MindChat is an AI-powered virtual therapy assistant that simulates conversations with Dr. Sanchez, an expert in psychotherapy. This project aims to provide accessible mental health support through natural language interactions, with a mobile-first approach.

• Conversational AI using Google's Generative AI model
• Persistent conversation storage
• Cross-platform mobile app interface
• Therapist persona specializing in stress, depression, and anxiety

• Backend: Python 3.x with Flask
• Database: SQLite with SQLAlchemy ORM
• AI Model: Google Generative AI (Gemini Pro)
• Frontend: Flutter for cross-platform mobile development

• Python 3.x
• pip (Python package manager)
• Flutter SDK
• Dart SDK
• Google Cloud account with Generative AI API access
• Android Studio or Xcode (for mobile deployment)

1. Clone the repository: git clone https://github.com/yourusername/mindchat.git cd mindchat/backend Copy
2. Create a virtual environment: python -m venv venv source venv/bin/activate # On Windows use venv\Scripts\activate Copy
3. Install the required packages: pip install -r requirements.txt Copy
4. Set up environment variables: Create a .env file in the backend directory and add your Google AI API key: GOOGLE_AI_API_KEY=your_api_key_here

1. Navigate to the frontend directory: cd ../frontend Copy
2. Get Flutter dependencies: flutter pub get

• Update the SQLALCHEMY_DATABASE_URI in backend/app.py if you want to use a different database.
• Modify the THERAPIST_INTRO constant in backend/app.py to change the AI therapist's persona.
• Update the API endpoint in the Flutter app to point to your backend server.

1. Initialize the database: python

from app import app, db with app.app_context(): ... db.create_all() exit()

2. Start the Flask server: python app.py

1. Ensure you have an Android or iOS emulator running, or a physical device connected.

2. Run the Flutter app: flutter run

• Launch the MindChat app on your mobile device or emulator.
• Start a new conversation by tapping the new chat button.
• Continue existing conversations by selecting from the conversation list.
• Interact with Dr. Sanchez by typing your messages and receiving AI-generated responses.

This application deals with potentially sensitive mental health information. Ensure proper security measures are implemented before deploying in a production environment.

MindChat is an AI-based application and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. This README now reflects a project structure with a Flask backend and a Flutter frontend for mobile app development. It includes setup instructions for both t