Pretty Padded Room: What Happened After Shark Tank

In the wake of its appearance on the iconic television show Shark Tank, Pretty Padded Room, an innovative online therapy platform, found itself thrust into the spotlight. A brainchild of founder Bea Arthur, the platform aimed to redefine mental health support for the modern era. This article delves into the post-Shark Tank journey of Pretty Padded Room, exploring how the platform evolved, overcame challenges, and carved a niche in the competitive landscape of online therapy.

From its inception to the pivotal moment in the Shark Tank spotlight, join us on a journey through the twists and turns of Pretty Padded Room’s entrepreneurial voyage.

What Is Pretty Padded Room:

Pretty Padded Room functions as a web-based therapy program that facilitates the connection between patients and mental health professionals, including psychiatrists and counselors, utilizing computers or tablets [1].

Operating on a subscription-based model, Pretty Padded Room offers three distinct service tiers through its Internet therapy program, ensuring flexibility to cater to varying user needs.

Through Pretty Padded Room’s online therapy service, individuals have the option to connect with a psychiatrist and counselor without the necessity of a computer or tablet, promoting accessibility.

In emphasizing the lighthearted aspect of psychology, Pretty Padded Room’s defense underscores its role as a supportive platform while recommending individuals with more severe challenges to seek guidance from a local therapist. This approach positions Pretty Padded Room as a complementary resource for those seeking a convenient and approachable avenue for mental health support.

Pros:

• Accessibility and Convenience: Pretty Padded Room has successfully bridged the accessibility gap in mental health services. Its online platform allows users to connect with licensed therapists from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for in-person visits. This convenience is particularly beneficial for individuals with busy schedules, mobility issues, or those living in remote areas with limited access to mental health professionals;
• Affordability: One of the standout features of Pretty Padded Room is its affordability. Traditional therapy sessions can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance. Pretty Padded Room offers more budget-friendly options, making therapy accessible to a broader audience. This aligns with the company’s commitment to democratizing mental health care;
• Innovative Approach: Pretty Padded Room has differentiated itself by incorporating a unique visual therapy approach. Users communicate with their therapists through a multimedia platform, sharing thoughts and feelings via a virtual room. This approach may be particularly appealing to individuals who find traditional talk therapy challenging or prefer a more creative and visually oriented method of self-expression;
• Diverse Therapist Network: The platform boasts a diverse network of licensed therapists, allowing users to choose professionals based on their preferences and specific needs. This inclusivity contributes to a more personalized and comfortable therapeutic experience, ensuring that users can find a therapist who understands their background and cultural nuances;
• User-Friendly Interface: Pretty Padded Room’s website and app have user-friendly interfaces, making it easy for clients to navigate and engage with the platform. The virtual room concept is visually appealing and adds a layer of uniqueness to the therapy experience. The platform also offers various resources and tools to support users in their mental health journey;

Cons:

• Limited Insurance Coverage: While Pretty Padded Room is more affordable than traditional therapy, it is important to note that its services may not be covered by insurance. This limitation could deter individuals who rely on insurance to subsidize mental health expenses. The platform may need to explore partnerships or alternative payment options to address this issue;
• Effectiveness of Virtual Therapy: While the virtual therapy concept is innovative, its effectiveness may vary from person to person. Some individuals may find the lack of face-to-face interaction a barrier to forming a strong therapeutic alliance. Additionally, the visual therapy approach may not be suitable for everyone, and traditional talk therapy may remain a preferred option for some clients;
• Not Suitable for Severe Conditions: Pretty Padded Room may not be the ideal solution for individuals dealing with severe mental health conditions that require intensive and immediate intervention. In such cases, in-person therapy or hospitalization may be more appropriate. The platform’s focus on more common mental health concerns may exclude those with more complex needs;
• Privacy and Security Concerns: As with any online platform dealing with sensitive information, there are potential privacy and security concerns. Pretty Padded Room must ensure robust measures are in place to protect user data and maintain confidentiality. Users should be informed about the platform’s security protocols to alleviate any concerns they may have about the privacy of their therapy sessions;
• Limited Crisis Support: Pretty Padded Room may lack the capacity to provide immediate crisis support. In emergencies, users may need to seek help from local mental health hotlines or emergency services. Clear communication about the platform’s limitations in handling crises is crucial to managing user expectations and ensuring their safety;

Who May Benefit From Using?

1) Individuals with Busy Schedules

People with demanding schedules may benefit from Pretty Padded Room’s online therapy model, whether due to work, family, or other commitments. The platform offers the flexibility to schedule therapy sessions at times that are convenient for the user, eliminating the need to commute to a physical location.

