Open Minds was launched in April 2026 to respond to the needs of our local communities and provide high-quality low-cost counselling with no waits and flexible options including in-person, online and telephone appointments. The service supports people experiencing a range of challenges including anxiety, stress, low mood, bereavement, relationship difficulties and low self-esteem, helping people access support when they need it most.

Since launching, the service has continued to grow, with referrals increasing as more people seek support for their mental health and wellbeing. Each session represents someone taking a positive step towards improved mental wellbeing and recovery in a safe and supportive environment.

To mark the achievement, colleagues and counsellors came together to celebrate the delivery of the 100th session and recognise the impact the service is already having across the communities Solent Mind supports.

Wendy Lee, Head of Services for Southampton and Portsmouth at Solent Mind, said:

"Reaching 100 counselling sessions is a wonderful milestone for Open Minds and reflects the growing need for a wide range of accessible mental health support in our communities.

"We know that taking the first step towards counselling can feel difficult, which is why we wanted to create a service that is welcoming, compassionate and easy to access with no waiting lists. Whether someone is experiencing anxiety, relationship challenges, bereavement or simply needs space to talk, our trained counsellors are here to support them.

"It has been fantastic to see the service go from strength to strength since launching, and we are incredibly proud of the difference it is already making for individuals and couples across the region."

Alongside its self-paid counselling offer, Open Minds is also helping to widen access to support through commissioned services, including counselling for care leavers aged 18 to 25 in partnership with Southampton City Council. The fully funded programme helps ensure young people leaving care can access professional mental health support without financial barriers.

The expansion of the new service reflects Solent Mind's ongoing commitment to making mental health support more accessible and ensuring that people across Hampshire have somewhere to turn when they need help.

For more information about Open Minds, visit solentmind.org.uk/open-minds