Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why skiing psychologist appointments?

There are different reasons for booking an appointment and it most important that this approach feels right to you. I also offer sitting sessions with even greater emphasis on talking. However, a reason for meeting a psychologist while skiing is that it might be experienced as less confrontational, low-threshold, fun, and insight-provoking. In my experience this is the ideal mix between talking and doing. Furthermore, certain psychological principles become tangible and comprehensible when experienced in a felt way.

2. What is coaching and when should I seek a coach?

Coaching is a goal-driven, creative and thought-provoking process rooted in an alliance between the coach and the client. Coaching aims at maximizing personal or professional potential. It is designed to facilitate the development of personal, professional or business goals and to create and carry out a strategy for achieving those goals. Coaching may work with individuals, couples, families, or groups to address concerns, improve relationships, enhance performance, or facilitate personal growth. As a psychologist, I use a variety of evidence-based interventions. The type of interventions and exercises used depends on the client’s needs and goals.

Overall, people seek coaches to improve their lives, reach their goals, and achieve greater success and fulfilment in their personal and professional endeavours. You might consider coaching for one of the following reasons:

1. Career development: You might seek coaching to improve your job performance, or navigate a career change. Coaching can help to identify strengths, develop new skills, and create a plan for career advancement.
2. Goal-setting: You may seek coaching to help set and achieve goals. A coach can help to identify your goals, develop a plan to achieve them, and provide support and accountability along the way.
3. Life transitions: Coaching can be beneficial during major life transitions such as divorce, retirement, or a change in health status. Coaching may help you navigate these transitions by providing support, encouragement, and guidance.
4. Personal development: You may seek coaching to improve your relationships, increase your confidence, or improve overall well-being. Coaching may help you to identify areas for personal growth and provide tools and strategies for self-improvement.

3. How long does coaching last?

The number and frequency of coaching sessions varies and depends on the your needs and goals. Some clients may only require a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term collaboration. However, my goal is to equip you with the tools you need to lead a self-directed happy life in as few sessions as possible. On average, 5 to 8 sessions may be experienced to be ideal.

4. Is a coaching session confidential?

Yes, coaching sessions are confidential. As a psychologist, I am required by law to protect my client’s privacy and keep your information confidential, with a few exceptions (such as if there is a risk of harm to the client or others).

5. What should I expect during my first session?

During our first coaching session, we will likely explore your current situation and a bit of your background, as far as it is necessary for the coaching process. We may discuss the coaching process itself and what you can expect from it. We then may proceed with the first evidence-based exercises.

6. Will coaching work for me?

There is no guarantee that coaching will work for everyone, but research has shown that coaching can be efficient and is associated with a variety of positive outcomes.

7. Is this psychotherapy? Does health insurance pay?

I am a psychologist (B.Sc. and M.Sc.) but I am not a psychotherapist. If mental health issues are restricting your life, causing problems, or impairing your well-being, a psychotherapist can support you best. In Germany, only psychotherapy is covered by health care.

8. You are coming to Finland. What should I know beforehand?

In Finland Valvira grants practice rights to mental health professionals, such as psychologists. I have applied for recognition as a psychologist but am not currently accredited as a psychologist in Finland. Although I provide coaching in Finland, drawing from my experience, I am not officially recognised or have practice rights in Finland. Also, my service is not covered by kela.