Find Registered Counsellors in India

Our directory helps you search for and connect with counsellors across the country.

Professional counsellors typically hold postgraduate degrees, such as a Master's in Psychology (often with a specialisation in counselling), Social Work, or specific diplomas in counselling. India regulates this field on two tracks. Clinical psychologists come under the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI): the RCI Act 1992 restricts practice as a rehabilitation professional to those enrolled on its Central Rehabilitation Register, and the Mental Healthcare Act 2017 defines a clinical psychologist by RCI-recognised qualification. Counsellors and other psychologists come under the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act 2021, whose Schedule names counsellors, analysts and psychologists expressly. That Act creates a Central Register and State Registers, and makes it an offence to claim registration falsely or to misuse a professional title. It commences by notification and the registers are still being stood up, so a counsellor may not yet appear on one.

We ensure that our featured counsellors (our Pro members) have provided evidence of their relevant academic qualifications and, where applicable or chosen by the counsellor, current registration with the RCI or, where it applies to them, under the NCAHP framework.

You can easily filter your search by location, the specific issues they can support you with, or by identity—for example, finding a male or female counsellor, or one who understands specific cultural or linguistic backgrounds—to help you connect with someone you feel comfortable with and who aligns with your unique needs.

Counsellors by Gender in Indian Cities

Bangalore / Bengaluru

Chennai

Delhi

Gurgaon

Hyderabad

Kolkata

Mumbai

New Delhi

Noida

Pune

Types of Counsellors in India

In India, the field of counselling is diverse. Here’s a brief overview:

• Counselling Psychologists / Counsellors:
  • Common Qualification: Typically hold a Master's degree (MA or MSc) in Psychology, often with a specialisation in Counselling Psychology, Clinical Psychology, or Applied Psychology. Some may have M.Phil or PhD degrees.
  • Focus: Address a wide range of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, academic or career challenges, and personal growth.
  • Regulation: Counsellors fall within the NCAHP Act 2021, which provides for a Central Register and State Registers. Registration is still being rolled out, so many counsellors also point to their academic credentials.
• Specialised Counsellors:
  • Many counsellors focus on specific areas, often through further training or experience:
    • School Counsellors: Work within educational settings.
    • Career Counsellors: Focus on career guidance and development.
    • Marriage and Family Counsellors: Address relationship and family dynamics.
    • Addiction Counsellors: Support individuals with substance misuse issues.
    • Grief Counsellors: Help individuals cope with loss.
• RCI Registered Professionals (Offering Counselling):
  • The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) registers rehabilitation professionals, a category that includes clinical psychologists and rehabilitation psychologists. Enrolment on its Central Rehabilitation Register is mandatory to practise in those roles. It is not the register that covers counsellors; that is the NCAHP framework.
• Affiliation with Professional Bodies:
  • Membership of a recognised psychological or counselling society can indicate a commitment to ethical practice and professional development. It is voluntary, and it is not the same as statutory registration.

Qualifications to Look For

When choosing a counsellor in India, focus on these key indicators:

• Academic Qualifications: This is Crucial.
  • Look for at least a Master's degree (MA or MSc) in Psychology, ideally with a specialisation in Counselling, Clinical, or Applied Psychology.
  • M.Phil or PhD degrees indicate more advanced academic training.
• RCI Registration (For Specific Roles):
  • If seeking a Clinical Psychologist or Rehabilitation Psychologist, check for Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) registration, which is mandatory for those roles, and ask for the registration number (shown as CRR No.). If you are seeing a counsellor, ask whether they are registered under the NCAHP Act 2021 and on which register.
• Membership in Professional Bodies (A Positive Sign):
  • Affiliation with a recognised psychological or counselling society suggests a commitment to ethical practice and professional development. It is voluntary and carries no statutory register.
• Relevant Experience & Specialisation:
  • Consider their experience working with issues similar to yours. Some counsellors have specialised training (e.g., in career counselling, marriage counselling).

Key Tips for Choosing the Right Counsellor

• Check Academic Qualifications.
  • Prioritise counsellors with at least a Master's degree (MA/MSc) in Psychology (Counselling, Clinical, or Applied).
  • Check for RCI registration if they identify as a Rehabilitation/Clinical Psychologist.
• Match Their Skills to Your Needs.
  • What do you need help with? Look for a counsellor experienced with your specific concerns (e.g., stress, family issues, career).
• Consider Language & Cultural Comfort.
  • Ensure you can communicate comfortably in a shared language and feel they understand your cultural context.
• Trust Your Gut – The Connection Matters.
  • Do you feel comfortable, respected, and understood? A good rapport is vital.
• Check Practicalities.
  • Cost: Can you afford their fees?
  • Location & Availability: Is their practice accessible (in-person or online)? Does their schedule work?
• Ask Questions.
  • Inquire about their experience, approach, and any registration or professional affiliations.
• It’s Okay if the First Isn't "The One."
  • If the fit doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to look for someone else.

Find a qualified counsellor you trust, feel comfortable with, and believe can effectively support your journey.