Disclaimer

India Therapist (“the Platform”) is committed to providing culturally sensitive online support through licensed Indian therapists for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and others worldwide. However, please carefully read the following disclaimers before using our services:

Not Medical or Clinical Advice: The services and information on this Platform are for supportive counseling and wellness purposes only. They do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Our therapists are licensed in India as mental health professionals, but they may not be licensed in your country. Therefore, sessions are offered as non-clinical counseling and not as regulated health-care services under your local laws​tsitn.org​domental.com. Always seek a qualified medical or mental health professional in your locality if you require a formal diagnosis or treatment.

No Emergency Services: India Therapist is not an emergency service. If you are in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in any immediate danger, do not use this Platform. Instead, contact local emergency services or crisis hotlines in your area immediately. Our online counselors do not handle acute psychiatric emergencies or situations that require immediate intervention in-person​talktoangel.com. You are solely responsible for seeking emergency help as needed.

Client’s Responsibility & Local Regulations: By using our Platform, you confirm that you understand the limitations imposed by cross-border therapy. Different countries (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, UAE, and EU nations) have varying laws on who can provide mental health services​bpc.org.uk. You acknowledge that India Therapist operates under Indian jurisdiction and Indian law, and that our services might not meet the definition of authorized therapy under your local regulations. We make no representations that the counseling services are permitted or equivalent to licensed therapy in your jurisdiction. It is your responsibility to ensure that using our services does not violate any local laws or guidelines applicable to you.

Non-Patient Relationship in Foreign Jurisdictions: Engaging with an Indian therapist via our Platform does not create a doctor-patient relationship under the laws of any country outside India. For example, sessions are not governed by US state licensure boards or healthcare laws such as HIPAA, nor by UK’s or EU’s healthcare regulations, since our providers are not registered under those systems. All support is provided at your request from India, and is governed by Indian professional standards (e.g. the Indian Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 and Telemedicine Practice Guidelines 2020) to the extent applicable within India​tsitn.org. In jurisdictions that require local licensing, our services are offered only as peer support or coaching, not as clinical therapy, unless explicitly stated by a therapist licensed in that jurisdiction.

Quality of Service and Outcomes: India Therapist strives to connect you with qualified, experienced Indian therapists who understand your cultural background. While we hope to help improve your well-being, we do not guarantee any particular outcome. Psychological progress can vary widely among individuals. Moreover, any opinions or advice given by a therapist are their own; the Platform does not guarantee the efficacy, accuracy, or suitability of such advice for your situation. Use of our services is at your own risk. The Platform, and its owners or affiliates, will not be liable for any harm, loss, or damage arising from your use of the website or reliance on the counseling provided, except as required under Indian law.

Scope of Practice: Our therapists provide support in alignment with the standards of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 (India) and relevant regulations. They will not prescribe medication or provide medical treatment through the Platform, unless the therapist is a medical doctor (e.g. psychiatrist) and such action is appropriate under Indian Telemedicine Guidelines. Even then, any prescription or medical advice would be subject to Indian law and might not be valid in your country. Always consult a local physician for medical concerns.

By using India Therapist, you indicate that you have read and understood this Disclaimer. If you do not agree with these terms or if you are seeking services that we do not provide, please do not use this Platform. For further details, please also review our Terms & Conditions and Legal Consent Form. Your well-being is important to us, and we want to ensure you have a clear understanding of the support and limitations our platform offers.

Terms and Conditions

Last Updated: April 2025

Please read these Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) carefully before using the India Therapist website and services. By accessing or using our Platform, you agree to be bound by these Terms, which constitute a legal agreement between you (“User” or “Client”) and India Therapist (“the Company”, “we”, “us”, or “our”). If you do not agree with any part of these Terms, do not use our services. These Terms should be read in conjunction with our Disclaimer and Legal Consent Form.

1. Introduction and Platform Description

India Therapist is an online mental wellness platform owned and operated by India Therapist (insert full legal entity name), a company organized under the laws of India. The Platform’s mission is to connect Users worldwide, especially Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), with licensed therapists based in India for culturally sensitive counseling support. Our services are delivered via telecommunication (video, voice, or text) in accordance with applicable Indian laws and guidelines, including the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 and the Telemedicine Practice Guidelines 2020 (to the extent these apply to tele-counseling)​tsitn.org. Please note: India Therapist does not provide medical or psychiatric treatment; it facilitates counseling and wellness guidance that does not amount to regulated medical practice in any jurisdiction outside India.

