About Me: 
(Pronouns: she/they)

I have a boundless passion for healing, transformation, and collective awakening. Having tirelessly pursued these in my own life, I find deep joy in holding space for others wishing to make a meaningful shift in their lives. 

My work has taken many forms, all centered around guiding others to reconnect with their inner wisdom and innate capacity for love. I have served as a clinical social worker, trauma and family therapist, certified life coach specializing in relationships and intimacy, certified mindfulness meditation teacher, behavioral & mindfulness researcher, certified cuddle therapist, surrogate partner therapist, sacred intimate, psychedelic facilitator, and dance artist and teacher. My training extends into nutrition, therapeutic massage, Neo-Tantra, breathwork, shamanism, and sound healing.

I hold a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Music from New York University.

****************************************************************************

Have you ever been touched as if you were the most precious thing on Earth?
            A touch so gentle, so full of presence, that time seemed to stand still?

You are lovable. You are infinitely worthy. And you don’t need to do anything to earn this—your worth is inherent, simply because you exist. If that feels hard to believe right now, you’re not alone. My purpose is to guide you back to this truth through physical and emotional intimacy, helping you embrace your inherent value and the deep connection you deserve.

Healing Shame Through Embodied Intimacy
                    My Philosoophy

To be held and seen is not a privilege; intimacy — both physical and emotional — is a fundamental human need as essential as food. Yet, in modern society, touch often occurs only in the context of romantic relationships or violence, leaving many to associate physical closeness with romantic entanglements or danger. While emotional intimacy can be cultivated through friendships or talk therapy, the body is too often left behind. Since we are beings inhabiting these precious bodies, we are at our happiest when both our spirits and bodies are lovingly tended to. 

In every session, I offer intimacy within a safe container — tailored just for you, with no expectation of reciprocation. Whether through consensual physical touch or verbal guidance, the focus is always on what best supports your well-being. In virtual sessions, where physical contact isn’t possible, your body remains central. I may guide you through somatic practices, make observations based on your posture and expressions, and invite you to explore and articulate bodily sensations as they arise.

It is my commitment to meet clients from all walks of life exactly where they are – to hold a safe and supportive space for self-discovery and integration to naturally unfold. If you’ve struggled with depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, addiction, illness, grief, loneliness, relational challenges, or a persistent sense of being unlovable, not good enough, or not belonging — you will find space here for those feelings to be expressed and gently held. This process unfolds at your own pace, only when you're ready. All parts of you are welcome in my sessions.

I co-create an agreement for communication and interaction at the beginning of the session and let individual preferences and intuition guide me from there. I empower clients to identify and speak their desires, needs, and boundaries. Arousal is a natural part of the human experience and will never be shamed if they arise. Arousal, however, will not be acted upon in sessions. Deliberately not pursuing the arousal while acknowledging it and maintaining presence is an embodied exercise of decoupling nurture and eros. (The two are so often conflated due to cultural conditioning). You may find, perhaps surprisingly, that this practice cultivates a sense of spaciousness, safety, trust, and self-acceptance. I also invite clients to share whatever is most alive for them in their body, mind, heart, and spirit. I offer relationship & intimacy coaching, psychotherapy, mindfulness, breathwork, massage, movement & sound therapy, and surrogate partner therapy in conjunction with cuddle therapy. 

Many believe that healing must be painful and difficult. While commitment is essential, healing can also be gentle, playful, and deeply enjoyable! A key component of my work is helping you expand your capacity for pleasure and joy through embodied practices that make the journey both fun and transformative. 

Mindfulness is woven into every aspect of my work. While mindfulness is often practiced in solitude, such as through sitting meditation, what sets my offerings apart is the cultivation of a shared presence in an intimate, informal setting. This fosters spontaneity and authentic connection, making the healing process uniquely joyful and impactful.  

I work confidentially with individuals 18 and older of all backgrounds, identities, body types, physical, emotional, neurological, political, and philosophical differences. I also work with couples and those in diverse relationship structures. I would be delighted to collaborate with your psychotherapist to support your healing and growth.

Zen Master Thích Nhất Hạnh taught, “Understanding is Love’s Other Name.”
                        I am here because I want to understand you. 