2) Those in Remote or Limited Access Areas

Residents of rural or remote areas may face challenges in accessing mental health services. Pretty Padded Room provides a solution by offering therapy sessions online, enabling individuals in areas with limited mental health resources to connect with licensed professionals [3].

3) Budget-Conscious Individuals

Pretty Padded Room’s affordability is a significant advantage for individuals who are budget-conscious or do not have mental health services covered by insurance. The platform’s pricing structure may make therapy more accessible to those who might otherwise find traditional therapy cost-prohibitive.

4) People Looking for a Creative Approach to Therapy

The visual therapy approach offered by Pretty Padded Room, where users communicate with therapists through a virtual room, can appeal to individuals who prefer a more creative and visually oriented method of self-expression. This approach may be especially beneficial for those who find traditional talk therapy less engaging.

5) Individuals Seeking Diversity in Therapists

Pretty Padded Room’s diverse network of licensed therapists allows users to choose professionals based on their preferences and specific needs. This inclusivity can be particularly valuable for individuals who want to connect with therapists who understand their background, cultural nuances, or specific life experiences.

6) Younger Generations Comfortable with Technology

The platform’s online nature and user-friendly interface may be attractive to younger generations who are comfortable with technology and prefer digital solutions. Pretty Padded Room’s virtual room concept aligns with the preferences of individuals who are accustomed to online communication and may find traditional therapy settings less familiar.

7) Individuals Seeking Support for Common Mental Health Concerns

Pretty Padded Room focuses on providing support for common mental health concerns such as stress, anxiety, and relationship issues. It may be particularly suitable for individuals dealing with these challenges who are looking for a convenient and accessible therapeutic option.

8) Those Preferring a Low-Key Therapeutic Environment

The virtual nature of Pretty Padded Room’s therapy sessions may appeal to individuals who feel more comfortable expressing themselves in a low-key environment. The absence of a physical office setting may reduce the perceived formality of traditional therapy and create a more relaxed atmosphere.

About Founders Of Pretty Padded Room

Bea’s foray into the online business world began in 2008 when she launched an online social club for young mothers under the name “MeToo”. However, the operations of this venture were temporarily halted after just one year. Undeterred, Bea pivoted her efforts and introduced Pretty Padded Room in 2011, promoting it as “A Nice Place to Go Crazy”.

Understanding the importance of professional guidance, Bea strategically enlisted the expertise of a select group of psychiatrists to address the subconscious challenges faced by the platform’s subscription-based clients. This unique approach allowed clients to access the full spectrum of therapeutic benefits without the need to leave the comfort of their homes.

The pivotal moment for Pretty Padded Room came in late 2012 when Bea participated in a Shark Tank open-casting event. Subsequently selected, she had the opportunity to present her groundbreaking idea to the sharks in early 2013. This marked a significant step in the journey of Pretty Padded Room, showcasing Bea’s determination to redefine mental health support in a convenient and accessible manner.

The Pitch Of Pretty Padded Room At Shark Tank

Stepping into the Shark Tank arena, Bea initiated her presentation to the sharks, proposing a $ 100,000 investment for a 30% equity stake in the Pretty Padded Room venture [5]. The congenial and amiable entrepreneur embarked on her eloquent pitch, highlighting the historical stigmatization of psychotherapy and her endeavor to redefine it. Addressing the common perception of therapists as somewhat unsettling, particularly older men, Bea championed her business model, boasting an all-female team providing counsel in a more amiable and serene environment.

Recognizing the conventional inclination of women to confide in friends, Bea emphasized the potential pitfalls of such advice. Pretty Padded Room, she explained, offered a solution by bringing professionally trained psychotherapists into the homes of distressed clients, delivering the necessary professional care in a less daunting and clinical atmosphere than traditional therapy settings.

Despite Bea’s adept and professional presentation, the sharks appeared less than convinced about the viability of the business concept. Kevin O’Leary took the lead, clarifying the service as an online accessible, licensed therapist. Bea affirmed this, prompting Kevin to inquire about the cost. Bea proceeded to outline customer options, starting with a $ 20 trial session lasting thirty minutes.

Robert Herjavec interjected, questioning the distribution of the $ 20 fee to therapists [6]. Bea clarified that therapists received a flat rate of $ 16. Mr. Wonderful expressed skepticism, suggesting that therapists accustomed to earning $ 150 per hour would be unlikely to engage with Pretty Padded Room at a significantly lower rate. Bea adeptly responded, emphasizing her dual objective: providing affordable therapy to those in need and offering a platform for inexperienced therapists to gain valuable experience.

