Integrative Embodywork
An integrative somatic practice guided
by the innate intelligence of the body
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Our approach
Makia has been a licensed bodyworker since 2008, specialising in hands-on hand-in integrative wellness. The entirely of Makia’s adult life has been dedicated and deeply devoted to somatic healing arts with trainings ranging from Osteo-Neuropathic Massage, Structural Integration, Visceral Manipulation, Craniosacral Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, Scar Tissue Remediation, Somatic Sexology, Sexological Bodywork, Holistic Pelvic Care and a myriad of Trauma Informed Somatic Therapies over the last 16+ years. Makia works with a integrative approach to touch, drawing from a myriad of these trainings to support the unique bio-individuality of each of her clients.
Her aim is to support the body and nervous system in moving through physical restrictions, releasing acute or chronic pain and unwinding trauma patterns held in the tissues. Gently guiding the body back into alignment and closer towards moving from a deeply resourced and thriving state of being. Where the nervous system is regulated and soothed, whilst the body is grounded, softened and at ease. Makia’s ethos is that you are the authority when it comes to your wellbeing. She acts as a guide support you in remembering your most natural, primal states of being, always listening to and moving at the pace of the body, prioritizing your needs.
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These rates reflect & honour our expertise, education, expenses and resources. Equitable access and sliding scale rates are always available upon request, please see FAQs for more of these details.
Frequent symptoms and conditions we support.
Stagnation, congestion & scar tissue . Limiting range of motion, inflexibility & postural misalignment . Muscular pain or numbness within the tissues . TMJ, Bruxism or Teeth grinding, migraines & sinus headaches . Digestive issues, bloating, constipation & gastritis . Chronic indigestion, Heartburn or Acid reflux . Pelvic pain and dysfunction . Painful intercourse & Vaginismus . Dysmennhoria or Painful Menstruation . Amenorrhea or a Lack of menses . Endometriosis, Cysts & PCOS . Vaginitis + recurrent UTIs and Interstitial cystitis . Hormonal imbalances or Difficult menopause . Infertility or recurrent miscarriages . Menstrual irregularity, absent periods or painful ovulation . Tailbone, pelvic and sacral injuries . Pregnancy release of any sort through childbirth, abortion or miscarriage . Birthing trauma, c-section, episiotomy or vaginal tearing scars . Postpartum healing and recovery . Circumcision scarring, phimosis or foreskin restoration . Sexual abuse & trauma. Boundary or consent violations . Loss of or diminished libido . Emotional wounding, body dysmorphia and shame . Disconnection to oneself, your genitals, womb, creativity . PMS or PMDD symptoms
ABOUT
Hi, I’m Makia
Ma-kai-ah - she/her • IMTA #2482.
I am a US transplant residing in Dublin, Ireland since 2020, blown in from the Golden Foothills of Northern California.
I am first and foremost a “Somanaut” or a ‘person who is dedicated to exploring the inner spaces of the human form’ as one of my teachers Gil Hedley refers to us. Somatics were my first language, my mother tongue. From as far back as I can recall I have been endlessly fascinated by the the human body. My mother was a massage therapist and my father, a VMD / Doctor of Regenerative Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation. Both in their own ways introduced me to the value of health and how greatly wellbeing (or a lack there of) can ripple out and impact the entirely of ones quality of life.
When I was thirteen I attended my first Usui Reiki certification. From there forward I devoured any education that I could get my hungry hands on. Being homeschooled, I had the opportunity to dive deeply into whatever studies tickled my fancy. Anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, psychology, nutrition, herbal and eastern medicines, yoga, and a myriad of alternative modalities became my studies. I knew then that the theme of embodied well-being would form the back bone of my eventual career.
In 2008, I attended the Cayce Reilly School of Massotherapy in Virginia Beach Virginia for a 1000 hour massage therapist diploma. Since, I have dedicated myself to many thousands of hours of trainings and mentorships in a wide variety of somatic therapies over these last 20 years. With well over 25,000 hours of hands-on experience working with bodies of all sizes, configurations, identities and abilities. With the intent of supporting my own healing; I found a deep love and specialization in working with the fascia or connective tissues of the body through structural integration, visceral manipulation, scar tissue remediation and unwinding chronic pain patterns of the jaw, pelvis and abdomen. Learning from some truly radical teachers and mentors over the years has only served to deepen my reverence for our miraculous bodies. I am in awe of the body’s capacity for resiliency and the incredible ability for the body to repair itself when provided the right conditions.
