How Much Does Therapy Cost in Helsinki? Complete 2025 Guide
Therapy in Helsinki can cost anywhere from free public services to over €200 per session in private practice. This guide breaks down typical prices, cost differences across the city, and practical ways to find affordable support.
From highly affordable city services and KELA-reimbursed psychotherapy to private clinics in the city center, the cost of therapy in Helsinki varies significantly. This guide breaks down what you can expect to pay, how prices differ across the city, and where to find the right support for your needs.
Table of Contents | Jump Ahead
Therapy Costs by Provider Type in Helsinki
Helsinki District Cost Variations
Insurance Coverage in Helsinki
Affordable Therapy Options in Helsinki
Transportation and Access in Helsinki
Helsinki-Specific Factors Affecting Therapy Costs
Tips to Reduce Therapy Costs in Helsinki
How to Find Affordable Therapy in Helsinki
Recent Cost Trends (2024-2025)
Quick Summary
- Private Therapy Sessions: €95-207 per session (45-60 minutes)
- Public Healthcare Psychology: 9.60 € per session (with referral)
- Psychiatrist Visits: Free with referral (public healthcare)
- Online Therapy: Same as in-person rates
- Couples Therapy: €125-230 per session (50-80 minutes)
- Average Wait Time: 1-4 weeks for private, 6-16 weeks for public
- Student/Intern Rates: €30-51 per session
Therapy Costs by Provider Type in Helsinki
| Provider Type | Cost Range (€) | Session Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychiatrist (public) | Free | 45-60 min | Covered with GP referral |
| Psychologist (public) | 9.60 | 45-50 min | City of Helsinki services |
| Private Psychiatrist | 100-180 | 45 min | Consultation/therapy |
| Private Psychologist | 95-120 | 45-60 min | Individual therapy |
| Private Psychotherapist | 115-145 | 45-60 min | Mehiläinen and private practices |
| Student/Intern Therapists | 30-44 | 45 min | Supervised training |
| Online Therapy | 95-180 | 45-60 min | Same rates as in-person |
| Assessment/Testing | 200-500 | Variable | Psychological evaluations |
Helsinki District Cost Variations
Premium Areas (Higher Costs)
- Keskusta (City Center): €130-207 per session
- Punavuori: €120-195 per session
- Kamppi: €120-195 per session
- Eira: €115-190 per session
Mid-Range Areas
- Kallio: €110-172 per session
- Töölö: €110-172 per session
- Ullanlinna: €105-167 per session
- Kruununhaka: €105-167 per session
Outer Areas (Lower Costs)
- Pasila: €95-150 per session
- Malmi: €90-144 per session
- Vuosaari: €85-138 per session
- Outer suburbs: €80-132 per session
Insurance Coverage in Helsinki
Public Healthcare System
- Psychiatrist visits: Free with GP referral
- Psychology sessions: 9.60 € per visit (City of Helsinki)
- Maximum daily fee: 19.20 € (two visits maximum)
- First visit: Free of charge
KELA (Social Insurance Institution)
- Psychotherapy reimbursement: Up to 80 sessions per year
- Maximum coverage: 200 sessions over 3 years
- Age-based refunds: Higher for under 27 years
- Specialist statement: Required for KELA psychotherapy
Private Insurance
- Employer insurance: Often includes mental health coverage
- Private health insurance: Varies by provider
- International insurance: Better coverage for expats
Affordable Therapy Options in Helsinki
Public Healthcare System
- GP referral: Access to free psychiatrist visits
- City of Helsinki psychology: 9.60 € per session
- Crisis intervention: Emergency mental health services
University Training Programs
- Compass Psychology students: €30-51 per session
- University of Helsinki: Student therapy services
- Training institutes: Supervised therapy at reduced rates
Specialized Low-Cost Services
- Compass Psychology: €100-138 (regular), €30-51 (students)
- Mehiläinen: €115-167 with various locations
- Private practices: Range of pricing options
Community Resources
- Mental Health Finland: Support and advocacy
- Crisis helplines: Free telephone support
- Support groups: Often free or low-cost
Transportation and Access in Helsinki
Public Transport Considerations
- HSL System: 2.90 € per trip, monthly pass 58.50 €
- Annual pass: 612 € (adults)
- Therapy locations: Most accessible via metro/tram/bus
- Cycling: Excellent bike infrastructure throughout city
Parking and Cycling
- Parking costs: €2-5 per hour in city center
- Bike-friendly: Extensive cycling network
- City bikes: Available throughout Helsinki
Helsinki-Specific Factors Affecting Therapy Costs
Language Requirements
- Finnish-speaking therapists: Standard rates
- English-speaking therapists: 10-20% premium
- Other languages: Limited availability, higher costs
- International therapy centers: Premium pricing for expats
Specializations in High Demand
- Trauma therapy/EMDR: €120-195 per session
- ADHD assessment: €200-575 per session
- Autism assessment: 500-1,500 € per session
- Neuropsychological testing: 890-2,410 € per assessment
Cultural and Economic Considerations
- High cost of living: Therapy costs reflect local economics
- Tech hub: Demand for stress and burnout therapy
- International business center: Multilingual services needed
Healthcare System Features
- KELA reimbursement: Significant coverage for psychotherapy
- City services: Affordable municipal psychology services
- Private clinic model: Most English-speaking therapists are private
Tips to Reduce Therapy Costs in Helsinki
- Use Public Healthcare: 9.60 € per session with City of Helsinki
- KELA Psychotherapy: Up to 80 sessions per year covered
- Student/Intern Therapists: €30-51 per session
- Check Employer Benefits: Many companies offer mental health coverage
- Private Insurance: Verify coverage before starting treatment
- Group Therapy: Often available at lower cost
- Video Therapy: Same rates but saves travel costs
- Crisis Services: Free emergency mental health support
How to Find Affordable Therapy in Helsinki
Public Route
- Contact GP (lääkäri) for referral
- Use City of Helsinki psychology services
- Apply for KELA psychotherapy
- Access crisis intervention services
Private Practice Search
- Compass Psychology (English-speaking services)
- Mehiläinen (multiple locations)
- Individual private practices
- University referrals
Emergency Resources
- 112: Emergency services
- Mental Health Crisis Line: 09 2525 0111
- Crisis Helpline: 09 2525 0111
- Suicide Prevention: 010 195 202
Recent Cost Trends (2024-2025)
- Private therapy costs: Increased 8-12% from 2024
- Public healthcare fees: Maintained at 9.60 € per visit
- KELA coverage: Expanded to 80 sessions per year
- English-speaking services: Premium maintained due to international demand
- Service fees: New 4 € service fee introduced by some providers (March 2025)
Sources
Note: Costs may vary based on individual circumstances and insurance coverage. Always verify current rates with providers directly.
Important:
TherapyRoute does not provide medical advice. All content is for informational purposes and cannot replace consulting a healthcare professional. If you face an emergency, please contact a local emergency service. For immediate emotional support, consider contacting a local helpline.
Find a Therapist
Find skilled psychologists, psychiatrists, and counsellors near you.
