Meet Aarya: Welcoming Our New Community Engagement Manager This Summer
Third Space Charity is excited to officially welcome Aarya, who joined our team on June 8 as our new Community Engagement Manager. This is an important addition to our organization as we continue to strengthen our presence in the community and deepen our connections with young adults, partners, and supporters across the Okanagan.
What Aarya Will Focus On
While we will share more about Aarya in the coming months, we can already speak to the heart of her role. As Community Engagement Manager, she will be leading efforts to:
Strengthen community partnerships across the Okanagan
Increase awareness of our pay- what- you- can counselling
Support outreach to young adults who may not know where to turn
Coordinate events and engagement opportunities that bring people together
Build connections with local organizations who share our commitment to mental health access
Her work will help ensure that Third Space remains visible, approachable, and deeply connected to the people we serve.
Why Summer Is the Right Time for This Role
Summer often brings a sense of openness and community. People spend more time outside, attend local events, and look for ways to connect. For young adults, this season can also bring transitions, new routines, and moments of reflection.
Introducing Aarya now allows her to step into the community at a time when engagement is naturally high. It gives her space to meet partners, connect with young adults, and begin shaping the outreach work that will continue throughout the year.
A Welcome Message to Aarya
Community engagement at Third Space
“Aarya, we are so grateful to have you join the Third Space team. Your role will help strengthen the connections that make our work possible, and we are excited to see the impact you will create as you build relationships across the community. Welcome.. we are glad you are here.”
Looking Ahead
We are thrilled to welcome Aarya into this role and look forward to the energy, care, and connection she will bring to Third Space. Her work will play an important part in expanding our reach and ensuring that young adults across the Okanagan know they have a place to turn.
More updates will be shared soon as she continues settling in and begins her work in the community.
New Season, New Leadership: Welcoming Third Space’s Incoming Board Directors
As we move through June and prepare for the June 30 gathering, Third Space Charity is pleased to announce the nomination and on-boarding of two new board directors. This marks an important step in strengthening our leadership team as we continue to expand our impact and support young adults across the Okanagan.
These incoming directors join us at a time of steady growth and increasing community need. While full bios will be shared soon, we are excited to welcome leaders who bring experience, perspective, and a shared commitment to accessible mental health care.
What Our New Directors Bring to Third Space
Even without formal bios released, we can share what matters most. Our new directors bring a strong belief in community centred mental health support and a clear understanding of the importance of accessible counselling for young adults. Their backgrounds reflect a commitment to service, collaboration, and strengthening the systems that support emerging clinicians.
Their leadership will help guide Third Space as we continue to grow our pay-what- you-can counselling program and deepen our presence in the community.
Why They Chose to Serve During This Season of Growth
Joining the board at this time reflects their confidence in the direction Third Space is heading. They recognize the increasing need for mental health support among young adults and see the value in contributing to an organization that is actively responding to that need.
Their decision to serve now aligns with a shared goal: ensuring that young adults have access to consistent, compassionate support as they navigate a wide range of life experiences throughout the year.
Their Vision for the Year Ahead
While each director brings their own strengths, they share a unified vision for the year ahead:
Strengthening access to counselling for young adults
Supporting emerging clinicians through training and supervision
Building deeper community partnerships across the Okanagan
Ensuring Third Space remains welcoming for anyone seeking support
Growing a sustainable, community driven model of care
Their leadership will help guide Third Space through the next phase of development and ensure we remain responsive to the evolving needs of the community.
Looking Ahead to the June 30 Gathering
Event details
We are looking forward to our June 30th gathering, which will be an important moment for Third Space Charity. This event brings our community together to welcome new leadership, share updates on our work, and recognize the continued growth of our programs. It is also an opportunity for our team, partners, and supporters to connect in person and see the direction we are moving toward in the year ahead.
The June 30th gathering will mark the official introduction of our incoming board directors, and we are excited to have them join us during this next phase of development. Their presence signals a renewed commitment to strengthening mental health access for young adults and supporting the training of emerging clinicians.
We cannot wait to welcome our community into this moment with us. It represents both progress and possibility, and we are grateful to everyone who continues to support the work we do.
Growing Together This Summer: Why Valley First Continues to Invest in Third Space
By the time June reaches its halfway point, Kelowna is already alive with summer. You can feel the warmth settling into your skin, the familiar rhythm of people gathering outside, and the sense of ease that comes with longer days. There is a softness to the season that many look forward to: the sun, the lake, the feeling of being more present in the world around you.