Please watch for an email after you request a session. In that email, there will be information on how to schedule a complimentary 30-minute video or phone call with a $30 deposit that will be applied to your first therapy session. During the discovery call, we will meet & greet, I will give an overview and address any questions or concerns you may have. Don’t worry if you are a bit nervous about professional cuddling and don’t quite know what to expect – this is normal! If we decide to move forward, your first therapy session can be scheduled during the discovery call. (If we determine that this is not the right fit after the call, I will refund you the $30 deposit.)

I conduct in-person sessions in my private, welcoming sanctuary with large windows looking out into the beautiful woods and stream. You’ll have choices on where to nest: 

- Huge sectional couch with cozy pillows and blankets
- Cozy mattress
- Huge bean bag*
- Hammock*
- Daybed on deck with a canopy cocooning you**
- Swings and Adirondack chairs by the fire pit**
- On picnic blankets in acres of private woods**
(*Upon request)
(**Weather permitting)

I welcome requests for music, lighting of candles, and aromatherapy. The sanctuary is smoke-free, chemical-free, and has minimal carpet/dust. I have a very affectionate dog named Hazel who is available for cuddles too, if you wish. Otherwise, she will be kept out of the session. The sanctuary is accessible by car, and there is free parking on the premises. There are a couple of steps leading up to the space. If this is a concern, please reach out. 

Other Locations

With prior discussion and mutual agreement, I am available for sessions in your home or other desired location throughout New England and beyond. (Travel fees apply. You are welcome to fly me to you.) Day-long, overnight and multi-day immersions are available upon request. 

Virtual somatic coaching sessions are offered worldwide by video or phone. They may be ideal if:  

- You live outside driving distance from my sanctuary in Williamsburg, MA.
- You prefer to keep physical touch out of our work while deepending your embodied connection to youself and others.
- You are an estabslished client seeking support between in-person sessions.
- You prefer the flexibility and convenience of virtual sessions. 

FEES

If we decide to move forward, payment is due before or at the start of the therapy session via Venmo, PayPal, cash, or check. 

In-Person Sessions

     2 hours: $390
     3 hours: $565
     4 hours: $745

Extended Immersions & Overnights
     5+ hours: Custom pricing 

Package Discounts
     4 x 2-hour sessions – $1,460 (save $100)
     4 x 3-hour sessions – $2,160 (save $100)
     4 x 4-hour sessions – $2,880 (save $100)

Package Discounts 
     4 x 1-hour sessions – $600 (save $100)
  
🌷 Sessions requiring travel incur additional costs. 
🌷 Please inquire about fees for couples.
🌷 Scholarships are available for those experiencing financial hardship. Please reach out.

                             ****************************************************************************

Deeply Healing, Transformative, and Playful

"Working with Reina has been a deeply healing, wonderful, and joyful experience. She creates a space that is safe, warm, and nonjudgmental, where I can explore parts of myself that I once felt needed to be locked away, erased, or destroyed in order to be worthy of love. Through our work together, I have found a deeper sense of peace and harmony with all parts of myself.

Reina doesn’t just listen—she asks important questions that help me understand my needs and what makes me feel safe. She has helped me explore and practice both asking for and receiving touch in ways that are mutually respectful, caring, and pleasant. I had long struggled with feeling safe offering and receiving touch, and I carried deep shame toward the primal part of myself. Reina guided me through concrete, embodied practices that gave me the skills to navigate and heal these wounded parts of me.

What makes our sessions especially unique is the playfulness and levity she brings through games and exercises. Healing with Reina isn’t just about processing pain—it’s about rediscovering joy, connection, and wholeness in a deeply felt way. I use traditional therapy in conjunction with the work I do with Reina, and as valuable as that has been, I cannot imagine it alone bringing me the kind of healing I have experienced through these embodied practices.

If you are looking for someone who offers a truly transformative and holistic approach to healing, I cannot recommend Reina enough."

—Thomas V. (Torrington, CT)


(Reina's) ability to connect deeply while navigating emotionally complex and nuanced conversations was truly exceptional and led me to many moments of mind-freeing clarity.

