or even just a friendly face - we give our mental health a boost. It's like giving your brain and your heart a high five!
Cultivate meaningful relationships with friends, family, and community to foster a sense of belonging and support.
💜 Whether it's a text, a walk, a chat over tea, or just sharing space with someone - connection reminds us we're not alone.
Huge thanks to Lost & Found for these brilliant images - check out their amazing mental health streetwear!
🌼 TAKE NOTICE 🌼
🌼 TAKE NOTICE 🌼
When life gets busy, we can forget to pause and just… be.
Today is your reminder to slow down, breathe, and notice what’s around you.
Practice mindfulness and be present in the moment, appreciating the beauty around you and finding gratitude in everyday experiences.
🧠 Notice the warmth of your tea.
🌳 Notice the way the light hits the trees.
💬 Notice how you're feeling - without judgement.
Taking notice brings us into the present and helps reduce stress.
A little mindfulness can go a long way.
💜 GIVE TO OTHERS 💜
💜 GIVE TO OTHERS 💜
A kind word, a helping hand, a listening ear - when we give, we don’t just lift others, we lift ourselves too.
Share your time, skills, and kindness with others through volunteering, acts of kindness, or simply offering support, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
💬 Giving doesn’t need to cost a thing.
😊 It can be a smile, a compliment, a “how are you really?”
🎁 And yes, sometimes it’s cake.
Giving builds connection and brings purpose - both great for mental wellbeing.
💜a massive thank you to all our volunteer counsellors - we would not be here without you 💜
🏃♀️ BE ACTIVE 🏃♂️
🏃♀️ BE ACTIVE 🏃♂️
Moving our bodies helps shift our minds. You don’t have to run a marathon - just get moving in a way that feels good to you.
Energise your body and mind through regular physical activity, whether it is a brisk walk, yoga session, or dance class, to boost your mood and overall well-being.
🚶 Walk the long way home
💃 Dance in the kitchen
🌳 Stretch in the park
Physical activity boosts mood, improves sleep, and lowers stress. Every step counts.
What can you do today?
📚 KEEP LEARNING 📚
📚 KEEP LEARNING 📚
Learning isn’t just for classrooms - it’s for life. When we learn something new, we build confidence, curiosity, and resilience.
Stimulate your mind by seeking out new knowledge and experiences, whether it's through formal education, hobbies, or exploring different cultures, to enhance creativity and personal growth.
🎨 Try a new recipe
🎧 Listen to a podcast
🧩 Pick up a hobby you’ve always meant to try
Crochet anyone?
💜Thank You!💜
💜Thank You!💜
Founded in 2023 on the South Coast of England, Lost & Found is Jon’s vision to challenge stigma and inspire open conversations about mental health. With the support of his wife Dee, the brand serves as a reminder that feeling lost is part of the journey.
Lost & Found is a mental health inspired clothing brand that stands against the stigma associated with mental health issues. With a profound message, the brand represents a compelling journey of personal transformation that goes beyond the confines of fashion, embodying a narrative of self-discovery, physical transformation, and an ongoing battle with anxiety and mental health.
🎶 This Weekend! Come Find Us at Sham Rocks Tribute Festival 🎶
🎶 This Weekend! Come Find Us at Sham Rocks Tribute Festival 🎶
We’re packing up our Listening Post and heading to Sham Rocks Tribute Festival this Saturday & Sunday (10–11 May) in New Milton - and we’d love to see you there!
We’re packing up our Listening Post and heading to Sham Rocks Tribute Festival this Saturday & Sunday (10–11 May) in New Milton - and we’d love to see you there!
The brilliant folks at Firefly Festivals have invited us along to their newest event - a weekend packed with incredible tribute acts, live music, community vibes, and a whole lot of fun.
The brilliant folks at Firefly Festivals have invited us along to their newest event - a weekend packed with incredible tribute acts, live music, community vibes, and a whole lot of fun.
