A safespaceto beA safe space to bewho you are.
Sofia Pavanello Decaro.
Psychologist, GSRD sexual
consultant and researcher.
Individual support for
LGBTQIA+ people.Sofia Pavanello Decaro. Psychologist, GSRD
sexual consultant and researcher.
Individual support for
LGBTQIA+ people.Sofia Pavanello Decaro. Psychologist, GSRD
sexual consultant and researcher.
Individual support for
LGBTQIA+ people.
Mental health &
sexual wellbeing
Focusing on the LGBTQIA+ community.
My name is Sofia. I am a psychologist and sex counselor specializing in GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diversity) issues. I focus on mental health and sexual well-being. My approach is based on creating a welcoming space where we can cultivate presence, mindfulness, and self-awareness, drawing on my background in yoga and meditation.
Alongside my clinical practice, I explore GSRD issues through research projects aimed at giving voice to queer experiences and intersectional or marginalized identities. I earned a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Milan-Bicocca, where I continued as a postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Psychology and as a co-instructor in the Master’s program in Clinical Sexology. You can view the complete list of my publications on my ResearchGate profile.
I collaborate with Asterisco Association and the independent research group Safe Space.
Dedicated support & research
Offering a space for listening and acceptance, valuing LGBTQIA+ identities through clinical support and academic research.
Psychological support
I offer individual psychological support sessions online and, depending on availability, in person in Milan. I work primarily with people from minority groups, and my goal is to create a safe space to explore identity, relational dynamics, and sexual and emotional well-being. My approach is supportive and affirmative. Sessions are available in Italian and English. I also offer sexual counseling and sexological support for individuals, couples, and other relationship configurations.
Research & collaboration
My research straddles the fields of social and clinical psychology and gender studies. I have conducted research projects on the experiences of people with diverse queer identities, such as the asexual/aromantic spectrum, lesbian, and bisexual identities. My research has always been conducted in collaboration with activists and members of the relevant communities, with the aim of producing consistent and representative data in a respectful manner: “No research about us, without us!”
I am available to collaborate on research projects with companies, associations, organizations, and research groups working on issues related to sexual and gender diversity, intersectionality, and activism for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people.
Your consultation journey
A simple, transparent process to start our journey together.
Reach out
Fill out the contact form below. I typically reply within 24 hours to schedule our first contact.
First session
An introductory meeting with no commitment. A space to understand your needs and see if we are a good fit.
We begin
We define the frequency and format that works best for you, either in-person or online.
... Throughout our journey I often had the feeling of being in front of a soul helping another soul put itself back together, without judgment and with great delicacy. ...
... Sofia is an extremely dedicated and knowledgeable professional, both on queer issues and beyond. She guided and supported me through my transition not only on a psychological level but also with practical advice. ...
Words from
clients
Due to the nature of our work and strict confidentiality, full names and photos are never shared. These are anonymized reflections from past consultation journeys, translated from italian to english.
Practicalities
Frequently Asked Questions.
What is the cost of a session?
Standard fee: €55
Psychological consultation sessions are health services and are tax-deductible in Italy.
I offer reduced-fee slots for students and individuals facing financial hardship. Feel free to reach out for more information.
Where do sessions take place?
Sessions are available online via secure video call, or in-person. You can specify your preference when reaching out.
How long is a session?
Individual psychology and consultation sessions typically last 50-60 minutes.
Do I need to be LGBTQIA+ to work with you?
No. I work with anyone seeking a path of psychological support in an open, non-judgmental space. I explicitly address LGBTQIA+ individuals because I offer an affirmative approach, but everyone is welcome.
How can I book a session?
Send me a message through the contact form. I'll respond within 24 hours and we'll schedule a first appointment together.