Interview
Secrets of Working with People: Psychology, Sexology, and a Touch of Provocation
Psychologist and sexologist Yulia Basova specializes in neurodivergent individuals, runs an emotionally engaging Instagram, and isn’t afraid to provoke during sessions. In an interview with Impulse, she shared why she moved back to Spain from the UK, how she turns men looking to flirt into therapy clients, and why she launched a business consulting service for companies.
Yulia Basova
Why has the profession of psychology become so popular now, including as an entrepreneurial endeavor?
The entry into this field has become too easy. Many people who call themselves psychologists lack academic education and rely solely on their ability to give advice. I often see statements like: “I’ve been in personal therapy for many years, so it would be a shame not to pursue psychology myself,” or “I completed an online course and got a certificate.”
Imagine going to a clinic where your treatment is handled by someone who never studied medicine but only briefly observed surgeries. Such a person doesn’t know anatomy, hasn’t passed exams, and hasn’t conducted research.
Why shouldn’t psychology require the same level of preparation as surgery?
In the UK, for example, working as a psychologist in public institutions requires extensive training. First, a four-year undergraduate degree in psychology is mandatory. After that, you can work as an assistant, but a master’s degree is necessary for a full-fledged career because psychology is considered a science in the UK.
You’re expected to study not only humanities but also technical disciplines, such as programming. For instance, client information is stored in encrypted formats accessible only to specialists.
But having a diploma doesn’t always guarantee someone will be a good psychologist, does it?
Of course not. Passion for the profession is equally important. You can immediately recognize it—in their eyes and in how they speak about their work.
The entry into this field has become too easy. Many people who call themselves psychologists lack academic education and rely solely on their ability to give advice. I often see statements like: “I’ve been in personal therapy for many years, so it would be a shame not to pursue psychology myself,” or “I completed an online course and got a certificate.”
Imagine going to a clinic where your treatment is handled by someone who never studied medicine but only briefly observed surgeries. Such a person doesn’t know anatomy, hasn’t passed exams, and hasn’t conducted research.
Why shouldn’t psychology require the same level of preparation as surgery?
In the UK, for example, working as a psychologist in public institutions requires extensive training. First, a four-year undergraduate degree in psychology is mandatory. After that, you can work as an assistant, but a master’s degree is necessary for a full-fledged career because psychology is considered a science in the UK.
You’re expected to study not only humanities but also technical disciplines, such as programming. For instance, client information is stored in encrypted formats accessible only to specialists.
But having a diploma doesn’t always guarantee someone will be a good psychologist, does it?
Of course not. Passion for the profession is equally important. You can immediately recognize it—in their eyes and in how they speak about their work.
It’s very important to do something that brings value, joy, and a sense that you’re moving forward.
Yulia, are you also an author of romance novels?
Yes, four of my novels and one children’s book have been published by Russian publishers. The sixth and latest was written in Spain and is called “Marina’s Birthday.” This book is not as romantic as the previous ones.
Many of my fans weren’t ready for such a shift, as they were used to expecting light and engaging fiction from me. I remember at Literary Salons in Moscow, after a public reading of an excerpt from this book, people didn’t want to leave for a long time. They lined up to share how something similar had happened to them and how deeply it affected them.
Essentially, I’ve spent my whole life studying human nature—as a writer, a teacher, and a psychologist. Only by deeply understanding a person on all levels and being able to describe all their facets in both artistic and scientific language can you truly help those who come to you.
Yes, four of my novels and one children’s book have been published by Russian publishers. The sixth and latest was written in Spain and is called “Marina’s Birthday.” This book is not as romantic as the previous ones.
Many of my fans weren’t ready for such a shift, as they were used to expecting light and engaging fiction from me. I remember at Literary Salons in Moscow, after a public reading of an excerpt from this book, people didn’t want to leave for a long time. They lined up to share how something similar had happened to them and how deeply it affected them.
Essentially, I’ve spent my whole life studying human nature—as a writer, a teacher, and a psychologist. Only by deeply understanding a person on all levels and being able to describe all their facets in both artistic and scientific language can you truly help those who come to you.
You manage your Instagram, presumably, not as a psychologist, but as a writer of romance. It's quite open and doesn't resemble a professional profile, right?
I don’t use social media to promote my services. Most of my clients come to me through recommendations. Of course, I sometimes remind my followers of my profession, but for me, Instagram is more of a space for communication. I simply share what interests me.
I enjoy being open, sensual, and emotionally feminine. Perhaps this doesn’t fit the stereotypical image of a psychologist in a strict suit and glasses, but I believe that the profession doesn’t require us to maintain formalities in our personal lives.
Unfortunately, sometimes my openness can lead to misunderstandings. A few times, people came to me for consultations under the pretense of discussing their issues, but in reality, they were hoping for a personal relationship. However, I made it clear right away that any sessions are professional work, and other forms of interaction are not possible, as psychologists have their ethical code. Interestingly, some men, disappointed by their attempts to establish personal contact, ended up staying for the sessions and later wrote that even brief meetings helped them rethink their relationships with women.