By using the Platform, you acknowledge that no doctor-patient or clinic-patient relationship is being established with the Company itself. The Platform acts as a facilitator, while the professional-client relationship (to the extent it exists) is between you and your therapist. However, that relationship is governed by Indian professional standards unless your therapist is separately credentialed in your locale. We emphasize that all therapists on our Platform are verified to have active licenses/credentials in India, and are experienced in providing cross-cultural support.

2. Definitions

For the purpose of these Terms,

“Platform/Website” refers to the India Therapist website and any related applications or communication systems through which services are offered.

“User” or “Client” refers to you, the individual accessing the Platform for services, whether for yourself or on behalf of a minor (with consent as described below).

“Therapist” refers to the counselor, psychologist, psychotherapist, or other mental health professional who is licensed in India and has been onboarded to provide counseling services through our Platform. (Therapists may also be referred to as “counselors” or “providers.”)

“Services” refers to the counseling, guidance, and related informational services provided through the Platform, including one-on-one therapy sessions, group sessions, workshops, or self-help resources made available online. These are non-emergency, non-medical consultations intended for personal development and mental well-being support.

“Personal Data” means any information that can identify you, which you may share with the Platform or your therapist (see Privacy section for details).

3. Eligibility and User Obligations

Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old and capable of entering into a legally binding contract under Indian law (Indian Contract Act, 1872) to use India Therapist services. By using the Platform, you represent that you are 18 or older. Minors (under 18) may only use the services with the involvement and consent of a parent or legal guardian. If you are a parent/guardian arranging services for a minor (e.g., a teen 13-17 years old), you must provide verifiable consent and agree to these Terms on the minor’s behalf. The consenting adult will be responsible for supervising the minor’s use of the Platform and ensuring compliance with these Terms.

Account Registration: When you create an account, you agree to provide accurate, current, and complete information about yourself as prompted by our registration form, and to keep this information updated. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account login credentials. You agree to notify us immediately of any unauthorized use of your account or security breach. India Therapist will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your failure to protect your account credentials.

User Conduct: You agree to use the Platform and Services only for personal, private, and lawful purposes. You must not use the Platform for any commercial purpose (such as soliciting other users or therapists for business outside the Platform), or for any fraudulent, harmful, or inappropriate conduct. Specifically, you agree not to:

Harass, threaten, or defame any therapist, staff, or other user;

Distribute or upload viruses or any other harmful code;

Attempt to data-mine or hack the Platform or circumvent any security measures;

Infringe on any intellectual property or privacy rights of the Platform or third parties;

Use the counseling Services if you are in a situation of medical or psychiatric emergency (as noted, our Services are not for crisis support).

The Company reserves the right to suspend or terminate your access to the Platform if you violate these conduct standards or any other provision of these Terms.

Technology Requirements: Accessing our Services requires a stable internet connection and appropriate hardware (computer/smartphone) and software (web browser, app). You are responsible for securing these requirements. The quality of video or voice sessions may depend on your device and network; the Platform makes no guarantee that service will be uninterrupted or error-free. We will, however, make reasonable efforts to ensure continuity and will provide support to resolve technical issues on our side.

4. Scope of Services and Disclaimer of Professional Advice

Non-Clinical Counseling: India Therapist enables communication between Users and Indian-licensed Therapists for the purpose of counseling, guidance, and emotional support. The Services are meant to help with personal development, stress management, cultural adjustment, relationship issues, and similar non-emergency mental wellness issues. The Services do not include: formal medical care, diagnosis of mental disorders, prescription of medication, or any service that would require the therapist to be licensed in the User’s country of residence. All advice or insights provided by a Therapist are based on their professional training and understanding of Indian and global counseling practices, but are not a substitute for in-person evaluation or treatment by a local mental health practitioner when needed​talktoangel.com​talktoangel.com.

No Doctor-Patient Relationship (Except under Indian Law): While Indian law recognizes the therapist-client relationship established via tele-counseling (and our therapists adhere to Indian professional regulations), using our Services does not establish a formal healthcare provider-patient relationship under the laws of your own country. For example, consultations on India Therapist are not governed by U.S. state medical boards, the UK’s healthcare regulators, or other foreign professional bodies. This is due to jurisdictional limitations: the Telemedicine Practice Guidelines, India (2020) permit teleconsultation by registered practitioners within India, but explicitly do not extend that authorization to international practice​tsitn.org​tsitn.org. By agreeing to these Terms, you acknowledge this distinction and agree that you are receiving counseling under the framework of Indian law and not as a patient of a local healthcare system.

