Open Heart Sessions
An anonymous platform that connects people who need someone to talk to with people willing to listen — no therapists, no hotlines, just real human conversation.
The problem it solves
There's a gap between "I need professional therapy" and "I just want to talk to someone." Most people experiencing a hard day, a difficult moment, or low-level anxiety don't need a therapist — they need a human connection.
Existing options either feel too clinical, require sharing personal information, or don't offer real-time human interaction. Open Heart Sessions was built to fill that gap.
My role
I designed and built the entire platform from scratch — product architecture, backend services, real-time chat infrastructure, the AI moderation layer, and the frontend experience.
The hardest part was making the system feel safe. Every design decision, from the progressive photo reveal to the Vibe Guard AI, was made with user trust at the centre.
How it works
Mood-based matching
Users are paired with listeners based on their emotional state at that moment — not demographics or history.
Vibe Guard AI moderation
Every message is screened in real time by an AI layer that catches harmful content and scams before they reach the other person.
Progressive trust
Profile photos start blurred and gradually sharpen as trust builds between two people — anonymity by default, connection by choice.
Listener economy
Users can switch roles and become volunteer Listeners, earning credits for their time while helping others.
Credit system
A lightweight monetisation layer — 10 free credits on signup, with the ability to earn more through listening or purchase.
Full anonymity
No real names, no required photos. The platform is designed so that nobody has to share more than they are comfortable with.