Masters of Scale AI: The new frontier for mental health support?
14 snips
Nov 18, 2025 
In this discussion, Ellie Pavlick, director of ARIA at Brown, shares insights on the risks and importance of regulating AI in mental health applications. Soraya Darabi, a VC partner, highlights investment trends in mental health tech and the ethical considerations driving them. They delve into the balance between the potential benefits of AI companions and the need for caution, especially concerning empathy and accessibility. Both emphasize the importance of ongoing societal dialogue to navigate this promising yet perilous frontier.
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Research Needed Because Use Outpaces Understanding
- ARIA formed because AI is already being used for mental health despite high risks and little oversight.
- Ellie Pavlick argues we need scientific leadership to decide what the technology should and shouldn't do.
Long-Term Relationship Led To Investment
- Soraya Darabi recounts TMV's decade-long familiarity with the Slingshot AI team before investing.
- She emphasizes trust in founders' histories and advisory strength as reasons for backing the company.
Vet Teams And Advisors Before Investing
- Invest in vetted teams with strong clinical and advisory talent when backing mental-health AI startups.
- Soraya Darabi emphasizes evaluating founders' track records and advisory boards before investing.