But summer also brings another reality, one that is often quieter and less visible.
This is a time to reflect on those who do not have access to the same ease or comfort. For some, the heat can feel overwhelming. Being outside may not feel freeing but instead bring a sense of being out of control. Climate shifts, rising temperatures, and the unpredictability of the environment can stir up uncomfortable memories or emotions from the past. And while the world around us seems to move with lightness, many young adults are navigating transitions, endings, and uncertainties that make summer feel heavier than expected.
Investing in your mental health during this season is an act of care. It is a way of supporting yourself as you continue to grow, heal, and move through the cycles of change that each year brings. Support does not erase difficulty, but it helps you stay grounded through it. It reminds you that you do not have to give up on yourself, even when the season feels complicated.
This is why the Valley First Community Endowment Grant holds such meaning for Third Space Charity.
Valley First has a long standing commitment to strengthening local communities, and their continued investment in Third Space reflects a shared belief that young adults deserve accessible, compassionate mental health care. Their support helps us expand our pay-what-you-can counseling program, train emerging clinicians, and offer steady guidance during a season when emotional needs often shift.
This year’s grant builds on the impact of last year’s partnership, allowing us to reach more young adults who are navigating a wide range of life experiences.
Many are moving through moments of change, uncertainty, or personal growth, and having access to steady, compassionate support can make a meaningful difference.
Some of the most common experiences we see include:
Academic or work transitions, adjusting to new expectations, roles, or responsibilities.
Questions about identity or direction, exploring who they are becoming and what they want for their future.
Shifts in relationships or routines, navigating changes in friendships, family dynamics, or living situations.
Processing past experiences, working through memories or patterns that continue to affect daily life.
Managing stress and emotional overwhelm, finding ways to cope with pressure, uncertainty, or internal expectations.
Valley First’s continued investment helps ensure that young adults have a safe place to turn during these moments. Their support strengthens our pay what you can counselling program, expands the training of emerging clinicians, and allows Third Space to remain a consistent source of care for those who need it.
A Forward Looking Message: Building a Healthier Okanagan Together
Valley First’s continued support reflects a shared belief that mental health care should be accessible, community centred, and grounded in compassion. Their investment helps ensure that young adults in Kelowna have a safe place to turn during moments of transition, uncertainty, or emotional overwhelm.
Together, we are building a stronger Okanagan. One where young adults feel supported, emerging clinicians feel empowered, and mental health care is available to everyone who needs it.
We are deeply grateful to Valley First for their ongoing partnership and for believing in the importance of accessible counselling for young adults. Their commitment helps create a community where growth, healing, and connection can thrive all year long.
Supporting Young Adults Through Summer Transitions
How Community Grants Expand Mental Health Access in Kelowna
Summer in Kelowna brings long days, warm evenings, and a sense of movement that fills the city with energy. It is a season many look forward to, yet it can also be a time when overwhelming feelings quietly grow. With people buzzing around you, it becomes easy to forget that you do not need to do everything or be everywhere to enjoy the sun and the warm freedom that the summer breeze can bring in.
For many young adults, summer is also a period of transition. It marks the end of projects, semesters, and commitments they have been working on for months. It can also bring uncertainty about what the fall will hold, creating a mix of excitement and anxiety that often goes unspoken.
This June, we are honoured to highlight the City of Kelowna Social Development Grant, which plays a meaningful role in helping Third Space Charity support young adults during this complex season. This grant strengthens our ability to offer accessible counselling and ensures that no
About the City of Kelowna Social Development Grant
The City of Kelowna offers Community Social Development Grants to registered non profit organizations that provide socially beneficial programs for residents, with a focus on strengthening community well being and supporting vulnerable populations. These grants are designed to help organizations deliver services that improve quality of life, build resilience, and address social needs across the city. Third Space Charity falls within this category through its commitment to accessible mental health support for young adults. Funding from this grant helps ensure that essential services remain available during times of increased need, including the summer months when emotional and seasonal pressures often rise.
This support allows Third Space to continue offering its pay-what-you-can counselling program, which provides supervised sessions from emerging clinicians aged 18 to 29. This model gives young adults access to meaningful mental health care while also training the next generation of counsellors, creating a dual impact that strengthens the community as a whole.
Real Examples of Seasonal Support Making a Difference
Every summer, we see how timely support can change the direction of someone’s life.