User’s Local Healthcare: You should not discontinue or avoid seeking medical advice from your local healthcare providers because of something you have read or heard on our Platform. If you have an existing mental health condition or a diagnosed disorder, continue any treatment or medication as prescribed by doctors in your country. Always consult them before making changes to your treatment plan. The information on the Platform is to supplement your well-being and offer additional perspective, not to replace medical advice. You are encouraged to share with your India Therapist counselor any diagnoses or treatments you have, so they can better support you within their scope.

No Emergency or Crisis Management: (Reiterating our Disclaimer) The Platform is not equipped to handle users who are in severe crisis (e.g., active suicidal ideation, hallucinations, severe self-harm, or harm to others). If you are in such a state, you must seek immediate help from emergency services or crisis lines in your area. Therapists on the Platform may, if such issues become apparent during a session, urge you to get appropriate urgent help and may discontinue sessions until you have done so, as part of their duty of care.

Quality of Therapists: All Therapists on our Platform are screened and verified for proper Indian licensing (such as clinical psychologists registered with RCI, counseling psychologists with appropriate degrees, or psychiatrists registered with the Medical Council/National Medical Commission). We also check for a minimum level of experience (e.g., a certain number of years of practice) and an understanding of cross-cultural issues faced by NRIs. While we strive to on-board highly qualified professionals, the Platform does not guarantee the suitability of a particular therapist for every client or the success of the therapy. You have the right to choose your therapist from available options and to switch if you are not satisfied, subject to session availability and our cancellation policy.

Cultural Sensitivity: A core value of India Therapist is providing culturally sensitive support. Our therapists are trained to be mindful of cultural nuances, traditions, languages, and values relevant to Indian diaspora communities. However, cultural compatibility can vary. If you ever feel that a therapist does not understand or respect your cultural background, you may request a different therapist. We will take such feedback seriously in our continuous quality improvement.

5. User Consent and Informed Consent to Teletherapy

By accepting these Terms and using our Services, you also agree to the conditions outlined in our Legal Consent Form, which you will be required to review and sign electronically before beginning therapy sessions. Key points from that consent (which are incorporated into these Terms by reference) include: you understand the nature of teletherapy, you consent to receive counseling via online methods, you are aware of potential risks (such as technology failures or limitations of online communication), and you acknowledge the jurisdiction and confidentiality aspects. (See the “Legal Consent Form” section below for full details.) Your affirmative consent is required to proceed with services, in line with Indian telemedicine and telepsychology guidelines that emphasize informed consent for remote consultations​bpc.org.uk.

6. Payment, Fees, and Cancellation Policy

Fees: The Platform facilitates paid therapy sessions. The fee for each session or service will be communicated to you in advance (displayed at booking). All fees are listed in the applicable currency (e.g., Indian Rupees or an equivalent) and are subject to change. We reserve the right to modify pricing, or introduce new charges for new services, with reasonable notice. Once you book a session at a stated fee, that fee will be honored for that booking.

Payment Process: Payments are typically collected via the Platform using third-party payment processors (credit card, digital wallets, etc.). By providing your payment information, you authorize us or our payment partners to charge the applicable fees. Please note that currency conversion fees or international transaction fees (if you are paying from outside India) may be applied by your bank or card issuer, for which we are not responsible.

Refunds: Our refund policy is as follows – If you cancel a booked session with at least [72 hours] notice prior to the scheduled time, you may be eligible for a full or partial refund or credit as per our cancellation terms (details will be provided in the booking interface). Cancellations made on short notice (less than 72hours) or no-shows may be charged the full session fee, as it may not be possible to reassign that slot. If a therapist has to cancel unexpectedly, we will attempt to reschedule you with the same or a different therapist as soon as possible, or issue a refund/credit for that session if rescheduling is not acceptable to you. All refund decisions are at the Company’s discretion, but we will be fair and transparent in resolving billing issues.

Rescheduling: You may request to reschedule a session instead of canceling, subject to therapist availability. Rescheduling with short notice may be treated as a cancellation if the therapist cannot accommodate the change, but we will try our best to meet your needs.

Promotions and Packages: From time to time, India Therapist may offer discounted packages or promotional offers (e.g., first session free, or bundle of sessions at a reduced rate). These are subject to specific terms which will be communicated with the offer. Typically, promotional credits are non-transferable and may have an expiry date. We reserve the right to end or modify promotions at our discretion.

