[edited by Jean Franzblau, April 2021]

Are you thinking about trying out cuddling but aren’t sure what to expect?

You’re not alone. Professional cuddling is a relatively new service; many of the clients we see are trying it for the first time. Here are some of our most frequently asked questions (FAQ). Hopefully this will give you a better idea of what to expect and help you feel more prepared for your first session.

What’s the difference between a Cuddle Sanctuary Social and a professional cuddling session?

Cuddle socials are public events lead by a facilitator, where you primarily interact and/or cuddle with other attendees. Cuddle sessions are a service provided to you by a professional cuddler in a one-on-one setting (like a massage, but with cuddling, caressing, and/or conversation). No touch is required in either setting.

How long does a session last?

Sessions generally range from 60-120 mins. (Some cuddlers provide longer sessions upon request.) For your first time, we recommend starting with 60 minutes.

How much does it cost?  

Each professional cuddler on this site sets their own rates. A common rate is $80/hour.

Where are sessions held?

Each cuddler chooses where they provide services. Some professonal cuddlers host sessions at their own cuddly venue. Sometimes a client and cuddler choose a location convenient to them both. Some cuddlers do “out calls” and travel to the client’s location. 

Can you come to me?

Some professional cuddlers provide out-calls for an additional fee.

What are the fees for outcalls?

Professional cuddlers set their own rates on our site. Please keep in mind that the session length must be equal to or more than the cuddler’s travel time to get to you.

How does payment work?

Most professional cuddlers accept a variety of payment options including credit card, VenMo, PayPal, Zelle, Square and cash. You can discuss those specifics with your cuddler.

Should I leave a tip?

Thank you for wanting to be generous! No tips needed here. We are happy to receive exactly the rate we asked for. In lieu of tipping, would you provide your cuddler with a kind testimonial or book a session with us again instead? (You can say nice things about Cuddle Sanctuary on Yelp or Google – thanks!)

Where do I look to find a professional cuddler?

Check out Cuddle Sanctuary or our colleagues at Certified Cuddlers or Cuddlist. (We hope you find someone great in your area!)

What do I wear?

Wear clothes that are scent-free and comfortable. Think PJs, T-shirts and sweatpants or yoga wear. As long as you’re in a minimum of a tank-top and long shorts, you’re a-ok! You’ll have time to get settled and change in the bathroom before the session begins.  

What happens in a session?

Once you’ve changed and gotten settled, we can start with a short conversation, and then if you’d like we can guide you through some breathing or relaxation activities to help you settle in. Sessions can be fully guided or co-created based on your preferences. It can include eye-contact, hugging, sharing conversation or quiet, hand-holding, caressing, spooning and lots of other G-rated activities. You can come with your ideas and requests, and our professional cuddlers also have a large repertoire of cuddle positions and activities to offer. 

Is it really non-sexual?

Yes! We take great care in keeping our sessions completely G-rated. We understand the importance of sex, sexuality and sex work; it’s simply not the service we offer. Non-romantic, non-sexual touch is what we’re all about. We vet every client to make sure that they are a good fit for our services, and talk openly about what we do and don’t offer. 

What if I get aroused?

No big deal. We get that our bodies can react in many different ways – all of which are healthy and human. We’ll just make adjustments so it doesn’t take focus. We trust you to help us keep the space non-sexual in action and intention.

I’m afraid I might cry. Is that ok?

Yes, absolutely. Please allow yourself to – it can feel amazing to cry while you’re being held. We like to quote Cuddle Party in saying that tears and laughter are welcome here. We’ll even have a box of tissues close by just for that!

What kind of clients do you usually see?

Our clients come to us for many reasons, from seeking relaxation and self-care, to working through trauma around touch. They range all across the gender spectrum, some are single and some are in relationships. The one thing our clients have in common is that they understand the importance of having consistent, healthy human touch in their lives, and are great at taking action in getting those needs met.

What are the benefits of a professional cuddling session?

Hugging or cuddling for more than 20 seconds can release oxytocin, also known as the hug hormone. It lowers stress and cortisol, increases heart health, decreases inflammation, promotes better sleep, strengthens your immune system, builds trust, and can give you an overall sense of wellness. It’s pretty amazing!

I can’t make our appointment after all. Can I cancel or reschedule?

Most of us have a 24-hour cancellation policy – just make sure you let us know at least 24 hours in advance if you have a change of heart or a change in plans.

How do I become a professional cuddler?

If you’re interested in doing this work, that’s wonderful! Let us help you get some good information. Cuddle Sanctuary offers a free weekly webinar called “Be a Professional Cudldler – The Basics.” You can register here.

How do I book a session?

Explore our services page. If you find a cuddler that you’d like to work with, simply request a session. You’ll typically hear from your cuddler within one day and sometimes within just a few hours. Your cuddler will schedule an intake conversation with you to get started. 

We hope we’ve answered your questions about professional cuddling. Sessions can be incredibly relaxing, healing and therapeutic. We are excited to share this with you. We hope you’ll treat yourself to one soon!

Have a question we didn’t answer? You can contact us at Support@CuddleSanctuary.com or call (323) 905-HUGS.