A student finishing their practicum may feel overwhelmed by the uncertainty of what comes next. A young adult may struggle with loneliness as routines shift and friends move away for the season. Someone who has been pushing through a demanding spring may finally slow down enough to notice their own burnout. Another person may reach out for the first time because summer gives them the space to reflect and the courage to ask for help.
These moments matter. They are reminders that mental health support is not seasonal. It is ongoing, and it is essential.
Alongside counselling, simple, accessible activities in Kelowna can also help young adults feel more grounded and supported during the summer months. Free options across the city offer space to breathe, reconnect, and feel part of the community.
Kelowna Waterfront Boardwalk, A calming walk along the lake can help regulate emotions and create a sense of spaciousness.
Knox Mountain Park, Free trails and lookouts offer a quiet place to reset, reflect, or enjoy nature without pressure.
Stuart Park, A welcoming public space where people can sit, journal, or simply be around others without needing to socialize.
City beaches, Hot Sands Beach, Rotary Beach, and Sarsons Beach provide free access to water, sun, and grounding routines like reading or mindful breathing.
Public art walks, Exploring downtown’s murals and installations can offer a gentle creative reset.
Kelowna Regional Library events, Free workshops, quiet spaces, and community programs that help reduce isolation.
These small, accessible moments of connection can complement counselling and help young adults feel supported through the emotional complexity of summer.
A Warm Thank You to the City of Kelowna
We are deeply grateful to the City of Kelowna for recognizing the importance of accessible mental health care and for investing in the well being of young adults across our community. Their support ensures that Third Space Charity can continue offering compassionate counselling throughout the summer, a season full of both possibility and vulnerability.
This grant does more than fund programs. It creates space for healing, connection, and hope.
Becoming Again: Navigating Life Transitions and Seasonal Change
Why Change Feels Exciting and Overwhelming
Change can hold two feelings at once. It can feel like growth and possibility while also bringing uncertainty.
Part of you may feel excited about what is coming next. Another part may feel unsure because change often means leaving what is familiar behind.
This mix is normal. It is not something you are doing wrong.
Change does not happen in a straight line. It stretches you, shifts you, and creates space for something new to form.
Identity Shifts Through Different Life Stages
At Third Space Charity, identity is seen as something that evolves.
Who you are at 18 will not look the same at 25, and that is not a loss. It is part of becoming.
Life transitions, relationships, work, and experience all shape identity over time.
Sometimes old versions of yourself no longer fit. Sometimes new parts of you are still forming.
That in between space is where growth happens.
Identity is not something you need to figure out all at once. It is something you are allowed to explore over time.
How Seasons Impact Our Mental State
At Third Space Charity, we recognize that mental health is influenced by the world around us.
Seasons can affect energy, mood, motivation, and focus. Some seasons feel lighter and more social while others feel slower or more reflective.
What Seasonal Shifts Can Look Like
Changes in sleep or energy
Feeling more withdrawn or more social
Changes in motivation or focus
Needing more rest
Emotional sensitivity during transitions
These shifts are normal. They are part of being human.
Welcoming New Energy: Summer, Growth, and Community
Summer brings a shift in pace and energy. Things feel more open, a little lighter, and sometimes more uncertain.
You might feel bursts of motivation or moments of reflection where you notice things you did not have space to think about before.
What This Season Can Feel Like
More energy or motivation
Feeling more social or connected
Wanting change but not fully knowing what that looks like
Noticing yourself more clearly in quiet moments
A mix of excitement and reflection
At Third Space Charity, summer is seen as a natural time of change. There is no pressure to have it all figured out.
Growth is allowed to happen in its own time.
As you evolve, so do we, and there is space for every version of you.
Where To Go Next
Learn about counselling and community support through Third Space Charity.
Who Holds Space for You Matters: Cultural Awareness in Mental Health Care
What Culturally Competent Care Looks Like
Culturally competent care means you are not expected to leave parts of yourself at the door.
It is care that understands your identity, background, values, and lived experience all shape how you see the world and process what you are going through.
It looks like being met with curiosity instead of assumptions. It means your culture, language, and experiences are part of the full picture, not extra details.
It also means your counsellor is aware of power, privilege, and difference, and is willing to learn rather than assume.
At its core, it feels respectful, grounded, and human.
How Third Space Prioritizes Inclusive Care
At Third Space Charity, inclusive care is not a statement. It is how care is delivered every day.
It starts with accessibility through a pay what you can model so cost is not a barrier. Support is available online or in person so it fits real life.
