Charlie Health Appoints Ashok Balakrishnan CTO to Lead AI Strategy

Charlie Health, a virtual behavioral healthcare provider, appointed Ashok Balakrishnan as Chief Technology Officer, the company said in a press release on March 30. He will lead technology strategy and execution as the company expands its data, infrastructure, and AI capabilities.

Balakrishnan reports to CEO and Co-Founder Carter Barnhart. He is responsible for scaling the company’s technology platform to support growing demand from health systems, payers, and patients across the U.S, according to the company.

The company provides virtual Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) for patients with high-acuity mental health conditions, including severe depression and substance use disorders. It operates in-network with major health plans across 40 states.

Charlie Health is increasing investment in its technology platform as demand for virtual behavioral healthcare continues to rise. The company said the role will focus on improving care personalization, operational efficiency, and platform reliability.