Luciana Paredes, PhD

Dr. Luciana Paredes is a leading researcher and educator specializing in sexual fantasy, imagination, and creative expression in human sexuality. With over 12 years of experience combining qualitative research, experimental studies, and clinical practice, she explores the intricate ways in which fantasy shapes sexual identity, desire, and relational dynamics. Her work bridges academic rigor with accessible insights for educators, therapists, and the public.

Specialization

Sexual Fantasy Research
Erotic Imagination and Creativity
Cognitive and Emotional Aspects of Desire
Therapeutic Applications of Sexual Imagination
Cross-Cultural Sexual Behavior Studies

Education

2006–2010: BSc in Psychology, University of Buenos Aires
2010–2012: MSc in Human Sexuality, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
2012–2016: PhD in Sexual Behavior & Imagination Studies, University of Amsterdam

Professional Experience

2016–2018: Clinical Researcher, Erotic Cognition Lab, University of Amsterdam
2018–2021: Lecturer in Sexuality Studies, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
2021–Present: Director of Sexual Imagination Research Programs, Global Sexuality Institute
Consultant for NGOs on sexual wellness and creative education programs

Research Cases and Project Highlights

Project: “Mapping Erotic Fantasy Across Cultures” (2020–2022)
Methods: Cross-cultural surveys with 5,000+ participants, qualitative interviews.
Findings: Identified 12 universal fantasy archetypes and their influence on sexual well-being.
Impact: Integrated findings into a new curriculum for sexual health educators, improving fantasy literacy in adolescent programs.
Project: “Creative Erotic Imagination & Relationship Satisfaction” (2019)
Methods: Longitudinal study with couples using guided fantasy exercises.
Findings: Couples engaging in structured erotic imagination practices reported a 35% increase in relationship satisfaction and enhanced communication.
Publication: Paredes, L. et al., 2020, Journal of Sexual Creativity.
Project: “Fantasy as a Therapeutic Tool” (2018)
Methods: Clinical intervention study with 120 clients exploring fantasy integration in therapy.
Results: 70% of participants reported improved sexual confidence and reduced performance anxiety.
Quote: “Fantasy is not an escape but a path to self-awareness and erotic empowerment.” – L. Paredes, 2019.

Selected Scientific Publications

Paredes, L., 2022. “Erotic Archetypes and Desire Patterns: A Cross-Cultural Study.” Journal of Sexual Health Research, 29(3), 212–235.
Paredes, L., & Müller, K., 2020. “Creative Imagination and Relational Satisfaction.” International Journal of Erotic Studies, 15(2), 88–104.
Paredes, L., 2019. “Fantasy Integration in Clinical Practice: Case Studies and Insights.” Sexual Therapy Quarterly, 11(4), 55–79.

Professional Memberships

International Society for Sexual Research (ISSR)
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT)
European Network for Sexuality and Culture (ENSC)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Researcher, WHO Initiative “Fantasy and Sexual Health Education” (2021–2023)
Consultant, UNESCO “Imaginative Learning in Sexuality Education” (2020–2022)
Advisor, Global Sexuality Institute Digital Tools Project (2021–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Developed online modules for sexual fantasy literacy for teens and adults
Trained educators and therapists on integrating fantasy in healthy sexual development
Designed workshops to foster creativity, consent, and safe exploration in adult relationships

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

TEDx Talk: “The Power of Fantasy in Erotic Life” (2022)
Guest speaker on BBC “Sexual Imagination and Wellbeing” (2021)
Host of the podcast series “Erotic Minds: Exploring Fantasy and Desire”

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Paredes emphasizes integrating research-backed insights with practical, culturally sensitive approaches. Her work empowers individuals and couples to explore fantasy safely, enhances sexual literacy, and bridges academic research with real-world applications in therapy and education.