Daymond John queried if the service exclusively catered to women, to which Bea disclosed a primarily female focus but confirmed a 6% male customer base. Expanding on the subscription-based model, Bea detailed options ranging from a $ 20 trial to a $ 200 package featuring four forty-five-minute sessions with a therapist.

Robert Herjavec inquired about the confidentiality of client-therapist discussions, with Bea assuring the sharks that conversations were securely hosted on the company’s website. Bea then disclosed Pretty Padded Room’s first-year sales of $ 7,500, achieved while she still maintained a full-time role as a domestic violence counselor.

Kevin O’Leary’s reaction to the sales figure was evident, questioning the $ 7,500 with surprise. As Mr. Wonderful teetered on delivering his brand of Shark therapy, Mark Cuban sought information on customer retention rates and overall customer attraction. Bea responded smoothly, but the sharks began exhibiting reservations about the business’s numerical aspects.

The discussion shifted to projected sales for the current year, with Bea anticipating $ 21,000 in sales. Barbara Corcoran sought confirmation on track, to which Bea affirmed her progress.

Kevin O’Leary dismissed Bea’s business as “Nothing-Burgers”, asserting that the meager $ 21,000 in sales failed to validate the business concept. Mark Cuban inquired about the lifetime revenue of a customer, prompting Bea to initially express confusion. After Mark explained the concept, Bea revised her estimate to an average customer value from $ 300 to $ 500.

Despite her initial composure, Bea began showing strain, and the sharks sensed vulnerability. As Robert Herjavec contended that the numbers didn’t add up, Mark Cuban agreed, suggesting Bea lacked clear financial management of her own business. Facing a combined attack, Bea’s confidence wavered, leading to a unanimous withdrawal from the sharks.

Kevin O’Leary, the last to reject, admonished Bea for entering the tank unprepared, utilizing the metaphor of “The blood in the water”. Bea gracefully accepted the rejection, expressed gratitude, and left the tank seemingly relieved. The sharks, despite concerns, acknowledged the nobility of her business concept, yet the tide of rejection prevailed.

Daymond offered a hopeful “Good luck”, while Barbara expressed optimism in Bea’s ability to figure things out, though her tone conveyed more hope than conviction.

Pretty Padded Room After The Shark Tank

There’s a distinct impression that editors aimed to safeguard Bea’s public image from the more contentious facets of her appearance.

Undergoing a metamorphosis, Pretty Padded Room assumed the name ‘In Your Corner,’ presenting a seemingly indistinguishable business model that failed to outperform its forerunner. Business operations for Pretty Padded Room ceased in April 2016, with the company’s website expressing gratitude to clients globally but confirming a complete halt in commercial activities.

In an unexpected turn, accessing Bea Arthur’s website in 2018 led to dead ends, although the meticulously crafted platform showcased her skills as a therapist and media personality. Intriguingly, all contact information was redirected to Bea’s erstwhile Twitter account and the defunct In Your Corner website. The Twitter account, once purported to boast over 10,000 followers, now merely has around twenty followers, paradoxically sharing philosophical musings and therapeutic advice hourly. The peculiar aura surrounding some tweets, akin to those generated by Google Translate, sparks uncertainty about Bea’s involvement. Despite the enigmatic direction, there’s a desire to believe in Bea’s continued journey as a captivating figure in the realm of online therapy.

Attempting to trace Pretty Padded Room’s virtual footprint led to the redirection of its website to 7Cups.com, an unconventional platform that fosters a community of listeners rather than licensed therapists. This shift hints at a transformation from therapy services to a receptive listening platform.

In the intricate web of Bea Arthur’s entrepreneurial journey, Pretty Padded Room’s original website now directs to 7Cups.com, signaling a shift towards the domain of online support rather than therapeutic practice. Bea’s narrative takes unexpected twists, leaving observers intrigued and suggesting that the world of online therapy has not witnessed the final chapter of this captivating entrepreneur’s story.

The Net Worth Of Pretty Padded Room

However, as of 2023, the exact net worth of Pretty Padded Room remains unknown. The sources did not provide updated financial information for the company. It’s also important to note that the net worth of a company can change over time due to various factors including revenue, expenses, assets, and liabilities.