7. Confidentiality, Privacy, and Data Protection

Therapist-Client Confidentiality: We understand the sensitive nature of therapy. All sessions and communications between you and your therapist are confidential to the fullest extent permitted by law. Therapists on our Platform are bound by professional ethics and the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, which affirms your right to confidentiality regarding your mental health and treatment​cmhlp.org. This means that they will not disclose what you share in therapy to anyone outside of the therapy context without your consent. The only exceptions are standard exceptions recognized both under Indian law and generally worldwide: if there is reason to believe you are in imminent danger of harming yourself or others, if there is suspicion of abuse or a court order requiring disclosure, or similar legal obligations that compel disclosure. Therapists will try to discuss any need to break confidentiality with you whenever feasible.

Platform Privacy Policy: Your use of the Platform is also governed by our Privacy Policy (see the separate Privacy Policy document on our website), which is hereby incorporated by reference. The Privacy Policy explains what personal data we collect, how it’s used, how it’s stored and protected, including compliance with India’s Information Technology Act & Rules, and, where applicable, compliance with international data protection standards like the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). By agreeing to these Terms, you also agree that you have read and understood our Privacy Policy. In summary, we use industry-standard security measures to protect your data, and we do not sell your personal information. We may process some data internationally (since you may be logging in from outside India), but all such processing is done in accordance with applicable law to ensure adequate protection.

Data Storage: Session notes or summaries may be kept by your therapist for professional record-keeping (as required by their licensing regulations in India). These records are typically stored securely and accessible only to the therapist and authorized Platform administrators as needed (for example, for supervision or quality control, in anonymized form whenever possible). If you wish to obtain a copy of your records, you may request it in writing; however, note that certain jurisdictions’ laws (including India’s) may allow therapists to provide summaries instead of full notes to protect client or third-party confidentiality. We will handle such requests on a case-by-case basis.

Communications Security: The Platform uses encrypted communication channels (SSL/TLS) for all sessions and messaging to protect against eavesdropping. However, no system can be 100% secure. By using our Service, you acknowledge the inherent risk that electronic communications could theoretically be compromised (e.g., via hacking or technical failure). We ask that you also take precautions on your end: use a private, password-protected internet connection if possible, ensure you’re in a private space during sessions, and avoid sharing session links or credentials with others. If we become aware of any breach of security that affects your data, we will notify you and take steps to mitigate the issue as required by law.

Third-Party Platforms: Sometimes, therapy might be conducted via third-party video call platforms integrated with our site. We choose reputable platforms that are compliant with privacy standards. However, the use of any third-party service is subject to that service’s own terms. We do not allow sessions to be recorded without mutual consent. The Platform itself does not record video sessions secretly; any recording would only occur if agreed upon (for example, if a client wants a recording of a psychoeducational workshop) and in compliance with consent and legal requirements.

International Considerations: If you reside outside India, note that your personal data (like contact info and therapy notes) may be transferred to and stored in India or on cloud servers that could be in various countries. By using the Platform, you consent to this transfer. We strive to maintain privacy standards that align with major regulations such as GDPR (EU/EEA) and PIPEDA (Canada) for international clients, although our primary legal obligations are under Indian law. If you have any questions about how we handle data for your specific country, please contact us at [contact email].

8. Cross-Border Legal and Regulatory Considerations

This section reiterates and expands on the cross-border nature of our services, to ensure you fully understand the legal positioning:

No Foreign Professional Regulation: Therapists on India Therapist are licensed and regulated in India. They may not be licensed to practice in your home country. Many countries (including the United States, Canada, Australia, UAE, and countries in Europe) have laws that restrict the practice of psychology/psychotherapy to locally licensed professionals​bpc.org.uk. By using this service, you acknowledge that you are voluntarily engaging with an overseas (Indian) practitioner. You agree that, to the best of your knowledge, doing so does not violate any laws or regulations in your country. (If you are uncertain, you should seek advice on your local laws before proceeding. We cannot provide guidance on laws outside India.)

User’s Local Rights:

You understand that certain consumer protections or legal remedies available to you in your country may not apply to the Services, because the Services are being provided under Indian law and jurisdiction. For example, if your country has a complaint mechanism through a psychology licensing board, that board may not have authority over an Indian therapist. Instead, any professional misconduct issues would be addressed through the Indian regulatory system (e.g., the Rehabilitation Council of India for psychologists, or Indian courts). That said, we value your trust and confidence. If you have concerns about a therapist’s conduct, you can raise a complaint through our Platform and we will investigate and respond in accordance with our internal policies and Indian law.

