Seela leppänen
psychologist | coach | doctoral cand.
I'm Seela, a licensed psychologist, coach, and the founder of SkyLaine. In addition to my psychology degree, I have completed training programs in various evidence-based therapies and solution-focused coaching. I'm also a certified mindfulness instructor and yoga teacher. Currently, I'm pursuing a doctorate in psychology and psychotherapy, which will also qualify me as a psychotherapist. My therapeutic approach is integrative, but my research focuses on existential psychotherapy. My ongoing studies and research fuel my passion for helping people lead more meaningful, authentic, and fulfilling lives.
Over the past decade, I've worked in various psychiatric outpatient clinics and wards, conducting psychological assessments and interventions. I have gained experience in treating mood and anxiety disorders, addictions, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma-related symptoms. My recent focus has been on designing and implementing online therapy interventions. I've supported clients in coping with burnout, life crises, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, I've helped them navigate life transitions, explore questions about the meaning of life, and achieve their goals in their studies, careers, and personal lives.
In essence, I believe in the remarkable potential within each person – a capacity for growth, resilience, and gaining a deeper understanding of their place in the world. I focus on creating an open, warm, and genuine atmosphere in our sessions, allowing you to share your experiences and feelings just as they are. Each session is tailored to your individual needs. I offer in-person appointments at the SkyLaine office in Helsinki and Mehiläinen Therapy Clinic, as well as virtual sessions for clients worldwide.
licensures and certifications
Licensed Psychologist in Finland, awarded by The National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health (Valvira)
Solution-Focused Coach, Turku University
Mindfulness Coach, MBSR-method according to Jon-Kabat Zinn’s teachings, led by Leena Pennanen
Yoga Teacher RYT-200, Authentic Flow, led by Satu Tuomela
Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership, The British Psychological Society
post-graduate training
Cognitive Analytic Therapy Basics, Shortum
Trauma-Focused Short-Term Therapy, YTHS
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Basic Training, HUS
CBT based Online Therapist, HUS
Acceptance and Commitment Group Therapy, YTHS
Psychology of Leadership, University of Eastern Finland
academic training
Master’s in Psychology, Helsinki University
Bachelor’s in Psychology, Helsinki University
Exchange Program in Pitzer College, California USA
Pursued interdisciplinary studies with a focus on Psychology, Molecular Biology, and Epigenetics. This was complemented by coursework in Intercultural Communication and Astronomy, reflecting my diverse academic interests.
ongoing training
Doctorate in Counseling Psychology and Psychotherapy NSPC & Middlesex, London UK
The main psychotherapy orientation is existential, integrating approaches such as CBT, psychodynamic, and family systems therapy.
testimonies
“Seela was the perfect coach for me. Her warm and encouraging attitude created a safe atmosphere. I truly felt heard, and the embodiment exercises incorporated into the coaching sessions deepened the whole experience and helped me take my thoughts to a new level. Before the coaching, I had difficulty getting things done, but now I have learned to recognize my own thoughts and feelings better and I can focus on what's important. Thanks to the coaching, I finally started working towards my career goals. I am truly grateful to Seela for helping me find my inner motivation!”
— J.p., ACA teacher
“Having battled anxiety for as long as I can remember, I have tried countless therapy approaches over the years, particularly cognitive therapies. While they provided some relief, I always felt they didn't address the root cause of my struggles. Years of severe anxiety and even panic attacks led me to medication, which felt more like a temporary band-aid than a solution. Finally, I started my therapy sessions with Seela, and together we uncovered how the existential weight of understanding mortality from a young age had robbed me of peace of mind. Our sessions became a safe haven for me to explore these deep-seated fears without spiraling into panic, even when the answers weren't immediately apparent. Understanding the underlying causes of my anxiety allowed me to make significant changes in my life and move towards a life that I truly value. My panic attacks have vanished, and I've learned to manage my anxiety, even using it as a guide towards meaningful action. I'm immensely grateful to Seela for her guidance and support. I look forward to our monthly follow-up sessions as I continue to grow and evolve.”
— L.C., consultant
“Thank you, Seela, for absolutely everything! I feel so fortunate that you were my therapist during this process. I felt completely safe sharing even the most painful things with you, surrounded by your understanding and professionalism. Without you, the past year would have been much more difficult, miserable, and challenging. You helped me get back on my feet and feel much better. Thank you, thank you, and thank you again!”
— O.L., med student
“Seela is a highly skilled psychologist who made me feel truly heard and seen. She has the ability to connect with people on a deep level, and our sessions were always characterized by a warm and open atmosphere. It was particularly valuable how she helped me process life's fundamental questions, such as meaningfulness, uncertainty, and death/loss of loved ones. Sometimes our sessions were more reflective and conversational, leading to new insights and a greater awareness of my inner beliefs, which also helped me make concrete changes in my life. At other times, we engaged in various visualization or mindfulness exercises, which were particularly helpful in managing grief and anxiety. I wholeheartedly recommend Seela's sessions to anyone seeking the support of a trustworthy and experienced psychologist who desires genuine change in their life.”
— K.N., manager
“Seela, thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything. You were a true lifeline during the darkest period of my life, and because of your guidance and support, I was finally able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Your unwavering belief in me and your presence every step of the way made all the difference. I am eternally grateful.”
— R.M., business student
“As a psychologist/coach, Seela is very empathetic, attentive, and professional! Her coaching provided a clearer framework for clarifying my goals and supporting their achievement. I warmly recommend her coaching to anyone who needs understanding but also a suitable amount of guidance to move forward.”
