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 will meet up with the psychologist a few times.
With what issues can the study psychologist help me?
With the study psychologist, you can discuss 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 https://www.yths.fi/en/frontpage/ or your local health centre.
In acute crises, you can get support from the campus chaplains who are trained crisis workers. The local crisis centres and the crisis helpline also offer support free-of-charge. See further information on the Providers of Support -webpage. https://kamu.uef.fi/en/tietopankki/assistance-advice-and-crisis-situations/help-in-crises/
Information about how to apply for and implement individual study arrangements can be found here. https://kamu.uef.fi/en/tietopankki/students-rights-and-obligations/individual-arrangements/
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. https://kamu.uef.fi/en/tietopankki/planning-and-completing-studies/study-coordinators/
Bookings
The study psychologists will return from summer holidays on the 2nd of August and will henceforth respond to contact requests.
You can request an appointment via e-mail:
opintopsykologi-kuopio@uef.fi
opintopsykologi-joensuu@uef.fi
In your e-mail message, please state the following:
- your study right number
- your telephone number
- a brief description of issues you would like to discuss with the psychologist
A psychologist will give you a telephone call to assess your situation and schedule an appointment.
Appointments are possible either on campus or online.
In Kuopio, study psychologist Katri Ruth welcomes students at Mediteknia, office MD1028.
In Joensuu, study psychologists welcome students in the Haltia building, Mari Tirronen in office 214 and Marinia Sorjonen-Ward in office 215. The Haltia offices are located on the 2nd floor and are accessible only via stairs, but it is possible to meet in an accessible location whenever necessary.
Frequently asked questions
I’ve never spoken to a psychologist before. What am I to 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 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.
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 mental health issues.