Clients are welcomed from all backgrounds without needing to justify who they are. The focus is on listening first.
Clinicians are also trained and supervised in cultural awareness, trauma informed care, and ethical practice so support continues to grow with the community.
What We Do at Third Space
Pay what you can counselling
Online and in person sessions
Inclusive intake and client centred care
Clinically supervised student clinicians
Ongoing training in cultural awareness and trauma informed practice
Inclusive and non judgemental environments for all identities
At Third Space, no one is asked to shrink themselves to receive care.
Questions to Ask a New Counsellor to See If They’re the Right Fit
How do you help someone feel comfortable at the start of counselling
What do you do if I do not know how to explain what I am feeling
How do you make space for my identity and background
How do you approach creating a trauma informed environment
What happens if something does not feel right for me in counselling
How do you support someone who finds it hard to trust people
Can I go at my own pace in sessions
How do you know if counselling is actually helping someone
When the answers feel right for you, there is usually a sense of ease. You might feel more relaxed, understood, and like you do not have to perform or over explain.
You deserve to feel seen, understood, and respected fully.
Where To Go Next
Learn about counselling and community support through Third Space Charity.
Finding the Right Fit: Why Client Centred Care Is Not One Size Fits All
What Client Centred Counselling Really Means
At Third Space Charity, client centred counselling means you are at the centre of everything.
It is not about being fixed or fitting into a system. It is about being met exactly where you are, with care that moves at your pace.
At its core, it looks like:
You lead the direction of your own healing journey
Your voice, story, and comfort guide every session
Counsellors meet you with empathy, not judgment or assumptions
There is space to try, pause, reflect, and adjust as you go
Support is shaped around your needs, not a rigid structure
At Third Space, this approach is what makes care feel human. It is not about doing counselling perfectly. It is about making sure the space actually fits you as you are right now.
Why It Is Okay If the First Counsellor Is Not the One
Not every counsellor is going to feel like the right fit, and that does not mean anything is wrong with you or the process.
Counselling is built on trust and connection, and that can take time to find.
Sometimes you might notice you are holding back more than expected. Other times you may feel misunderstood or unsure how to fully open up. That mismatch is more common than people think.
Counselling is not meant to be a one time experience. You are allowed to explore, switch, and try again until something feels right.
The goal is not to settle. The goal is to find a space where you feel comfortable enough to be yourself.
Student Clinicians — Congratulations On Your Graduation!
Signs You Have Found the Right Fit vs Signs to Keep Looking
At Third Space, we often remind people that counselling is a relationship. The right fit feels grounding, while the wrong fit can feel like you are translating yourself.
Signs you have found the right fit:
You feel heard and understood without over explaining
You can be honest even about uncomfortable things
Sessions feel steady rather than preformative
You leave feeling clearer or supported
Trust builds over time
Signs to keep looking:
You feel like you are holding back most of the time
You often feel misunderstood
Sessions feel disconnected or unsupported
You leave feeling confused or unseen
You dread sessions rather than feel supported
The goal is not to force a fit. It is to find a space where you can show up fully and feel supported while doing it.
Closing Message
Healing is not about fitting into a system. It is about finding a space that fits you.
Where To Go Next
Learn about counselling and community support through Third Space Charity.
Let’s Talk About It: Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
Mental health should not feel like a secret. This article opens the door for real, normalized conversations across all genders, identities, and backgrounds.
Why Does Mental Health Stigma Exist
Mental health stigma did not just appear. It is something people learn over time.
A lot of it comes from not fully understanding mental health, which can make it feel uncomfortable or easy to judge. These ideas get passed down through families, culture, and the media people grow up with.
There is also pressure to seem fine all the time, which makes honesty feel risky. Even the words people use casually can add to that without them realizing it.
At the end of the day, stigma comes from misinformation, not truth. The more we talk about it, the less power it holds.
The Quiet Ways People Struggle and Why You Might Not See It
Not all struggles are obvious. Sometimes they are hidden in plain sight.
You might not notice it if someone is always showing up but seems constantly drained. Or if they are saying they are just tired a little too often. Some people stay busy to avoid slowing down, while others are social and laughing but slowly pulling back in small ways.
It can also show up as delayed replies, cancelled plans, or conversations staying very surface level.
People learn how to keep going even when they are overwhelmed. From the outside, everything can look fine.
The truth is, struggle does not always look like falling apart. Sometimes it looks like holding it together just enough that no one notices.
