Amae Health, a growing startup focused on the treatment of severe mental illness (SMI), has secured a significant $6 million investment from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. This partnership is poised to accelerate the startup’s mission to expand its network of in-person clinics across the United States.
The investment builds on a collaboration that began more than two years ago when Amae Health opened its first outpatient clinic in Los Angeles. Since then, the company has been working closely with Cedars-Sinai, particularly its Department of Psychiatry, to provide comprehensive, data-driven care for individuals with severe mental health conditions.
A Comprehensive Approach to Severe Mental Illness
Amae Health specializes in treating complex mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, mania, suicidality, and borderline personality disorder. The company employs a multi-disciplinary, psychiatrist-led team that integrates primary care, therapy, health coaching, peer support, and social work. This model aims to combine mental and physical health care, ensuring that individuals with SMI receive holistic treatment.
The startup has built a reputation for its integrated approach to care, with treatment centers that focus on both psychiatric and physical health. In addition to clinical care, Amae Health provides wraparound services designed to improve patients’ overall well-being.
“We’re proud to partner with Cedars-Sinai, whose leadership team has been instrumental in recognizing the value of our clinics and their ability to support individuals following hospitalization,” said Stas Sokolin, co-founder and CEO of Amae Health. “Through this investment, we can further our mission to improve outcomes for people with SMI.”
Stronger Collaboration and Technological Integration
One of the key components of this partnership is the integration of electronic health records (EHR), which will allow for seamless communication and data sharing between Amae Health and Cedars-Sinai. This integration will facilitate better coordination of care for patients transitioning between hospitals and Amae’s outpatient treatment centers.
“It’s about providing a comprehensive, continuous care model for patients,” Sokolin explained. “Once a patient leaves Cedars-Sinai, we ensure they have a choice of follow-up care. Often, there’s a recommendation made for patients to come to Amae Health, where we can support their transition with tailored services.”
Dr. Itai Danovitch, Chair of Psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. “Mental and physical health go hand-in-hand, and patients with severe mental illness often require structured, individualized care. Our investment in Amae Health is part of our broader commitment to whole-person health,” he said.
Expanding Reach and Improving Outcomes
Amae Health has experienced substantial growth since its Los Angeles clinic opened, with new locations now in New York City, Raleigh, North Carolina, and plans for a clinic in Houston in January. The company also forged a strategic partnership with NewYork-Presbyterian, further expanding its reach in the New York City area. These new clinics aim to provide high-quality, community-based mental health services to individuals struggling with severe mental health conditions.
In April 2024, the startup raised $15 million in a Series A funding round, led by Quiet Capital. Additional investors included Healthier Capital, Baszucki Group, angel investor Mike Volpi, and others. The funding will support the company’s expansion, with plans to open more clinics across the U.S.
Addressing the Gaps in Mental Health Care
According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 14.1 million adults in the U.S. suffer from a severe mental illness, including conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. These individuals often face fragmented, episodic care, with emergency rooms frequently serving as the default option for treatment. Amae Health is aiming to bridge this gap by offering community-based care that integrates both behavioral and physical health services.
Amae Health’s model emphasizes long-term care through a phased approach. After a hospitalization or acute episode, patients are integrated into the clinic for intensive care, which may include up to five hours a week of psychiatric evaluation and treatment. As patients progress, the intensity of care decreases, and they are gradually transitioned to a maintenance phase, similar to traditional outpatient care. This model is designed to provide a tailored treatment plan that evolves with the patient’s needs.
“We ensure that each patient receives care at the right phase, at the right time,” said Sonia Garcia, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Amae Health. “Our approach is focused on not just managing symptoms but helping individuals re-engage with their communities and life goals.”
Personal Motivation Behind Amae Health’s Founders
Both Sokolin and Garcia were motivated to launch Amae Health due to their personal experiences with mental illness in their families. Sokolin’s sister, who struggled with bipolar disorder, spent years in and out of hospitals due to mental health issues and substance use. Similarly, Garcia lost her father to suicide and became a caregiver for her brother, who suffers from schizoaffective disorder.
“We understand firsthand the challenges people face when navigating the mental health system,” Sokolin said. “That’s why we’re committed to providing a better, more integrated approach to care.”
The Role of Technology in Mental Health Care
Amae Health has also invested in developing technology to improve patient outcomes. The company has developed a precision medicine platform that uses data to create personalized treatment plans. Andrew Girvin, formerly of Palantir, leads the company’s artificial intelligence and technology efforts, focusing on improving treatment protocols and clinical standards.
“By leveraging technology, we can ensure that each patient’s care plan is optimized for their specific needs,” Sokolin said. “We’re focused on precision medicine to ensure the best outcomes.”
In addition to technological innovation, Amae Health places a strong emphasis on creating a welcoming environment for patients. Garcia highlighted the importance of service excellence, noting that the company invests in designing its clinic spaces to be inviting and comfortable, with a focus on hospitality. “Our goal is to create a space that feels safe, respected, and conducive to healing,” she said. “This is something that’s often missing in traditional mental health care settings.”
Looking Ahead
As Amae Health continues to grow, it remains focused on reshaping the mental health landscape for individuals with severe mental illnesses. By combining innovative treatment approaches, advanced technology, and a compassionate, patient-centered care model, Amae Health is setting a new standard for mental health care in the U.S.
With its continued expansion and strong backing from Cedars-Sinai, the company is poised to make a significant impact in addressing the unmet needs of individuals living with severe mental health conditions.
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