Jennifer De Paola

Licensed Psychologist (Valvira-registered), (she/her)

Master’s in Clinical Psychology from the University of Rome La Sapienza

Italian and English

Helsinki and Online

I’m here to support you on your journey toward greater well-being, whether you’re facing specific challenges or seeking personal growth. I have experience working with the English-speaking community in Finland. I’ve helped individuals navigate a range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, immigration stress, and more. As an immigrant myself, I truly understand the challenges that come with living in a new country, and I’m passionate about helping the international community in Finland adjust, grow, and thrive.

Whether you’re an expat or a Finnish resident, I am here to support you with compassion and understanding. I believe in the importance of building a strong, trusting relationship from the start, and this conversation will allow us to determine if we’re a good fit before we schedule a session. While I prefer to work face-to-face, I am also available for online sessions when necessary.

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

My Approach to Therapy

My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges without fear. My work is informed by my background as a positive psychology researcher. I don’t believe that therapy should only focus on alleviating distress—it should also foster growth, joy, and meaning. Together, we’ll work on identifying your goals and creating a plan that helps you achieve them.

My therapeutic style is integrative, meaning I blend several proven approaches to suit your needs, including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A well-researched, evidence-based approach that
helps you recognize and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. It’s effective for
conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, and more.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This approach helps increase
psychological flexibility and encourages acceptance of difficult emotions. It’s a great fit for
those dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or life transitions.
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT): A therapeutic method that focuses on building self-
compassion and empathy for others. CFT can be particularly helpful for individuals
struggling with shame, self-criticism, or low self-esteem.

I work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your unique concerns and empowers you to lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Whether you’re looking to manage mental health challenges or simply enhance your emotional resilience, I’m here to help you move forward.

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I see each person as a unique individual, with their own strengths and experiences, and I aim to understand you as a whole person, not just as someone dealing with a problem.

Why Work With Me?

Integrative & Evidence-Based

Blends CBT, ACT, and Compassion-Focused Therapy to support healing, resilience, and personal growth.

Positive Psychology Perspective

Goes beyond symptom relief—focusing on joy, meaning, and building a fulfilling life on your terms.

Warm & Collaborative Approach

Creates a safe, non-judgmental space where therapy is tailored to your pace, needs, and strengths.

Licensed & Internationally Trained

Registered with VALVIRA in Finland, with a Master’s from the University of Rome and a PhD from the University of Helsinki focused on well-being and happiness.

Bilingual & Culturally Sensitive

Offers therapy in English and Italian, with a deep understanding of immigration stress and cross-cultural challenges, especially for the international community in Finland.

Education and Experiences

I have a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from the University of Rome La Sapienza, one of Europe’s oldest, most prestigious, and largest universities. My education laid the foundation for my knowledge of therapeutic techniques, psychiatric disorders, and diagnostic practices. I furthered my academic journey by completing my PhD at the University of Helsinki, where I focused on understanding what contributes to happiness in Finland, a country that consistently ranks at the top of the World Happiness Report. This research has given me profound insights into the factors that
impact well-being in a uniquely Finnish cultural context.

I also have firsthand experience working with diverse populations. Right now, I’m part of an exciting project at the University of Eastern Finland. We’re looking at how people from different cultures can live together and grow in a new country. This project is a great match with my passion for helping people from all over the world feel supported and understood when they move to Finland.

If you’re ready to begin your journey toward improved mental health, I invite you to reach out for a free phone call. We’ll talk about your needs, explore how therapy might help, and make a plan for moving forward together. You deserve to feel understood, supported, and empowered, and I’m here to walk alongside you. I look forward to connecting with you soon.

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