SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - Paying to get cuddled with sounds unusual, but it’s a unique business model that is thriving in San Diego.
Cuddlist is a professional cuddling service based not the premise that touch is essential to human beings and that we don't do enough of it in our lives.
“Getting the word out about what it isn’t is probably the most difficult part,” said professional cuddler Care Messer, “it’s a fun thing that helps people.”
Messer says the people that visit her Scripps Ranch office range from those that are just trying to get a break from stress at work or sometimes more extreme circumstances.
“You might get a client that had a spouse pass or a loved one pass and they don’t know who to turn to,” said Messer.
Messer is among three Cuddlist therapists based in the San Diego area that have undergone hours of training and certification exams.
For $80 an hour, people partake in trust-based touch therapy.
Messer says she sees anywhere from 2 to 9 cuddle patients a week in addition to her regular job as a doula.
“There’s somebody that can hold you and listen to you,” said Messer, ”and they’re not going to pass judgment on you.”
Paul Dziazio has been going to cuddle therapy for two years and says it helps him be more present.
“It’s like maintenance for your soul,” said Dziadzio.
To find a Cuddlist near you, click here.
