Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kyla Cook. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Kyla, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?

How I Came Up with the Idea for My Creative Services Business

The idea for Closed Spaces Inc. was born out of a profound personal journey that deeply impacted my perspective on mental health and the creative arts. I found myself spending 11 days at the Region IV Mental Health Facility of DeSoto County while awaiting an evaluation. Those days were challenging, to say the least, and they became a catalyst for change in my life.

During my time there, I documented my experiences through poetry and spoken word. Writing became my refuge—a way to process the unsettling conditions I was witnessing and experiencing. The facility, intended to be a place of healing, often felt more like a confinement. Patients were treated more like inmates, enduring poor lodging conditions and lacking proper hygiene products. The environment was far from therapeutic, especially for someone grappling with major panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. The broken cameras in the suicide watch cells were a stark reminder of the neglect present.

An Awakening Experience

This eye-opening experience stirred something deep within me. I realized that patients deserve safe spaces that promote healing rather than exacerbate their struggles. Mental illness, which wasn’t as recognized during my youth as it is today, requires compassionate and respectful care. I felt a strong conviction that the dehumanizing conditions I witnessed should not be the norm.

Finding Purpose Through Creativity

Through those confined “closed spaces,” I began to find myself. I developed healthier coping mechanisms and reconnected with my passion for creative expression. Poetry and spoken word were not just outlets; they were instruments of healing and empowerment. They allowed me to give voice to emotions that were otherwise difficult to articulate.

Birth of Closed Spaces Inc.

Inspired by this transformative experience, I founded Closed Spaces Inc. with the mission to provide safe, nurturing environments for those dealing with mental health challenges. Our motto, “Where a Safe Place is A Closed Case,” reflects our commitment to ensuring that safety and dignity are non-negotiable aspects of mental health care.

I knew this was a worthwhile endeavor because it addressed a critical need. The logic was clear: if I could turn my experience into a platform that advocates for better mental health environments while using creative arts as a healing tool, I could make a tangible difference. My first hand understanding of the gaps in the system positioned me to create solutions that are both empathetic and effective.

My confidence in succeeding stemmed from a combination of personal passion, the pressing need for change, and the unwavering support of my children. Witnessing the shortcomings of the mental health care system fueled my determination to create something better. My children played a pivotal role in this journey; they help me remember the kid in me. Their innocence, curiosity, and resilience inspire me daily to approach life with hope and creativity.

By integrating creative expression into therapeutic practices, I believed we could offer something unique—spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. The growing conversation around mental health made it an opportune time to introduce innovative approaches. With dedication, empathy, a clear mission, and the inspiration from my kids, I felt that Closed Spaces Inc. could not only succeed as a business but also lead meaningful change in the community.

Kyla, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

About Me and My Journey

Hello everyone! My name is Kyla, and I’m the founder of Closed Spaces Inc. My journey into the world of creative services and mental health advocacy began from a deeply personal experience. For more details on this part of my story, please visit anopenspace.art. This eye-opening experience inspired me to create a business that combines my passion for creativity with a mission to advocate for better mental health care.

Kyla B. – Founder & Head of Programs and Outreach

At Closed Spaces Incorporated, our team is led by the visionary and passionate Ms. Kyla B. As the owner of C.S.I. and the Head of Programs and Outreach, I’m committed to providing young people with a safe space where they can thrive. I’m also the host of our podcast, where I spread awareness about mental health and the various resources available to those in need.

Creating Spaces for Growth and Exploration

Our Journey, Our Mission, Our Values

Welcome to Closed Spaces Incorporated, an organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and building confidence and resilience in youth. Our programs and services focus on creating a community where youth feel supported, encouraged, and valued. Our podcast features engaging conversations on relevant topics while creating a platform for youth to share their experiences. Through community outreach, we work towards creating a supportive network, where youth can make connections and thrive. Join us as we empower the future leaders of our community!

Getting Into the Industry

My background has always been rooted in the arts. From a young age, I was drawn to music, design, and storytelling as forms of expression. However, it wasn’t until my experience at the mental health facility that I realized the potential for these creative disciplines to make a significant impact in the realm of mental health. I decided to channel my skills into creating a platform that not only offers creative services but also advocates for safe and nurturing environments for those dealing with mental health challenges.

Products, Services, and Creative Works

Closed Spaces Inc. offers a range of products and services designed to inspire and support our community. Our offerings include:

Creative Services: We provide graphic design, music production, and content development services to help individuals and businesses communicate their messages effectively and artistically.

Mental Health Advocacy: Through workshops, events, and online content, we promote the importance of safe spaces for mental health care. We collaborate with mental health professionals to create resources that empower and support individuals on their journey to wellness.

