Hi and welcome to my page. 

My name is Ellen Byman and I am a Valvira registered Clinical Psychologist. I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Åbo Akademi University. During my studies, I had the opportunity to live and study in Switzerland, which broadened both my academic and personal perspectives. In addition to my work at Compass Psychology, I work at a maternity clinic in Helsinki, where I provide short-term counseling. There, I support individuals and couples in dealing with challenges such as anxiety and depression, identity changes, uncertainty, and traumatic experiences. At Compass, I will mostly work with themes related to sexology. I’m currently completing training in Basic Sexology and have been passionate about this field for many years. At university I focused on themes related to sexual and mental well-being when I could. I, for example, wrote my Bachelor’s thesis on intimate partner violence in female couples and in my Master’s thesis I explored the connection between sexual communication, jealousy, and relationship quality.

Sexology and Mental Health

Sexology is the scientific study of human sexuality, including topics like gender identity, intimacy, desire, pleasure, sexual behavior, communication, and the many social and cultural factors that influence them. Sexuality is a core part of being human and is deeply connected to our overall well-being. It’s not uncommon for mental health symptoms like anxiety, depression, or stress to be related to problems in our sexual lives, or vice versa.

Maybe you’ve noticed a drop in desire, felt tension in your relationship related to intimacy, or struggled with body image or sexual identity. Perhaps you’re wondering if you’re “normal,” or just want a place to speak openly about things you haven’t felt safe sharing elsewhere. Whatever the concern, counseling can be a place to explore it respectfully, openly, and at your pace.

Topics we might explore include:

• How your mental and sexual health influence one another
• Low or mismatched sexual desire
• Communication and consent in sexual relationships
• Fantasies, preferences, and performance pressure
• Identity questions (sexuality, gender, relationship styles)
• Body image and self-perception
• Loneliness and the desire for connection
• Sexual trauma, boundary-setting, and healing
• Cultural, societal, or religious influences on sexuality

Therapeutic Approach

My approach to counseling is warm and collaborative. I aim to create a space where you feel safe to explore what’s difficult, make sense of your experiences, and move toward meaningful change. Together, we’ll find an approach that works for you.

Counseling with me is structured and goal-oriented. We begin by understanding your current situation and clarifying what you want to work toward. I often incorporate tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Schema Therapy, self compassion and mindfulness-based practices. We may use visualization and between-session activities to support your growth.

I offer sessions both online and in person, primarily in the afternoons. You can attend counseling alone or together with a partner or partners. I work mainly in English and Swedish, and can also offer support in Finnish.

Take the First Step
I work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your unique concerns, whether related to mental health, sexual well-being, or both. My goal is to support you in moving toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with greater self-understanding, connection and contentment.

If you’re interested in beginning counseling together, I warmly invite you to reach out by email. I’m happy to answer your questions and help you decide if this is the right fit for you.