My Background

I’m Joonas Vehvilainen, an Accredited BACP Counsellor (MSc) and Advanced Practitioner Member of Addiction Professionals, and I support younger adults (18-45) on their path toward lasting change and recovery.

About Me

I am originally from Finland, but I have also lived in Thailand, the USA, and the United Kingdom, where I have spent most of my life.

Growing up, I was always fascinated by how the mind and brain work. When it was time to choose my career path, psychology was a natural choice for me.

Education & Academic Training

In 2014, I completed my undergraduate degree in psychology at the University of York, exploring various fields such as social psychology, mental health disorders, and addiction.

My passion for understanding human behaviour led me to pursue a Master's Degree in neuroscience at King’s College London in 2015, focusing on the behaviour behind addiction and mental conditions.

Clinical Experience

To gain practical experience, I worked in various roles in London.

From 2016 to 2019, I was a healthcare assistant in a mental health unit and a recovery worker in supported accommodations for those dealing with mental health and addiction issues.

Witnessing the challenges my clients faced inspired me to further my education.

Counselling Training & Practice

In 2019, I began a Master’s degree in addiction psychology and counselling at London South Bank University (LSBU).

Along with my studies, I continued working, offering counselling services through the NHS, Humankind, and WDP from 2019 to 2021.

These first two years as a counsellor solidified my understanding of supporting clients by:

  • analysing their issues

  • teaching coping skills

  • emphasising psychoeducation

  • providing emotional support

Professional Accreditation

In 2021, I became a certified member of the British Association of Counselling Practitioners (BACP) and Addiction Professionals.

Shortly after this, I started my own practice while working as an addiction therapist at Castle Craig Hospital in Scotland from March 2023 to November 2024.

My Practice Today…

Currently, I am exclusively focused on my own online practice where I work between Finland and the UK.

The diverse experiences I have gained since my first job in mental health in 2016, combined with my extensive education, have encouraged my dedication to supporting anyone courageous enough to seek help.

*If you wish to familiarise yourself with the specifics of my approach and techniques, I suggest having a look at the section: ‘My Approach’