Cuddle therapy changed her life. Now she’s a professional cuddler – and part of a growing field

There are many types of mental health therapy you can access these days: talk therapy, art therapy, even music therapy. 

Jen Ikuta leads sessions in what's called cuddle therapy. It’s a growing field.  

Jen works with clients who want to learn to be more comfortable with another person’s touch. Many of her clients have experienced physical trauma, and many have autism.  

Jen usually works with clients in one-on-one sessions but also organizes what she calls “community cuddles” for groups at her Arvada office.  

Erin O’Toole talked with her about the emerging field of cuddle therapy and what Jen remembers about her first experience as a cuddle therapy participant. 

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Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole
Producer: Ariel Lavery
Executive Producer: Brad Turner
Theme music by Robbie Reverb
Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.

What is In The NOCO?

KUNC's In The NOCO is a daily look at the stories, news, people and issues important to you. It's a window to the communities along the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The show explores the big stories of the day, bringing context and insight to issues that matter. And because life in Northern Colorado is a balance of work and play, we explore the lighter side of news, highlighting what makes this state such an incredible place to live.