What Trauma Informed Support Looks Like in Practice
At Third Space Charity, trauma informed support is not just a phrase. It is something people experience through care that is grounded, respectful, and centred around individual needs.
It means being met without judgment. There is no pressure to have everything figured out, and no expectation to explain yourself perfectly. Just space to be honest at your own pace.
At Third Space, this looks like:
Counselling that meets you where you are, not where you should be
Pay what you can access so support is not limited by finances
Student clinicians who are trained, supervised, and present
Inclusive care for all identities, backgrounds, and lived experiences
The option to show up online or in person depending on what feels most supportive for you
This is where the double impact comes to life. While young adults receive accessible support, future counsellors are learning how to hold space with intention, empathy, and skill.
It is not just about talking. It is about being seen, heard, and supported in a way that feels real.
Because supportive care is not something you are told. It is something you experience.
You do not need to have it all figured out to start. You do not need perfect words, a perfect story, or a perfect moment.
Just a willingness to be real is enough.
Where To Go Next
Learn about counselling and community support through Third Space Charity.
Support That Continues Over Time
As April comes to a close, it can be helpful to reflect on what support looks like over time. Not just in one moment, but across weeks, months, and seasons.
At Third Space Charity, support is ongoing. Through accessible counselling and the work of student clinicians under licensed supervision, care is provided while future practitioners are also being trained. This creates a steady, community-rooted system of support.
Support is not always immediate or visible. Often, it builds gradually.
Your Third Space Toolbox
Quick Quiz
How do you view support in your life
Something I return to regularly
Something I access when needed
Something I am unsure how to find
One Small Step
Reach out to someone you trust, even just to check in.
Kelowna Connection
Spend time in a familiar place that feels comfortable and grounding.
🌿 This Week in Kelowna
April 27 to 30
Take a slow walk and check in with how you are feeling
Spend quiet time alone without distractions to reset
Journal or note what has felt heavy or steady this month
Do one calming activity like reading, stretching, or sketching
Reach out to someone you trust just to connect or talk
Create a small moment of rest in your day without multitasking
💛 Choose one small way to check in with yourself this week.
What support do I want to carry forward?
This question helps you consider what feels worth continuing beyond this month.
By reflecting on this you can
Identify what has been helpful
Recognize patterns of support
Make intentional choices moving forward
Create consistency in your routines
How to do it
Take a few minutes to think about what has supported you this month. Consider what you would like to keep.
Support can grow quietly over time.
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Where To Go Next
Learn about counselling and community support through Third Space Charity.
Care for Yourself, Care for What Surrounds You
Around Earth Day, there is often more attention on care. Care for the environment, for community spaces, and for the future. This can also be a moment to consider how care shows up in your own life.
At Third Space Charity, we see care as something that grows over time. Just like the environment, mental health requires attention, patience, and consistency. Accessible support creates space for that care to exist.
There is no single way to care for yourself. It can begin with noticing what you need.
Your Third Space Toolbox
This or That
When it comes to care right now, what feels closer to what you need.
🌿 Step Outside
Spend time in nature, even briefly, and let your surroundings support a sense of calm and connection.
🕯 Stay In and Reset
Create a quiet moment indoors to rest, reflect, or slow things down in your own space.
One Small Step
Pick up or care for one small space around you today.
Kelowna Connection
Spend time near the water or in nature and take in your surroundings without rushing.
🌎 This Week in Kelowna
April 23 to 26 — Earth Day Week
Bring a bag on your walk and pick up a few pieces of litter along the way
Go for a no waste coffee date using reusable cups and skipping extras
Walk or bike somewhere you would normally drive
Spend time outside and gently care for the space by tidying or respecting trails
Do a quick closet clean out and set aside items to donate or reuse
Cook a simple meal together using what you already have at home
Refill a water bottle instead of buying plastic while you are out
💛 Choose one small action you can do on your own or with someone this week.
What does care look like for me right now…
This question allows you to define care in a way that fits your current season.
By reflecting on this you can
Understand your current needs
Recognize how care shows up in small ways
Build a more personal approach to well being
Stay connected to what feels supportive
How to do it
Take a few minutes to think about what care looks like for you today, not what it should look
like.
Care can be simple and still meaningful.
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Where To Go Next
Learn more about Third Space Charity’s approach to accessible care.
Moving Toward Early Support
As the month moves forward, it can be helpful to check in with how things are actually feeling. Not everything needs to reach a breaking point before support becomes an option.
