The mental health and behavioral health industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with outpatient mental health providers standing at the forefront of this surge. This transformation is vividly reflected in this year’s Inc. 5000 list, which ranks the nation’s fastest-growing private companies based on revenue growth over the past three years. The list, which has historically spotlighted companies from various sectors, now showcases a significant number of businesses dedicated to behavioral health—an indication of both the demand for these services and the industry’s evolution.
The 2025 Inc. 5000 list includes 40 companies from the behavioral health field, with 24 of those focused exclusively on delivering mental health services. These companies cover a broad spectrum of services, from digital platforms and telehealth solutions to in-person outpatient care. Additionally, two other businesses on the list offer mental health services alongside other specialties, such as autism therapy or addiction treatment, further highlighting the increasing integration of mental health care across different domains.
The clear trend is that the demand for outpatient mental health providers has skyrocketed, with many consumers seeking care outside of traditional inpatient or residential treatment settings. This shift reflects changing societal attitudes toward mental health care, particularly the growing recognition of the importance of accessible, affordable, and flexible services.
Outpatient Mental Health Providers: The Sector’s Growth Powerhouses
Outpatient mental health providers, in particular, have become a central player in the behavioral health industry’s rapid expansion. Offering a variety of services, such as therapy, psychiatric care, and digital platforms for remote counseling, these companies are meeting the rising demand for mental wellness solutions. They also offer an array of treatment models to address specific needs, from individual therapy to group sessions and addiction recovery programs.
One company, in particular, stands out for its explosive growth on this year’s list: ABA Centers of America.
ABA Centers of America: A Star in Autism Therapy and Beyond
Rank: 5 | Growth: 32,192%
Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Topping the list of the fastest-growing behavioral health providers is ABA Centers of America, an autism therapy provider that achieved an astonishing 32,192% revenue growth over the past three years. Founded in 2020, the company is a relatively new player in the market but has quickly emerged as one of the largest outpatient mental health providers of autism therapy in the nation. What makes ABA Centers of America particularly noteworthy is its unique approach to care—focusing on play-based therapy that helps children on the autism spectrum develop crucial life skills in a natural and supportive environment.
Their growth has been fueled not only by a rising demand for autism therapy but also by strategic leadership and a dedication to reinvesting earnings for growth. The company has avoided traditional private equity funding, instead relying on the investment of its executives, led by founder and CEO Chris Bennet, who has invested his own resources to drive expansion. This strategy has paid off handsomely, positioning ABA Centers of America as one of the most successful health services companies on the Inc. 5000.
Digital Platforms and Virtual Care Revolution
Alongside traditional outpatient mental health providers, digital health platforms have also seen significant growth. The ability to access mental health care remotely has become a game-changer, particularly for individuals who may face geographical, financial, or social barriers to in-person care. As telehealth has become more widespread and accepted, several digital providers have emerged as leaders in this space.
- Uwill (Natick, MA)
Rank: 27 | Growth: 8,722%
Uwill is a digital mental health provider dedicated to offering therapy services to college students. By focusing on a niche population—students navigating academic and personal challenges—Uwill has grown exponentially. The service connects students with licensed therapists, offering flexible scheduling and a confidential space to discuss mental health concerns. The company’s rapid growth shows just how much demand there is for services that cater specifically to younger adults facing unique pressures.
- Spring Health (New York City, NY)
Rank: 91 | Growth: 3,557%
Spring Health provides mental health services to businesses, allowing companies to offer comprehensive employee wellness programs. Its growth reflects an increasing recognition of mental health in the workplace. By offering digital services and ensuring a diverse range of therapies, Spring Health is helping companies support their employees’ mental well-being, making it one of the most notable B2B outpatient mental health providers on the list.
The Rise of Virtual Addiction Treatment
The pandemic also spurred a rise in addiction treatment services, particularly in virtual settings. Online programs and telehealth solutions allow individuals to access addiction care without having to leave home, making treatment more accessible to those who may have previously felt isolated or unable to attend traditional, in-person treatment centers.
- Boulder Care (Portland, OR)
Rank: 140 | Growth: 2,461%
Boulder Care is a virtual addiction treatment provider that specializes in Medicaid partnerships, helping vulnerable populations gain access to care. This model of care has proven highly effective, especially for individuals who need ongoing support and monitoring. Their growth highlights how digital platforms are reshaping addiction recovery and ensuring that treatment is available to those who need it most.
- Recovery.com (Madison, WI)
Rank: 196 | Growth: 2,013%
Recovery.com is an online platform that helps individuals connect with mental health and addiction treatment providers. The service is designed to simplify the process of finding appropriate care, making it a valuable resource for those seeking treatment.
Autism Therapy Providers: A Growing Niche Within Behavioral Health
While mental health care dominates the broader behavioral health category, autism therapy providers also made a significant showing on the Inc. 5000 list. The demand for services for individuals on the autism spectrum has grown dramatically, with several companies rising to meet this need. Autism therapy providers often combine behavior analysis, speech therapy, and social skills training, creating comprehensive treatment programs for children and adults alike.
- Stepping Stones Behavioral Solutions (Indianapolis, IN)
Rank: 468 | Growth: 957%
Stepping Stones focuses on autism therapy while also addressing other behavioral needs, including ADHD and PCD. Their approach to treatment is holistic, and their services are designed to support children in developing both cognitive and social skills.
- Behavioral Innovations (Addison, TX)
Rank: 2,291 | Growth: 228%
One of the largest autism therapy platforms in the country, Behavioral Innovations has earned a spot on the Inc. 5000 due to its strong growth trajectory. The company provides a range of services for children with autism and is backed by private equity, allowing it to expand its reach and scale operations.
Specialized Services for Mental Health and Addiction Recovery
Beyond autism therapy, the Inc. 5000 list also highlights businesses that provide specialized care for mental health and addiction recovery, addressing the needs of individuals facing unique challenges.
- Workit Health (Ann Arbor, MI)
Rank: 803 | Growth: 616%
Workit Health provides virtual addiction treatment services, focusing on innovative, evidence-based therapies that are accessible through a digital platform. Their growth speaks to the increasing demand for accessible, personalized addiction recovery options.
- Recovery.com (Madison, WI)
Rank: 196 | Growth: 2,013%
Recovery.com is an online platform that helps individuals connect with mental health and addiction treatment providers. The service is designed to simplify the process of finding appropriate care, making it a valuable resource for those seeking treatment.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Behavioral Health
The rapid growth of outpatient mental health providers is a clear indication that the landscape of mental health care is evolving. Several factors have contributed to this surge:
- Increased Awareness: The COVID-19 pandemic brought mental health issues to the forefront, with more people seeking help and more institutions recognizing the importance of mental wellness.
- Access to Digital Solutions: Digital platforms have made it easier for individuals to access care, breaking down barriers related to distance, cost, and social stigma.
- Holistic and Integrated Care: There is an increasing trend toward integrating behavioral health services with other forms of care, such as physical health or special needs services, creating a more comprehensive approach to treatment.
As these outpatient mental health providers continue to grow, their impact will be felt not only in the mental health community but across society as a whole. The expansion of outpatient services, the integration of digital tools, and the increasing emphasis on mental wellness within corporate and educational settings are paving the way for a healthier, more supported society.
With the mental health crisis continuing to challenge individuals and communities nationwide, these companies are helping to reshape the future of care, offering innovative solutions that meet the needs of a diverse and evolving population.
