Optum Expands Digital Mental Health Access Through Key Partnerships

Through these partnerships, Optum is integrating digital tools and virtual services to help people access mental health care when and where they need it, while addressing issues such as affordability, provider shortages, and stigma.

Optum is advancing its behavioral health initiatives through strategic collaborations with several digital health companies, including Calm, AbleTo, Equip, and Supportiv, to make mental health care more accessible and personalized.

With mental health challenges affecting more than one in five adults in the U.S., depression rates have surged by 60% over the past decade. Nearly 16% of women and 10% of men are currently living with depression, and about one in ten adults takes medication for it.

Through these partnerships, Optum is integrating digital tools and virtual services to help people access mental health care when and where they need it, while addressing issues such as affordability, provider shortages, and stigma.

AbleTo: Bridging Gaps in Behavioral Health

AbleTo offers programs that combine digital tools with one-on-one behavioral coaching or therapy. The program supports individuals navigating life transitions, stress, and burnout by helping them define goals and develop coping skills through cognitive behavioral therapy–based coaching. By including AbleTo’s services, Optum aims to expand access to care and reach individuals who might otherwise avoid or delay treatment.

Supportiv: Peer Support for Immediate Needs

Supportiv provides virtual, anonymous peer support moderated by trained individuals for issues such as loneliness, relationship challenges, and LGBTQ+ support. Designed for users who may not need therapy but still seek connection, Supportiv offers in-the-moment help and affordable alternatives for mental health support.

Calm: Expanding Access to Self-Help Tools

Calm’s popular meditation and stress management app has been integrated into Optum’s offerings through Calm Health, providing users with enhanced self-guided tools for stress and sleep management. Calm Health includes personalized navigation and care plans within Optum’s behavioral health benefits at no additional cost, allowing users to access self-care resources more efficiently.

Equip: Virtual Support for Eating Disorders

Equip delivers evidence-based, virtual treatment for eating disorders, offering an alternative to traditional inpatient and outpatient options. Its treatment model, proven as effective as in-person care, ensures accessibility for individuals seeking comprehensive, remote support.

Optum’s partnerships highlight its approach to scaling behavioral health solutions through evidence-based, technology-enabled care. By bringing together digital platforms like Calm, AbleTo, Supportiv, and Equip, the company continues to broaden access to timely, affordable mental health support for diverse populations.

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