Alok Kanojia, widely known as Dr. K, is an American psychiatrist and the co-founder of Healthy Gamer, a mental health coaching company dedicated to supporting individuals struggling with gaming addiction. Born on October 7, 1982, Dr. K has carved a unique niche by blending his psychiatric expertise with his passion for gaming. After realizing that many of his friends were struggling with video game addiction, he sought to help them but quickly found that he couldn’t provide individual support to everyone. This experience inspired him to create Healthy Gamer alongside his wife, Kruti.
Healthy Gamer emerged from an incubator at Boston University and focuses on training coaches who provide non-medical advice and support to the gaming community. The program offers a 10-week training course for coaches, equipping them to lead individual and group sessions where participants can explore their goals and motivations. While the coaches are not licensed medical professionals, Dr. K emphasizes the importance of continuing therapy with trained psychiatrists, ensuring a well-rounded approach to mental health.
Through his Twitch streams, Dr. K engages with a broad audience, discussing various mental health topics and facilitating interviews that foster open conversations about addiction and wellness. His innovative approach aims to fill the gaps in traditional mental health treatment, particularly concerning gaming addiction, which he believes is often misunderstood and inadequately addressed by therapists.
Dr. K’s commitment to improving mental health resources has made him a significant figure in the gaming and mental health communities. His work continues to inspire many, providing a valuable platform for those seeking support and guidance on their journey toward healthier lifestyles.