How do I start psychotherapy?

Contact a doctor (health center, occupational healthcare, or private), describe your symptoms, get a diagnosis and B-statement, apply for Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy, and find a suitable therapist.

How long does the process take?

Getting a B-statement usually requires a 3-month treatment relationship. Kela's decision takes 2–4 weeks. In total, the process can take 4–6 months.

Do I need a referral for psychotherapy?

You don't need a referral for a private psychotherapist. However, for Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy, you need a doctor's B-statement.

What if the therapist doesn't feel right?

It's completely normal to switch therapists. A good therapeutic relationship is essential for successful treatment. You can try a few therapists before finding the right one.

How do I start psychotherapy?

Contact a doctor (health center, occupational healthcare, or private), describe your symptoms, get a diagnosis and B-statement, apply for Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy, and find a suitable therapist.

How long does the process take?

Getting a B-statement usually requires a 3-month treatment relationship. Kela's decision takes 2–4 weeks. In total, the process can take 4–6 months.

Do I need a referral for psychotherapy?

You don't need a referral for a private psychotherapist. However, for Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy, you need a doctor's B-statement.

What if the therapist doesn't feel right?

It's completely normal to switch therapists. A good therapeutic relationship is essential for successful treatment. You can try a few therapists before finding the right one.

How to find a therapist – A step-by-step guide

Finding a therapist can feel complicated, but the process is clear. This guide walks you through step by step to the right care.

1. Contact a doctor

The first step is to book an appointment with a doctor. You can go to a health center, occupational healthcare, or a private doctor. Tell the doctor about your symptoms and ask for an assessment of your need for psychotherapy.

2. Get a diagnosis and B-statement

The doctor will assess and diagnose any mental health disorder. Writing a B-statement usually requires a 3-month treatment relationship. The B-statement is required for Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy.

3. Apply for Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy

Once you have a B-statement, you can apply for Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy. Kela typically makes a decision within 2–4 weeks. Kela support covers part of the therapy costs.

4. Find the right therapist

Now you can search for a therapist. A good therapist is Kela-approved (if you're applying for Kela support), specializes in your issues, and is conveniently located.

What to consider when choosing a therapist?

Specialization – does the therapist have experience with your specific issue?
Therapy type – CBT, psychodynamic, integrative, or other?
Kela approval – if you're applying for Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy
Location and schedule – is there a suitable time and place?
Chemistry – does the therapist feel trustworthy and safe?

Therapy types in brief

The most common psychotherapy types in Finland are:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Integrative Psychotherapy Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Brief Therapy

What if I don't get Kela support?

You can still seek psychotherapy. Alternatives include private psychotherapy, brief therapy, low-threshold services, and therapy covered through health insurance.