Frequently asked questions

How do I book an appointment?

You can book an appointment by contacting me by email at niila.rahko@psykoterapeuhtta.info or via the contact form . After your contact, we will arrange a first meeting where we discuss your situation and how I can help. If we decide to start a shared journey, we agree on regular appointment times, taking into account the possibilities of your situation.

Cancelling or rescheduling an appointment

You can avoid a cancellation fee by cancelling the appointment at least 24 hours in advance. An appointment cancelled within 12 hours of the start time will be charged at the full session price. Kela does not reimburse cancelled appointments — Kela only reimburses sessions that have actually taken place.
The appointment can also be changed to a remote session before the meeting.

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is goal-oriented professional work aimed at alleviating or removing mental health disorders, problems or the suffering related to them. Therapy is based on a confidential interaction between the therapist and the client.

How long does therapy last?

The duration of therapy varies according to the client’s needs and goals. Short-term therapy can last from a few sessions up to around 25 sessions. Long-term psychotherapy can last 1–3 years. A suitable duration and frequency are evaluated together during the first meetings.

How much does a therapy session cost?

The price may vary depending on the length and content of the session. You can find my general prices here. I will also tell you about possible reimbursement options when you contact me.

Can I receive Kela reimbursement?

For Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy you need a psychiatrist’s statement and a positive rehabilitation decision from Kela. If you already have a valid Kela decision, please mention it when you contact me. I am happy to tell you more about the reimbursement application process.

How does Kela reimbursement work?

Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy is intended for 16–67-year-olds whose ability to work or study is threatened by a mental health disorder. Receiving the reimbursement requires a diagnosis by a psychiatrist, at least three months of treatment before therapy begins, and a B-statement issued by a psychiatrist. The application is submitted via Kela’s online service.
Support is granted one year at a time, for a total of up to three years, with a maximum of 80 reimbursable sessions per year and 200 in total over the course of therapy.
You can start therapy even before Kela’s decision; in that case the reimbursement is claimed retroactively after the decision is issued.
More information:
Kela: kela.fi/kuntoutuspsykoterapia
Mielenterveystalo: mielenterveystalo.fi

How does the first meeting proceed?

In the first session we get to know each other in a relaxed way. You describe your situation in your own words and what has brought you to seek help. We go through your goals and decide together on the next steps. The first meeting is also your opportunity to evaluate whether the cooperation feels natural to you. Introductory sessions are free of charge and do not commit either party to continue.

Are the conversations confidential?

Yes. A psychotherapist is bound by a statutory duty of confidentiality. I handle client information and conversations confidentially. Read more in the patient register privacy notice.

What kinds of issues can I seek help with?

You can seek therapy for example because of depression, anxiety, burnout, relationship problems, life crises, grief, questions of identity, or to increase self-knowledge. If you are wondering whether therapy would be right for you, do not hesitate to get in touch.

Can I attend therapy remotely?

Remote sessions can be arranged depending on the situation. In the first meeting we discuss which way — remote or in-person — serves you best.

What if I have a different question?

You can always get in touch if something is on your mind. You can find more information about me and my way of working on the About mepage, and contact details are on the Contact page.