Sakshi Jain - It Has Become Easier For People to Consult Online. Therapy Has Become Much More Accessible Now (Psychologist , India)

"When I think about digital health from a therapy point of view, the concerns I see is lack of privacy, unable to understand patient’s body language, and ineffectiveness in the relationship between therapist and patient. In cases such as psychosis, online consultation is not helpful"

1. Tell us about your upbringing, background and journey?

My upbringing has been very positive and nurturing. I grew up feeling loved and with a sense of self-worth. I grew up in a joint family. So I have always valued family and siblings so much that they became a part of me even when I grew up as an adult.

People around me have always shown faith in me, especially my parents. I was always encouraged. Coming from an Indian family, my parents never distinguished between a girl and a boy child.

Today, the strong and confident person you see in me is because they always pushed me to move forward, take risks.


2. Why did you choose to be a doctor and decide what you specifically want to do?

More than choosing to be a mental health professional, I chose to provide service to people. I have always believed in doing something for others. I knew I wanted to help people.

Also, I have had my own struggles and always wished if I had someone to guide me through them. I wanted to make mental health resources available and accessible.


3. We salute your work during the pandemic, where did you get the inspiration to work so hard?

Pandemic was the time people started realising mental health issues and started to talk about them openly. It takes great courage to speak in a society where there are so many stigmas attached to this.

So I knew I had to help the people who are coming forward. Not just I, my colleagues and the mental health community came forward to provide services for whoever is in need. There is no bigger inspiration than the belief in humanity itself.

4. How do you expect digital health to grow over the next 5 years?

May 2020 was the first time I took an online counselling session. It was a huge change for me. Adapting to counselling online, the laptop is your room, it was difficult. 

But since then, it has not stopped. It has become easier for people to consult online. Therapy has become much more accessible now. You can get facilities on demand according to your own schedule.

Since Covid, healthcare facilities are moving online. I expect to see the growth double up in 5 years.


5. What are your concerns about Digital Health?

When I think about digital health from a therapy point of view, the concerns I see is lack of privacy, unable to understand patient’s body language, and ineffectiveness in the relationship between therapist and patient. In cases such as psychosis, online consultation is not helpful.


6. What is your message for aspiring doctors and the young generation?

Focusing on learning each day. Work towards humanity.

7. What does your typical day look like and what do you like to do besides work?

My day starts with reading and a jog later. Apart from work, I learn a musical instrument, I love spending time with my family and few friends. Before the pandemic hit, I did move around the city a lot and travelled around. I try to incorporate things that help you grow as a human.

- Interviewed by - Soumya Bhayana

This interview is sponsored by Plus91 Technologies, a leading Digital Health firm.