We're not just building AI wellness tools – we're proving how supportive technology can be. Every feature is informed by peer-reviewed research, published studies, and real-world outcomes.
VocalCalm was founded by researchers and clinicians who experienced the gap between mental health need and access. With over half of all people experiencing mental health challengesbut only 13 psychiatrists per 100,000 people globally, we knew traditional approaches couldn't scale.
Rather than building another AI chatbot, we committed to rigorous research from day one. The technology behind VocalCalm was part of the first-ever randomized controlled trial of generative AI wellness support, published in the New England Journal of Medicine AI, demonstrating measurable outcomes when humans supervise the experience.
Our approach is grounded in three key psychological mechanisms identified in clinical research:
Every feature grounded in peer-reviewed research and wellness science. Published in NEJM AI with measurable outcomes.
During the 2025 study, human supervisors intervened 15 times and corrected responses 13 times. Those learnings inform our automated signposting today.
Research shows users form meaningful supportive connections with AI comparable to traditional support sessions.
Participants reported feeling significantly better and less worried in randomized controlled trials with 106 participants.
Our platform is validated by peer-reviewed research across three critical dimensions: clinical efficacy, therapeutic alliance, and health equity.
Participants reported feeling significantly better
Moderate-to-large improvements in wellbeing for youth
Large effect size at 8 weeks
Multiple randomized controlled trials demonstrate significant improvements. The first generative AI wellness support trial showed participants felt significantly better and less worried, with large effect sizes in engaged users.
Alliance score comparable to traditional support sessions
Time to establish strong supportive connection
“Trust and communicate with the system... to a degree that is comparable to working with a mental health professional”[1]
Research shows users form meaningful supportive connections with AI. Professionals were unable to distinguish AI transcripts from traditional support, rating AI quality as equal or higher.
Increase in referrals for non-binary individuals
Increase for ethnic minorities
More sessions attended vs traditional
“The concept of it being anonymous really helped me open up and experience the stress-relieving nature of the app”[14]
AI wellness support dramatically improves access for marginalized communities. The NHS study found massive increases in care utilization among previously underserved populations, demonstrating anonymity as a powerful equity tool.
Key finding: 51% average reduction in depression symptoms; 31% reduction in anxiety
Key finding: Moderate-to-large effect (g=0.61) on depression; large effect (g=0.74) in subclinical populations
Key finding: Large effect size (d=0.82) in depression reduction at 8 weeks
Key finding: 34% reduction in depression vs. 20% standard therapy; 67% more sessions attended
Key finding: "The concept of it being anonymous really helped me open up and experience the stress-relieving nature"
Key finding: 235% increase in referrals for non-binary individuals; 31% increase for ethnic minorities
Key finding: Bond score with AI (M=3.98) statistically indistinguishable from human F2F therapy (M=4.00)
Key finding: Strong working alliance (M=3.76) established within 3-5 days
All research citations are from peer-reviewed journals and clinical trials conducted between 2021-2025.
Collaborative research partnership for ongoing studies and outcome validation
Board-certified psychologists who helped develop our research protocols and continue to advise on safety messaging
University partnerships for research validation and evidence-based development
Working with leading mental health advocates to improve access and reduce stigma
Licensed clinicians and researchers helped design VocalCalm's prompts and safety guidance during the 2025 trial. Today they provide advisory input, but we do not run a live monitoring service—VocalCalm is a wellness app that signposts emergency resources rather than replacing professional care.
Be part of the future of mental healthcare. Complete the 30-question intake, explore a full week with your AI coach, and experience research-informed support that respects your privacy from day one.
*Results based on published NEJM AI research with 106 participants. Individual results may vary.
Not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
