Accepting Guests
- 85% response rate
- Last login about 8 hours ago
Join Couchsurfing to see Claudio Andrés’s full profile.
Overview
About Me
FAVOR LEER ANTES DE ENVIAR SOLICITUD:
Me encanta recibir gente viajera y compartir buenos momentos, conversaciones y experiencias.
Solo una aclaración importante para que todo fluya bien desde el inicio: cada persona se hace cargo de su propia alimentación, quizás en ocasiones podemos coordinar, colaborar y cocinar algo mutuamente. Yo no puedo asumir la comida diaria de quienes se quedan (muchos últimamente no sé por qué lo esperan), no es parte de lo que ofrezco como anfitrión, ni de lo que se trata CouchSurfing tampoco.
Si estás de acuerdo con eso, eres muy bienvenido/a. La idea es convivir desde el respeto, la autonomía y la buena onda ✨
***
Founder and Director of Centro Enacción, an Integrated Mental Health Center in Valdivia, Chile.
I’m an experienced psychotherapist specialized in Couples and Individual Therapy, and a former Forensic Psychologist and University Professor of Philosophy and Clinical Psychology.
I work from a psychotherapy model grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), integrating insights from Buddhism, Stoicism, and Existential Phenomenology. My purpose is to help people live with authenticity, meaning, and self-compassion, cultivating awareness and freedom in an increasingly mechanized world.
I’m currently learning programming and software development, exploring how digital tools can expand psychotherapy and education. I believe technology should serve consciousness, not dominate it—used wisely, it can enhance empathy, reflection, and connection rather than control or isolate us.
Philosophically, I hold a humanist and freedom-centered worldview. I stand against transhumanist and accelerationist ideologies that promote the subordination of the human spirit to technological or economic systems. I defend human freedom, authenticity, and embodied life over global structures of hyper-control and elite dominance.
Spiritually, I’m open, contemplative, and curious. I find resonance in Buddhist compassion, Christian humanism, and mystical traditions that explore consciousness and the sacred. I love conversations about mysticism, spirituality, and the mystery of existence—themes that bridge science, philosophy, and inner experience.
Outside of work, I love philosophy, music, photography, gaming, and road trips through southern Chile. I enjoy hosting travelers, exchanging ideas, laughter, and quiet moments. Couchsurfing, for me, is a living practice of connection and kindness—a reminder that empathy and curiosity are the most revolutionary forms of resistance.
I share my home with two dogs (Layka and Chipy) and two cats (Leon and Moka), loyal and loving companions who make sure life here stays warm and alive.
Why I’m on Couchsurfing
I love meeting new people, exchanging ideas, and learning about cultures different from my own. Couchsurfing allows me to connect with travelers from all over the world, share meaningful conversations, and offer a welcoming space in my home.
As a psychotherapist and former professor, I enjoy discussing deep topics, from philosophy and psychology to history and spirituality. I appreciate open-minded, thoughtful discussions where different perspectives can be shared with mutual respect.
Hosting also gives me the chance to show others the beauty of Valdivia and its surroundings. When time allows, I enjoy being a guide, exploring the city together, or simply sharing a good meal and engaging conversations at home.
For me, Couchsurfing is not just about offering a place to stay—it’s about cultural exchange, human connection, and shared experiences. If you’re open to meaningful conversations and a relaxed, respectful environment, I’d be happy to host you.
Interests
- motorcycles
- anime
- movies
- fotografía
- conversation
- kendo
- viajes
- comida
- filosofia
- psicologia
- ajedrez
- cerveza
Music, Movies, and Books
I have a very eclectic taste in music. I enjoy rap and nü metal, but also instrumental, ambient, and cinematic soundtracks. I’m drawn to artists who turn emotion and chaos into poetry—music that feels alive, raw, and honest. Sometimes I listen to Linkin Park, Tool, or Lo-Fi beats while writing, and other times I get lost in post-rock or Japanese soundtracks that help me focus and breathe.
When it comes to movies and series, I’m fascinated by dystopian and philosophical science fiction—stories that explore what it means to be human, the nature of consciousness, and the tension between freedom and control. Some of my favorites are Blade Runner 2049, The Matrix, Her, Ghost in the Shell, and Children of Men. I also love thoughtful anime like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Death Parade, and The Promised Neverland, where psychology, ethics, and emotion come together beautifully.
