Multi-Media Field Test: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy at Our Fingertips: Sanvello Provides On-Demand Support for Mental Health

Abstract

Sanvello is a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) app available as a web platform and a native app for both Android and iOS. Sanvello can be used for free, with additional premium content available in a paid version. It is targeted for adults with mild to moderate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress and has a solid evidence base to support its efficacy. Sanvello is user-friendly and intuitive, with good user experience and appropriate privacy and data security measures. Sanvello’s free version consists mainly of self-care and peer support content, allowing users to engage with tools such as in-app activities personalized through initial user assessments, and community pages. A paid version provides additional content through a subscription model and coaching available for a monthly fee. Professional support is available either through insurance coverage of a pay-per-appointment model. Despite a solid evidence base, various features, and a library of content, identified areas of improvement include expanding the psychoeducation materials and articles to include more timely resources and the diversity of its potential users. For these reasons, we have rated Sanvello with a 5 in utility, and ease of use/overall appeal along with a 4 in appropriateness of content and research evidence. Overall, Sanvello provides a variety of evidence-based cognitive and behavioral skills and, for those with the paid version, the opportunity to connect with professionals for additional support.