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

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. Follow Michelle: https://www.instagram.com/meetmichellerenee/ Follow Jen: https://www.instagram.com/theopenbedroompodcast/