This article is for clients using the Oasys client iOS app.
Messages is secure messaging with your therapist inside the Oasys app (not SMS texting, unless your practice also texts you through notification settings).
⚠️ Messages is not a bottom tab. Open it from Home (for example Message {name}). There is no Chat tab in the patient app.
In this article:
1. Open Messages
Go to Home.
Tap Message {first name} (or the message control on your therapist / session card).
The screen title is Messages.
You need messaging turned on for your practice and your therapist accepting messages. Guardians: switch to the correct account first.
💡 Your practice team can also message you, for things like billing, paperwork, or scheduling. Those conversations appear in Messages alongside your therapist thread, with the staff member’s name and role on the row. Only the practice can start one; you reply inside it.
2. Send and read messages
Your therapist row may show a Therapist badge and a preview (or No messages yet).
Empty thread: “Send a message to start the conversation.”
Composer placeholder: Message {therapist name}... (or Message...).
Statuses can include Sending..., Delivered, Read, or Not delivered · Tap to retry.
Day labels: Today / Yesterday.
A message you send appears on your other signed-in devices as you send it.
If you see No active conversation, you can start a new conversation with your therapist. If you’re not connected yet: No messages yet — “Messages with your therapist will appear here once you're connected.”
3. When messaging isn’t available
You may see Messaging isn't available — “Your therapist isn't accepting messages at this time. You can connect during your scheduled sessions.”
If the Home message button is missing, messaging may be off for this account — ask your practice.
While viewing a child’s account, messaging still works for reading/sending when allowed, but uses a simpler connection (you won’t see live typing the same way as on an adult account).
4. What messaging is not for
Emergencies — call local emergency services or use Settings → Crisis Resources (988). Do not wait for a reply.
Guaranteed same-day clinical advice — response times vary by practice.
Paying invoices — use Settings → Billing & Payments.
Joining video — use Join Now / Join Session on Home or Sessions.
💡 An AI Health Assistant chat is not available in the patient iOS app. If you see AI tools elsewhere, that is on the Oasys website (not in this app).
5. Notifications
Control alerts for Secure messages under Settings → Notifications (channels can include Push, Email, and SMS when your practice enables them).
Unread counts can also appear on Home’s bell / message entry.
Frequently asked questions
Why isn’t there a Messages tab?
On iOS, messaging opens from Home. That’s expected, not a missing install.Can I message the front desk in the app?
Yes, once the practice messages you. The conversation appears in Messages, where you can reply. You cannot start one yourself, so call the practice if nothing is there yet.My message says Not delivered.
Tap to retry. Check your connection. If it keeps failing, contact your practice.Is this the same as texting my therapist’s cell phone?
No — this is secure in-app messaging. SMS reminders (if enabled) are separate notification settings.