Niemikotisäätiö’s Experience Coordinator Sirpa Sinisalo has reached a significant milestone: she has graduated as a work supervisor from MIELI Mental Health Finland’s volunteer work supervision training programme. The three-year programme ran alongside her work and everyday life, but her determined efforts have now been rewarded.
For Sinisalo, work supervision became familiar years ago after she graduated as an expert by experience.
“I knew very little about work supervision before receiving supervision myself. I became interested immediately, and gradually the idea emerged that I would like to help others discover their own resources, strengths, and ways of coping at work,” she says.
Work supervision offers an opportunity to pause and reflect on one’s work, examine one’s relationship with it, and consider its meaning.
“Work supervision is not only about solving problems. It can also be about recognising what is already working well.”
An Intensive Study Schedule Required Persistence
The training was not easy. Due to the merging of student groups, Sinisalo’s group had to catch up on six months of studies within a tight schedule.
“At times, we studied at a very intense pace. One example is that we had a literature circle meeting on Teams on New Year’s Eve. We squeezed out every last bit of energy,” she laughs.
Although the studies demanded a great deal, graduating feels especially meaningful.
“After becoming ill, I had not previously tested my own resources in such a demanding situation. Combining work and studies was a major challenge, but I managed it well.”
To support her own wellbeing, Sinisalo developed a simple but effective strategy.
“I have a pyjama day once a week. That’s when I recover and gradually release stress instead of waiting until a holiday.”
Experience Expertise Supports Work Supervision
Sinisalo sees a strong connection between recovery-oriented thinking and work supervision.
“In both, space is given to the individual, while support and structure are provided for their personal journey. In work supervision, ready-made answers are not given; instead, people are helped to find their own.”
The ability to ask questions also emerged as one of her strengths in feedback from practice groups.
“Many people said I asked good questions. I believe my background as an expert by experience helps me recognise cause-and-effect relationships and quickly identify what is essential.”
Safety, Self-Compassion and Comfort
As a work supervisor, Sinisalo wants above all to bring a sense of safety into workplaces.
“When people feel safe, they can truly be themselves. In addition, I want to strengthen self-compassion. It has benefited me greatly. When we learn to let go of excessive self-demand a little, we often achieve more with less strain.”
She also speaks about the importance of comfort and consolation.
“Life includes sad and difficult experiences. If we have the ability to comfort ourselves, we can carry those burdens a little more lightly.”
Thanks to Niemikoti Foundation and the Community
At the moment of graduation, Sinisalo wishes to thank the many people who accompanied her on this journey.
She gives special thanks to Hilpi Marttinen, the long-time supervisor of Niemikotisäätiö’s experts by experience, whom she considers a role model. She also thanks Niemikotisäätiö for making the studies possible and supporting her throughout the process, as well as her trainers and fellow students for sharing the journey.
“It’s Worth Pursuing Your Dreams”
What advice does Sinisalo have for someone considering starting a new course of study?
“I encourage people to pursue their dreams. It is rewarding when the journey is completed, but the journey itself is also an important part of the process. New ideas, perspectives, and learning are always valuable. It’s not worth staying only within what is familiar and safe—you should also dare to move towards something new.”
For now, however, Sinisalo intends to enjoy her achievement and the coming summer.
“I’m interested in mediation next, but before starting new studies, it’s good to take a moment to breathe.”
Graduation Celebrated at Haaga Activity Centre
Sirpa’s graduation was celebrated with coffee and cake at Haaga Activity Centre on 29 May 2026. The occasion featured warm congratulatory speeches and shared joy in honour of this significant achievement.
The celebration was attended by staff from Haaga Activity Centre, VERnet, and Niemikotisäätiö’s administration. Among those offering congratulations were Lauri Kuosmanen from Evipro and Hilpi Marttinen, who has been an important role model, supporter, and source of inspiration for Sirpa during her work supervision studies.
The event was further enhanced by a musical performance by Kimmo, which provided a warm and memorable finishing touch. Sirpa’s long-term dedication, commitment to her studies, and professional growth received the recognition they deserved, surrounded by her community.
The entire Niemikotisäätiö community congratulates Sirpa on this wonderful achievement!
Photos: © Marko Hanni, Lead Instructor at Haaga Activity Centre