Coming home to these bodies takes a tremendous act of courage and vulnerability. Most of us were not raised to nourish and tend to our bodies with care or consideration and I am hell bent on the notion that the journey towards wholeness does not have to devoid of pleasure, joy or ease. In fact, I feel these are integral facets to the sustainability of us consistently inhabiting new ways of being and showing up in the world for ourselves and for one another.
Through learning how to re-inhabit our bodies in down-regulated, joyful, easeful states, we can unwind deeply rooted pain and encourage the release of stagnant traumas from the body. Allowing us to live deeply enriching and impactful lives.
Currently, I am continuing to hone my skills as a Certified Somatic Sexologist with both The Institute of Relational Harmony in Portugal and The Institute for the Study of Somatic Sex Education in Canada. A two year mentorship with Ellen Heed (STREAM) as a Pelvic Health Specialist. Additional certifications in Somatic Therapy, Somatic Parts work & Somatic EMDR with The Embody Lab.
NCTMB
Nationally
Certified
What Our Clients Say
“I have had the pleasure of working with Makia for the last eight months. Of all massage therapists I have worked with during my four years as a Chiropractor, Makia has been the most caring, professional and enthusiastic one. Makia ́s one-to-one professional skills are beyond exceptional and all of our common patients have expressed her competency and are extremely pleased with their care from her. Makia has an outstanding interest on continuing to educate herself to grow her knowledge to better support her clients”
DR. JENNIFER W.
Doctor of Chiropractic
“The best massage in Dublin. I have tried almost every massage centre in Dublin City Centre and the surrounding areas. So when I say Makia's massage was THE BEST, I mean it. She did exactly what I needed, was communicative and kind. Her diverse education combined with her wisdom of the body is incredible - you will know it when you feel it. I've booked in again for two weeks from now.”
PRIYA S.
“From walking in earlier this morning I felt a sense of well-being. Makia really listened to me on areas I’d like particular focus and it was without doubt the best set of treatments I’ve ever had. I have re-booked for 6 weeks time. Thank you so much!”
CIARA L.
“I have been in severe pain for the last seven years after a serious accident. I tried every approach without success, just resigning myself to a life of chronic back and hip pain. After my first session with Makia I was pain free for nearly 3weeks. I've been seeking her fortnightly for the past six months and have been mostly pain free. It doesn't hurt that she's great craic, the laughter makes the deep tissue work more tolerable. I have my life back thanks to her magical hands and kind heart.”
STEPHEN L.
“Makia, you know the body so well! I felt so safe when you worked on my belly and chest. After years of endometriosis and digestive pain, having anyone touch my belly felt terrifying, but it was so easy and safe to do with you. It was truly a magical experience and I can’t wait for my next session.”
KATRINA I.
“I had a incredible session with Makia. I love that she is giving it as a form of therapy, a source of closeness and human connection that has been forgotten in our society. We’ve forgotten that connection is a real need of people. I hope to come back for more.”
CIARA M.
“Thank you so much, Makia. I enjoyed working with you, you are a wonderful, giving, intuitive person. I feel so centred & relaxed in the following days after receiving your incredible massages. Keith also echos this!”
ELIZABETH & KEITH H.
“I am a Chiropractor and was on vacay in Dublin with a group of friends from San Diego. I found Makia in my first search for a massage. All of the luggage, sitting on planes, trains and sleeping on awful mattresses really did a number on my back. She did some of the best work that I have ever had, I was able to walk all over Dublin without pain for the remainder of my travels. Highly recommended. It was great to see another friendly Californian in a foreign country.”
SUSAN P.
Doctor of Chiropractic
“Makia! You’ve completely changed my life and my relationship with my body & embodiment. You are the most wise and gifted bodyworker I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. I feel like I have a new body.”
GRÁINNE D.
“I walked out of the clinic floating on cloud nine! Makia's was the most amazing massage I've ever received. I struggle with chronic migraines and jaw pain from grinding at night. Her jaw, face and scalp work, OMG just incredible. 90 minutes flew by. Thanks a million!”
NIKKI B.
“I have high standards when it comes to bodywork. Countless times I've laid on a massage table optimistic that I have found a therapist that possesses the rare qualities which enable me to trust and surrender into their hands, only to leave feeling disappointed and disgruntled. Quite the opposite occurs with Makia. Not only does she hold an impecable, grounded space, she is a master of touch and so attentively attuned to working with the different layers involved in bodywork that the experience was uniquely magical, relaxing, energising and balancing. I could not recommend her more.“
AOIFE M.
