melissa
Hi, I'm Melissa, a certified professional cuddler based in NYC, and I've been doing this work since 2020. I'm from Costa Rica originally, and I think growing up there is part of why warmth comes easily to me. I came to professional cuddling because I've seen how platonic touch, or the lack of it, shapes people's lives: their health, their relationships, even their focus and energy. A lot of the people I sit with are learning, sometimes for the first time, that touch can be calming and comforting. Some didn't get much comforting touch growing up. Others are burned out or moving through a hard life transition. Whatever brings you in, the session follows what you need that day, not a script. Most people tell me that even though we've only just met, it feels like we've known each other a long time. I'm also a Cuddle Party Facilitator. When I'm not working, you'll find me meditating, doing improv, or spending time with my cat. FAQ How long should I book for my first session? For a first session I recommend 90 minutes. That gives you time to settle in and relax before we really get going, instead of feeling rushed. Most first-timers are glad they gave themselves the extra room. Where do sessions take place? My preferred spot is the Embrace Club studio in Brooklyn. Depending on your situation, I can also come to your home or meet you at a hotel. How does pricing work? I work on a sliding scale between $160 and $220 per hour. The session itself is exactly the same wherever you land on that scale. It's about keeping the work accessible, so you choose the rate that fits your situation. To book, I ask for an $80 deposit, which goes toward the total cost of your session rather than being an added fee. What payment methods do you accept? I accept Venmo and Cash App, and I can also send you an invoice through Stripe. How should I prepare? Arrive sober, and bring a change of clothes like shorts and a T-shirt or PJs. Wear deodorant, and please skip the cologne.
Choose a service to book with melissa
1 hour cuddle session
$1801 hour of cuddle therapy session at standard rate at the Embrace Club studio.
8-hour Cuddle Session
$12808-hour session at $160 per hour. Only in the Embrace Club studio
2-hour standart rate Cuddle
$360Cuddle Session at the Embrace Club studio in Clinton Hill.
Connection Calls
$80Connection Calls are one-on-one video conversations via Zoom or Google Meet. This is a space to simply talk and feel heard, understood, and seen. They’re ideal for anyone who isn’t nearby or who has difficulty meeting in person due to mobility or scheduling needs.
90 mins session at standar rate
$27090 minutes session at standard rate ($180 per hour) at the Embrace Club studio.
1-hour Cuddle Session
$1601-hour cuddling session in the Embrace Club location in Brooklyn. This is the minimun rate chosen by the client.
2-hour Cuddle Session
$3202-hour cuddle session at the Embrace Club studio in Clinton Hill. This is based on $160 per hour
4-hour cuddle
$6404-hour cuddle session at the minimun rate ($160 per hour). In the Embrace Club studio
Compassionate Conversations
$80Sometimes, all we need is to feel truly heard. Embrace Talks offers a warm, judgment-free space where you can share your thoughts, emotions, and experiences with someone who genuinely understands. Whether you're feeling lonely, overwhelmed, or simply craving a meaningful connection, this session provides deep listening, empathy, and emotional support—without the need for physical touch. This is an 1-hour session.
30-min Discovery Call
$30Video call via Zoom or Google Meet. 30 minutes max. The goal of this call is to clarify questions related to in-person services.
Photos
Reviews
5.0Melissa has been great at each of our sessions. Rather than having a set script, she's very receptive to the energy of the moment, and adapting to it accordingly. At our first session especially, she was wonderful about putting my nerves at ease. She creates a safe space, listens attentively, and asks very helpful questions to foster growth.
I had my first cuddle therapy session with Melissa and came in feeling nervous and unsure of what to expect. As someone with a physical disability, I was especially anxious about comfort and positioning, but within minutes she made me feel completely calm and at ease. Melissa was incredibly patient, kind, and attentive throughout the session, especially when helping adjust positions and making sure I was comfortable. I left feeling deeply relaxed, lighter emotionally, and genuinely grateful for the experience will definitely come back. Highly recommend.
First time experiencing cuddle therapy and Melissa made it a great experience. She was very attentive and made me feel at ease during our session. I loved the cozy vibe of the studio
From the very first hello, Melissa creates a space that feels otherworldly like stepping into a quiet realm where time slows and everything softens. Her presence is warm but luminous, the kind that lights a room without ever trying. Every gesture carries intention: the way she listens, the care in her touch, the intuitive rhythm of comfort and calm. What makes Melissa rare is the alchemy she brings. It isn’t just a session it’s an experience that lingers long after you leave. I walked in with the weight of a long day; I walked out feeling lighter, as if someone had rearranged the stars inside me. If you think a cuddle session is simply physical, Melissa will gently prove you wrong. She turns connection into an art form, one you feel in your heart hours, even days, later. To call this “amazing” would be too small. It was magical. It was unforgettable. It was Melissa.
I was so nervous about my first session, but I literally had nothing to worry about with Gisele! She's so easy to speak to, so professional, so gentle and encouraging me (a shy guy) to lead the way. I've already booked a 2nd session as I type this review! :')
Gisele was AMAZING. this was my first time using the sevice so I was very skeptical and nervous at first but she made me feel very comfortable. she was very professional, on time and she made me feel seen and heard for the first time in a long time. i will definitely be booking with her again soon.