Prague-based startup Hedepy, which provides online psychotherapy, has acquired its Polish rival HearMe in a deal worth several million euros. The move strengthens Hedepy’s position in Central Europe’s largest market and expands its reach into corporate mental health, a sector where demand is rapidly rising.
Founded in 2020, Hedepy already has a foothold in Poland, operating there for three years. Through the acquisition, Hedepy will also add around 120 employees to its team, which already numbers over 1,000. The company currently works with about 200 businesses; HearMe will bring in more than 80 additional corporate partners.
Mental health as a workplace benefit
Hedepy CEO and co-founder Lukáš Krčil noted that company interest in mental health services spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic. “That’s when Czech businesses woke up and started addressing employees’ mental health and wellbeing.”
The trend is consistent with broader global shifts. According to Ipsos, 45% of people worldwide cited poor mental health as the top health concern in 2023, ahead of cancer.
Long waiting times for in-person sessions and a shortage of specialists, particularly outside major cities, have further fueled demand for online therapy. Last year, Hedepy delivered 190,000 online sessions.
Expanding in Central and Eastern Europe
Hedepy now operates in nine countries, including Hungary, Romania, and Ukraine, though it exited Italy, Estonia, and Finland due to strong competition and limited market size. Krčil sees the greatest potential in CEE, which he estimates as a €6 billion market.
This year, Hedepy is targeting revenues of €13 million (over CZK 300 million). The company plans another investment round in the first half of next year, aiming to raise around CZK 250 million. Its backers already include Nation 1, Purple Ventures, RSJ, and angel investor Leoš Navrátil.
