The Safe Space Collective: A Mental Wellness Community

Heather Ames is a visionary leader, content creator, and passionate advocate for mental wellness. With a rich background in sales, marketing, and media production, she has dedicated her career to making complex and vital topics like mental wellness advocacy accessible to the public. Her lifelong commitment to community building and fostering connection has led her to co-found The Safe Space Collective alongside Michael Fishman, merging their shared passion for mental health, personal growth, and community support.

As a former Director of Development for a nonprofit supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, Heather played a pivotal role in fundraising, outreach, and program expansion. Her experience working in an ABA therapy facility deepened her understanding of neurodiversity and the barriers to accessing quality care. She also founded and operated a prevention-focused video company, leading impactful media campaigns that educated and empowered communities on critical issues.

Now, through The Safe Space Collective, Heather is helping build a transformative platform—an inclusive, judgment-free space where people can find belonging, connection, and unwavering support. As a mother, collaborator, and advocate, she believes deeply in the power of storytelling to bridge divides, break stigmas, and promote a culture of healing and personal growth.

Michael Fishman is a world-renowned actor, director, writer, producer, and content creator who has turned his passion for people into a powerful mission through The Safe Space Collective. A lifelong community organizer, volunteer, and nonprofit leader, Michael believes that empathy is the foundation of human connection—and the key to thriving together.

While continuing to serve on the boards of multiple charities, Michael's devotion to personal development, positive social connection, and mental wellness advocacy led him to team up with Heather Ames to build a space for kindhearted people to engage in deep, enlightening conversation. As a father, coach, and collaborator, he understands the weight of the world we all carry—and the incredible strength found in community.

An expert in media and storytelling, Michael is committed to using his voice and platform to promote inclusion, healing, and open dialogue. His work with The Safe Space Collective is rooted in a belief that by listening, sharing, and supporting one another, we can inspire a healthier, more compassionate world.

It all started on TikTok. Heather came across one of Michael’s heartfelt mental health videos and felt an instant connection to his message. She had long dreamed of starting a mental health-focused business, but life and full-time work always got in the way. Still, something nudged her to reach out. She sent him a message—never expecting a reply.

To her surprise, Michael responded right away.

What followed were Zoom calls, long conversations, and the unmistakable feeling that something bigger was unfolding. Their synergy was immediate. Two people—both deeply passionate about mental wellness and helping others—found themselves dreaming, planning, and building together. The result? The Safe Space Collective.

Born from authenticity, trust, and a shared mission, this community is more than just a project—it’s a movement. One that continues to grow with heart, hope, and the belief that everyone deserves a place to belong.