The Mental Health Evolution

Rachel Harrison

The Mental Health Entrepreneur podcast is back—with a slightly new name and an expanded focus. We're excited to introduce The Mental Health Evolution, where we'll continue the journey of exploring what's changing in the mental health field, and we're so glad to have you with us as a listener. Explore the rapidly changing world of mental health with The Mental Health Evolution, hosted by Rachel Harrison. Each episode brings honest conversations with clinicians, tech founders, investors, insurance companies, and other key voices shaping the industry. We dive into what's working, what's not, and what's next—from innovative startups and ethical considerations in tech-driven therapy to policy changes, access to care, and the human connections that remain at the heart of mental health services. Whether you're a professional in the field, someone seeking care, or simply curious about the evolution of mental health, this podcast provides insights, perspectives, and practical information to help you navigate a complex and fast-moving landscape. Join us to stay informed, challenge assumptions, and be part of the conversation shaping the future of mental health.

  1. 30 ОКТ.

    Ep 11: Building Mental Health Practices Without Burnout with Dan King

    What does it take to grow a mental health practice sustainably—without burning out the people who make it work? In this episode, host Rachel Harrison talks with Dan King, Co-Founder of Fireside Strategic, about how to align profitability with purpose in behavioral health. Dan shares lessons from years advising investors and business leaders on building organizations where clinicians thrive, culture drives retention, and long-term success balances both human and financial outcomes. Listeners will hear practical advice on finding the right investment partners, understanding private equity and venture capital dynamics, and leading with values in a changing behavioral health market. Whether you're a clinician, practice owner, or investor, this conversation offers a blueprint for growth without burnout. Guest & Transcript Information Full Transcript: Provided Guest Name: Dan King Title / Role / Credentials: Co-Founder, Fireside Strategic Bio / Expertise: Dan King is the Co-Founder of Fireside Strategic, helping companies scale sustainably by focusing on human-centered growth. With experience in organizational psychology, M&A strategy, and executive coaching, Dan aligns profitability with purpose to build organizations that thrive without burnout. Website: https://www.firesidestrategic.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danmking/ Episode Highlights 0:32 – Introduction to Dan King and Fireside Strategic 1:08 – Why aligning business growth with human well-being matters 2:12 – Lessons from scaling companies that grew too fast 3:40 – The link between culture, retention, and sustainable success 5:05 – How private equity and venture capital differ in behavioral health 7:14 – Finding the right investment partner for your mission 9:48 – Balancing profitability with clinician satisfaction 12:22 – The future of integrated behavioral health services 14:36 – Measuring both financial and human outcomes 16:18 – Practical advice for practice owners considering investors 18:07 – Key traits of leaders who build without burnout Articles & Resources Mental Health's Investment Resurgence: A Market Ripe for Innovation – Galen Growth Venture Capital's Priorities Are Evolving as Behavioral Health Market Matures – Behavioral Health Business Fireside Strategic – Dan King Connect with Dan King Website: firesidestrategic.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danmking Connect with Us Website: The Mental Health Evolution Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur Music by Zach Harrison

    32 мин.
  2. 16 ОКТ.

    Ep 9: Understanding Mental Health Parity with Deborah Steinberg

    In this episode, Rachel talks with Deborah Steinberg, Senior Health Policy Attorney at the Legal Action Center, about the current state of mental health parity in the U.S. Deborah explains what parity means, why it matters, and how gaps in enforcement continue to affect patients and providers. They also discuss the recent HHS rule reversal and its impact on insurance coverage, including disparities in reimbursement and network adequacy. Listeners will learn about key barriers in mental health and substance use disorder care, as well as practical steps for advocacy and holding plans accountable. Episode Highlights Introduction to Deborah Steinberg and her policy work Overview of mental health parity laws and importance Discussion on HHS rule reversal and its impact Disparities between mental and physical health coverage Enforcement gaps at federal and state levels Role of data collection in identifying parity violations Network adequacy challenges for providers and patients Aligning health plan coverage criteria with standards of care Steps consumers can take to report parity violations Ways to engage in state-based advocacy and reforms Advocacy benefits for patients, providers, and systemic change Articles & Resources Mental Health Care May Be Harder to Obtain After HHS Rule Reversal – STAT News New Tool Brings Mental Health Parity Problems to Light – AMA Commissioner King Fines Insurers Over $20 Million for Parity Violations – Georgia OCI Mental Health Parity Enforcement Updates – Congressman Tonko Connect with Deborah Steinberg Website: https://www.lac.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-steinberg-b4822536/ Instagram: @deborahgwen Connect with Us Website: The Mental Health Evolution Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur Music by Zach Harrison

    43 мин.
  3. 9 ОКТ.

