Hurdle Health, a Washington, D.C.-based digital platform specializing in culturally-intentional behavioral health services, recently announced a major expansion into Texas, Massachusetts, and California. This is a crucial step in making mental health care more accessible and tailored specifically to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, which have historically been underserved. Alongside these new states, Hurdle plans to enter additional markets during the second quarter of 2022, signaling an ambitious commitment to closing gaps in mental health care nationwide.
The company expects to be licensed in nearly half of the country by 2023 and projects more than 20,000 telehealth visits in 2022 alone. This growth reflects the increasing demand for behavioral health services that recognize and address the unique cultural experiences and challenges faced by diverse communities.
Founded to Address Disparities in Behavioral Health
Originally founded in 2018 as Henry Health, Hurdle Health was created with a clear mission: to close the mental health services gap for BIPOC communities by offering culturally sensitive and clinically effective care. The platform’s focus on culturally-intentional behavioral health services ensures that its licensed therapists are trained in approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed care, all delivered through a cultural lens that respects clients’ identities and lived experiences.
These culturally-intentional behavioral health services target stressors that disproportionately impact BIPOC individuals, such as racism, anger, substance use disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By integrating cultural competence into every aspect of care, Hurdle Health strives to create a safe space for healing that goes beyond traditional therapy models.
Responding to an Urgent Need Amid Growing Mental Health Disparities
Mental health disparities in the U.S. have become increasingly evident, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and social justice movements that have highlighted systemic inequities. Kevin Dedner, founder and CEO of Hurdle Health, expressed concern about these disparities: “We continue to be concerned about what we are learning about the mental health status of Americans, especially as it relates to the disparities among members of the BIPOC community.”
Hurdle Health’s culturally-intentional behavioral health services address this urgent need by leveraging telehealth technology to overcome traditional barriers such as geographic isolation, stigma, and limited access to culturally competent providers. This approach allows individuals in underserved areas to connect with therapists who understand their specific cultural backgrounds and challenges.
Significant Growth and Scaling to Meet Demand
Hurdle Health’s rapid expansion is supported by strong performance metrics and increased demand for culturally relevant care. In 2021, the company doubled its network of in-network therapists trained specifically to provide culturally-intentional behavioral health services. Its employee base grew five-fold as the company scaled operations to meet client needs.
Moreover, the launch of a direct-to-consumer model has expanded access to these specialized services beyond employer-sponsored health plans, allowing individuals to seek help more easily and privately. The company also secured contracts with a large health plan and a major national employer, both of which underscore the growing recognition of the importance of culturally-intentional behavioral health services in the wider healthcare market.
Insurance Acceptance and Telehealth Convenience Drive Accessibility
Hurdle Health accepts insurance from major payors such as United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, and Medicare. This acceptance is a vital factor in reducing financial barriers for many seeking behavioral health care. By combining insurance coverage with telehealth delivery, Hurdle makes culturally-intentional behavioral health services more affordable and accessible.
Telehealth also provides a convenient and flexible option for clients who might otherwise face challenges such as transportation, childcare, or work schedule conflicts. The platform’s design prioritizes ease of use and secure, confidential connections between clients and therapists, helping reduce stigma and encourage ongoing engagement in care.
Focused on Meeting the Needs of People of Color
Kevin Dedner highlighted the positive impact and growing demand for Hurdle’s approach: “We’ve seen overwhelming evidence that our clients continue to benefit from our unique programs, and we’ve had to scale Hurdle quickly to accommodate the increased demand for mental health services tailored to people of color.”
By offering culturally-intentional behavioral health services, Hurdle Health provides more than just access—it provides culturally respectful care that validates experiences and fosters trust. This approach has been shown to improve therapeutic engagement, retention, and outcomes, which are critical factors in addressing the mental health crisis in BIPOC communities.
Strategic Plans for Further Expansion
In addition to the recent expansion into Texas, Massachusetts, and California, Hurdle Health plans to extend its reach to Tennessee, Minnesota, Illinois, Georgia, and New York later in 2022. This expansion reflects a strategic effort to provide culturally-intentional behavioral health services across a wide geographic footprint, reaching both urban and rural populations that may lack local access to culturally competent providers.
As more health plans and employers recognize the importance of equity in mental health care, Hurdle is positioned to partner with these organizations to fill gaps in support and meet growing demands. This includes customizing services to employer-sponsored benefits and health plan networks to ensure sustainability and broad reach.
Conclusion
Hurdle Health’s commitment to culturally-intentional behavioral health services is a vital advancement in the mental health care field. By expanding into new states and increasing its network of culturally trained providers, Hurdle is helping to close a critical gap in care for BIPOC communities. Their telehealth platform offers accessible, affordable, and culturally responsive therapy that respects the unique experiences of diverse clients.
In doing so, Hurdle Health is not only providing therapy—it is fostering a future where mental health care is equitable, relevant, and effective for all communities. The company’s expansion and continued innovation exemplify how culturally-intentional behavioral health services can reshape the mental health landscape to be more inclusive and healing for everyone.
