This company is building a mental health Yelp-like platform

In a world where mental health needs are skyrocketing, the U.S.-based service called Recovery.com has stepped up to the plate with a bold vision. This Yelp-for-mental-health platform aims to transform how people find mental health and addiction treatment and has recently secured an additional $5 million (for a total of $15 million) to turn this vision into reality.

"Our mission is to help people find the best treatment for them, and that covers all sorts of mental health treatment across the behavioral health care spectrum," said Ben Camp, cofounder of Recovery.com.

How does it work?

Recovery.com operates like the trusted marketplaces we're all familiar with — think Yelp, Zillow, or Tripadvisor — but with a laser focus on mental health and addiction care. The platform allows users to search for treatment centers and providers in their area, read reviews, and leave feedback of their own. It's all about making informed choices.

"We give patients and professionals a way to compare options based on what they or their patient needs, which might include specializations they're looking for, level of care, and payment," Camp explained. The platform boasts an impressive network of 15,000 treatment centers and employs 70 staff members globally. Additionally, Recovery.com's contributor network invites qualified experts to share insights on various mental health and substance use topics.

As Camp put it, "We're trying to cover content in a really authoritative way, so that when someone comes to our website, they're getting comprehensive guidance — whether they're seeking treatment, supporting a loved one, or just exploring options."

Why does it matter?

Mental health and addiction treatment often feel like a maze with no map, leaving individuals and families overwhelmed and unsure. Recovery.com aims to change that by bringing transparency and simplicity to the process. The platform's 2,013% growth over the past three years is a testament to the demand for such a service.

What sets Recovery.com apart is its commitment to providing reliable, comprehensive information. By enabling users to compare care options and learn from real reviews, it empowers individuals to make choices that truly fit their needs. And for professionals, the platform offers an opportunity to showcase their services and connect with patients directly.

The context

Founded in 2017 and initially known as RehabPath, Recovery.com was born out of a simple yet profound idea: to make finding mental health and addiction treatment as straightforward as booking a hotel or choosing a restaurant. And with a passionate team driving its mission, the company is steadily carving out its niche in the mental health tech space.

The pandemic highlighted glaring gaps in mental health care access, underscoring the urgency of scalable, innovative solutions. By expanding its contributor network and refining its platform, Recovery.com is poised to address these challenges head-on. As Camp said, "We're trying to get as many voices in the industry as we can that are qualified to talk about specific topics."

The question now is - can something similar be launched in the MENA region? There are already a few mental health online services, but there could also be room for another entrant to this market. Sounds like a plan.