About Mielenlaulu and me
I’m Hilla Väyrynen, the founder of Mielenlaulu Psychology Online. Mielenlaulu was founded on a desire to provide flexible, non-pathologizing mental health services that understand and value the diversity of minds, brains, bodies, personalities, and life paths.
I’m a licensed psychologist living in Oulu, Finland, and my professional licence can be verified in JulkiTerhikki. I’m also a drama instructor with over a decade of experience as a freelance theatrical sound designer.
In my world, the scientific and experiential perspectives side with and complement each other. Music and mindfulness are central to me. Academically, I’m passionate about consciousness studies, and I’m a member of the following research networks: The Association For The Scientific Study Of Consciousness, The Finnish Association for Psychedelic Research, and The Emergent Phenomenology Research Consortium.
Why “Mielenlaulu”?
Mielenlaulu = Mindsong.
What really moves me in psychologist’s work is how one-of-a-kind people are. It’s as if everyone had their own song, complete with unique tones, rhythms, stories, and emotional qualities. I love hearing those songs.
It can be difficult to recognize beauty and value in your own song through all the pain that’s woven into it. Or to hear it at all. Another person needs to hear it first.
The psychotherapist and author Sheldon B. Kopp writes, “Take from no man his song.” This is my core value, too.
Everyone has their own ways of growing, moving forward, experiencing meaning and inspiration, connecting, and belonging. Sometimes these may seem strange to others. Our songs are delicate. Cherishing them is important.
As a psychologist, I am…
… spacious, empathetic, and human.
I believe everything that can be experienced can be studied gently and compassionately. The mind is nothing to fear.
I prefer a contemplative approach that allows for deep listening and self-inquiry. Goal-oriented quick fixes are not my style. A more holistic understanding of self, others, and situations, builds gradually. It can be supported with psychotherapeutic methods and psychological knowledge.
Good life is not the same for everyone because our nature is so variable. We process information differently and love different things. It is this diversity that makes us collectively wiser and more resilient.
Our inner worlds never stop changing and developing. It’s never too late to find new perspectives, meaning, growth, belonging, and stability. To walk our own paths and sing our own songs.