    Ep 8: Viewing Mental Health Care Through a Family Systems Lens

    Episode Summary This week, we have a solo episode in which Rachel explores the mental health system through a family systems lens. She examines how different players—including clients, providers, insurers, tech companies, and advocacy organizations—interact and influence access to care, reimbursement, and overall system outcomes. Listeners will gain insight into systemic disparities, the role of new disruptors, and how ongoing dialogue and advocacy can help create a healthier mental health ecosystem. Episode Highlights 0:30 – Rachel introduces solo episode exploring the mental health system 1:06 – Discusses therapist income disparities and systemic influences 2:56 – Explains using a family systems lens to view the industry 3:48 – Highlights relevant articles on barriers to mental health care 7:28 – Role of clients/patients and access challenges in the system 9:52 – Income and influence of individual providers in insurance networks 13:14 – Tech companies and managed service organizations as system disruptors 17:08 – Insurance companies' influence on reimbursement, coverage, and policy 19:01 – Advocacy groups shaping regulations, standards, and systemic improvements 20:05 – Importance of dialogue among all system players for better outcomes Articles & Resources Exploring Barriers to Mental Health Care in the U.S. – AAMC Therapist Salaries in 2025 – Twofold Connect with Us Website: The Mental Health Evolution Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur Music by Zach Harrison

    22 мин.
  4. 2 ОКТ.

    Ep 7: Policy Shifts Reshaping Mental Health Care with Cathy Gilbert

    In this episode of Mental Health Evolution, host Rachel Harrison sits down with Cathy Gilbert, a seasoned consultant and former insurance executive, to unpack how new and proposed health care policies are reshaping the future of mental health services. Cathy brings a wealth of expertise from her work in provider network development, operations, and policy analysis, offering both a big-picture perspective and practical strategies for navigating change. Together, Rachel and Cathy dive into the Big Beautiful Bill and other recent federal actions affecting Medicaid, ACA coverage, telehealth, and funding for crisis services. Listeners will gain valuable insight into how these shifts impact providers and patients alike, from reimbursement rates to eligibility requirements. Cathy also shares concrete advice for solo and group practice owners on what to watch for and how to prepare. This episode will help you better understand the fast-moving policy environment and make informed decisions for your practice. Episode Highlights 0:37 – Guest introduction: Cathy Gilbert's career in insurance and consulting 1:11 – Overview of the Big Beautiful Bill and major policy shifts 3:23 – Why policy changes feel faster in behavioral health 4:35 – Impact on vulnerable populations losing health coverage 6:20 – Provider challenges: reimbursement cuts and sustainability concerns 10:16 – A rare positive: permanent telehealth coverage provisions 12:59 – Unresolved concerns: in-person visit requirements for telehealth 13:54 – Key advice for solo and group practice owners 14:33 – Medicaid retroactive coverage shortened and what it means 15:19 – How often providers should check eligibility 17:03 – Why monitoring payer notices is critical during rapid change 18:35 – Closing reflections and key takeaways Articles & Resources New Policies Affecting Access to Mental Health Care NAMI Statement on Final Passage of Bill Cutting Medicaid for Millions of Americans | National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Connect with Cathy Gilbert Website: https://ceghealth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-gilbert-29648421/ Connect with Us Website: The Mental Health Evolution Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur Music by Zach Harrison

    20 мин.
  5. 25 СЕНТ.

    Ep 6: Navigating Tech in Private Practice with Uriah Guilford

    In this episode, Rachel sits down with Uriah Guilford, licensed therapist, group practice owner, author of The Productive Practice, and founder of Productive Therapist, to discuss how technology and AI are transforming private mental health practices. They explore practical strategies for integrating AI into both the clinical and business sides of therapy, while maintaining ethical care, client privacy, and the human connection that makes therapy effective. Uriah shares his insights on the latest mental health tech trends, including AI avatars, virtual receptionists, and AI tools for practice operations. He also discusses predictions for the future of mental health care, how therapists can thoughtfully adopt technology, and ways to enhance efficiency without losing the personal touch that clients value. Time-Stamped Highlights 0:24 – 1:34 – Key mental health tech trends and news shaping the conversation 4:18 – 4:57 – Guest introduction: Uriah Guilford 4:57 – 10:31 – AI mindset shifts, integration in practice operations, and predictions for clinical and business use 14:12 – 17:05 – Recommended systems and tools for private practice 19:18 – 22:48 – Using AI to augment operations: virtual assistants, AI receptionists, and human handoffs 22:48 – 24:35 – Key takeaways: ethical adoption, mindful use, and enhancing client support Articles & Resources 27 Top Mental Health Startups to Watch in 2025 – Startup Savant Why Psychiatry May Be the Last Frontier for AI Disruption – Forbes Mental Health Tech in 2025: Consolidation, Personalization, and the Uneven Reality of Access – BeeKey Connect with Uriah Guilford Website: Productive Therapist Website: Intune Family Facebook: Productive Therapist Instagram: @productivetherapist Connect with Us Website: Trauma Specialists Training Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur Music by Zach Harrison

