AlterCareLine was created with one goal: Be there when it matters most.

Michael Castanon understood that many individuals in crisis don’t know where to turn—or may not be ready for formal therapy. He saw the urgent need for a safe space where people could speak openly, be heard without judgment, and receive support in real time. In response, he launched AlterCareLine—a human-first virtual support line designed to reach people where they are, before they fall through the cracks.

To ensure the highest level of care, Michael integrated Care Predictor into the hiring and training process—certifying every AlterCareLine counselor before they ever engaged with a client. This intentional approach helped cultivate a team built on empathy, trustworthiness, and emotional intelligence.

Thanks to his leadership, AlterCareLine has secured over $12.5 million in grant funding from state and federal partners—including CalHOPE—making it possible to deliver hundreds of thousands of free support encounters. Every message exchanged on AlterCareLine reflects Michael’s unwavering belief that every life matters, and every encounter has the power to change a life.

AlterCareLine is more than a helpline—it’s a lifeline. And it’s redefining how virtual mental health support can reach, uplift, and empower those in need.