Despite the long waiting list, the shortage of providers and the demand for mental health services remains high. Last week, two chairs at mental health care startups announced a major expansion to help meet that demand.
San Francisco, which provides mixed behavioral health care, expands its operations from three states to 22 states.
Previously, two chairs were operated in California, Florida and Washington. The expansion includes states such as Texas, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Illinois and New Jersey.
The expansion has given millions of people access to treatment services, as the two chairs are now available for 75% of the American population, according to the announcement.
Founded in 2017, the startup provides virtual and in-person psychological therapy for adults with a wide range of mental health issues throughout the acuity spectrum.
The company is trying to make it easier for patients to find therapists. The stigma associated with mental health care is disappearing culturally – but people often point to two chair founder and CEO Alex Katz when they recognize the need for a mental health care provider.
“Find a therapist shouldn't be hard, but too many people will fight long-term waitlists, mismatched therapists or care that insurance doesn't cover. Two chairs are meant to change that. We combine human expertise with technology to match patients with the right therapist from the start, thus improving better interaction and excitement.”
Katz notes that two chairs ensure access to care is simple and appointments are usually offered within a few days.
Patients begin with virtual consultations with licensed clinicians to help them understand their needs. They then match therapists who fit their preferences, clinical needs, and communication styles. After that, they start to treat – in fact, almost a combination of the two.
Katz added that throughout the care journey, both chair users receive personalized, measurement-based feedback to track their progress and ensure they get better.
He also noted that the company is seeking to make quality treatments timely and affordable by networking with major health programs. It also offers out-of-pocket options for those without in-network coverage.
Katz believes that the two chairs give patients the flexibility to choose how they interact with mental health care.
“Our hybrid care model combines the convenience of virtual therapy with in-person classes in selected locations. Some patients prefer full wedding care, while others choose to choose in-house treatments or blends when available. Offering these options ensures that patients have the flexibility to choose the approach that best suits their needs and preferences.”
Two chairs employ more than 600 licensed therapists using the W2 employment model. It has raised $130 million in capital, with the most recent round of capital coming in at $72 million a year ago.
“Since its inception in 2017, we have taken a deliberate growth approach – first building a strong foundation in California and then expanding across the country to Florida and Washington. The next phase of expansion, launched in 19 New South Wales and reaching 22 by June 22, is a major milestone, a major milestone,” Katz declared.
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