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Real
Mental healthcare company that provides a digital platform and in-person experience for mental health patients
About Real
Real operates within the mental healthcare sector, offering a digital platform designed to make therapy more accessible and affordable. The company was founded in 2019 by Ariela Safira and came out of stealth in 2021. Safira's personal experiences with the mental healthcare system, including the challenges of finding a therapist and the high costs involved, directly informed the company's mission. She conceived of the idea while studying at Columbia University, driven by a friend's struggle to find adequate mental health support.
Read full description
The company's business model is centered on a subscription service, providing members with access to a variety of digital tools and group therapy sessions. Instead of traditional one-on-one therapy, Real focuses on a one-to-many approach through 'Paths,' which are on-demand, therapist-designed programs targeting specific mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges. This model aims to provide structured, accessible care at a lower price point than conventional therapy. Members can engage with these programs at their own pace and attend weekly online group sessions led by therapists, known as 'Roundtables.'
Real targets individuals who may find traditional therapy to be prohibitively expensive or difficult to access. The platform's services include on-demand themed therapy sessions, progress tracking tools, and community events, all accessible through its mobile application. By focusing on group sessions and structured digital programs, Real aims to create a scalable and destigmatized mental wellness experience. The company initially raised a significant seed round of $10 million, led by Lightspeed Venture Partners, with participation from strategic investors like Megan Rapinoe and Eric Kendricks, to launch and develop its platform.
At a glance
- Founded
- 2019
- Headquarters
- New York City, United States
- Sector
- Health Tech & Medtech
- Power Law
- Colt$25–100M revenue
Latest news
Press, funding announcements and product moves mentioning Real.
Investors
From Dealroom's funding and investor records, grouped by the round each investor first entered.
Seed12 investors entered at this stage
K50 Ventures
Female Founders Fund
Great Oaks Venture Capital
Forerunner Ventures
MetaProp
Reshape Holdings
Andy Dunn
SoGal Ventures- KRKatherine Ryder
BBG Ventures
Gwyneth Paltrow
G9 Ventures
Series A6 investors entered at this stage
Lightspeed Venture Partners- EKEric Kendricks
Megan Rapinoe
Iyah Romm
Owl Ventures
Sylvia Romm
Series B and later3 investors entered at this stage
- IRIyah Romm
- SRSylvia Romm
- OVOwl Ventures
Source: Dealroom Talent Intelligence.
Global footprint
team presence
across markets
Market sentiment
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