Handspring's Bold Step in Mental Health
Raising $19 million in Series B funding isn't just a pat on the back for Handspring Health—it's a clear signal of investor trust in their vision to shake up the mental health care sector for kids. With RPS Ventures leading the charge, joined by newcomer Angelini Ventures, this round isn't just about dollars; it's about backing a change in how care is delivered.
Clinicians at the Center
Handspring's model revolves around the belief that investing in top-notch clinicians is the key to delivering quality care. They don't just hire therapists—they craft them. Employing instead of contracting, their team gets steeped in evidence-based therapies such as CBT and DBT, complete with continuous training and support. It's like a top-tier sports team—you need the best players, not just warm bodies in uniforms.
"Good therapy depends on the therapist," shared Sahil Choudhry, CEO and co-founder of Handspring.
It's a model aimed at handling anything thrown its way—from mild needs to high-acuity cases, filling a crucial gap where traditional outpatient services often drop the ball.
Technology Powers the Engine
Driving this revolution is Handspring's custom technology platform. We're talking AI-powered systems that slash overhead and enhance delivery, like an AI-matching engine ensuring patients hit the ground running with the right therapists.
The marriage of human expertise with tech tools means families don’t waste time and clinicians aren't bogged down with bureaucratic sludge. It's a slick operation that's already serving over 4,000 families and counting.
Impact and Expanding Horizons
If 93% of families report better daily life from Handspring's care, you're looking at a system that’s not only promising but performing at a high level. Expansion plans are ambitiously reaching across nine states, bringing this model to more doorsteps.
But here’s where the real action is planned: scaling up the clinician workforce, bolstering technology, and broadening Handspring's Complex Care program to meet high-risk youth's needs. It's a layered approach designed to keep on delivering measurable outcomes and patient satisfaction, backed by an NPS score of 81.
Boardroom Buzz
With new voices in the boardroom like Nancy Hilliker of RPS Ventures and Sarah Fox from Angelini Ventures, there's new strategic vigour. These are players from firms with history in transforming markets, perfectly aligning with Handspring's disruptive mission.
- Nancy Hilliker joins Handspring's board from RPS Ventures
- Sarah Fox of Angelini Ventures steps in as an observer
The Road Ahead
Ultimately, this Series B funding isn’t just cash in the bank. It’s fuel for growth at Handspring—to continue reimagining mental health care, broadening access, and achieving better outcomes for young people too often left behind by the system.
So, what's next? Keep an eye on Handspring as they expand beyond just numbers. When over 78% of their patients with depression show meaningful improvement, it’s not just business; it’s a testament to reshaping the mental health landscape.
