Hi, I’m Nicky Runeckles
Founder of Monticola and a digital mental health specialist
Everyone deserves good mental health and wellbeing. That’s what drives me, and it’s why I help mission-driven organisations turn digital innovation in mental health into real-world impact.
Over the last three decades, my career has taken me from the pharmaceutical industry to running a private psychiatric hospital, to scaling a digital mental health start-up, to working freelance. Along the way I’ve led senior operational and commercial functions, built high-performing teams, achieved sustainable revenues, navigated complex regulations, and most importantly delivered customer success.
Since founding Monticola over 10 years ago, I’ve partnered with start-ups, NHS commissioners and providers, corporates, charities, and investors. I understand my clients’ challenges because I’ve faced them myself - from navigating market complexity to working with tight resources to overcoming the hurdles of adoption.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success in digital mental health isn’t about the innovation itself or even about market access - it’s about people. It’s about implementing change well, supporting adoption, and making sure solutions genuinely work for those who need them.
My work is also shaped by my own lived experiences and volunteer roles - from governance to supporting bereaved children - and by a long-standing commitment to improve mental health for children and young people.
I’m known for being impact-focused, collaborative, and for getting things done. I tailor my approach to every project, drawing on proven frameworks, deep sector knowledge, and a genuine commitment to making real-world change.
If you’d like to explore how we could work together, take a look at what others have said about my work - then let’s talk about your current challenges.