At Third Space Charity, we offer a 7-session early intervention model designed to meet people earlier in their experience. Support can begin while things are still taking shape, offering clarity and direction without pressure.
Care does not need to wait until things feel overwhelming. It can begin in quieter moments too.
Your Third Space Toolbox
Choose Your Path ... If something feels slightly off, where do you feel drawn to begin
🌱 Pause and Notice
Take a quiet moment to check in with yourself. Nothing needs to be solved right away, just gently acknowledged.
🍃 Let It Unfold
Give yourself space and time. Some things become clearer when you allow them to settle naturally.
🌿 Reach Toward Support
Consider opening up to someone you trust or exploring support options. You don’t have to carry it on your own.
One Small Step: Write down one thing that has been on your mind lately.
Kelowna Connection: Sit in a quiet space like a café or park and take a few minutes to check in with yourself.
🌿 This Week in Kelowna
April 19 to 22
Open a window and let in fresh air while you work
Bring a small plant or natural element into your space
Take a few minutes to tidy and reset your environment
Step outside for a short break instead of staying indoors
Turn off unnecessary lights or screens when not in use
Use a reusable water bottle or mug throughout your day
Take a moment to notice how your space feels and what might support it
💛 Choose one small thing that feels intentional.
Try This Online: Watch a video focused on early support tools.
What have I been putting off addressing
This question is about noticing what may need attention before it grows heavier.
By reflecting on this you can
Recognize early signs of stress or overwhelm
Create space to respond rather than react
Build a habit of checking in with yourself
Move toward support in a timely way
Author: Taylor Cook
How to do it
Take a few minutes to gently ask yourself what has been lingering in your mind. No need to solve it, just notice it.
Small awareness can shift how you move forward.
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Where To Go Next
Learn about accessible counselling through Third Space Charity.
Returning to the Outdoors This Spring
As April continues in Kelowna, the shift into spring becomes more noticeable. The air feels softer, the days stretch a little longer, and being outside begins to feel more inviting again. This time of year can gently encourage us to step out of routine and reconnect with what feels steady.
At Third Space Charity, we understand that support does not always begin in big moments. Often, it starts with something simple. A walk, a pause, a quiet check-in with yourself. Accessible mental health care exists to meet you within these moments, not outside of them.
You do not need a plan to begin. Sometimes it is enough to notice what feels supportive today.
Your Third Space Toolbox
Check-In Circle
One Small Step: Spend a few minutes outside and notice one thing you can see, hear, and feel.
Kelowna Connection: Take a slow walk along a familiar path and notice what has changed with the season.
🌿 This Week in Kelowna:
Take a slow walk and notice five things you can see, hear, and feel
Sit outside for a few minutes and check in with how your body feels
Find a quiet spot in nature and take a few steady breaths without distractions
Walk without music or your phone and notice your thoughts as they come and go
Sit near the water or in a green space and let yourself pause without needing to do anything
Bring a journal outside and write down whatever feels present for you
Spend time outside at your own pace, without a plan or expectation
💛 Choose one small thing that feels steady.
Try This Online: Explore a video for a simple grounding practice.
What helps me feel steady right now
This question invites you to notice what brings a sense of calm or support into your day. It may be something small or something you already do without thinking.
By reflecting on this you can
Recognize supportive moments in your routine
Understand what helps regulate your mood
Build awareness around your needs
Create space for more of what feels steady
How to do it
Take a few quiet minutes and ask yourself where you feel most at ease right now. You can write it down or simply notice it.
The goal is not to change anything immediately. It is to begin noticing what already supports you.
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Where To Go Next
Learn about supportive counselling through Third Space Charity.
What Counseling Really Looks Like
Many people feel unsure about counseling because they do not know what to expect. Supportive care counseling is simply a safe space to talk through life’s challenges with support and guidance.
Third Space Charity offers supportive counseling for Central Okanagan residents aged 18 to 29. Sessions are available online and in person in Kelowna’s Landmark District. Through our pay what you can model, accessibility always comes first.
Your Third Space Toolbox
Quick Quiz
What might be holding you back from reaching out
Author Taylor Cook
One Small Step
Visit our intake page and read through it without pressure to apply.
Kelowna Connection: 🌿 This Week’s Reflection Challenge
Your Safe Space Photo Challenge
This week we invite you to take a moment for yourself and notice the spaces where you feel calm, grounded, and most like yourself. It could be your bedroom, a quiet corner in your home, your favourite reading spot, or even a park bench outside.