I don’t use social media to promote my services. Most of my clients come to me through recommendations. Of course, I sometimes remind my followers of my profession, but for me, Instagram is more of a space for communication. I simply share what interests me.
I enjoy being open, sensual, and emotionally feminine. Perhaps this doesn’t fit the stereotypical image of a psychologist in a strict suit and glasses, but I believe that the profession doesn’t require us to maintain formalities in our personal lives.
Unfortunately, sometimes my openness can lead to misunderstandings. A few times, people came to me for consultations under the pretense of discussing their issues, but in reality, they were hoping for a personal relationship. However, I made it clear right away that any sessions are professional work, and other forms of interaction are not possible, as psychologists have their ethical code. Interestingly, some men, disappointed by their attempts to establish personal contact, ended up staying for the sessions and later wrote that even brief meetings helped them rethink their relationships with women.
Julia with her students in a British school.
Do you work not only as a psychologist but also as a sexologist?
My first degree is in pedagogy, and I started working with children with autism quite early, even during my university years. One of my tasks back then was sexual education. Neurodivergent individuals can have difficulties understanding boundaries or social contexts—things that neurotypical children intuitively grasp. For example, teenage girls with autism are at a higher risk of sexual abuse because they may not understand that certain parts of their body, such as the chest or genital area, should not be touched.
There are also issues with adults. I have clients with high-functioning autism or Asperger’s syndrome. These are people who may hold high positions and be successful in their careers but struggle with communication. For example, a man might not know how to approach a woman, what to say, or what to wear.
People who come to me are often reserved and want to learn how to communicate better, both in personal relationships and in professional settings. As a sexologist, I not only explain specific things but also address deeper issues: how to feel confident, how to build relationships, and how to understand oneself.
My first degree is in pedagogy, and I started working with children with autism quite early, even during my university years. One of my tasks back then was sexual education. Neurodivergent individuals can have difficulties understanding boundaries or social contexts—things that neurotypical children intuitively grasp. For example, teenage girls with autism are at a higher risk of sexual abuse because they may not understand that certain parts of their body, such as the chest or genital area, should not be touched.
There are also issues with adults. I have clients with high-functioning autism or Asperger’s syndrome. These are people who may hold high positions and be successful in their careers but struggle with communication. For example, a man might not know how to approach a woman, what to say, or what to wear.
People who come to me are often reserved and want to learn how to communicate better, both in personal relationships and in professional settings. As a sexologist, I not only explain specific things but also address deeper issues: how to feel confident, how to build relationships, and how to understand oneself.
You mention in social media that you prefer to work with unconventional methods. How does this manifest in practice?
My working style can be described as intense and sometimes provocative. I often conduct sessions that resemble a massage: at first, it may be a bit painful, but later the person feels relief and the internal tension disappears.
Some people come to me expecting that I will simply "listen" to them and tell them what to do. But my work isn't about providing ready-made solutions; it's about helping the person find the answers within themselves.
If a client is not ready for this, I gently guide them, showing that change begins with small steps. Sometimes, it just takes giving the person time to mature and be ready to work on themselves.
I often use cognitive-behavioral therapy because it helps people see how their thoughts influence their behavior and emotions. For example, many come with issues like low self-esteem, feeling that their voice doesn’t matter, or that their desires are not important. I help them realize that these beliefs are not their true nature, but the result of external factors such as upbringing, environment, or trauma. Sometimes we become so focused on others' expectations that we lose connection with ourselves. When a person understand their true values, they become stronger because they act from inner conviction, not just to please others.
The essence of my work is not only in the methods I use but also in how I understand the person and "read" their state. A person may tell me about something they perceive as a problem, but I can see that there is a deeper issue behind it. My task is to show this to the person, guide them toward awareness, and help them see hidden aspects they may have missed.
Additionally, and very importantly, I’ve organized my work in a way that makes it convenient for people to reach out to me. Often, it’s hard to book an appointment with a psychologist because the nearest available slot might be in a week or two.
My working style can be described as intense and sometimes provocative. I often conduct sessions that resemble a massage: at first, it may be a bit painful, but later the person feels relief and the internal tension disappears.
Some people come to me expecting that I will simply "listen" to them and tell them what to do. But my work isn't about providing ready-made solutions; it's about helping the person find the answers within themselves.
If a client is not ready for this, I gently guide them, showing that change begins with small steps. Sometimes, it just takes giving the person time to mature and be ready to work on themselves.
I often use cognitive-behavioral therapy because it helps people see how their thoughts influence their behavior and emotions. For example, many come with issues like low self-esteem, feeling that their voice doesn’t matter, or that their desires are not important. I help them realize that these beliefs are not their true nature, but the result of external factors such as upbringing, environment, or trauma. Sometimes we become so focused on others' expectations that we lose connection with ourselves. When a person understand their true values, they become stronger because they act from inner conviction, not just to please others.
