"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."— Carl Rogers
About me
Hello, I'm Leonardo
As an affirmative Psychologist, I support clients on their therapeutic journeys, exploring life's deeper questions, understanding values, and creating meaningful personal stories.
Having lived as an expat for 12 years across the UK and the Middle East before settling in Athens, Greece, I have a deep understanding of the emotional challenges that come with relocation and cultural transitions.
My practice focuses on fostering genuine self-awareness and helping people feel more integrated within themselves, building lives with greater meaning and purpose.
I have particular experience supporting people through crucial moments in life, including major transitions and questions of professional direction. I work with issues around identity, authenticity, relationships, sexuality, LGBTQIA+ experiences, addiction, loneliness, emptiness, depression, anxiety, and burnout. I also specialise in helping clients make sense of life choices and navigate their path with clarity and meaning.
My approach is trauma-informed, and I aim to create a truly welcoming space where you can explore your most intimate experiences safely and without judgement.
If this resonates with you, feel free to reach out and we can talk about available appointments.
Approach
How I work
I believe that some of life's most difficult moments can also become powerful opportunities for growth and change. In therapy, I support clients in finding new perspectives and developing practical ways to navigate challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.
My work integrates different therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment-based therapy, and psychodynamic approaches. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model, I adapt the work to each person's unique story, needs, and goals, combining practical tools with deeper exploration of patterns and emotions.
I aim to create a safe, respectful, and supportive space where you can feel genuinely heard. Together, we explore your experiences, relationships, and patterns in a way that helps you understand yourself more deeply and make choices that feel more aligned with who you are.
I have a particular interest in working with relationship and LGBTQIA+ topics. This includes exploring open or non-traditional relationship models, polyamory, and the impact of dating apps on connection and intimacy. I also work with challenges such as expectations, compulsive patterns, addiction, and chemsex, looking at how these experiences relate to identity, relationships, and the realities of modern life.
Experience
Where I've been
Working through different channels including It's Complicated, Zenklub, Therapy Route, Therapy Mantra, and Pink Therapy.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Voluntary Employee Mental Health Counsellor for the Peer Support Programme, providing 24/7 online support to company staff members.
Kathmandu, Nepal. Supported the organisation and delivery of community activities and workshops focused on children's wellbeing and development.
Research in various projects related to mental health among the LGBTQ+ community, including the possible effects of gay dating and hookup apps on users' wellbeing and how they influence relationship building within the community.
Education