Here’s how to participate:
Take a photo of your safe space or a place that makes you feel calm.
Reflect for a moment: what about this space helps you feel grounded?
If you feel comfortable, share your photo on social media or in the comments and tell us what makes it special. Use our hashtag #ThirdSpaceKelowna so others in the community can see and be inspired.
💛 This is a gentle way to connect with yourself and with others in the community. Even if you don’t share your photo, taking a moment to notice your safe space can boost your sense of calm and awareness this week.
Extra Tip: Try spending 5-10 minutes in this space every day this week. Bring a notebook, listen to music, or just sit quietly and notice how it feels.
Try This Online
Read our counseling FAQ
Reflection Prompt
What would feeling supported look like for me
✍️ This Week’s Journal Prompt
What Would Feeling Supported Look Like for Me
Take a quiet moment this week to think about support in your life. You might ask yourself:
• Who do I feel safest sharing my thoughts and feelings with?
• What actions, words, or gestures make me feel understood and cared for?
• Are there times when I feel supported even if I am alone?
Write down your thoughts in a journal or on a piece of paper. You can use sketches, doodles, or colours if that helps you express yourself.
💛 Extra Reflection: Try to notice one small moment this week when you feel supported. It could be a friend checking in, a kind word from someone, or even taking care of yourself in a way that feels nurturing. Record it and celebrate it.
This exercise helps you recognize the ways support can show up in your life and encourages you to actively notice it, even in small moments.
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Where To Go Next
Learn about supportive counselling through Third Space Charity.
Why Connection Matters for Mental Health
Connection is one of the strongest protective factors for mental wellness. When we feel seen and heard, we are reminded that we are not alone.
Through our OPEN SPACE Event Series, Third Space Charity creates opportunities for honest conversations about mental health. These gatherings combine professional insight, lived experience, and anonymous audience participation so everyone can engage in a way that feels safe.
Your Third Space Toolbox
Quick Quiz
How do you recharge best
Author: Taylor Cook
One Small Step
Start one honest conversation this week, even if it feels small.
Kelowna Connection : 🌿 Feeling Connected in Kelowna – Fresh Ideas
Sometimes it can feel hard to know how to connect with others or even just with yourself. We created this list to give you practical, free, and local ideas so you can feel grounded, supported, and inspired. Whether you want to spend time with friends, go on a solo adventure, or have a day of self-care at home, these suggestions can help you build meaningful connection in your week.
Connect with Others – Free Local Fun
• Outdoor yoga in a park: grab a mat and meet a friend at City Park or Stuart Park
• Volunteer together: check out opportunities with Kelowna Food Bank or local community gardens
• Free music or cultural events: keep an eye on Okanagan College or Downtown Kelowna event boards
• Photography walk with a friend: explore neighbourhoods and take photos of interesting spots
• Sunset watch meet-up: gather friends at Knox Mountain Park or Kettle Valley Lookout and enjoy the view
Solo Adventures – Free Ways to Recharge
• Geocaching in Kelowna: a fun way to explore parks, trails, and hidden spots around the city
• Meditative nature sketching: pick a quiet spot at Mission Creek Greenway and draw what you see
• Walking tour of murals and street art: create a self-guided art adventure downtown
• Star gazing at night: head to a quiet hill like Knox Mountain Park after sunset and observe the sky
• Free online workshops: sites like Kelowna Library digital programs or YouTube tutorials can provide learning and creativity
Home Ideas – Fun and Meaningful
• Plant a small indoor garden: herbs or succulents can brighten your space
• Creative journaling prompts: make a comic, write a short story, or do a gratitude exercise
• Virtual hangout with friends: play a board game, watch a movie, or do a creative challenge online
• DIY wellness day: listen to music, stretch, and enjoy tea or a relaxing bath
• Photo scavenger hunt at home: pick a theme and capture it creatively around your space
💛 The goal is to give you simple ways to feel connected and supported this week. Small moments of connection, whether with yourself, friends, or your community, can make a big difference in your mental wellbeing.
Try This Online
Watch highlights from our OPEN SPACE conversations.
✍️ Journal Prompt for This Week
Take a few quiet minutes to reflect and write:
Think back to the last time you felt truly heard. Where were you? Who were you with? What did it feel like to have your thoughts, feelings, or experiences fully acknowledged? How did it affect your mood, confidence, or sense of connection?
