Essential Information
- Beginning May 1, Bark and Talkspace are delivering wellness resources directly to teens’ screens.
- Bark Phone and app users will have immediate access to videos, exercises, and self-help materials developed by licensed therapists.
- Talkspace Go acts like a therapist in your pocket, featuring quick videos and guided tools, all available for free with Bark.
In an age where teens are constantly on their devices, two companies are collaborating to simplify access to mental health support via apps.
Starting May 1, Bark Technologies and Talkspace, a mobile therapy provider, are teaming up to offer mental health resources directly on the devices used by teens.
This partnership means that every Bark Phone and Bark app user will enjoy complimentary access to Talkspace’s teen-centric wellness content. This includes self-guided exercises, bite-sized videos, and practical tools crafted by licensed therapists, now just a tap away for young people age 13 and older.
Bark Is Already Identifying Warning Signs
Why does this matter? The statistics are alarming. According to the CDC, about 40% of high school students report feeling extremely sad or hopeless, and many children in need of mental health support are not receiving it.
Bark’s own findings support this, revealing that many teens are facing issues such as bullying and depression.
Bark’s technology is currently analyzing billions of online interactions for warning signs including bullying, depression, and threats. Their research indicates that 77% of teens encounter bullying, while 43% exhibit signs of depression. Integrating mental health resources directly within Bark Phones is akin to placing a fire extinguisher next to a smoke detector.
Teens can access Talkspace Go, a compilation of self-help resources that includes videos and exercises created by qualified therapists. It’s free for those using a Bark Phone, widely regarded as one of the best devices for kids.
Looking for Professional Therapy? That’s Covered Too
Talkspace therapy is also available, and if you have insurance, it could be covered. Talkspace will connect teens (aged 13 and up) with a therapist they can engage with through messaging, video calls, or both. Teens can register using an email to access Talkspace Go.
Schools and districts are also participating. Thousands already depend on Bark to monitor student activity across platforms like Google Workspace and Chrome. They can now supplement this with Talkspace services to promote mental wellness alongside risk monitoring.