Cuddle Professionals International Diploma
Become an Accredited Professional Cuddle Therapist
“It is an absolute human certainty that no one can know his own beauty or perceive a sense of his own worth until it has been reflected back to him in the mirror of another loving, caring human being.”
― John Joseph Powell
Cuddle Professionals International is the training, accreditation and membership body for professional cuddlers and therapeutic touch therapists who are new to this blossoming wellness trend, or who wish to offer cuddle therapy as part of, or in addition to, their existing therapist repertoire.
CPI offers the original professionally accredited course in cuddling as a holistic therapy with dedicated insurance cover for cuddle therapists.
What does "accredited" actually mean?
Accredited means two things:
1. That you agree to practice and are bound by the ethics and values set by your accrediting body, CPI.
2. That the diploma awarded is fully accredited for insurance and professional practice. CPI's diploma is recognised for professional practice, meaning that graduates can get professional liability insurance for their cuddle practice. We are an approved training provider with both the IICT and the CMA.
Cuddling as a stand-alone therapy and profession is becoming established in the UK and elsewhere. All over the world those who are touch-deprived are seeking the reassurance and security of a simple cuddle, capturing the zeitgeist of a technologically advanced but increasingly disconnected society.
Who uses a Cuddle Professional?
A professional cuddler's client demographic is very wide. Early-20's to seniors, those between-partners and those who have lost their partners, ex-servicemen and women, those who live alone, the disabled and marginalised, and those who are surrounded by others. Some people who are on their own or single don't often (or ever) get the opportunity to hug others in a meaningful way.
Cuddle Professional Qualities
Do you want to become a professional cuddler? Cuddle Professionals are tactile, warm, empathic, understanding and non-judgmental. They may be male or female. No previous experience is required, although many cuddlers have backgrounds in holistic therapy and the caring professions. Sessions with clients consist of platonic cuddling, talking, and - more importantly - listening. There is no sexual activity involved - no kissing, and no touching of intimate areas.
Cuddle Professional Essentials:
If you think you have the qualities required to become a professional cuddler we invite you to enrol on our certified Cuddle Professionals International Diploma course. Upon successful completion you can become a CPI member, and your profile will be added to the relevant section of our directory. You will have access to exclusive cuddle practice insurance and you will be entitled to use our logos in your marketing materials and our initials after your name.
Introduction
CPI Philosophy
The Science of Touch
Action: Is the Glass of Water Hot or Cold?
Result: What Happened?
Action: Two-Point Discrimination
Result: What Happened?
Module 1 Quiz
Touch In Infancy
Touch Beyond Infancy
Aggression in Children
Human Touch and Seniors
Module 2 Quiz
Appropriate Touch and Body Language
The Seven Types of Touch
Module 3 Quiz
Touch and Healing
Module 4 Quiz
Disconnect to Reconnect
Men and Touch Isolation
Touch and Technology
Module 5 Quiz
The CPI Code of Ethical Touch
Cuddling as a Therapy and Profession
Holding a Space for Your Client
Module 6 Quiz
CPI Code of Practice
Boundaries and Ethics
Transference and Triggers in Therapy
The Wheel of Consent
The Wheel of Consent Chart
Wheel of Consent 3 Minute Game
Module 7 Quiz
Communication Skills
Empathy or Sympathy?
Using Attentive Touch
Module 9 Quiz
Working with the Medically Fragile and Terminally Ill
Module 10 Quiz
Working with Alzheimer's and Dementia
Working Around Wheelchairs and Beds
Your Professional Environment
Module 8 Quiz
Personal Safety and Security
Module 9 Quiz
Terms, Client Contract and Waiver
Sample Cuddle Therapy Consent Form
Module 10 Quiz
Professional Insurance
DBS Certificate - Do I Need One?
Module 11 Quiz
Handling Media Interest
Module 12 Quiz
Business Basics and Marketing
Module 13 Quiz
Relaxation Techniques
Cuddle Positions
Recommended Cuddle Positions
Recommended Reading
Claire Mendelsohn
Do you have the qualities it takes to become a professional Cuddle Therapist?