    25 мин.
  6. 18 СЕНТ.

    Ep 5: Preparing for the AI Shift in Therapy with Dr. Jordan Harris

    In this episode of The Mental Health Evolution Podcast, Rachel sits down with Dr. Jordan Harris to explore the rapidly evolving role of AI in therapy and mental health care. They discuss the ethical, practical, and professional implications of AI tools, including large language models and autonomous systems, and what therapists and clients need to know to navigate this shifting landscape. Jordan shares his insights as a therapist, coach, and researcher, offering guidance on how the mental health field can adapt, responsibly use AI, and maintain high-quality care. Key Topics Covered: The emerging use of AI in therapy, including note-taking and co-pilot tools Ethical considerations around client data, privacy, and informed consent How AI may enhance or challenge traditional therapeutic expertise Industry developments, including tech startups and insurance collaborations shaping care Practical steps for therapists to responsibly integrate AI into practice Articles Mentioned: Telehealth.org: Amazon Health Services and Talkspace Partner for Virtual Therapy Fortune: In a showdown of psychotherapists vs ChatGPT, the latter wins — New study finds Dr. Jordan Harris: AI is Reshaping Psychotherapy: We Have Two Years to Get Ready Connect with Us: Website: https://www.traumaspecialiststraining.com Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur Connect with Dr. Jordan Harris: Website: https://www.jordanthecounselor.com LinkedIn: Jordan Harris Music by Zach Harrison

    23 мин.
  7. 11 СЕНТ.

    Ep 4: When AI Meets Therapy: Risks, Ethics, and Advocacy with Dr. Ajita Robinson

    In this episode of The Mental Health Evolution Podcast, Rachel sits down with Dr. Ajita Robinson to explore the rapidly evolving role of AI in mental health care. They discuss the ethical, legal, and practical challenges of AI chatbots, the risks of unregulated technology, and what it means for both therapists and clients. Ajita shares her insights as a therapist, coach, and advocate, offering guidance on how the mental health field can protect both its professionals and the people they serve. Key Topics Covered: The emerging use of AI in therapy and its potential risks Legislative developments around AI in mental health Advocacy for protecting the professional identity of therapists How tech startups and insurance collaborations are reshaping access to care Practical steps for therapists to advocate for the field and their clients Articles Mentioned: Manatt Health: Health AI Policy Tracker — Keeping track of federal and state AI policy developments Axios: Tech firms and states look to rein in AI chatbots' mental health advice — The growing push to regulate chatbot therapy apps Behavioral Health Business: CareFirst + Headway collaboration — How insurers and startups are reshaping access to care Connect with Us: Website: https://www.traumaspecialiststraining.com Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur Connect with Dr. Ajita Robinson: Instagram: @dr.ajitarobinson Facebook: Dr. Ajita LinkedIn: Ajita Robinson Website: ajitarobinson.com Music by Zach Harrison

    30 мин.
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The Mental Health Entrepreneur podcast is back—with a slightly new name and an expanded focus. We're excited to introduce The Mental Health Evolution, where we'll continue the journey of exploring what's changing in the mental health field, and we're so glad to have you with us as a listener. Explore the rapidly changing world of mental health with The Mental Health Evolution, hosted by Rachel Harrison. Each episode brings honest conversations with clinicians, tech founders, investors, insurance companies, and other key voices shaping the industry. We dive into what's working, what's not, and what's next—from innovative startups and ethical considerations in tech-driven therapy to policy changes, access to care, and the human connections that remain at the heart of mental health services. Whether you're a professional in the field, someone seeking care, or simply curious about the evolution of mental health, this podcast provides insights, perspectives, and practical information to help you navigate a complex and fast-moving landscape. Join us to stay informed, challenge assumptions, and be part of the conversation shaping the future of mental health.

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