There are currently three study psychologists at UEF who offer counselling to bachelor’s and master’s degree students. Study psychologists are licensed practitioners of psychology who help students in all study-related issues. Study psychologists also offer group counselling and play an important role in developing practices that enhance students’ wellbeing at UEF. Discussions with the study psychologists are free of charge and confidential. During your first session with the study psychologist, you will discuss and agree on the focus of the counselling process and possible further meetings. In general, students who seek out counselling will meet up with the psychologist a few times.
With what issues can the study psychologist help me?
With the study psychologist, you can work on issues and difficulties related to studying, i.e. motivation, learning, stress, stage fright, time management, procrastination or learning difficulties. Study psychologists can also support you in various transition periods, such as returning to your studies after a break or transitioning into working life.
Kindly notice, that the study psychologists do not offer psychological assessments (e.g. assessing learning difficulties or ADHD). Additionally, study psychologists do not diagnose or treat mental health issues. If you feel you require medical assistance or consultation, contact the FSHS or your local health centre.
In acute life crises, such as breakups, losses or other situations, you can get confidential support from the campus pastors. The local crisis centres in Kuopio and Joensuu and the national crisis helpline offer confidential support free-of-charge. See further information on the Providers of Support -webpage.
Information about how to apply for and implement individual study arrangements can be found here.
Support for course registration, personal study plans and internships, seek advice from the staff at your faculty. You can find the contact details of all programme coordinators here.
Bookings
We regret that there are no more availabilities for individual counselling this semester on both campuses. Booking will be reopened in January 2024. Before that, you can reach study psychologists during telephone consultation hours: https://kamu.uef.fi/en/telephone-consultation-from-study-psychologists-in-november-and-december/.
The staff of your department can help you in many study-related issues, and the FSHS is at your service for issues related to mental and physical health. You may also find other providers of help from Kamu: Providers of help.
For remote appointments, we use secure software called Nordhealth Connect.
Offices
Study psychologist Katri Ruth
Kuopio campus: Mediteknia 1028
Study psychologist Mari Tirronen
Joensuu campus: Haltia 214
Study psychologist Emilia Ranta
Joensuu campus: Haltia 215
The offices in Haltia are on the 2nd floor and require use of stairs, but we can arrange to meet in an accessible location also. Here you can find a map of the Joensuu campus and Kuopio campus.
Frequently asked questions
I’ve never had psychological counselling before. What should I expect?
Each counselling session is unique. We’ll discuss your life situation and your studies and what brought you to the session. Your wishes, worries and needs are prioritized. Oftentimes we’ll chat a little bit about what you’ve already tried to do to solve your issue and think about some concrete steps that might help you at this point. It’s perfectly normal to feel a bit nervous before your first session. We promise to welcome you with an open, respectful, and kind approach.
How often can I see the study psychologist?
We’ll figure this out together. In general, study psychologists offer sporadic support, from between 1 to 5 sessions. One sessions lasts from 45 to 60 minutes. We can meet on campus or online or talk over the phone.
What’s the difference between the psychologists at FSHS and the psychologists at UEF?
Great question! The psychologist at FSHS are healthcare workers whereas the UEF psychologists are employed by the university. FSHS psychologists offer treatment and assessment of mental health issues, whereas UEF psychologists help students with their studies and their learning. If you are unsure who could best support you at this time, contact one or the other and describe your situation. You will be referred to whichever service is more appropriate.
I’ve started to wonder if I have ADHD. Can the study psychologist help me?
Study psychologists don’t perform psychological assessments or diagnostics of any kind. For these needs, seek guidance from the FSHS or your local municipal health centre. Study psychologists can, however, support you in planning your studies and finding suitable techniques so that you can cope well with your studies despite any condition or difficulty you might be facing.