Alignment with International Frameworks:

India Therapist aims to uphold international best practices in online therapy. While not legally bound by foreign laws, we consider guidelines such as the APA’s telepsychology guidance (USA), the BACP/UKCP online therapy guidelines (UK), and relevant standards in other regions to ensure our service is ethical and safe. We also maintain confidentiality in spirit with HIPAA (USA) even though we may not legally fall under it as a “covered entity”. In essence, we do our best to mirror the high standards that clients abroad would expect, without implying formal compliance or certification under those foreign laws.

Indemnity for Regulatory Issues: Given the complexities of cross-border practice, you agree that you will not hold India Therapist or your therapist liable if any regulatory body in your country raises an issue with you having engaged in these services. By accepting these Terms, you effectively confirm that you sought our services on your own initiative for personal help and that no solicitation or unlawful promise was made to you. You also agree to indemnify (reimburse) us and the therapist for any legal fees or penalties that might arise if you misrepresent your eligibility or situation (for instance, if you falsely claim to be in a country where such services are prohibited and legal action is taken as a result).

9. Platform Operations and Content

Role of the Platform: The Platform’s role is to facilitate scheduling, communication, and payment between Users and Therapists. We do not interfere with or direct the content of therapy sessions, except to provide general guidelines to therapists on using the platform and adhering to these Terms. Any advice or opinion given by a therapist is solely between the therapist and the user. The Company is not liable for any decisions you make based on advice obtained from a therapist. The Platform does not guarantee the availability of any specific therapist at any given time, but we will make efforts to ensure that once you have an ongoing therapy relationship, your sessions continue regularly.

Website Content: Any information provided on our website outside of live sessions (such as articles, self-help tips, blog posts, FAQs) is for general informational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we do not warrant that such content is free from errors or omissions. This content does not constitute professional advice and should not be relied upon as such; it is intended to support your own informed decisions in consultation with professionals.

Intellectual Property: All content on the Platform, including text, graphics, logos, software, and design, is the intellectual property of India Therapist or its content suppliers and is protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. You are granted a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to access and use the Platform for your personal, non-commercial use only. You may not copy, distribute, modify, or create derivative works from our content without explicit permission. “India Therapist” and associated logos or slogans are trademarks/service marks of the Company. You shall not use these marks in any way that may cause confusion or dilute their value.

User-Provided Content: In using the Platform, you might provide content such as reviews, feedback, or comments on your experience. By submitting any such content, you grant India Therapist a worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual license to use, reproduce, or publish that feedback (for example, in testimonials), but we will anonymize it unless you explicitly allow us to use your name. You agree not to post any content that is unlawful, offensive, or violates others’ rights. We reserve the right to remove or edit user-provided content that violates our guidelines or policies.

Third-Party Links: Our website or communications may contain links to third-party websites or resources (for example, articles about mental health, or external booking/payment systems). These links are provided for convenience only. India Therapist does not endorse and is not responsible for the content, advertising, products, or other materials on or available from such external sites. If you decide to access any third-party sites, you do so at your own risk. We recommend you review the terms and privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.

10. Limitation of Liability

Indirect Damages: To the maximum extent permitted by law, India Therapist (and its directors, officers, employees, affiliates, and agents) shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or revenue, whether incurred directly or indirectly, or any loss of data, use, goodwill or other intangible losses, resulting from (a) your use of or inability to use the Platform or Services; (b) any conduct or content of any third party on the Platform, including any defamatory, offensive, or illegal conduct of other users or therapists; (c) unauthorized access, use, or alteration of your transmissions or content.

Direct Damages Cap: In jurisdictions where limitations of liability for consequential or incidental damages are not allowed, our liability shall be limited to the lesser of the amount you have paid us in the last six months for Services or INR [X amount] (or equivalent in your local currency). This limitation is cumulative and will not be increased by the existence of more than one incident or claim.

No Warranties: The Platform and Services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis. While we endeavor to provide the best service possible, we make no warranty that the Platform will meet your expectations or requirements, or that it will be uninterrupted, timely, secure, or error-free. We also make no warranties as to the results that may be obtained from use of the Services, or as to the accuracy or reliability of any information obtained through the Services. Any material or information accessed or downloaded through our Service is done at your own discretion and risk.