The essence of my work is not only in the methods I use but also in how I understand the person and "read" their state. A person may tell me about something they perceive as a problem, but I can see that there is a deeper issue behind it. My task is to show this to the person, guide them toward awareness, and help them see hidden aspects they may have missed.
Additionally, and very importantly, I’ve organized my work in a way that makes it convenient for people to reach out to me. Often, it’s hard to book an appointment with a psychologist because the nearest available slot might be in a week or two.
If a client needs urgent help, I find time, even at night or on weekends. I understand the person is going through a difficult stage, and I cannot refuse.
Do you work only individually, or also with groups?
In London, I naturally built a community called Big Black Cat Meditation. One day, I noticed that my clients were meeting outside my office and wanted to interact, but there was no opportunity for that. One would come, then another would leave...
A restaurant owner friend once offered his space for meetings, and I gladly agreed. In the group sessions, we worked with the body and mind, creating a space for healing and inner harmony. The program included elements of kundalini yoga, qigong, and dynamic meditation, practices I have been involved in for 30 years.
Now, upon returning to Spain, in Malaga, where I live, I will continue this practice.
Additionally, I have started developing a corporate approach. I’m invited as a lecturer for internal events and communication workshops, helping to address toxic relationships within teams. The word "toxicity" is trendy now, but behind it are real problems: how to manage conflicts in the early stages, and how to cope with stressful episodes.
In London, I naturally built a community called Big Black Cat Meditation. One day, I noticed that my clients were meeting outside my office and wanted to interact, but there was no opportunity for that. One would come, then another would leave...
A restaurant owner friend once offered his space for meetings, and I gladly agreed. In the group sessions, we worked with the body and mind, creating a space for healing and inner harmony. The program included elements of kundalini yoga, qigong, and dynamic meditation, practices I have been involved in for 30 years.
Now, upon returning to Spain, in Malaga, where I live, I will continue this practice.
Additionally, I have started developing a corporate approach. I’m invited as a lecturer for internal events and communication workshops, helping to address toxic relationships within teams. The word "toxicity" is trendy now, but behind it are real problems: how to manage conflicts in the early stages, and how to cope with stressful episodes.
You mentioned that moving to Spain felt like coming home. How is Spain different from England?
Life in England gave me a lot — I completed my master’s degree, worked in public schools and hospitals, and studied the system of inclusive education. At some point, I felt I had achieved all the goals I had set for myself.
I’ve always had a connection to Spain, where I have my home. Here, I feel especially free. I can enjoy life, the weather, the food, and interactions with people. In England, everything is different: it’s a country of rules and discipline. Everything follows a strict system. For example, even if you accidentally stop for a minute in the wrong place, you immediately get a fine. If you delay a payment for a week, legal proceedings start right away.
I’m not saying that’s bad. On the contrary, the system in England works very efficiently, and it’s a huge advantage for those who value stability. Everything is regulated: taxes, documents, social guarantees. But I found that not enough.
I am more of a creative person. Flexibility is more important to me than rigid boundaries. I plan to develop my work in Spain and am looking forward to welcoming new clients here.
Life in England gave me a lot — I completed my master’s degree, worked in public schools and hospitals, and studied the system of inclusive education. At some point, I felt I had achieved all the goals I had set for myself.
I’ve always had a connection to Spain, where I have my home. Here, I feel especially free. I can enjoy life, the weather, the food, and interactions with people. In England, everything is different: it’s a country of rules and discipline. Everything follows a strict system. For example, even if you accidentally stop for a minute in the wrong place, you immediately get a fine. If you delay a payment for a week, legal proceedings start right away.
I’m not saying that’s bad. On the contrary, the system in England works very efficiently, and it’s a huge advantage for those who value stability. Everything is regulated: taxes, documents, social guarantees. But I found that not enough.
I am more of a creative person. Flexibility is more important to me than rigid boundaries. I plan to develop my work in Spain and am looking forward to welcoming new clients here.
Impulse. Dossier
Yulia Basova
Psychologist, sexologist, coach. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Pedagogy and Social Psychology, a Master's degree in Sexology from Russia, and a Master's degree from the University of Lincoln (United Kingdom).
With 24 years of experience in psychology and education, she is a member of the British Psychological Society. Founder of the Big Black Cat Meditation group psychological support community, where she led body-oriented psychotherapy sessions.
Author of 6 works of fiction, including children's books, published by leading Russian publishers.
Mother of two daughters, aged 15 and 8.
Psychologist, sexologist, coach. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Pedagogy and Social Psychology, a Master's degree in Sexology from Russia, and a Master's degree from the University of Lincoln (United Kingdom).
With 24 years of experience in psychology and education, she is a member of the British Psychological Society. Founder of the Big Black Cat Meditation group psychological support community, where she led body-oriented psychotherapy sessions.
Author of 6 works of fiction, including children's books, published by leading Russian publishers.
Mother of two daughters, aged 15 and 8.
Photo of cover by Rémi Walle on Unsplash