Physiotherapist
“I’ve been working with Makia for years now. She incorporates a variety of different modalities based on what my body needs. She listens so carefully, uses her intuition and years of knowledge to create a unique experience in each session I’ve had. Since we been working together for a few years now, she really knows exactly what my body needs. I wish I had learned earlier in life just how important self-care is. So I definitely keep up my massages with Makia on a regular basis. She is not just a great massage therapist, but a healing presence.”
SÍNEAD B.
FAQs.
How does sliding scale work?
Most sliding scale clients are received through a community referral. There is a waitlist for these spots, however if you are interested in applying for sliding scale rates, please send me a brief massage noting your current situation and intentions. If you are committed to 6 sessions we can discuss possible options for a lower package rate during a Curiosity Consultation session. It's my aim to make regular tending of the body more accessible to those in need.
Do you take insurance?
For bodywork + massage, YES. We offer BILLING for insurance REIMBURSEMENT. Many insurance plans offer massage benefits. As an IMTA member my treatments fall under "Allied Health Professionals and Alternative Practitioners" and am recognized by Irish Life Health insurance for treatment rebates and offer benefits on a number of its plans for massage therapy and bodywork. €30 can be claimed back per treatment, which depending on your health care package can be capped at a maximum amount of visits per policy year. To submit a claim for a rebate, you will need a receipt from your IMTA therapist. It will state your name, the treatment type and cost as well as the name and details of your therapist including the therapist's IMTA membership number. Please keep in mind, there is never a guarantee of coverage when billing insurance, so we kindly suggest calling your provider to clarify their specific requirements. If approved, we can happily provide detailed billing + receipts for your reimbursement.
How do I claim back taxes on my bodywork via Revenue?
If you have been prescribed massage or bodywork treatments by a registered medical practitioner you are able to claim relief on health expenses through MyAccount or Revenue Online services, ROS. Form 12 for PAYE or Form Il for Self Assessed individuals for tax back on your treatments. You will need treatment receipts for proof of claiming tax relief and if you have private health insurance, you can claim tax relief on the portion NOT covered by your insurer.
Book your Consultation.
virtual or 1:1 in person sessions based in dublin ireland. with clients worldwide in the EU, US & CA
MONDAY TO FRIDAY
11am to 7pm by appointment
SUNDAYS & SATURDAY
by request only
Contact Me.
whatsapp
(353) 083 020 3797
embodywork@gmail.com
social
Policies.
INCLUSIVITY
All clients are welcome and will be respected, regardless of their age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, race, religion, socio-economic status or body type. Clients will always be treated with the utmost respect, consideration, dignity. Privacy and confidentiality are maintained at all times. Intake forms are gender inclusive.
COMMUNICATION
As a practitioner, I am available to my clients via email or WhatsApp messaging Monday through Friday 10am to 6pm. I will respond at my first opportunity to any messages sent outside of those hour and I will do my due diligence to return calls, texts or emails on business days. Should I ever be taking extended time away from my practice; travel updates will be posted to my instagram account.
CANCELLATION
If cancellation is required, please allow for at least 24 hours notice. When there is a cancellation within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment, the client will be responsible for payment of 50% of the appointment to cover the cost of the rental space. Emergency cancellations are determined with Makia’s discretion, the only time this is considered or waived is in the case of serious illness, extreme weather or other unavoidable circumstances. If Makia is unable to attend a session for any reason she will communicate with you and offer you to reschedule a time that works for you or suggest a time. If you do not wish to reschedule due to Makia's unavailability for the time you originally booked, She will issue a refund for this session. Thank you for understanding.
ETHICS OF CARE
All sessions are carried out by myself, Makia Williams, the therapist and practitioner. I will not and do not diagnose illness, disease, mental or physiological disorders, prescribe medical treatment or pharmaceuticals. Nor do I in any way attempt to perform the functions of a medical doctor or primary-care practitioner. Clients must agree to accurately inform the practitioner of the status of their health, and agree to keep them updated of any current changes in their health or well-being. By booking an appointment, one is giving the practitioner full permission to facilitate an intake interview, therapeutic treatment, and the post treatment protocols to ensure the highest standards of care. Both client and practitioner will be fully present during each session and never under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Sessions will be canceled or terminated at the practitioner’s discretion. As a practitioner, If I am unable to perform services for which I am not qualified (both physically or emotionally) I will refer clients to the appropriate specialists whenever work is not within my scope of practice or within the best interest of my client. Any illicit or sexually suggestive advances or remarks will result in the immediate termination of the session and any future bookings with no obligation to return payment as a result.
