HONOLULU (KHON2) — Kevin Martin, founder of Safehaus Wellness Services and mental wellness coach, has created a unique space for people to receive coaching and emotional support that offers a safe space, or safe house, for the community, including our 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Safehaus services are open to anyone for clients not only in Hawaii but also across the globe, making it a burgeoning beacon of support for those in need.
Martin’s journey into the mental health and wellness field stems from his own personal experiences growing up within the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
“I was deeply affected by the challenges that depression and anxiety can bring,” Martin said. “Through my own experiences, I realized how important it was to find someone you could talk to, someone who truly understood what you were going through.”
His desire to offer the same support he received led him to create Safehaus. But Martin didn’t want to follow the traditional mental health model. He recognized the barriers that many in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community face when seeking help which includes a lack of safety and a sense of not being able to truly express themselves.
“In the traditional mental health model, a lot of folks feel like they have to perform, or even mask their true selves,” Martin explained. “I wanted to create a space where people could meet us on the same level and feel comfortable to speak openly.”
This approach has resonated with individuals from all walks of life. Safehaus offers not only virtual support but now has a permanent location in Honolulu.
“We’re opening our first permanent location in Honolulu. We’re offering in-person sessions, but we’re also still doing virtual sessions to make sure we’re accessible to everyone,” Martin said.
The open house is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 13; and it is free and open to the public.
“It’s a chance for folks to come meet the team, see the space, and have a conversation about what we’re doing here,” said Martin.
Martin is particularly mindful of how holidays can bring up feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
“The holidays are a stressful time for many, especially for those dealing with trauma, financial pressures or difficult family dynamics,” he said. “What I’m seeing lately is that the core issue for a lot of people is a lack of connection. People are craving that sense of belonging, and the holidays only amplify that need.”
Martin also highlighted the emotional toll the holidays take on people who may not have strong support networks.
“We’ve seen a huge spike in feelings of isolation in the last few months, and this tends to get worse as the year comes to a close,” said Martin. “The holidays tend to remind people of what’s missing in their lives, and that can bring up a lot of feelings of depression and anxiety.”
However, Martin believes that even small gestures of connection can make a big difference.
“It doesn’t take a whole crowd of people to make someone feel seen or heard,” he said. “Just one person, asking ‘How are you really doing?’ from a genuine place, can change everything. It can save a life, or at the very least, remind someone they’re not alone.”
For Safehaus, fostering connection isn’t just about providing a service; it’s about creating a space of acceptance and openness.
“Our role is not to impose any specific perspective or solution. It’s about meeting people where they are and creating an environment where they feel comfortable to open up,” Martin explained. “We’ve found that when we share our own stories and vulnerabilities, it helps build a deeper connection with the people we’re supporting.”
The goal is clear: Safehaus wants to be a space where people feel they belong, no matter their background or identity.
“No matter where someone comes from, who they are or what they believe, we want them to feel safe here,” Martin said. “That’s the heart of what we do; we create an environment where there’s no judgment, just support.”
It’s this commitment to connection and support that has made Safehaus Wellness Services stand out. Whether it’s through mental health coaching or creating a safe space to talk about personal struggles, Martin’s approach is resonating with people worldwide.
As Safehaus continues to grow, Martin is hopeful that more people will find the help they need.
For more information about Safehaus Wellness Services, Martin’s services as a mental wellness coach or the open house, click here. It’s taking place at 3705 Waialae Ave., Suite 207 on Wednesday, Dec. 11 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. All are welcome.
“I’m excited about what we’re doing here. The opportunity to help people feel heard, seen and supported is something I’m truly passionate about,” he said. “Ultimately, it’s about creating a community where everyone feels they can be their authentic selves, without fear or judgment.”