Questions people ask
42 answers on booking, languages, your first consultation, privacy and what to do in a crisis.
About Mindly Health
What is Mindly Health?
Mindly Health is one of India's pioneering mental health startups. It offers evidence-based, psychiatrist-led care online, with a focus on preventive psychiatry and treatment adapted to each patient's culture. You can have video consultations with psychiatrists and therapists in 11 languages, for 58 conditions.
What is the free pre-consultation call?
Every new patient starts with a free pre-consultation call. Our team takes your history and first details, then prepares a report for your clinician. That way you do not have to spend your first session going over your history and symptoms again.
Can I choose my clinician?
We allot the clinician for you. After your pre-consultation call, we match you with the right clinician for your needs and share your report with them. Tell us your preferred language when you book, and we will take it into account.
Can I see a psychiatrist online from anywhere in India?
Yes. Consultations are by video, so you can see a Mindly psychiatrist from any city or town with a phone or computer and a stable internet connection. Book by call or WhatsApp on +91 90352 54779.
Is online psychiatry legal in India?
Yes. India's Telemedicine Practice Guidelines (2020) allow registered doctors to consult by video. Your psychiatrist will tell you if online care is right for you.
Which languages can I get care in?
You can get care in English, Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Tulu, Tamil, Malayalam, Marathi, Assamese, Bengali and Odia. Tell us your language when you book and we will try to match you with a clinician who speaks it.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose mental health conditions. A therapist provides talk therapy. Many people need both, and Mindly offers both.
Who are the clinicians?
Mindly's psychiatrists hold an MD in psychiatry, and our therapists are clinical psychologists. Qualifications for each clinician are on the clinicians page.
What happens in the first consultation?
Your clinician already has the report from your pre-consultation call, so you can spend your time on what you have been feeling and your daily life. The clinician explains what they find and the next steps, and you decide together.
Do I need to get a second opinion?
No. Our Chief Medical Officer, a psychiatrist with an MD from NIMHANS, gives a second opinion on every patient's case as part of your care, so you do not have to look for one yourself.
Is Mindly Health an emergency service?
No. If someone is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.
How do I book?
Call or WhatsApp +91 90352 54779, or email admin@mindlyhealth.in. Tell us your preferred language and a convenient time. We are open every day, 9 am to 8 pm IST, except public holidays. Your first step is a free pre-consultation call.
Is Therapy Right for Me?
How do I know if I should see a therapist?
If worry, low mood, stress or relationship difficulties have lasted a few weeks or are affecting your sleep, work, studies or relationships, speaking to a therapist can help. You don't need to be in crisis to ask for support.
How do I know if I have anxiety or depression?
Anxiety often means constant worry, restlessness or panic, while depression brings lasting sadness, low energy and loss of interest; many people have both. Only a qualified professional can diagnose either, so a consultation is the best first step.
What are the warning signs that I should see a mental health professional?
Seek help if your sleep, appetite or mood has changed for weeks, you're withdrawing from people, relying on alcohol or other substances, or struggling with daily tasks. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, call Tele-MANAS on 14416 or 112 straight away.
Can therapy really help with mental health problems?
For most people, yes: evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are well established for conditions like anxiety and depression. Results vary from person to person, which is why your therapist tailors the approach to you.
Does everyone need mental health support at some point?
Most people go through periods of stress, loss or change when extra support helps, and asking for it is a sign of strength, not weakness. Therapy isn't only for diagnosed conditions; it can also help you cope better and grow.
What are the most common mental health concerns, and when should I seek help?
Stress, anxiety, depression, sleep problems and relationship difficulties are among the most common concerns. It's worth seeking help when they last more than a couple of weeks or start to affect your daily life.
Can therapy help with everyday stress and relationship problems?
Yes. Therapy can help you manage work or study pressure, communicate better and work through conflicts, and Mindly Health also offers couples and family therapy.
What questions can I ask myself to check in on my mental health?
Ask yourself how you've been sleeping, eating and coping, whether you still enjoy the things you used to, and whether you've felt hopeless or on edge lately. If several answers concern you, it may be a good time to talk to a professional.
Getting Started
I think I need mental health support. Where do I start?
A good first step is a consultation with a psychiatrist or psychologist, who will understand your concerns and suggest a plan. You can book with Mindly Health online or call us on +91 90352 54779.
How do I talk to my doctor about my mental health?