🎤 Think Glastonbury energy at a fraction of the price
👂 We’ll be there offering time to chat, check in, and connect
📍 You’ll find us at Fawcett Fields, New Milton
💸 Grab your Adult Weekend Ticket with a KvLS discount – just pop KvLS in the promo code box at checkout
🎤 Think Glastonbury energy at a fraction of the price
👂 We’ll be there offering time to chat, check in, and connect
📍 You’ll find us at Fawcett Fields, New Milton
💸 Grab your Adult Weekend Ticket with a KvLS discount – just pop KvLS in the promo code box at checkout
We might even be quietly scoping out a new clientele for our low-cost counselling services near Bournemouth... 👀💬
We might even be quietly scoping out a new clientele for our low-cost counselling services near Bournemouth... 👀💬
Come say hi, bring your dancing shoes, and let’s make it a weekend to remember! 🌈💜
Come say hi, bring your dancing shoes, and let’s make it a weekend to remember! 🌈💜
May 2025
March 2025 Newsletter.pdfLet's Talk Therapy
Let's Talk Therapy
Missed our March 2025 newsletter Let’s Talk Therapy?
No worries - you can read it here (just click on the left - or above if you are reading this on your phone).
This month, we’re talking about Sleep Hygiene - and there's even a quick test so you can see how much you already know (or don’t!).
We’re also introducing you to another friendly face on our team, sharing our World Domination Plan (well, the Listening Post at four local festivals – come say hi!), and giving you a peek into the Continued Professional Development we’re focusing on right now.
Curious? Dive in.
March 2025
Wednesday Wonderings
Wednesday Wonderings
"Acknowledge your pain, respond with kindness." – Russ Harris
This simple yet powerful quote reminds us how to approach life’s challenges with compassion. Pain, whether emotional, physical, or psychological, is a natural part of being human. Often, we try to ignore or fight it, but what if we simply paused to acknowledge it instead?
Acknowledging pain means recognising its presence without judgment. It’s about saying, “I see you. I hear you,” and allowing yourself to feel what’s real. Suppressing pain only amplifies it, while acknowledgment creates space for understanding and growth.
Once we recognise our struggles, the next step is to respond with kindness. Imagine how you’d comfort a friend who’s hurting—offering warmth and empathy, not criticism. What if you treated yourself the same way?
Kindness could look like:
✨ Taking a break when you’re overwhelmed.
✨ Replacing harsh self-talk with gentle affirmations.
✨ Reaching out for support when you need it.
It’s not about fixing the pain or making it go away. It’s about transforming how you relate to it. By acknowledging pain and responding with kindness, we build resilience, foster self-compassion, and remind ourselves that we’re worthy of care—even in our hardest moments.
So today, take a moment to pause. What would kindness look like for you right now? 💜
#SelfCompassion #Healing #MentalHealthMatters #RussHarris #Kindness
Wednesday Wonderings
Wednesday Wonderings
"If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be." – Maya Angelou
This empowering quote by Maya Angelou is a beautiful reminder that embracing your uniqueness is where your true power lies. Trying to fit into a mold of “normal” can hold you back from discovering your full potential and all the incredible things you’re capable of.
Being "amazing" doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being authentically you—bold, flawed, creative, and extraordinary in ways only you can be.
Here’s how to embrace your uniqueness:
💜 Celebrate your quirks. What makes you different is what makes you you.
💜 Try something new. Step out of your comfort zone and explore your untapped potential.
💜 Quiet the inner critic. You don’t have to be “normal” to be worthy, talented, or loved.
💜 Shine unapologetically. Don’t dim your light for anyone!
Your individuality is a gift—not something to hide but something to nurture and share with the world. So, stop chasing “normal” and start discovering how amazing you already are. 🌟
What’s one unique trait or talent that makes you you? Share it and own it! 💜
#MayaAngelou #BeYourself #Authenticity #YouAreAmazing #SelfLove
February 2025
Happy New You in 2025
Happy New You in 2025
💜 As we step into the New Year, we are reminded that every fresh start brings new opportunities to grow, reflect, and connect.
2025 is a blank canvas, ready for us to paint with our hopes, goals, and dreams. It's a chance to embrace progress, no matter how small, and to celebrate every step we take toward a brighter future.
At KvLS Mental Health Support, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting one another through life’s challenges. This year, let’s commit to prioritising our well-being and being kinder to ourselves and those around us.
Whether you’re setting resolutions, continuing your journey, or simply taking things day by day, know that you’re not alone. We’re here to walk alongside you, offering support, encouragement, and a listening ear whenever you need it.
Here’s to 2025 – a year of self-discovery, growth, and possibilities. Together, we can make it meaningful and fulfilling.
Happy New Year! 🌟
With love, care and hope,
From all of us at KvLS 💜
January 2025
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE, nor does anyone at KvLS.
The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your General Practitioner or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse