Introducing Short-Term Cognitive Therapy for Children—A New Treatment Model in Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County

The Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County is pioneering a new approach in Finland by training professionals in family counselling and children's mental health services to provide short-term cognitive therapy for children. This treatment model is developed collaboratively by First Line Therapies and the HUS psychiatric unit, alongside psychology and psychotherapy trainers from the Universities of Helsinki, Turku, and Oulu.

This University Hospital-certified multidisciplinary training equips professionals to treat some of the most common childhood mental health challenges, such as anxiety, mood disorders, and behavioural issues.

Short-term cognitive therapy is intended primarily for children aged 7 to 12, and, in certain cases, for those as young as 6, focusing on mild to moderate symptoms.

Since early March, eight psychologists from our Wellbeing Services County have been engaged in this training programme. The training will continue for one more year. The curriculum includes online theory courses, practical treatment exercises, and regular method-based workshops.

Among the participants is Janika Viitaharju, a psychologist in Espoo’s children’s mental health services. She incorporates the new model into her work with families.  “Short-term therapy is highly structured: each session has clear guidelines for which specific exercises will be done and in what sequence,” Viitaharju explains.

The approach is adaptable, allowing for adjustments based on real-life situations. Theory does not always line up with what is needed in the here and now. “In my way of thinking, the priority is always the needs of the child and the family. It's my job to help them and if necessary, we may prioritize something else than the guidelines prescribe to ensure we’re addressing the most pressing concerns,” she reflects.

In Viitaharju's experience, parents have responded positively to these treatment periods. “The commitment from families is evident. I feel like this model integrates well within our mental health services as a treatment option on this level,” says Viitaharju.

The goal is to extend short-term cognitive therapy training to more professionals within family counselling and children’s mental health services, making it a foundational element of children's mental health care.

“We’ve seen the need for a clear, structured treatment model in primary healthcare. Our professionals are skilled and possess a robust understanding of psychological and psychiatric concepts, but there has been considerable variation in practical application, explains Annamari Koivisto, the method director for the project. 

Aino Kuula, co-director of the program, discusses how this therapy provides professionals with an excellent framework for conducting structured, goal-oriented sessions with children and their parents—based on evidence-based exercises and concepts. “It's been a joy to see our trainees’ enthusiasm and anticipation for this program. And, naturally, my hope is that the true impact will be felt by the families and children we serve,” Kuula concludes.