SHFT Behavioral Health: Company Profile

Background

Overview

SHFT Behavioral Health is a pioneering mental health service provider based in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in urgent and routine care for adolescents, young adults, and families. Established in 2025 by Kellogg MBA graduates Genia Yovankin and Holley Brandchaft-White, the organization aims to bridge the gap between emergency room interventions and ongoing therapy by offering accessible, in-person support.

Mission and Vision

The mission of SHFT Behavioral Health is to make mental health care more accessible and proactive, reflecting the real experiences of young people and families. Their vision is to provide timely, human-centered care that meets individuals where they are, fostering a supportive environment for those facing mental health challenges.

Industry Significance

As Chicago's first urgent care model for mental health, SHFT addresses a critical need for immediate, non-emergency support, reducing the burden on emergency rooms and offering a more appropriate setting for mental health crises. This innovative approach contributes to the evolving landscape of behavioral health services, emphasizing accessibility and timely intervention.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Accessibility: Provide same-day, in-person mental health support seven days a week.

Proactive Care: Offer early intervention to prevent crises from escalating.

Comprehensive Services: Deliver both urgent care and ongoing therapy to address a wide range of mental health needs.

Areas of Specialization

Adolescents and Young Adults: Tailored services for individuals aged 10–30.

Family Support: Involve families in the care process to enhance outcomes.

Crisis Management: Immediate support for acute mental health situations.

Key Technologies Utilized

Telehealth Integration: Virtual care options complement in-person services.

Electronic Health Records (EHR): Streamlined patient information management.

Primary Markets Targeted

Urban Communities: Focus on Chicago and surrounding areas.

Educational Institutions: Collaborations with local schools to support student mental health.

Healthcare Providers: Partnerships with hospitals and clinics to offer comprehensive care.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Specific details regarding SHFT Behavioral Health's funding history, total funds raised, recent funding rounds, and notable investors are not publicly disclosed.

Utilization of Capital

The capital has been utilized to establish and operate the clinic, develop service offerings, and expand partnerships with local schools, hospitals, and community providers.

Pipeline Development

Key Services Offered

Urgent Care: Immediate mental health support in a calm, non-emergency environment.

Therapy: Personalized counseling to explore feelings, build coping skills, and foster measurable growth.

Medication Management: Expert guidance to identify, adjust, and monitor medications that support mental health.

Chats: Quick, confidential conversations when individuals need someone to talk to.

Target Conditions

Anxiety and depression

Academic stress

Grief and loss

Trauma and PTSD

Substance use and risky behaviors

Family conflict

Anticipated Milestones

Expansion: Plans to open additional clinics in other urban areas.

Service Enhancement: Introduction of new programs based on community needs.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Integrated Care Platform: A system that combines scheduling, patient records, and communication tools to streamline service delivery.

Significant Scientific Methods

Evidence-Based Therapies: Utilization of therapeutic approaches supported by research to ensure effective treatment.

Data Analytics: Analysis of patient outcomes to continuously improve care strategies.

Leadership Team

Genia Yovankin – Chief Operating Officer

Professional Background: Co-founder and leader of Greywood Health Center, specializing in intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs for adolescents and young adults.

Contributions: Oversees daily operations, ensuring efficient service delivery and organizational growth.

Holley Brandchaft-White – Chief Clinical Officer

Professional Background: Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master's degree from The University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice.

Contributions: Leads clinical services, ensuring high-quality, compassionate care for clients.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Market Size: The behavioral health market in the U.S. is substantial, with a growing demand for accessible mental health services.

Growth Potential: High, due to increasing awareness and the need for immediate, in-person mental health support.

Industry Trends: A shift towards integrated care models and the expansion of urgent care facilities for mental health.

Competitor Analysis

LifeStance Health: A publicly traded company offering outpatient behavioral health services across the U.S., including therapy and psychiatry.

Thriveworks: Provides counseling and coaching services with a focus on accessibility and affordability.

SonderMind: Specializes in telemental health with AI-backed assessments and therapist matching.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Educational Institutions: Collaborations with local schools to support student mental health.

Healthcare Providers: Partnerships with hospitals and clinics to offer comprehensive care.

Community Organizations: Engagement with community groups to enhance service delivery and outreach.

Operational Insights

Competitive Advantages: Unique urgent care model for mental health, accessible location in Chicago's River North neighborhood, and a team specializing in the unique challenges facing young people and families.