Dr Ruupa Rao
Dr. Ruupa Rao is an Indian psychologist, executive coach, trainer, author, and mental health advocate based in Bengaluru, Karnataka. With over two decades of experience, she specialises in behavioural psychology, leadership development, and mental health education. She is the recipient of several national honours and international recognition, including a World Book of Records award for her unique Anuhyaa Summer Camp initiative. A biopic documentary on her life and contributions has also been produced by the Government of Karnataka.
Early Life and Education
Dr. Ruupa Rao is a multidisciplinary professional with expertise in psychology, computer science, and coaching. She holds a PhD in Computer Science and dual postgraduate degrees—MSc and MA—in Psychology. In addition, she has completed an MBA and a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology.
Dr. Rao is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC), accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). She also holds a certificate from the University of Cambridge in Young Minds and Mental Health, and has earned multiple credentials in coaching, therapy, and training.
Education & Certifications:
- PhD in Computer Science
- MSc & MA in Psychology
- MBA
- Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology
- ICF-PCC Certified Executive Coach
- NLP Master Practitioner
- Certified Master Hypnotist
- Certified POSH Trainer (SHRM)
- TESOL Certified Trainer
- Certified Instructional Designer
- Master Coach in Positive Psychology
Career
Dr. Ruupa Rao has provided executive coaching, leadership mentoring, and behavioral consulting to professionals from leading organizations such as Wipro, Tata Power, KPMG, JCB, Canara HSBC, Tesco Bank, and Societe Generale.
She has conducted training in:
- Executive leadership and team building
- Mental health and psychological safety
- Emotional intelligence and resilience
- Stress and burnout management
- Women’s emotional health
- Faculty development and soft skills for government institutions
She has worked with national initiatives like NSDC, RASCI, ICICI Foundation, and Karnataka’s Skill Development programs, delivering high-impact interventions to youth and educators.
Books & Publications
Dr. Ruupa Rao is the author of:
- The Identity Matrix: A Guide to Identifying Your True Self
- Why Do We Lie to Ourselves: Understanding Cognitive Distortion (upcoming)
- ಮನಸಿಗೊಂದು ಕೈಗನ್ನಡಿ (Manasigondu Kaigannadi) – A Kannada book on personal development
- Psychohorror Kannada book
Articles:
- The One Psychological Trap That Keeps People Stuck in Their Beliefs
- Stuck in Yesterday: How Nostalgia and Cortisol Traps Hold Us Back
Blog:
Awards & Recognition
- World Book of Records (London) – For the Anuhyaa Summer Camp mental health and learning initiative
- Best Lady Entrepreneur – Global Excellence India
- Best Trainer Award (2019) – Ministry of Social Welfare, Government of India
- Best Training Institute Award (2021) – MSME, Government of India
- Biopic Movie on Her Life – Produced by the Department of Information & Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Karnataka
- Corona Warrior Recognition – For digital health contributions during COVID-19
- Keynote Speaker – Jaipur Education Summit and Business Innovation Summit (2023)
Philosophy and Vision
Dr. Rao believes in transforming lives by changing attitudes. She emphasizes mindset, emotional intelligence, and holistic health as pillars of personal growth. Her mission includes:
- Making life coaching accessible
- Promoting mental health awareness
- Building integrative care systems combining psychology and wellness
- Empowering professionals, women, and youth
Personal Life
Dr. Rao lives in Electronic City, Bangalore. She is committed to mindfulness, continuous learning, and balancing her thriving career with family life.