That devastating reality lit a fire within us. We couldn’t stand by. We had to act.
We spoke with teachers, parents, kids, mental health professionals, and industry leaders, and what we uncovered was clear:
So, we set out to create something different—a safe, approachable space where kids could connect with a coach in seconds.
At first, Clayful focused on giving kids a safe space to talk to a coach, gain practical strategies, and navigate life’s challenges.
But we quickly realized something deeper: students don’t exist in isolation. To truly support kids, we must also support the people who shape their lives.
Today, Clayful provides coaching for both students and educators—and soon, we’ll bring this same life-changing support to families.
By addressing mental health at every level, we’re building a model of care that strengthens entire communities, one conversation at a time.
Clayful was founded in 2021 by Maria Barrera and Melissa Pelochino, two women united by a shared mission: to make mental health support accessible, immediate, and transformative for every child.
For Maria, the mission is deeply personal. As a child immigrating to the U.S. from Colombia, she often felt isolated and unseen. She knows how profoundly life-changing it would have been to have someone to turn to—someone who understood her challenges in her own language and without judgment.
Melissa’s passion stems from her years as a teacher, where she saw mental health challenges create barriers for her students. Bright, capable kids were held back by anxiety and self-doubt. As a mom, she also saw the need for better support at home, fueling her determination to create a solution for all families.
Maria’s engineering expertise and Melissa’s teaching and content background made them the perfect team to tackle this challenge. Clayful is their solution—breaking down barriers to mental health support and meeting kids exactly where they are.
Clayful isn’t just a program—it’s a partnership, and schools are at the heart of it. As hubs of connection and care, schools are uniquely positioned to support students, families, and educators alike.
By partnering with schools, Clayful makes support proactive, accessible, and part of daily life.
Together, we work to create environments where mental health is prioritized:
Together, we’re building stronger, healthier communities and shaping a brighter future for everyone.
Every time we resolved something significant i noticed i could actually breathe easier.
Student, age 12
In the past we would have had to stop what we were teaching and deal with like two or three peer conflicts.
Now I tell them to go on Clayful and talk to a coach so they get some strategies to emotionally regulate.
Middle School Teacher
I wanted to thank you one more time, you helped me deal with a huge issue and i might resolve the whole thing in one conversation!
I really appreciate what the Clayful team is doing in today's world because this stuff is life changing and life saving.
Middle School Student
I don’t need one more thing to sit in my curriculum closet.
I need connection. I need people who are willing to do something about real issues happening right now. Clayful does that.
High School Principal
I like that I have a resource to send them to when I have to meet at another time or reschedule.
Middle School Counselor
There was times where I didn’t want to get up but I pushed myself.
An example was this morning I didn’t really feel like making my bed but I told myself if I make my bed then I’ll be set for the day and won’t have to come home to make the bed.
High School Student
I think ive kinda gathered my thoughts on how i felt.
I might talk to my mom about it.
I'm glad this chat stuff exists.
Middle School Student
I was able to say many things that I wouldn’t have been able to in person with another adult.
Middle School Student
