FAQ
Below are answers to common questions about the platform.
Getting started
Do I need an account? No, sign-in is optional. You can start working right after opening the app. Just open the link and a new session is created automatically.
What are MAC cards and how do they work online? MAC (metaphorical associative cards) are image-based tools for exploring feelings, meanings, and inner states. On the online board, you pick a deck, draw cards, and capture insights with notes - alone or together with a therapist or group.
How do I invite participants? Copy the link or 6-character code from the session panel and share it. Participants can join immediately without signing up.
Privacy and security
How private is this? Who can see my session? Only people with the link can access the room. Notes can be private, public, or anonymous - your choice. During beta, we recommend not putting personal data in notes.
Beta limitations
During the beta period, session history is not saved. Take screenshots to preserve important layouts.
Is the room link secure? Rooms are created with a unique code in the URL. Share the link only with session participants. For sensitive sessions, create a fresh room and avoid posting the link publicly.
Can I stay completely anonymous? Yes. You can skip entering a name and use anonymous notes. No sign-up is required.
Sessions and collaboration
Can I run a live session with a client? Yes. All participants see the same board in sync, right in the browser - no installation needed. You can draw and move cards, add notes, and discuss in the chat.
How many participants can join a room? Up to 150 - suitable for training and MAC practice demos. For therapy sessions led by a professional, we recommend up to 8 people so everyone gets attention.
Who can change settings? Only the host can change deck modes and the room. Participants can draw cards and add notes, but cannot modify session settings.
Working with cards
What's the difference between "blind" and "open" draw? "Blind" - the card is drawn randomly and revealed only after selection. "Open" - you see the cards when choosing, which suits practices involving conscious selection.
Choosing the right mode
Use blind draw for intuitive, subconscious work. Use open draw when you want participants to consciously select images that resonate with them.
Can I create my own decks? Not in the first version. Custom deck upload is planned for future releases after the public beta.
Will I be able to upload my own decks? Yes, it's planned after the public beta: custom decks, history, and advanced settings. Right now, the focus is on fast rooms, collaboration, and core decks.
Data and history
Are sessions saved? No, session history and saving are not part of the first version. Use the screenshot feature to save your layouts.
Is the board and notes history saved? In beta, history and auto-save may be limited. You can take a screenshot of the board. Full history and saving are on the roadmap.
Save your work
Always take screenshots of important layouts before ending a session or switching to another one.
Interface and access
Can I change the interface language? Yes, choose a language in the sidebar. Currently available: English and Russian.
Where is chat and the participant list? Open the "Chat and participants" panel using the button in the interface.
Does it work on phones and tablets? Yes, the interface is responsive. Best experience is on a tablet or laptop (more space for the board). We recommend Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.
Pricing and purpose
How much does it cost? It's free during beta. Later, there may be premium features (history, custom decks), but the basic "create a room and run a session" flow is intended to stay accessible.
Does this replace therapy? No. This is a tool for working with images and self-reflection. If you need professional support, please consult a qualified specialist.
Not a substitute for professional help
MAC Cards Online is a facilitation tool, not a medical or psychotherapy service. For mental health concerns, please seek help from a qualified professional.
Getting help
Where can I get support? Check the Support tab in the chat panel for documentation links, or use the Feedback tab to contact the development team.
How do I report a bug or suggest a feature? Use the Feedback tab in the chat panel. Select the appropriate type (Bug, Feature, Question, or Other), describe your feedback, and optionally attach a screenshot.
Tips and errors
- If your question is not listed, send it via the "Support" or "Feedback" tab.
- For complex issues, attach a screenshot of the table or the error message.
- Check the Troubleshooting section for common technical issues.
Screenshots
Elements on the screenshot: 1. Search field 2. Question list 3. Expanded answer