Slingshot AI

Slingshot AI is developing the first foundation model for psychology, designed to redefine mental health support by acting as a virtual therapist, guiding users toward self-awareness, confidence, and stronger relationships. 

Slingshot technology integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques, making it a powerful tool for mental health support and continuously improving through 10,000+ beta testers, including psychologists:  

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps users recognize and reframe negative thought patterns;
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotional regulation and coping strategies;
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Encourages mindfulness and value-driven actions.  

By combining these approaches, the Slingshot health system provides personalized, adaptive guidance, mirroring the role of a therapist.

The company is backed by strong investment support, having raised $40M in a Series A round on January 14, 2025, led by Andreessen Horowitz (a16z). 

The founding team includes Neil Parikh (co-founder of Casper, scaled to $500M+ revenue, IPO in 2020), and Daniel Cahn (AI researcher). Their expertise, combined with AI’s scalability, positions Slingshot AI as a digital mental health innovation leader.

Slingshot AI has already gained significant industry recognition, featuring in “The 12 Largest NYC Tech Startup Funding Rounds of January 2025.” As mental health solutions become more in demand, affecting nearly 50% of the global population, this platform is poised to capture a massive user base.

It is reshaping mental health support with a therapy-first AI model, powering Slingshot Mental Health. While competition and ethical concerns exist, its strong backing, expert leadership, and growing adoption make it a major contender in AI-powered mental health solutions.

Slingshot AI is currently in its early stages and improving rapidly. To gain early access, users can join the waitlist by submitting their email. Due to limited capacity, only a select number of users will be granted access as the platform scales.
 

✅ Slingshot AI Pros:

• Innovative approach with a real-world utility potential;
• Good Search Engine Optimization;
• Influential partners in the form of Andreessen Horowitz, Felicis, and others;
• 10,000+ testnet users , including professionals in psychology, validating the model;
• Strong network of investors including a16z, with a proven founding team;
• Founded by experts with AI and startup scaling experience.
   

❌ Slingshot AI Cons:

• No mentions of Smart Contract Audits or PenTest;
• No whitepaper, and roadmap;
• Weak PR, and SMM;
• Terrible growth marketing;
• No public launch date. Currently in beta, with no confirmed mass-market release;
• AI in mental health raises questions about accuracy and human supervision;

Competitive market with strong rivals like Woebot ($90M funding) and Wysa ($20M funding).