ImmuniFriend provides online group counseling sessions specifically designed for individuals managing autoimmune diseases. These sessions are led by psychologists in a confidential setting to offer emotional and psychological support alongside physical treatment. The service aims to integrate emotional well-being into holistic care, improving the quality of life for patients.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
People living with autoimmune diseases often experience chronic stress, emotional fatigue, and social isolation, yet access to tailored psychological support that integrates with their medical care is limited. Traditional therapy models are costly, time‑intensive, and rarely address the specific psychosocial challenges of autoimmune conditions.
Solution
ImmuniFriend delivers a digital platform for moderated, peer‑based group counseling focused on autoimmune illnesses. Users complete a brief intake questionnaire, after which an algorithm matches them with small groups (8‑12 participants) sharing similar experiences. Weekly 90‑minute sessions are led by licensed psychologists and follow a structured curriculum covering self‑compassion, stress management, mind‑body awareness, and coping strategies. The service provides a secure, GDPR‑compliant video environment, optional anonymity (camera off), and supplemental worksheets to reinforce learning. By embedding psychoeducation within a supportive community, ImmuniFriend augments standard medical treatment with continuous emotional care.
Target Audience
The primary users are adults diagnosed with autoimmune diseases who seek peer support and professional psychological guidance alongside their medical treatment.
Features
- Intake‑driven matching engine that groups participants by disease‑related concerns (e.g., MS, rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto, lupus, psoriasis).
- Weekly 1.5‑hour video sessions moderated by credentialed psychologists, following a clinically designed curriculum.
- Secure, end‑to‑end encrypted video platform with GDPR compliance and role‑based access controls.
- Optional participant anonymity (camera and microphone mute) to accommodate comfort levels.
- Downloadable psychoeducational worksheets and self‑reflection tools integrated into each session.
- Data‑privacy‑first architecture allowing future integration with health‑insurance reimbursement workflows.
- Pilot‑phase free access with a waiting‑list system and automated email notifications.