"I came to Reina at a pivotal moment in my life seeking compassion, connection, and a safe space to talk about the intimacy and relationship struggles I was experiencing in my marriage. Not getting enough physical and emotional intimacy left me feeling stuck and alone in a relationship I didn’t know how to change. I looked to Reina for insight and advice on how to add the connection and intimacy back into my life. 

At our first session, I was nervous… but within minutes Reina’s calm presence and caring touch made me feel completely at ease. She created a space of safety and trust that allowed me to be completely open and honest about my feelings. Through our conversations, we explored my values, my needs, and the possible directions my relationship could take. Her ability to connect deeply while navigating emotionally complex and nuanced conversations was truly exceptional and led me to many moments of mind-freeing clarity. Reina is a wonderful human being who is brilliant, kind, compassionate, non-judgmental and authentic. She has guided and empowered me to understand and define how I want my life to look, and has helped me to confidently take the actions to make it happen. My journey has just begun, but having Reina as my guide and coach has already made a huge difference. 

Reina, thank you for the clarity, direction, and the feeling of hope I now have about the future. You have made such a profound impact on my life and I am truly grateful!" 


This work is so impactful and it is so worth every second and every dime. 

I first learned about cuddle therapy through social media a few years ago. I was interested in it, but when I looked for a cuddlist near me at that time, there were none within driving distance. Three months ago, cuddle therapy came to mind again, so I decided to check Cuddlist. I found a few people within driving distance but the one that stood out the most was Reina. I have been working through trauma in talk therapy for several years, but I felt like I needed more. When I read Reina's profile, things just felt right. I reached out and she contacted me the next day to schedule a discovery call. When we had the discovery call, it felt like Reina would be perfect for the work I wanted to do.

 I have worked with Reina consistently for 3 months and I don't regret it for a moment. I often struggle with feeling safe but when I am in Reina's presence, I feel like I can just be. She's fun to be around, very knowledgeable, and most important of all, extremely nurturing and caring. It often takes me a long time to open up to people but that has not been the case with Reina. I have been able to work through my trauma in a way that I never have. Reina is very intuitive and always tends to know what I need even when I have difficulty expressing it. She makes me feel seen in a way that I never have before. 

Whether virtual or in-person I have shed tears every session but they are always cleansing tears. At the end of every session Reina points out the smile that I have on my face because even after we've done hard work together I always feel like a little more of me has healed. Even my talk therapist is seeing the growth I've had since starting with Reina. Working with Reina has been life-changing. In my sessions, I feel safe expressing my wants and needs. In my day-to-day life, I have noticed feeling more content and able to handle what life throws my way. While cuddle therapy may not be for everyone, it is definitely for me, I'm learning who I am and what I can offer the world, I'm learning how to express myself, and I'm learning just how much healing touch can make a difference, especially when you were once hurt by touch. I'm so grateful to have found Reina and I profoundly appreciate the work that she does. This work is so impactful and it is so worth every second and every dime. 

—Luz O. (Hartford, CT)


I have been very much touched so sweetly by Reina’s openness to allow the inner parts of me that so needed compassion, tolerance, and friendly guidance.

“At first I was quite skeptical as to the effectiveness of cuddle therapy and how it would translate into my daily modern human habits, but I have been very much touched so sweetly by Reina’s openness to allow the inner parts of me that so needed compassion, tolerance, and friendly guidance that life feels a little bit lighter and the darkness is a little easier to keep at bay! What a gift to the world Reina’s presence is! She really has the tenderness that allowed me to be grounded while sharing my truth. Anticipating another great heart opening session through the art of cuddling!” 

—David H. (Ackworth, NH)


My work with Reina has been, and continues to be, transformational.

"My work with Reina has been, and continues to be, transformational.  Her kind, judgement-free approach has consistently left me feeling lighter, more energized, and more at peace with myself.  It takes a special person for me to be able to open up and I am so lucky to have crossed paths with Reina and I hope to continue working with her and her multiple approaches to mindfulness to bring more gratitude and self care into my life."

—Cam O. (Stratham, NH)


It was so therapeutic and healing, and I got to explore my feelings.