Release: You agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless India Therapist and its affiliates from all liability relating to your use of the Services or decisions made as a result of the counseling you received. If you have a dispute with a therapist or any third party (for example, a payment issue with a vendor), you agree that India Therapist is not liable for any claims or damages arising out of or connected with such disputes.

Applicability: Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion of certain warranties or limitations on liabilities. In such jurisdictions, the liability of India Therapist will be limited to the greatest extent permitted by law.

11. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless India Therapist, its parent company, subsidiaries, affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, agents, partners, and employees, from and against any claim, demand, losses, expenses, or liabilities (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising out of or related to:

(a) your use or misuse of the Platform or Services;

(b) your breach or alleged breach of these Terms or any other applicable terms or guidelines;

(c) your violation of any law or rights of a third party (for example, if you violate local regulations by using our service, or if you infringe someone’s intellectual property in a comment you post); or

(d) any content you post or transmit through the Platform.

We reserve the right to assume the exclusive defense and control of any matter otherwise subject to indemnification by you, in which event you will cooperate with us in asserting any available defenses.

12. Termination of Services

By the User: You may stop using our Services at any time. If you wish to delete your account, you can contact us at [support email] or use any self-service account deletion function if available. Note that these Terms (and any agreed Consent) will continue to apply to past use, and we may retain certain information as required by law or as outlined in our Privacy Policy (e.g., billing records, basic registration info for legal compliance).

By the Company: We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your access to the Platform (in whole or in part) at our discretion, with or without notice, if we reasonably suspect that you have violated these Terms or any applicable law, or if you have engaged in behavior that we deem inappropriate or unsafe in the context of the therapy platform. In cases of non-payment or fraudulent payment activity, your service may be suspended until the issue is resolved. If we terminate your access and you have pre-paid sessions remaining, we may provide a refund for those sessions not used, unless the termination is due to misconduct or illegal activities on your part.

Effect of Termination: Upon termination, your right to use the Services will cease immediately. You should download or save any personal data (like chat logs or shared resources) that you might need before terminating your account, as you may lose access to the Platform interface afterwards. However, even after termination, sections of these Terms that by their nature should survive will continue to be in effect – including but not limited to provisions on Limitation of Liability, Indemnification, Governing Law, and Dispute Resolution.

13. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms & Conditions and any dispute arising out of or in connection with them or the use of the Services shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of India, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. By using the Platform, you explicitly agree that Indian law governs the relationship between you and the Company.

In the event of any controversy or claim arising from these Terms or the use of our Services, the parties shall first attempt to resolve the matter amicably through negotiation or mediation (we are open to resolving issues cooperatively whenever possible). If such efforts fail, the dispute shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of India. For clarity, the courts located in [City, India]* will be the designated venue for resolution.

*(We have specified Indian jurisdiction to provide certainty and because our operations and oversight are based in India. Users from other countries acknowledge that by entering this agreement, they are willingly foregoing the option to sue in their home courts and instead agree to submit to Indian jurisdiction in the event of a dispute.)

Foreign Users Note: As mentioned, your country’s laws might not recognize an Indian judgment or you may have rights to sue under local consumer laws. These Terms are not intended to deprive you of any rights you are entitled to under mandatory laws; rather, it sets the agreed venue and law for performance of this contract. If a court of competent authority later deems that your local law applies despite this clause, then our liability will be limited to the extent permitted under that local law and the dispute might be heard in that local jurisdiction. But unless and until that happens, you agree not to initiate any legal action against India Therapist except in India.

14. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, that provision shall be enforced to the maximum extent permissible, and the remaining provisions of these Terms shall remain in full force and effect. The failure of the Company to exercise or enforce any right or provision of these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision.

15. Changes to Terms

India Therapist may modify or update these Terms from time to time to reflect changes in our services, user feedback, or legal obligations. We will notify users of any material changes by posting the revised Terms on our website with a new “Last Updated” date, and/or by sending an email notification to registered users. It is your responsibility to review these Terms periodically. By continuing to use the Services after any changes come into effect, you agree to the revised Terms. If you do not agree with the revised Terms, you should discontinue use of the Platform.

16. Contact Information and Grievance Redressal

India Therapist is committed to user satisfaction and lawful compliance. In accordance with the Indian Information Technology Act, 2000 and rules thereunder, the following Grievance Officer is designated for addressing any user grievances or concerns:

Contact Email: [email protected]

If you have any issues regarding our Services – whether it’s a complaint about a therapist, technical problems, billing questions, or other concerns – you may contact the Grievance Officer or our general support at [support email]. We aim to acknowledge complaints within 48 hours and resolve them within one month or as per applicable law​

By using the India Therapist Platform, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to all the above Terms and Conditions. We thank you for trusting India Therapist, and we remain dedicated to supporting your well-being within the framework of these terms.

