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Therapy without Kela: alternatives and funding

Updated · Editorial principles and sources

Not everyone qualifies for Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy, but that doesn't mean therapy is out of reach. This guide covers alternative ways to fund therapy.

Alternatives to Kela support

Health insurance

Some private health insurance policies partially cover psychotherapy. Check your own policy terms.

Employer-provided services

Depending on the contract, occupational health care may offer short-term therapy. Some employers also offer employee assistance programmes (EAP), which may include counselling sessions; the number varies.

Training therapy

Psychotherapist trainees often offer training therapy at a lower price. They work under supervision during their training. Ask about the price and supervision directly.

Low-threshold services

Wellbeing services county mental health services, student health care, parish family counselling and NGO services are often free or low-cost.

Cost comparison

ServicePrice
Private psychotherapyVaries by therapist
Training therapyOften lower than usual
Short-term therapy (occupational)Often free for the employee (depends on the contract)
Wellbeing services county servicesFree or a client fee

Frequently asked questions

Options include private health insurance, employer-provided services (occupational health care, possible employee assistance programmes), low-threshold services (crisis line, walk-in clinics), student health care and your wellbeing services county's mental health services. Short-term therapy is also often a more affordable option.
Some private health insurance policies partially cover psychotherapy. Amounts, annual caps and conditions vary by insurer, so check your own policy terms.
Affordable options include your wellbeing services county's mental health services, student health care, training therapy by psychotherapist trainees, parish family counselling and NGO services. Some are free; prices for others vary, so check with the provider.
Where to find a therapist