StepLadder
A platform that allows therapists to assign & track progress of their patients.
Motivation & Problem Space
Blank pages paralyze anxious users
Free-form chat offers no guidance. People open these apps, stare at blank space, and close them.
Clinical language creates barriers
Many tools use clinical terminology that feels like doctor's office paperwork, creating distance for people who need everyday support.
No consistent framework
Most tools work for one-off moments but don't help build anything over time. Stressed users don't have mental capacity to figure out how to use tools effectively.
Research & Foundations
Research came from personal observation, academic frameworks (cognitive behavioral models, reflection scaffolding), and competitive analysis of existing tools.
Key insights
Structure reduces anxiety
Predictable patterns eliminate decision paralysis.
Constraints create safety
Well-designed boundaries prevent overwhelm. Less choice can mean more comfort.
Progressive disclosure
Small steps work better than showing everything at once.
Archival value
People want to see progress over time.
Non-clinical positioning
Avoiding medical language increases accessibility and reduces stigma.
Design Principles
Structure reduces anxiety
Predictable patterns. Users always know what comes next.
Constraints create safety
Boundaries prevent overwhelm and make reflection manageable.
Progress visible, not pressuring
Archive visible, but no pressure to complete exercises or maintain streaks.
Gentle progression
Complex thoughts broken into manageable steps.
Research-informed
Every decision ties back to research insights, not trends.
Product & System Design
StepLadder uses guided prompts to break down complex thoughts into manageable steps. These form a personal archive over time.
The system presents structured prompts. Users respond to questions that help explore thoughts systematically. Every reflection is saved chronologically — no scores, ratings, or comparisons.
Design Decision
No gamification
Points, badges, and streaks were removed. They felt pressuring and undermined the non-judgmental nature of reflection.
The system prevents overwhelm through limited options, clear progress indicators, and the ability to pause. Users are never forced to complete exercises.
Iteration & Refinement
Assumption
Users want extensive customization
Reality
Too many choices increased anxiety. System became more prescriptive.
Assumption
Gamification increases engagement
Reality
Points and badges felt pressuring. Removed entirely.
Assumption
Users want to share reflections
Reality
Privacy was paramount. Social features deprioritized.
Key insight
Every additional feature increased cognitive load. The simplest version is most effective.
Technical Overview
Built with modern web technologies for flexibility, iteration speed, and accessibility.
- →Web-based — Cross-device accessibility, rapid iteration.
- →Responsive — Mobile-first approach.
- →Privacy-first — Secure encryption, minimal data collection.
Outcomes & Reflection
StepLadder demonstrates how research can inform design without sacrificing clarity. It's a case study in designing for vulnerable users.
The project shows how academic frameworks translate into practical interfaces. Every design decision ties back to research findings.
Built with attention to ethics: avoiding manipulation, respecting privacy, and not positioning itself as replacement for professional care.
Takeaway
Designing for mental health requires vigilance against adding features or optimizing for engagement. The simplest design that respects users' needs is most effective.
Future iterations might explore deeper cognitive behavioral integration or more sophisticated scaffolding. Any new features must reduce cognitive load, create safety, and support reflection without overwhelming users.