The need for mental health care is growing rapidly. Many people struggle to find effective support. Imagine feeling lost in a system meant to help you. This was the reality for Alex Katz’s wife when she sought mental health services. Despite having the right connections, she felt overwhelmed and isolated. This experience sparked a change.
Katz founded Two Chairs in 2017 to create a better path to mental health care. He brings together his backgrounds in healthcare and technology to address the flaws in the current system. He previously worked at McKinsey, studying hospital systems, and later at Palantir, helping companies solve complex data problems. This unique perspective fueled his mission.
At its core, Two Chairs is about improving patient experiences. Katz says, “We provide both therapy and psychiatry, but what sets us apart is our delivery.” Recent studies show that outcomes for anxiety and depression at Two Chairs are up to 2.5 times better than the usual standards. In fact, 90% of patients remained engaged through their fourth session, a stark contrast to the usual rates of less than 30%. By the end of their treatment, 79% of patients reported significant improvements.
Finding the right therapist is critical. Two Chairs prioritizes matching patients with clinicians who fit their unique needs. Unlike many systems, therapy and psychiatry aren’t seen as separate services; providers collaborate on shared goals. This joint effort significantly enhances patient progress.
Measurement is key at Two Chairs. Katz explains, “We don’t wait to see how someone feels after sessions. We track progress with easy-to-understand questionnaires.” This process not only tells clinicians what’s working but also strengthens the patient-therapist relationship. By catching issues early, treatments can be adjusted for better outcomes faster.
The clinic employs all its mental health professionals rather than hiring them as contractors. Katz believes this setup helps deliver better care. Employees receive essential training and support, fostering a strong community.
The technology that powers Two Chairs includes features like ‘My Care Journey,’ a patient dashboard that tracks progress. This transparency is crucial in a field where accountability is often lacking. According to a study, fewer than 20% of mental health providers use measurement-based care. At Two Chairs, nearly all patients complete surveys, allowing for constant adjustment of their care.
Securing funding was initially challenging for Katz. Back in 2017, mental health care was not as popular among investors. However, Katz’s focus on measurable success drew attention. Investors appreciated the high retention rates and positive outcomes linked to measurement-based care. Andrew Spellman, CEO of Fifth Down Capital, highlights the innovative approach, including a mix of virtual and in-person options and the utilization of data to enhance patient care.
Two Chairs aims to make mental health support accessible. Based in San Francisco, the company has delivered over 1 million sessions, with 99% of patients using insurance. Fred Turner, CEO at health insurance firm Curative, emphasizes the need to treat mental health like physical health, breaking down barriers to access. By integrating mental health into insurance models, they aim to ensure affordability and availability for all.
The future looks bright as Two Chairs strives to set new standards in mental health care—high-quality, measurable, and collaborative care. Katz is dedicated to expanding services while maintaining these important principles. He envisions a future where value-based care connects payment to patient outcomes. This shift is essential for a healthier society.
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