Ellen Byman

Valvira licensed psychologist, (she/her)

Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, degree in Basic Sexology

Swedish, English, and Finnish

Helsinki and Online

Hi! My name is Ellen Byman and I am a Valvira registered Clinical Psychologist and a Sexologist. I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Åbo Akademi University and a degree in Basic Sexology from Sexpo. In my practice at Compass, I like to work from a perspective that integrates both mental and sexual well-being.

I have been passionate about this integrative field for many years. My academic work focused on topics such as intimate partner violence in female couples and the connection between sexual communication, jealousy, and relationship quality.

In addition to my work at Compass Psychology, I have previously worked at maternity clinics in Helsinki, where I provided short-term counseling. There, I supported individuals and couples dealing with issues such as anxiety and depression, identity changes, uncertainty, and traumatic experiences.

I have had the opportunity to live and study in Switzerland and live in Germany, which has broadened both my academic and personal perspectives.

Take the first step to help. Book a 15-min phone call to see if we’re the right fit at ellen@compasspsychology.fi

My Approach to Therapy

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), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and mindfulness-based practices. We may use visualisation, self-compassion exercises, or between-session activities to support your growth.

I offer sessions online and in-person at our Helsinki office. In this hybrid model, we mostly have sessions online but meet in the office regularly. I’m also happy to offer online therapy to people throughout Finland.

There is no need to meet in the Helsinki office, if you don’t wish for it. You can attend therapy alone or together with a partner or partners. I work mainly in English and Swedish, and can also offer support in Finnish.

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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.

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 common for mental health symptoms like anxiety, depression, or stress to be related to problems in our sexual lives, or vice versa. Further, individuals who belong to either a sexual or a gender minority overall experience more anxiety and depression compared to individuals who don’t.

Many of us are lacking crucial knowledge on sexuality and it might still feel taboo or embarrassing to discuss the topic, even with a partner. Harmful myths, trends, norms and stereotypes can interfere with desire, pleasure and enjoyment. 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.

Sexuality related topics we might explore include:

Body image and self-perception

Pleasure and enjoyment

Low or mismatched sexual desire

The connection between mental and sexual well-being

Communication and consent in sexual relationships

Fantasies, preferences, and performance pressure

Identity questions (sexuality, gender, relationship styles)

Sexual trauma, boundary-setting, and healing

Cultural, societal, or religious influences on sexuality

Loneliness and the desire for connection

I work closely with you to develop a personalised 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.

Book a 15-min phone call to see if we're the right fit