HYGIENE
Please arrive in compliance with the highest hygiene standards appropriate for receiving a treatment. Please let the therapist know if you have any active infections, illnesses, contagious health conditions or any health concerns that necessitate modifying or declining your session. I see clientele with auto-immune conditions and undergoing immune compromising treatments; if you are ill please be considerate of my own personal well-being as well as the other clients entering the treatment room after you.
PRIVACY & DATA
Your privacy is of the utmost importance to me and I am committed to the highest standards of ethical practice in relation to confidentiality, which includes respecting and protecting your privacy. Any data collected is done so in order to safely and satisfactorily provide my services or products to you. I will hold all personal data responsibly and in strictest confidence and in compliance with the GDPR Article 8 of the EU chapter.
TRAININGS THAT I AM CURRENTLY ENROLLED IN;
᠅ STREAM Pelvic Health Specialist Certification (Two year program) with Ellen Heed
᠅ Certifications in Sexological Bodywork, Sexological Intimacy Coaching, Somatic Sex Education with The Institute of Relational Harmony w/ Katie Sarra
᠅ Certifications in Sexological Bodywork + Somatic Sex Education with The Institute for the Study of Somatic Sex Education
᠅ Certification as an Intimacy Educator with Caffyn Jesse
᠅ Certifications in Somatic Therapy, Somatic Parts Therapy, Conflict Resolution and Somatic EMDR with TEL
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAININGS IN;
᠅ Wheel of consent with Corinne Diachuk + Katie Spataro 2023
᠅ Pelvic Dearmouring with Rahi Chun 2023
᠅ Genital Scar Tissue Remediation with Caffyn Jesse 2023
᠅ TMJ Mastery Certificate w/ Michael Eversen 2021
᠅ Biomedicine diploma with the College of Naturopathic Medicine in Dublin, Ireland 2021 - 2022
᠅ The secret life of fascia with Bruce Schonfeld & Anatomy Trains 2020
᠅ 6 day human dissection (fixed & unfixed) fascia anatomy intensive with Gil Hedley phd. of Integral Anatomy 2019
᠅ Advanced cupping therapy with at the fair oaks school of massage + Dr. James Mally 2017 + 2019
᠅ Arvigo abdominal massage with Chaya Leia BS of Purple Rose Abdominal Massage 2016
᠅ Visceral manipulation + Pelvic massage with Michal Everson 2014
᠅ Val Guin’s Forearm Dance and Advanced TMJ treatments 2013
᠅ The School of Watsu at Harbin Hotsprings; Watsu & Water Dance 2013 - 2014
᠅ Live-in 1 month Lomi-Lomi massage training in Kauai HI with Kumu Simi 2012
᠅ School of Naturopathic Medicine with Dr. Farida Sharan; Iridology, Herbal Medicine and Flower Essences 2012
᠅ Live-In 3 month mentorship with Swami Netra in Ayurvedic bodywork, Osho soma-emotional release technique 2011
᠅ NVC non-violent and heart centered communication with The Sunrise Center 2010 - 2014
᠅ 250hrs of certificates in Transpersonal Psychology + Advanced Energy Medicine with Delphi University 2009 - 2010
᠅ La Stone & Hot Stone Mentorship with Christina Chimino 2009
᠅ Structural Integration Mentorship Training w/ Juddah Lions 2009
᠅ Additional 300 hours CEUs with The Cayce Reilly School in 2008-2009 for the 1000hr diploma with advanced studies in Cayce holistic therapy, hydrotherapy, a myriad of somatic + bodywork studies. Craniosacral therapy, Reflexology, Thai Yoga massage, Ayurvedic Massage, Cupping massage, Jin Shin Do Acupuressure, Sports, Holotropic Breathwork, Advanced Energy Medicine, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Quantum Touch, Trager TM, Myofascial Release, Neuromuscular
᠅ The Cayce Reilly school of massage therapy 700 hr diploma program 2008 - 2009
᠅ Usui shiki ryoho reiki master with The Cayce Reilly School 2008
᠅ Usui shiki ryoho reiki I + II certification with Westminster Medical Center 2004
LICENSES
᠅ IMTA; Irish massage therapy association; licensure & membership 2021 - Present
᠅ CAMTC California massage therapy licensure + membership 2010 - 2021
᠅ AMTA; American massage therapy association; licensure + membership 2009 - 2021
᠅ RMP; Maryland massage therapy licensure 2009 - 2010
᠅ NCBTMB; National board certification of therapeutic massage & bodywork; licensure + membership 2009 - Present
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