Be open and specific: describe what you've been feeling, how long it has lasted and how it affects your daily life, and jot it down beforehand if that helps. Doctors hear these concerns every day, so there is nothing to feel embarrassed about.
I'm scared to go to therapy. How can I overcome this fear?
Start small by booking a single online consultation from the comfort of your home, and remember that you can open up at your own pace. Many people find the fear fades once they experience how supportive a session feels.
What can I do if I can't afford mental health care right now?
Please don't go without support: Tele-MANAS (14416) offers free counselling around the clock, and government hospitals provide free or subsidised care. You're also welcome to contact Mindly Health to talk through options that work for you.
Online Therapy & Consultations
How do I find a mental health therapist near me?
With Mindly Health you do not need to travel. You can consult our psychiatrists and clinical psychologists online from anywhere in India, in 11 languages. Call or WhatsApp us to book and join from home.
What mental health services can I access in my city?
Mindly Health is 100% online, so you can access psychiatry, therapy and counselling from any city or town in India. Free government support through Tele-MANAS (14416) is also available nationwide.
Is there culturally sensitive mental health support for underserved communities?
Yes. Mindly Health offers therapy in 11 languages, LGBTQIA+ affirming care and online sessions that reach smaller towns where specialists can be hard to find.
Choosing the Right Professional
What is the difference between a counsellor, a therapist and a psychiatrist?
Counsellors and therapists offer talk therapy, clinical psychologists are trained to assess and treat mental health conditions, and psychiatrists are medical doctors who can also prescribe medication. At Mindly Health, they can work together on your care.
What questions should I ask a potential therapist?
Ask about their qualifications, their experience with your concern, the approach they use, how sessions work and which languages they offer. A good clinician will welcome your questions.
How do I find a therapist who specialises in my condition?
Look for someone trained and experienced in your concern; Mindly Health's team includes specialists in adult, child and adolescent, women's and addiction psychiatry. Tell us your needs when you book, and we'll help you choose the right expert.
How do I choose between a psychiatrist, a psychologist and a counsellor?
If you might need a diagnosis or medication, or your symptoms are severe, start with a psychiatrist; for talk therapy and coping skills, a psychologist or counsellor is a good fit. If you're unsure, book a consultation and we'll guide you.
What if I don't click with my first therapist?
That's okay and more common than you might think, because a good rapport matters for your progress. Just let us know, and we'll help you find someone who suits you better.
What types of counselling does Mindly Health offer?
We offer individual therapy, family counselling, couples therapy, group sessions and specialised programmes for concerns such as ADHD, autism, anxiety and depression. All sessions are online and available in 11 languages.
How do I find the right fit when choosing a mental health professional?
Consider their specialisation, approach, languages and availability. Because Mindly Health is fully online, location is no longer a barrier. We share fee details with you directly when you get in touch.
Your Sessions
What should I expect in my first therapy session?
Your first session is a relaxed conversation in which your clinician asks about your concerns, background and goals. Together, you'll agree on a plan for the next steps.
What happens in a group therapy session?
In group therapy, a trained therapist guides a small group of people facing similar challenges as they share experiences, learn coping skills and support one another. You can share as much or as little as you like.
What happens during a mental health screening or assessment?
Your clinician will ask about your symptoms, history and daily life, and may use short, standard questionnaires. It isn't a test you can pass or fail; it simply helps us understand how best to support you.
How can I prepare for my mental health appointment?
Note down your main concerns, any symptoms and how long you've had them, and any medicines you take. For online sessions, find a quiet, private space with a stable internet connection.
Privacy, Family & Crisis Support
Is therapy at Mindly Health confidential?
Yes. What you share stays between you and your care team and is covered by our Privacy Policy, except in rare situations where the law requires disclosure or someone's safety is at serious risk.
How can I support someone who is struggling with their mental health?
Listen without judging, let them know you care and gently encourage them to speak to a professional; offering to help them book a session can make a big difference. Remember to look after your own wellbeing too.
What should parents know about mental health services for teenagers?
Watch for lasting changes in mood, sleep, school performance or friendships, and talk openly without judgement. Our team includes specialists in child and adolescent mental health, and we involve parents in care as appropriate.
Can I get urgent help through Mindly Health during a crisis?
Mindly Health is not an emergency service, so please call 112 or Tele-MANAS (14416 or 1-800-891-4416), or go to your nearest hospital emergency department. Once you are safe, we can support you with ongoing care.
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Want a longer read? See our guides for patients and families, including whether online psychiatry is legal in India and whether online therapy works.