As for books, I read a lot across psychology, philosophy, and spirituality. I’ve always enjoyed Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes, but I’m equally inspired by authors like Heidegger, Merleau-Ponty, Kierkegaard, Viktor Frankl, and Boris Cyrulnik. Recently, I’ve been exploring Advaita Vedanta, gnostic writings, and thinkers who reflect on consciousness, trauma, and the meaning of being human, such as Wayne Liquorman and Buddhist teachers.
For me, music, cinema, and literature are not just entertainment. They are ways of thinking, feeling, and returning to what is real.
One Amazing Thing I’ve Done
I’ve been hit by a car twice. I’ve lived in Temuco, Pitrufquén, Iquique (for four years), Concepción (for four years), Santiago (for one year), Angol (for half a year), and now I’ve been living in Valdivia for five years. I worked for the Investigative Police (PDI) as a Forensic Psychologist.
At a very young age, I had to take on the role of Chief Director of high-complexity programs for the National Child Protection Service, leading large teams of psychologists and social workers. I hold two master’s degrees, four postgraduate specializations, and four diplomas in psychotherapy, legal psychology, and philosophy.
Beyond my professional experience, I have a deep passion for both science and philosophy. I studied photography at the Institute of Arts of Chile and pursued philosophy at various universities, with a special focus on the philosophy of mind. I also completed postgraduate studies in the philosophy of science to better understand the nature of knowledge.
Since childhood, I’ve had several paranormal experiences that have convinced me of the existence of the spiritual world. I continuously seek to reconcile this belief with my scientific perspective.
I practiced Kendo for several years in Temuco and even founded a Kendo club at my university. Additionally, I taught myself web development and personally built the website for my psychological center.
On a personal level, I was diagnosed with ADHD, which has shaped the way I learn and approach life. I also went through a severe depression in my youth, which I was able to overcome thanks to God. This experience has become a fundamental part of my testimony and serves as a valuable resource in my work with patients.
Something that often surprises people is my experience with Couchsurfing. One guest ended up staying at my house for two years and is now my best friend, while others have also stayed for months, making my home a place of cultural exchange and meaningful connections.
Teach, Learn, Share
I can share what I know about photography, cinema, philosophy, psychology, and shogi (Japanese chess). I also love showing Valdivia’s natural beauty: its rivers, ocean, and forests. If you enjoy peaceful walks, deep talks, and quiet landscapes, you’ll probably love it here.
IMPORTANT: If what you’re looking for is nightlife, parties, or a bohemian scene, this isn’t the right place for that. Please look for another host who enjoys that vibe, my home is more about reflection, nature, and genuine connection.
I’d love to improve my spoken English, learn to cook better, and play the drums, guitar, or bass — anything that blends rhythm and creativity. I’m also learning programming, exploring how technology can be used to support psychotherapy and emotional awareness.
What I value most is sharing knowledge, stories, and experiences that help us understand life more deeply — and enjoy the simple beauty of being human.
What I Can Share with Hosts
Hi! I love Couchsurfing—hosting travelers, sharing my space, having good conversations, and (when time allows) exploring Valdivia together. I enjoy showing local spots and diving into deep topics.
What I Offer
Free accommodation in my countryside home (easy bus access; near the city).
Wi-Fi, TV, kitchen, hot shower, washing machine, video games, and musical instruments.
Local tips and, when possible, rides to explore Valdivia or Niebla.
What I Expect
Respect & care: Keep shared spaces reasonably tidy—comfortable, not perfect.
Autonomy: YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN FOOD AND EXPENSES. I’m happy to cook together if we plan it in advance.
Clear dates: I don’t host indefinitely; please share your departure date.
Connection: Couchsurfing is cultural exchange, not just a free bed. I value conversation and shared moments.
Important
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE MOBILE DATA FROM THE MOMENT YOU ARRIVE.
IT ALLOWS SMOOTH COORDINATION WHEN PICKING YOU UP OR MEETING IN THE CITY.
I work Monday to Friday; weekends I’m usually free for outings.
If you arrive while I’m working, you can leave your bag at my clinic (Centro Enacción) and go explore.
I live with two dogs and one cat—animal lovers are very welcome.
I’m not into parties or clubs; I prefer home gatherings or outdoor plans.
Need a ride? Ask kindly—it’s not included, but if I can help, I will.
I smoke tobacco indoors; if it bothers you, I’ll smoke outside.
Extras
I love learning. If you can teach me English, cooking, music, or programming—amazing!
Before you leave, please tidy up a bit.
If this sounds good to you, I’ll be happy to host and share a meaningful experience.
Safe travels! 🌿
Countries I’ve Visited
Argentina
Countries I’ve Lived In
Chile