Alternatives To Pretty Padded Room:

• BetterHelp: BetterHelp is a popular online counseling platform that connects users with licensed therapists through secure video, phone, or chat sessions. It offers a wide range of professional counselors and is known for its accessibility and affordability. Users can communicate with their therapists asynchronously, making it convenient for those with busy schedules;
• Talkspace: Talkspace is an online therapy platform that provides users with the opportunity to connect with licensed therapists through text, video, and audio messages. It caters to various mental health needs and offers different subscription plans to accommodate different preferences and budgets;
• Calmerry: Calmerry is an online counseling platform that matches users with licensed therapists. It provides confidential and secure therapy sessions through video, phone, or messaging. Calmerry focuses on offering personalized and affordable mental health support;
• Traditional In-Person Therapy: For individuals who prefer face-to-face interactions, traditional in-person therapy remains a valuable option. Local mental health clinics, private practices, or community health centers often provide a range of therapeutic services. This approach may be more suitable for those who value the physical presence of a therapist;
• Psychiatry and Medication Management Services: Individuals seeking a combination of therapy and medication management may benefit from platforms that connect them with psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners. Companies like MDLIVE and Teladoc offer virtual appointments with mental health professionals who can prescribe medication when necessary;
• Local Mental Health Resources: Community mental health centers, university counseling services, and local support groups are often available for those who prefer in-person support within their community. These resources may provide a range of mental health services, including therapy, support groups, and workshops;
• Online Support Communities: Platforms like 7 Cups and Reddit’s mental health subreddits offer peer support and a sense of community. While not a substitute for professional therapy, these forums provide individuals with an opportunity to share experiences, seek advice, and receive emotional support from others who may be facing similar challenges;
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs that provide confidential counseling services to employees and their families. EAPs often cover a certain number of free sessions with licensed therapists and can be a valuable resource for those facing work-related stressors;
• Local Nonprofit Organizations: Nonprofit organizations, such as NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), may offer local support groups, educational resources, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions;
• Therapist Directories: Platforms like Psychology Today or TherapyRoute provide directories of licensed therapists, allowing individuals to search for professionals based on location, specialization, and therapeutic approach;

FAQ:

1. Who is the founder of Pretty Padded Room?

Bea Arthur is the founder of Pretty Padded Room. Born in Ghana and later relocating to the U.S., she conceived the idea to revolutionize the field of psychotherapy, ultimately establishing Pretty Padded Room in 2011.

2. Do padded rooms exist?

While the term “padded room” is often associated with psychiatric facilities, it typically refers to rooms with cushioned walls for safety reasons. Pretty Padded Room, however, is an online therapy platform, and its name is metaphorical, providing a comfortable virtual space for therapy sessions.

3. When was Pretty Padded Room founded?

Pretty Padded Room was founded in 2011 by Bea Arthur, who sought to modernize and redefine the approach to psychotherapy in the digital age.

4. Where was the headquarters of Pretty Padded Room located?

The headquarters of Pretty Padded Room was located in the United States. However, specific details about its exact location are not provided.

5. How does Pretty Padded Room work?

Pretty Padded Room operates as an online therapy platform connecting users with licensed therapists. Clients can engage in therapy sessions from the comfort of their homes using computers or tablets. The platform aims to offer a more approachable and convenient alternative to traditional in-person therapy.

6. How much money did Pretty Padded Room spend on advertising?

The details of the company’s financial expenditures, including advertising costs, may not be publicly disclosed. In its initial year, the founder’s earnings amounted to $ 7,500, and the projected income for that same year was anticipated to reach $ 21,000.

7. How was the business model of Pretty Padded Room?

Pretty Padded Room operated on a subscription-based business model. Clients could choose from different service tiers, each offering various levels of interaction with therapists, ranging from trial sessions to more extensive packages.

8. What’s the price range of Pretty Padded Room?

Pretty Padded Room had a pricing structure that offered different packages to users. The prices varied, with options such as a trial session for $ 20 and higher-tier packages reaching up to $ 200, providing multiple sessions and additional features.

9. What were the required tools for Pretty Padded Room?

To engage with Pretty Padded Room, users needed basic tools such as a computer or tablet with internet connectivity. The platform facilitated virtual therapy sessions, eliminating the need for clients to travel to a physical location.

Useful Video: Pretty Padded Room Virtual Tour

References:

1. https://seoaves.com/what-happened-to-pretty-padded-room-after-shark-tank/
2. https://sharktankrecap.com/pretty-padded-room-psychotherapy-platform-update-season-4/
3. https://www.sharktankblog.com/business/pretty-padded-room/
4. https://www.sharktanksuccess.com/pretty-padded-room/
5. https://gazettereview.com/2016/09/pretty-padded-room-update-happened-shark-tank/
6. https://allsharktankproducts.com/service/pretty-padded-room/
7. https://kirktaylor.com/pretty-padded-room-shark-tank-deal-stumbles-numbers/
8. https://www.reddit.com/r/sharktank/comments/ag7y1m/worst_product_name_on_shark_tank
9. https://startupreneurship.com/what-happened-to-pretty-padded-room-after-shark-tank/