Berlin-based AI mental health startup clare & me has successfully secured €3.7 million in funding. The company’s chatbot operates within clinical environments, enabling patients to engage in conversations about their mental health. This financial boost will facilitate the enhancement of their empathic Large Language Model (LLM) and the development of a secondary product aimed at automating clinical anamnesis interviews. These advancements aim to foster better collaboration with clinics and gain the trust of end users, ultimately reducing waiting times and associated stigma.
Previously, clare & me collaborated with Charité Berlin to evaluate the effectiveness of their model. Findings showed significant improvements in stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness among patients using Clare as a voice-bot over eight weeks. Historically, mental health tech startups have faced challenges in proving efficacy and gaining clinical trust. Recent studies indicate the chatbot may help overcome psychological barriers like shame, providing initial evidence of forming therapeutic relationships. This contrasts with earlier skepticism regarding AI’s role in mental health care.
Investment and Development
The latest financing round was led by Munich-based HealthTech investor YZR, with contributions from new investors such as Kodori Ventures and Material Ventures, as well as existing angels and Antler. Additional grant funding from the IBB, European funds, and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research will support further technical research. The startup aims to develop the world’s first Clinical Large Language Model (CLLM), tailored by psychotherapists.
CEO and co-founder Emilia Theye expressed her gratitude for the support received, stating,
“Over three years ago we had a vision that was critically questioned for a long time – it’s hard to believe that the same vision is now a no-brainer for so many and that we have received so much great support along the way. With this funding, we continue to focus on building clinical AI that is based on the latest research and ethical foundations and has lasting psychological impact.”
Clinical Impact and Future Plans
Co-founder Celina Messner highlighted the team’s accomplishments, saying,
“I am proud of what we have achieved with our team. Reimagining technology in a field like mental health is not only fun but also hard work. The research funds are a seal of our technical quality and show how great our pioneering work is in the field.”
Further studies will explore the chatbot’s effectiveness, particularly in establishing therapeutic relationships. The potential for AI to augment mental health care is substantial, especially in reducing barriers such as stigma and long wait times. These developments align with the broader trend of integrating advanced technology into clinical settings to improve patient outcomes.
clare & me’s advancements in AI mental health technology underscore the importance of ongoing research and innovation. The startup’s progress and the recent funding round highlight a growing acceptance and trust in AI-driven mental health solutions. As the company continues to refine its technology, it aims to make significant contributions to the field, offering scalable solutions to mental health challenges.
