This thread is to continue a discussion
started in the Male Professional thread that goes beyond the original
topic of the thread. To start, I will draw from my experience as a
massage therapist since I have no experience as a cuddle
professional. One of the basic differences that exist when there is a
professional is involved is the exchange of money for services.
Unlike the scenario between cuddle sessions not involving a
professional, there is a clear giver and a clear receiver. The giver
is providing a service which is perceived as beneficial or
therapeutic and the receiver is exchanging money for that service. Such is the
situation whenever there is a therapist and a client. However, in
this situation the therapy is more intimate than most and this
intimacy can be taken as a trigger to the client to make advances
that are not desired by the therapist. There are things that can be
done to reduce this risk.
One of these things is to obtain an
office space in a place of business. This does not need to be in a
corporate building as many wellness centers have space in a more
relaxing atmosphere,where everyone can be comfortable. A hotel, especially those that charge by the hour, are less appropriate. This can be
discussed in more detail by itself. The expense of such a place
should be handled by the therapist and considered a cost of doing
business and factored in the price set for the service.
Clear boundaries should be established
by the therapist. The therapist is giving the therapy and the client
is receiving the therapy. If this is unclear to the client, it should
be discussed and the client should be encouraged to seek therapy
somewhere else if they cannot accept it Should the therapist have an interest in developing a
relationship with the client, it should be pursued outside of the
office and off the clock.
The therapist should gain some
training in how to handle situations that can arise, it should be
understood that touch deprived individuals may be lacking in social
skills and touch can release a variety of strong emotions. Consider
how you would handle a client crying, or a client envisioning a dead
relative visiting them, or a client wanting to hold you forever?
I hope that this is helpful. I realize that I am coming from a different profession and that not all of this will fit to everyone's practice, but I think that it is relevant given some of the other discussions that have graced these pages and I hope that everyone will fill comfortable to add to the discussion.
And Happy Groundhog Day!