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 individual counselling appointments are no longer available for the autumn semester 2025 on either campus. Appointment booking will reopen in January 2026.
For the remainder of the year, the study psychologists offer telephone consultation hours.
You can send a call request via text message, and the study psychologist will contact you during the consultation hours. Please include your full name and student number in the message. Do not include any health information (e.g., diagnoses) in your text message.
You may also call the study psychologist yourself during the consultation hours listed below. If the line is busy, please call only once – the study psychologist will return your call as soon as possible.
Study psychologists’ telephone consultation hours in November and December 2025:
Mon 17 Nov, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., Study Psychologist Trainee Ilkka Pöyhönen, tel. +358504102644
Mon 24 Nov, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., Study Psychologist Mari Tirronen, tel.+358505691806
Mon 1 Dec, 2 p.m.–4 p.m., Study Psychologist Saara Kuusisto tel. +358 50 3386415
Mon 8 Dec, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., Study Psychologist Katri Ruth, tel. +358403552044
For remote appointments, we use secure software called Nordhealth Connect.
Offices
Study psychologist Katri Ruth
Kuopio campus
Study psychologist Mari Tirronen
Joensuu campus
Study psychologist Saara Kuusisto
Joensuu campus
The offices in Joensuu are on the 2nd floor of the building and require use of stairs, but we can arrange to meet in an accessible location also.
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.