Use this reflection to notice moments this week when you feel listened to or when you can give someone else your full attention. Write down any thoughts, feelings, or insights that come up.
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Where To Go Next
Learn about supportive counselling through Third Space Charity.
Small Habits That Support Mental Wellness
As routines pick up again after winter, it can be easy to overlook our mental wellbeing. Many people believe change needs to be big to matter, but in reality, small habits build strong foundations.
Third Space Charity focuses on a proactive and preventative approach to mental health. Wellness grows through consistent care, not perfection.
Your Third Space Toolbox
Quick Quiz
Which habit feels most realistic for you this week
Author Taylor Cook
One Small Step
Choose one habit and commit to it for the next three days.
Kelowna Connection: 🌿 Free Self-Care Day in Kelowna
Fun Saturday Routine
Morning: Fresh Air and Movement
• Take a morning walk along the Waterfront Boardwalk or Mission Creek Greenway
• Notice the sights, sounds, and smells around you – try to take three deep breaths and really feel present
Late Morning: Creative Pause
• Head to the Kelowna Library or find a quiet spot in a local park
• Bring a notebook or sketchpad and journal, doodle, or write down thoughts for 15–20 minutes
Lunch: Simple Nourishment
• Pack a homemade lunch or grab something affordable at a local café like Bean Scene Coffee Works
• Sit outside or at a window and enjoy your meal mindfully
Afternoon: Explore and Discover
• Take a free walking tour of public art downtown or visit Kelowna Art Gallery on a free-admission day
• Snap photos, notice colours and patterns, or simply take time to observe
Evening: Reflection and Calm
• Find a peaceful spot at Knox Mountain Park or in your backyard
• Reflect on your day: What did you enjoy most? What helped you feel calm or happy?
• Try gentle stretches, breathing exercises, or a short mindfulness practice before bed
💛 Take this day slowly, focus on small moments of joy, and notice how even simple activities can lift your mood
Reflection Prompt
What helps me feel calm when life feels busy
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Where To Go Next
Learn about supportive counselling through Third Space Charity.
Finding Your Third Space This Spring
As March begins in Kelowna, the season slowly shifts. The days feel longer, the air feels lighter, and many of us start thinking about fresh starts. Spring often invites reflection, especially around how connected we feel to ourselves and to others.
At Third Space Charity, we believe everyone needs a third space. A place between home and work where connection, healing, and growth can happen naturally. Since 2012, our mission has been to provide accessible mental health supports for young people as they grow into thriving and healthy adults.
You do not need to have everything figured out to begin. Sometimes the first step is simply finding a space where you feel safe to be yourself.
Your Third Space Toolbox
Quick Quiz
Author Taylor Cook
One Small Step
Spend ten minutes outdoors without your phone and simply notice your surroundings.
Kelowna Connection
Take a slow walk along the waterfront or sit in a local café and practice being present.
🌿 This Week in Kelowna
March 1 to 7
• Take a peaceful walk along the waterfront and enjoy the fresh spring air
• Visit a local café and spend a quiet moment journaling or reading
• Try a fun activity like bowling with friends or family
• Stop by a local flower shop to bring some colour into your space
• Explore a local art gallery or creative space
• Check out community events or small gatherings happening this week
💛 Choose one small thing that feels good for you.
Reflection Prompt
Where do I feel most like myself?
🪞 Reflection Prompt
Where do I feel most like myself?
This question is about checking in with yourself and noticing where you feel safe, grounded, and authentic. Our lives are full of pressures such as school, work, relationships, and social media and it is easy to get lost in what we should be doing instead of tuning into what actually feels right for us.
By reflecting on where you feel most like yourself you can
Recognize safe spaces: identify environments, people, or activities that make you feel comfortable and supported
Notice patterns: see when and where your mental wellness thrives so you can make more space for those moments
Build self-awareness: understand your needs and feelings better which is a key part of healthy coping and decision-making
Make intentional choices: once you know what helps you feel grounded you can prioritize those spaces and activities in your weekly routines
How to do it
Take a few minutes this week to quietly reflect.
Ask yourself: Am I most like myself at home, at a café, with friends, or doing something creative?
You can journal about it, sketch, or simply sit with the thought.
The goal is not to find a perfect place… it is to notice what naturally helps you feel authentic and alive. Small moments of awareness like this can have a big impact on your mental well being over time
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Where To Go Next
Learn about supportive counselling through Third Space Charity.