On Monday, February 3, ÌìÃÀÓ°Ôº had the pleasure of welcoming , MSc in Psychology, clinical psychologist, and doctoral candidate at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland, for a guest lecture in Professor Heidi Toivonen’s Clinical and Abnormal Psychology course. The lecture, open to students and staff alike, focused on the psychological group rehabilitation of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Long COVID, providing valuable insights into the role of clinical psychologists in managing these conditions.
Keurulainen introduced the key symptoms of both illnesses, including persistent fatigue, cognitive impairment, dysautonomia, brain fog, unrefreshing sleep, and pain. While the exact mechanisms behind these conditions remain unclear, she emphasized that their impact on daily life is significant. One of the notable distinctions she highlighted was prognosis—patients with Long COVID generally show better recovery outcomes compared to those with ME/CFS.
The lecture underscored the importance of early intervention and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, involving doctors, physiotherapists, psychologists, and occupational therapists. Keurulainen outlined essential strategies for psychologists working with affected individuals, such as fostering a supportive therapeutic alliance, providing illness education, teaching management strategies (e.g., pacing and relaxation techniques), supporting healthy lifestyle choices, and addressing secondary mental health concerns like depression and anxiety.
Additionally, Keurulainen shared insights from an ongoing multidisciplinary study at Päijät-Häme Central Hospital in Finland, which explores a health psychological group rehabilitation model for ME/CFS patients. Her research focuses on strengthening patient agency and improving rehabilitation approaches within healthcare settings.
A member of the audience stated: “I enjoyed the lecture very much; it truly fueled my inspiration. I was really surprised how very similar the treatment approach towards CFS is that a psychotherapist uses versus the one used in Occupational Therapy!"
We extend our gratitude to Meeri Keurulainen for sharing her expertise and offering Franklin students valuable insights into this crucial area of psychological rehabilitation.