In a recent episode of the a16z Bio + Health Podcast, Slingshot AI co-founders Daniel Cahn and Neil Parikh joined Andreessen Horowitz general partner Julie Yoo to discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping mental health care.
Drawing from their unique backgrounds—Cahn, the son of a psychologist, and Parikh, a former medical student-turned-entrepreneur—the founders shared insights on building AI-driven models designed to enhance psychological support and expand access to care.
The Role of AI in Mental Health
Slingshot AI aims to bridge the gap between clinical and subclinical mental health care by:
- Modeling psychological processes through AI
- Supporting preventative care and early intervention
- Empowering therapists with better insights
- Enhancing patient engagement beyond traditional therapy
Challenges & Opportunities in AI-Driven Care
Parikh and Cahn acknowledged the complexity of integrating AI into mental health while ensuring ethical considerations, effectiveness, and trust. They emphasized AI’s role in:
- Reducing barriers to care for those struggling with mild to moderate mental health issues
- Augmenting, not replacing, therapists to improve patient outcomes
- Using AI to provide personalized and scalable support
A Vision for the Future
Slingshot AI envisions a future where AI acts as a tool for early intervention, helping individuals before they reach a crisis point. With advancements in AI-driven mental health platforms, technology can complement traditional therapy, making mental health support more accessible, efficient, and proactive.
