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Chat consultations

Chat Consultations, Answered

A private, text-only consultation with a verified psychologist — held right inside WhatsApp, at your own pace. Here's everything people ask before they start.

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Your psychologist replies within hours
I've been finding it hard to switch off at night. My mind just keeps racing.
Thank you for sharing that — it takes courage to put it into words. Let's start with what those evenings look like for you. When did you first notice it?
Sometime around exams last month, I think. Writing it out actually feels easier than saying it.
That's exactly what chat is for. Take your time — I'm here, and you can reply whenever it suits you.
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Everything about how a chat consultation works — from your first message to what happens when it ends.

The basics

What is a chat-based consultation?
A private, text-only consultation with a verified psychologist, held right inside WhatsApp. You type, they respond — no video call, no scheduled time slot, and nothing new to download.
How is it different from the free screening?
The screening is our AI-guided questionnaire, developed with AIIMS Delhi, that helps understand what you're going through. A chat consultation is a real conversation with a qualified psychologist. You'll always be told who you're speaking with, along with their qualifications.
Is it live?
No, it's asynchronous. You write when it suits you and your psychologist replies when they're next available, so you don't need to be free at a particular time or sit waiting for a response.
How quickly will my psychologist reply?
Usually within two to three hours during working hours. Messages sent outside those hours are answered during the next working period. These are typical times rather than guarantees.

Timing & how it ends

How long does a consultation last?
Up to two days from the moment it begins. Within that time there's no message limit — some consultations finish in a few hours, others use the full two days, depending on what your psychologist judges is needed.
What does it mean when a consultation is marked complete?
Your consultation ends either when your psychologist marks it complete or when the two days are up, whichever comes first. Marking it complete is a clinical decision, made when the work has reached a natural stopping point, and you'll receive a clear message either way.
What if the two days run out mid-conversation?
The consultation closes and your psychologist won't see further messages, so it's worth mentioning early on if you think you'll need the full time. If there's more you'd like to work through, you can book a follow-up.
Can I keep messaging after it ends?
No. Once a consultation closes, your psychologist won't see further messages. If you'd like to continue, you can book a follow-up — and you can request the same psychologist, subject to their availability.

What chat can and can't do

Can I send voice notes?
No, chat consultations are text only. If you send a voice note you'll receive an automatic message letting you know it wasn't delivered, so you can type it instead. You're welcome to share documents, reports, images or previous prescriptions.
Can I get medication through a chat consultation?
No. Chat consultations are with psychologists, who provide therapy and counselling. Only a psychiatrist can diagnose a condition and prescribe medication, and that happens over a video consultation. If your psychologist feels a psychiatric assessment would help, they'll explain why and help you book one.
When does chat work less well?
When someone needs to see how you're doing rather than read it. Text can't carry tone of voice or expression, and meaning is sometimes lost in writing. If your psychologist feels a fuller picture would help, they'll suggest moving to a video consultation.

Privacy & safety

Is chat consultation suitable in an emergency?
No. Chat is not monitored, and although replies usually come within a few hours, nobody is watching for messages as they arrive. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or having thoughts of self-harm, please contact Tele-MANAS at 14416, KIRAN at 1800-599-0019, or go to your nearest hospital right away.
Is my chat confidential?
Yes. Your conversation is private and is never shared with your family, college or employer without your consent. Consultation records are kept securely, as required under Indian medical record-keeping rules.
Is WhatsApp private enough for this?
Messages are encrypted while they travel, but the conversation also sits on your own phone, so anyone with access to your device could read it. If that's a concern, you can delete the chat from your phone — we keep our own record separately, as we're required to.
Which one is for you?

Should I choose chat or video?

Chat suits you if…

Text · Psychologist
  • Writing feels more natural than talking
  • Finding a private hour is difficult
  • You'd like to reply at your own pace, over up to two days

Video suits you if…

Video · Psychologist or Psychiatrist
  • You'd rather speak to someone
  • You want a fuller assessment
  • Medication may be part of the picture

You can start with one and switch later. Learn more about video consultations

In a crisis or emergency?

Chat consultations are not monitored and are not for emergencies. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or having thoughts of self-harm, please reach out right now: Tele-MANAS 14416  ·  KIRAN 1800-599-0019  ·  or go to your nearest hospital. You deserve immediate support, and help is available.

Still unsure whether chat is right for you?

Message us on WhatsApp or drop us an email — we'll help you decide, with no pressure and nothing to pay to ask.

Message us on WhatsApp Email us instead

hello@neveralone.in · Verified psychologists · 100% confidential

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