EP#180: The Evolution of Cuddling & Surrogate Partner Therapy Michelle Renee

The Open Bedroom Podcast

Michelle and I explore Cuddle and Surrogate Partner therapy in today's episode!

Timestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction to Memory Reconsolidation (00:00:02)

Discussion on memory reconsolidation and questioning childhood beliefs about touch.

Welcome to the Podcast (00:00:29)

Jennifer introduces the episode's focus on surrogate partner therapy and professional cuddling with Michelle Renee.

Michelle's Background (00:01:09)

Michelle shares her role as a surrogate partner and professional cuddler, emphasizing her supportive approach.

Community Building in Intimacy (00:01:24)

Michelle discusses her involvement in community building within the intimacy sector and her initiative, Soft Cock Week.

Professional Cuddling Explained (00:01:45)

Jennifer inquires about professional cuddling, highlighting the need for more touch and connection in people's lives.

Cuddles Training Overview (00:02:23)

Michelle explains the training and code of conduct for professional cuddlers, emphasizing client-led sessions.

Client Autonomy in Cuddling (00:03:21)

Discussion about the importance of clients articulating their needs and maintaining boundaries during sessions.

Finding a Professional Cuddler (00:04:23)

Michelle advises on reputable organizations for finding professional cuddlers and the challenges of the industry.

Qualities of an Ideal Cuddler (00:05:54)

Michelle describes the ideal qualities for professional cuddlers, focusing on passion for helping others.

Cuddle Session Dynamics (00:09:25)

Overview of what a typical cuddle session looks like, emphasizing client comfort and choice.

Exploring Client Preferences (00:11:09)

Jennifer and Michelle discuss how clients express their needs and preferences during cuddle sessions.

Vetting Clients (00:12:03)

Michelle explains her process for vetting clients to ensure a comfortable and safe environment.

Addressing Client Concerns (00:13:59)

Discussion on handling natural physical responses during cuddle sessions and ensuring client comfort.

Navigating Client Needs (00:16:44)

Michelle shares insights on clients' struggles with touch and how she helps them explore their needs.

Stories from Cuddle Sessions (00:17:49)

Michelle recounts memorable cuddle sessions, illustrating the emotional and therapeutic aspects of her work.

Introduction to Surrogate Partner Therapy (00:19:19)

Michelle introduces the concept of surrogate partner therapy and its historical context in addressing intimacy issues.

Introduction to Surrogate Partner Therapy (00:20:08)

Discussion on the evolution of surrogate partner therapy and its portrayal in media.

Building Relational Skills (00:21:08)

Exploration of how surrogate partner therapy aids clients in developing relational skills.

Platonic Surrogate Partner Therapy (00:22:41)

Transition from erotic to platonic surrogate partner therapy for deeper emotional support.

Cuddle Sessions Explained (00:24:00)

Description of cuddle sessions and the balance between nurturing and challenging clients.

Client Experience and Healing (00:25:09)

Sharing a client's journey of healing through cuddling and emotional safety.

Collaborative Therapy Approach (00:27:56)

Insights on the collaborative relationship between the surrogate partner, client, and therapist.

Soft Cock Appreciation Week (00:35:41)

Introduction of a week dedicated to celebrating soft penises and normalizing discussions around erectile issues.

Anti-Oppression Rate System (00:41:40)

Michelle discusses her experiment with clients choosing their own rates based on a self-assessment of privileges.

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https://www.instagram.com/meetmichellerenee/

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https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast/