EVA (Emotion Vitality Assistant)

The EVA Smartphone App is a grassroots based, bottom-up mental health solution that was conceived from a combination of theory found in recently published research along with best practices from nationally renowned mental health organizations. The research for EVA’s basis can be found at http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-939769

EVA has two main facets:
1) it supports mental health by promoting emotional expression in a safe, non-threatening environment. 2) it provides continuity of care for those who are at risk for suicide.

Though extremely important, traditional face-to-face psychological therapy falls short as it typically forces patients to recall days or weeks of undocumented, fragmented experiences in an hour or two for a counselor to analyze on the spot. Such expectations are unrealistic as important information is usually forgotten by the patient and the counselor does not have sufficient time to properly evaluate what’s being shared.

EVA solves this dilemma by providing a safe, confidential virtual space where patients can maintain a continued connection with counselors in between face-to-face sessions. Patient thoughts, experiences and emotions can be shared via EVA as they occur in the form of text, picture, video, and audio journaling. Counselors can then use this information to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their patients while communicating with them via EVA to ask questions, coordinate follow- up treatments and facilitate proper care- transition.

In addition to extending the therapy room to the virtual space, other features of EVA include: • Safety planning for bouts of suicidal ideation • Live chatting with suicide prevention specialists via National Suicide Prevention Lifeline • Live text chatting with mental health counselors • Live voice/video chat with mental health counselors • GPS locator for SAMHSA mental health treatment facilities • Instant connectivity to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline via 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

EVA allows healthcare facilities and counselors to maintain connection with their mental health patients. The App also encourages the continual expression of feelings and emotions in a safe, non-threatening, and confidential environment which is believed to promote personal wellbeing and mental health.