Ellie Mental Health, established in 2015 by Erin Pash and Kyle Keller in Minnesota, aims to deliver accessible and innovative mental health services. In 2021, the organization began franchising to expand its mission of improving the lives of families through creative wellness programs, products, and services.

The distinguishing feature of Ellie Mental Health is its socially responsible approach, emphasizing an exceptional client experience with high-quality, innovative care and nurturing a work environment where employees feel valued and genuinely cared for.

Ellie Mental Health is notable for its dedication to high-quality mental health services and its commitment to community support. Initiatives such as the Complex Family Systems program and the Law Enforcement & First Responders program highlight this commitment.

Furthermore, the co-founders contribute to mental health awareness through literature and a socially conscious clothing line, reinforcing the organization’s multi-faceted support for mental health.

Training 

The franchisor offers a comprehensive range of training programs to support franchisees, including:

Initial Training Program

The initial training program is conducted either at a designated location chosen by the franchisor or virtually, at the franchisor's discretion. This program is specifically designed for the franchisee, franchisee owners, and the Clinic Director of the Franchised Business. The initial training is complimentary for specific attendees participating together before the opening of the Franchised Business. Additional attendees will incur the current applicable charges.

Additional Optional Training

Franchisees can request extra training on topics of their choice, which must be agreed upon by the franchisor. This training can take place at a location designated by the franchisor or electronically. Fees apply for this optional training and must be paid prior to commencement.

Additional Required Training

Occasionally, the franchisor may mandate training for the franchisee to implement new operations or procedures at the Franchised Business. This required training can be conducted either at a franchisor-chosen location or electronically, with fees determined by the franchisor's current rates. Additionally, all actual costs for trainers, including travel, lodging, and meals, will be charged.

Territory Protection

The franchisor grants franchisees a "Designated Territory" within which it commits not to operate or authorize others to operate a similar business under its trademarks for the franchise term, provided the franchisee is not in default. This designated territory offers a degree of territorial protection. However, this protection does not preclude the franchisor or its affiliates from engaging in certain activities not explicitly restricted.

For instance, the franchisor or its affiliates may operate or permit others to operate similar or identical businesses within the designated territory in self-contained areas serving a restricted or limited population (such as corporate campuses or hospitals), offer in-home counseling and therapy products and services, or operate similar businesses outside the designated territory, among other exceptions.

Franchisees under an Area Development Agreement do not receive an exclusive territory and may face competition from other franchisees or franchisor-owned outlets. Nonetheless, their territorial rights within the Development Territory are safeguarded during the agreement term, provided they adhere to the development schedule and other agreement conditions.