And a member of American Psychological Association, LifeAssociate Member Indian Association of Clinical Psychologistsand Associate Life Member, Clinical Psychology Society of India. He is the driving force behind Smartminds Centre for Positive Psychology. With over 25 years of experience in the field, Dr. Rao has dedicated his career to helping individuals unlock their potential and achieve holistic well-being through the principles of Positive Psychology and Cognitive Psychology.
He completed his Masters and M Phil degrees in Psychology. He was awarded Doctorate degree (PhD) in Psychology from Osmania University. Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Ministry of Education, Govt of India awarded Post Doctoral Fellowship in Psychology for his unique research work in Psychology. He has received additional training and skills from world-renowned institutions such as Department of Clinical Psychology of National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) which is a world leader in Mental Health, Neuro-Sciences and allied fields and National Federation of Neuro-Linguistic Psychology, USA.
Dr. Rao’s extensive career includes working with diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, and families. His expertise spans various domains such as child counselling, adolescence counselling, adult counselling, Pré-marital counseling and family counselling including stress management, resilience building, emotional intelligence, and life transitions. Dr. Rao has successfully guided countless people through personal and professional challenges, helping them develop coping strategies and achieve meaningful life changes. He specializes in Relationship issues, Pre-Marital Counselling, Family Counselling, Family and Work-Life balance, Sexual Issues, Sleep disturbances, Emotional disturbances, Stress Management, lack of Concentration, Aggression and Anger Management, Teenage (Adolescence) issues, educational counselling, Career counselling, Parenting Skills etc. through Positive Psychology and Cognitive Psychology based techniques.
Dr.Rao’s compassionate approach and profound understanding of human mind and behavior empower individuals to navigate the complexities of the 21st century psyche, to overcome psychological hurdles such as Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Neurosis, Phobias, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders and a myriad of other psychological obstacles with grace and resilience.
Renowned as the go-to psychologist by Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) living in USA, Canada, Australia etc. Dr.Rao is a catalyst for healing and growth of people working in various organizations especially in technology based organizations such as Software and Information Technology to manage various psychological issues.
Dr. Rao’s approach is grounded in the belief that every individual possesses the capacity for growth and resilience. He employs evidence-based techniques to help people recognize their strengths, overcome obstacles, and lead fulfilling lives. His compassionate and empathetic nature ensures a supportive environment where people feel heard and valued.
Beyond his counselling practice, Dr.Rao is a prolific author, esteemed researcher, and sought-after speaker in the fields of psychology and education. His contributions to academia, including the authorship of 10 influential books and publications in esteemed journals, underscore his commitment to advancing the frontiers of knowledge. He has presented papers at National and International Conferences such as “National Conference on Challenges of Contemporary Life-Role of Positive Psychology” and ‘The Indian Science Congress Association”(ISC) and published articles in National and International Journals such as “The International Journal of Indian Psychology”. He is a course writer of university level Psychology books at Graduation and Post Graduation level.
He conducted various training programs for Students, Parents, Teachers on study skills, examination skills, Interview Skills, Personality Development,
in various schools and colleges and Leadership training for employees of public and private sector organizations.
He did many TV shows in E TV, HM TV, I NEWS,RAJ NEWS & Doordarshan etc. TV Channels. He is a Panel Psychologist for various public and private sector organizations which recruits candidates for various higher-level positions such as management trainees and administrative services. He trains the candidates appearing for Central and State Civil Services examinations in Interview skills and Personality Development. He is a Guest Faculty for various private and public sector organizations such as Police Department, Prisons Department and Universities.
Beyond his professional life, driven by a passion to serve Dr. Rao’s dedication extends beyond the confines of his practice. As the founder of Dr. Rao’s Foundation, he is on a mission to democratize mental health care and eradicate stigma.He champions mental health literacy and awareness, striving to fulfil the World Health Organization’s vision of “Health for all-All for Health.” Through innovative initiatives like “Psychologist on Wheels”, “Project Happy Learning,” he endeavours to foster a society where mental health and holistic well-being are paramount.
Dr. Venkateshwar Rao Deshineni and the team at Smartminds Centre for Positive Psychology are committed to empowering individuals to thrive and lead their best lives. Connect with Dr. Rao and his team to begin your journey towards positive change and personal growth
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