INNOVATING MENTAL HEALTH.
First, let’s start with the name.
Pronounced with a long “I” sound, the name “VĪV” is derived from – and rhymes with – the words “survive” and “revive“. These words represent two of the most prominent pillars in a mental health journey, highlighting the need for individuals to not only cope with and work through challenges, but also the need to take action in recovery, prevention, and self-empowerment.
Founded in 2020, the first iteration of VĪV Mental Health was simply called “The VĪV Mental Health Initiative” and began as an advocacy project by founder Kristopher Marks. Kris launched “The VĪV Mental Health Podcast” at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and grew a substantial social media following after candidly sharing his personal experiences and helping to de-stigmatize the conversations surrounding mental health.
A large and diverse audience soon grew, gathering support from the trades and construction industries, men’s mental health, workplace wellness, and community engagement.
Kris became a Certified Psychological Health & Safety Advisor through the Canadian Mental Health Association and began facilitating workplace mental health and respectful workplace training for businesses across Alberta. Opportunities to deliver keynote speeches at conferences, schools, community and corporate events soon followed, and he quickly gained respect as a prominent voice in the spaces of mental health, leadership, resilience-building, and empowerment.
VĪV Mental Health supports three key stakeholders: Workplaces, Communities, and Schools. We also provide professional media production through our subsidiary VĪV Productions, ranging from full podcast production and distribution to social media content, training videos and other media services.
VĪV is passionately committed to ensuring that accessible, affordable, and inclusive mental health support is available to everyone, and that it is delivered with purpose, consistency, and compassion. Our goal is to innovate beyond expectations and work to improve upon the systems and resources already in place.
We look forward to sharing our passion and commitment for improving mental health and connection with your workplace, classroom, and community!
~ The VĪV Mental Health Team
Kris Marks
Kris is the founder and CEO of VĪV Mental Health and a proud, passionate advocate for people, connection, and community. A true multi-disciplinarian, Kris is a Certified Psychological Health & Safety Advisor through the Canadian Mental Health Association and holds certificates in both Mental Health First Aid and Psychological First Aid. He is also a prominent keynote speaker, Red Seal journeyman machinist, professional musician, stand-up comedian, and harm-reduction volunteer.
Rachelle Kay
Rachelle is the COO and Program Director at VĪV Mental Health. Her client-centred approach and passion for innovation keeps the VĪV team focused on their goals as she guides our amazing clients from connection and assessment to the delivery of our exceptional resources and training. She is a skilled facilitator, developer, and detail-oriented action-taker.
