Kristina Saffran

Kristina Saffran is the cofounder and CEO of Equip, a virtual program dedicated to providing modern treatment for eating disorders through family-based care. Equip aims to make effective recovery accessible to everyone, leveraging a unique model that includes a dedicated care team for each patient, comprising therapists, dieticians, physicians, and peer mentors.134

Background and Education

Kristina was born in 1993 and experienced her own battle with anorexia at a young age. This personal journey informed her commitment to improving access to treatment for others facing similar challenges. She graduated from Harvard University in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology.15

Career Highlights

Before founding Equip in December 2019, Saffran co-founded Project HEAL in 2008, a nonprofit organization aimed at raising funds for individuals who cannot afford eating disorder treatment. Under her leadership, Project HEAL became a significant voice advocating for accessible recovery options in the U.S..36 Kristina has been recognized as an Ashoka Fellow, named on Forbes' 30 Under 30 list for social entrepreneurs, and has received accolades from Inc. Magazine's Female Founders 100 and INSIDER's 30 Under 40 in Healthcare.134

Vision for Equip

At Equip, Kristina focuses on transforming the eating disorder care delivery system by making it patient-centered and evidence-based. She emphasizes the importance of family involvement in recovery processes, believing that support from loved ones is crucial for lasting healing.24 Equip's model not only aims to provide treatment but also addresses the broader systemic barriers that prevent individuals from accessing care.56

Personal Life

Kristina currently resides in San Diego with her husband and their pet bernedoodle, Walter.3 Her journey from patient to advocate underscores her dedication to changing the landscape of eating disorder treatment and ensuring that no one has to suffer alone.