“This was my first experience with a Cuddlist, so I was understandably a bit nervous. My fears were put to rest upon having a Zoom call with Reina. Her professionalism was apparent from the very beginning. We went over ground rules and the definitions of appropriate touching and set up an appointment for that next Friday. When I arrived, she put me at ease immediately with a big hug. From there, we entered her beautifully appointed spacious abode where I was able to change into my ‘cuddling attire’ (sweat pants). After discussing the options of the surfaces: chaise lounge, bean bag or bed- I opted for the bag, we began our session. I felt warm and safe at all times and she led with suggestions and guidance. It was so therapeutic and healing, and I got to explore my feelings. She was understanding and comforting and I would highly recommend. I would definitely do this again. I’m a 64 year old widower, by the way.” 

—Dan S. (Bennington, VT)


I felt like a different person when I left her sanctuary. 

Recently, I had my first session with Reina. Before meeting in person we had a discovery call where we discussed my reason for seeking cuddle therapy, what to expect in a cuddle session, and Reina's experience. After both of us felt comfortable with proceeding, we scheduled my first appointment. Prior to our session, I let Reina know that I get very anxious when meeting new people and she reassured me that she understood and this is completely normal. 

Upon reaching Reina's Sanctuary she met me at the door and greeted me with a comforting hug. Knowing that I was feeling a lot of anxiety, Reina suggested that we begin with a meditation that she guided me through. After this, we played games that helped me loosen up more and prepare for our work together. When I was ready we began to work through touch. Througout the whole expereince, Reina was very in tune with me and she was able to help me navigate identifying my body sensationas as well as verbalize my wants and needs. 

Prior to our session, I shared that part of the reason I was seeking cuddle therapy was to work through trauma I have experience. Reina met me where I was and created an environment that helped me feel safe. By the end of our sesison, my anxiety had melted away and I was able to confront some of the feelings that I'd never addressed before as well as verbalize my wants and needs. I flet like a differnt person when I left her sanctuary. My time with her was very therapeutic and I leaned a lot about myself. Reina is an authentic, caring, and knowledgeable human being. I'veis an authentic, caring, and knowledgeable human being. I'e already scheduled both a virtual and another in-person session. I cannot wait to continue our work already scheduled both a virtual and another in-person session. I cannot wait to continue our work together!

—Alejandra R. (Plainville, CT)


I'm learning in my body, and not just my intellect.

"Working with Reina, I've learned experientially that clear, caring, considerate communication is possible in the context of giving and receiving touch. I've also learned that clear communication of my boundaries can be met with gratitude and respect. I'm allowed to say "no" and that "no" can be received without it being personalized as a rejection. "No" can be expressed and received with compassion and celebration. Setting clear boundaries is an act of love. It is a way for us to care both for ourselves and others. It is a precious gift to ourselves and those we live and interact with.

I’m also learning that my embodied presence can be met with joy and affection rather than the fear, disgust, discomfort, and pain I had learned to expect. Touch can be safe with the right people, practices, and inner resources.  

I’m learning in my body, and not just my intellect, that I’m allowed to exist and my presence on this earth is not the burden I had come to believe it was. My embodied existence and presence can be a source of enjoyment for others in a way that also respects my needs and well-being."

—Francis A. (Hartford, CT)


I have since found Reina to be exactly what I needed. 

“When I first met Reina, I was not sure of what to expect. I have since found Reina to be exactly what I needed. Her care and compassion have given me much comfort. My feelings of loneliness were soothed by her care. I have made a true connection with this loving and caring person. Reina has helped me to see how important I am as a person. I’m so much more in touch with myself since knowing her. What a beautiful person I have been so fortunate to find.” 

                          ****************************************************************************

To get the most out of what you are looking for from your session, please review the Code of Conduct and view some Cuddlist videos.

<span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Montserrat,sans-serif;color:#1a202c;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:Montserrat,sans-serif;color:#72aef4;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Code of Conduct</span>

<span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Montserrat,sans-serif;color:#1a202c;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-size:11.5pt;font-family:Montserrat,sans-serif;color:#72aef4;background-color:#ffffff;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Cuddlist videos</span>

Reina Hitotoki

Appointment types

About Reina Hitotoki

Session Information

Session Rates