Legal Consent Form

Client Teletherapy Consent and Acknowledgement Form

(This form must be reviewed and agreed to by any person engaging in counseling services through India Therapist. It is designed to ensure you are fully informed about the nature, risks, and terms of online therapy with an Indian-licensed professional.)

By accepting this form, I (the “Client”) consent to engage in teletherapy services provided through India Therapist. I understand and agree to the following:

Nature of Services: I acknowledge that I will be receiving counseling services via telecommunication (video, audio, and/or text-based sessions) from a licensed therapist in India through the India Therapist Platform. I understand that teletherapy includes mental health counseling, consultation, and psycho-education delivered remotely. I voluntarily seek these services for support with personal or emotional issues. I confirm that I am not in a state of medical or psychiatric emergency at the time of consenting.

Non-Emergency Use: I understand that India Therapist is not an emergency service. If I am in crisis or experience an emergency (such as suicidal intent, plans to harm myself or others, or severe psychiatric distress), I will immediately call local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency facility instead of waiting for a therapy session. I have been informed that my therapist and the Platform may not be able to assist in emergency situations, and that I should utilize emergency contacts in my area (e.g., 911 in the USA, 112 in EU, 999/112 in UK, 000 in Australia, 999 in UAE, or relevant local helplines). I accept that in such situations, the therapist might need to break confidentiality to contact emergency services on my behalf if they become aware of an imminent risk during a session, and I consent to such necessary disclosures in life-threatening situations.

Therapist Credentials and Jurisdiction: I understand that my therapist is licensed in India to provide mental health therapy. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, my therapist is not licensed in my country of residence. I acknowledge that the laws and regulations of India (such as the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 and telemedicine/telehealth guidelines) govern the professional conduct of my therapist, and Indian jurisdiction will govern the therapeutic interaction​tsitn.org. I recognize that this counseling is considered non-clinical support in many other jurisdictions. I will not consider these sessions as formal medical or psychiatric treatment in my local jurisdiction unless my therapist has separately informed me that they are credentialed to offer such services in my location. Essentially, I am engaging in cross-border counseling at my own initiative and risk, aware of the legal context.

Scope of Therapy – No Diagnosis or Prescription: I understand that, as a general rule, my therapist will not be providing formal psychiatric diagnoses, medical certificates, or prescriptions as part of the teletherapy service. The focus will be on counseling, guidance, and therapeutic conversation. If I require evaluation for medication or a formal diagnosis report (for instance, for work or school), I will seek that from a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist licensed in the country where I reside. (If my India-based therapist is a psychiatrist, I note that any advice or prescription they offer will be under Indian telemedicine rules and may not be usable locally without a local doctor’s endorsement, due to pharmacy and legal restrictions.) The therapy will center on my personal well-being and coping strategies, not on medical treatment.

Informed Consent to Teletherapy Process: I understand the process of teletherapy has both benefits and limitations. Benefits may include convenience, access to culturally aligned support, and comfort of being in my own space. Limitations may include technological glitches, lack of in-person observation of body language, or potential misunderstandings due to remote communication. My therapist has explained that if at any point they assess that teletherapy is not appropriate or sufficient for my needs, they may recommend alternative resources or in-person services. I agree that teletherapy is suitable for my current circumstances, and I will honestly inform my therapist if I feel it isn’t meeting my needs.

Risks to Privacy and Technology: I have been informed that while India Therapist uses secure, encrypted platforms, there are risks inherent to electronic communication, including the possibility of sessions being disrupted by technical failures or unintentionally overheard/intercepted. I agree to participate in therapy from a private location on my side to minimize the risk of others overhearing. I will ensure, to the best of my ability, that my internet connection is secure. I also understand that any computer or device I use should ideally be protected by a password and free from malware. If a session is disrupted due to technical problems, I will reconnect if possible, and if not, I will reach out to reschedule or continue via another mode (e.g., phone call) as appropriate. I will not hold India Therapist or my therapist responsible for technology problems beyond their control.