Merchandise: Our merchandise line includes exclusive designs such as T-shirts and stickers that carry empowering messages and support our mission.

Problems We Solve

At Closed Spaces Inc., we aim to solve several key problems:

Lack of Safe Spaces: We advocate for the creation and maintenance of safe, respectful, and nurturing environments for individuals dealing with mental health issues.

Expression Through Creativity: We provide platforms for creative expression, helping individuals articulate their experiences and emotions through art, music, and storytelling.

Awareness and Advocacy: We work to raise awareness about mental health issues and the importance of compassionate care, helping to reduce stigma and promote understanding.

What Sets Us Apart

What sets Closed Spaces Inc. apart is our unique blend of creativity and advocacy. We are not just a business; we are a movement dedicated to making a positive impact. Our personal connection to the issues we address gives us a deep sense of purpose and authenticity.

Proud Moments and Highlights

One of the moments I am most proud of is the launch of our mental health workshops. Seeing participants open up, share their stories, and find solace in creative expression has been incredibly rewarding. Our workshops have become a safe haven for many, providing support and building a sense of community.

Key Messages for Potential Clients and Followers

For those who may not know us yet, here’s what I’d like you to know about Closed Spaces Inc.:

Passion and Purpose: Our work is driven by a deep passion for creativity and a commitment to advocating for better mental health care and youth development.

Empowerment Through Creativity: We believe in the power of creative expression to heal, inspire, and connect people.

Community and Connection: We are dedicated to building a supportive community where everyone feels valued and heard.

Innovation and Impact: We strive to bring innovative solutions to the challenges faced by those dealing with mental health issues, making a real difference in their lives.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about me and Closed Spaces Inc. I am excited to continue this journey and to make a lasting impact through our work.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

Embracing My Social Anxiety

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was how to cope with my social anxiety, especially when it came to engaging verbally with others, particularly strangers. For a long time, I believed that my anxiety was a barrier that I had to fight against or hide. I would often avoid situations where I had to speak to new people, fearing judgment or awkwardness. This approach led to missed opportunities and a feeling of isolation.

The turning point came when I realized that my anxiety was not something to be ashamed of, but rather a part of who I am. This insight came through therapy and self-reflection. Instead of seeing my anxiety as an enemy, I began to accept it as a part of my journey. I started to approach conversations with curiosity rather than fear, allowing myself to be present and open, even if it felt uncomfortable.

By embracing my anxiety, I learned to be kinder to myself and more empathetic towards others. This shift not only improved my personal interactions but also enhanced my ability to connect with clients and collaborators in my creative work. It taught me that vulnerability can be a strength, and authenticity resonates more deeply with people than a façade of confidence.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

The Mission Driving My Journey

The mission driving my creative journey is deeply personal and rooted in my relationship with my kids. As a parent, my ultimate goal is to guide them and provide them with the tools they need to navigate life confidently and independently. I pray that my guidance will be enough as they start their paths alone. I want to show them that there are always safe spaces that make you feel a little closer to home, even when you can’t physically be there.

A Particular Goal

A particular goal that excites me is interviewing people for our first season of the “You Don’t Even Know” podcast. This podcast is dedicated to exploring the depths of the human experience, mental health, and the power of community. The journey began with a simple idea: to create a space where voices could be heard, stories could be shared, and connections could be made. As the founder of Closed Spaces Inc., I have always believed in the importance of fostering supportive environments for artists and individuals alike.

I invite you to share your stories with us through SpeakPipe, now embedded on our site at anopenspace.art/podcast. Or write to us, and I will gladly voiceover your responses at anopenspace.art/contact.

Throughout this season, we have delved into a variety of topics that touch on different aspects of our lives. From relationships and ego to anxiety and resilience, each episode has been a step towards understanding ourselves and each other better. The conversations we’ve had, the insights we’ve gained, and the stories we’ve shared have all contributed to a richer, more compassionate community.

This podcast is more than just a series of episodes; it’s a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. It’s a reminder that no matter what challenges we face, we are not alone. Together, we can navigate the complexities of life, support one another, and grow stronger.

As you listen to these episodes, I hope you find inspiration, comfort, and a sense of belonging. Remember, your story matters. You don’t even know how much your experiences can impact someone else’s life. Let’s continue to make a difference together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.anopenspace.art
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_anopenspace?fbclid=IwAR0LJty50n9u-n3AWeEMHvE2_mRY0Ln6uwcxIJIukaFOw5NBacHh-dHgdRQ
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/closedspacesinc
• Twitter: https://x.com/_anopenspace
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@closedspacesinc
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/kyla-cook-2
• Other: https://www.anopenspace.art/podcast

Image Credits

Henry Chapman | www.henrychapmanphotography.com