Confidentiality and Data Use: I consent to the recording of basic information about me (contact information, session dates/times, payment records) in the Platform’s system. I understand that session content will not be recorded or stored without my permission. My therapist may keep private notes to aid my treatment, but those notes remain confidential and stored securely. I have been informed of my rights under Indian law to confidentiality of my mental health information​cmhlp.org. I also understand the exceptions to confidentiality: if I reveal intent to seriously harm myself or someone else, or if there is suspected abuse of a minor or other vulnerable person, or if required by a court of law, my therapist may be legally or ethically compelled to disclose certain information to prevent harm or comply with law. Apart from such exceptions, everything I share in therapy will remain confidential between me, my therapist, and (if necessary for supervision or technical support) the minimal required Platform staff, all of whom are bound to confidentiality.

Cross-Border Release and Local Support: I acknowledge that because I am engaging in therapy with someone in India, there could be legal or practical limits on assistance. For example, if I were in need of involuntary hospitalization for my safety, an India-based therapist cannot directly arrange that in my country. I agree that I will not sue or hold liable my therapist or India Therapist for not being able to provide certain emergency or intensive services that can only be provided locally. I will utilize local healthcare providers for any such needs. I also agree that if my therapist reasonably believes I am in danger and contacts local emergency or social services (with information I have provided), that action is taken in good faith for my safety, and I consent to it.

Understanding of Foreign Legal Frameworks: I have been made aware that in some countries (including the one where I reside), there may be laws against practicing therapy without local licensure​bpc.org.uk. By signing this consent, I explicitly state that I sought services from India Therapist on my own accord, and I understand the legal context. I waive any claim that I was illegally treated by an unlicensed provider because I understand they are licensed in India and not subject to my country’s licensing. I also agree not to involve my therapist or the Platform in any legal proceedings I might initiate in my home country stemming from our sessions, since I accept that our agreement is under Indian jurisdiction.

Voluntariness and Right to Withdraw: I understand that my participation in therapy is voluntary. I can choose not to answer any question posed by my therapist if I feel uncomfortable. I can also withdraw my consent and discontinue therapy at any time. If I decide to stop therapy, I will inform my therapist (if possible) so that they are not left wondering about my status and so they can offer referrals or closing advice. I know that I am free to seek a second opinion or alternate services at any point.

Session Structure and Contact Outside Sessions: I understand that sessions are typically [50 minutes] (or as otherwise scheduled) and will occur through the agreed modality (video/phone/etc.) at the scheduled time. If I am late to a session, it may still end at the scheduled time. If my therapist is late or has an urgent issue, they or the Platform will inform me and extend the time or reschedule. Outside of scheduled sessions, I should not expect my therapist to be available for immediate counseling (they may not read messages or emails instantly). The Platform might provide a messaging feature for between-session updates or sharing thoughts; my therapist will respond at their discretion, but this is not a 24/7 chat line. If I need additional support, I should schedule another session or use emergency resources if appropriate.

Fees and Cancellation (Client Agreement): I confirm that I am aware of the fees for the services and the relevant cancellation policy (as detailed in the Terms & Conditions). Specifically, I know that if I need to cancel or reschedule, I should do so with sufficient notice (e.g., 24 hours) to avoid charges. I agree that I am financially responsible for sessions that I cancel late or for which I do not show up, according to the stated policy. I also understand the Platform’s refund policy for any packages or pre-paid sessions I might purchase.

Governing Law and Dispute Resolution: I acknowledge that this consent and my use of India Therapist services are governed by the laws of India. I agree that any disputes or claims arising from the therapy or this consent will be subject to Indian jurisdiction, as described in the Terms & Conditions. I am aware that I can direct complaints to the Platform’s Grievance Officer if I have concerns about the service quality or ethical conduct.

Client’s Statements: By consenting, I indicate that: (a) I have had the opportunity to ask any questions regarding teletherapy services and all my questions have been answered to my satisfaction; (b) I have read and understood the Disclaimer and Terms & Conditions provided by India Therapist, which further elaborate on the service scope and legal terms; (c) I understand I can request a copy of this Consent Form for my records.

Consent Confirmation: I hereby consent to receive teletherapy from India Therapist. I understand the information above and agree to proceed under these conditions. This consent will remain in effect for the duration of my use of the Platform’s services unless I revoke it. I understand that I may withdraw my consent at any time, but that this will mean stopping use of the services (since therapy cannot continue without consent).

By clicking “I Agree” or signing below an electronic form, I acknowledge that I have read and agree to this Legal Consent Form. I understand its contents and consent to participate in online therapy under the described terms.