Frequently Asked Questions

Booking & Access

  • You can book directly through the online system at a time that suits you. If you're unsure which treatment is right for you, or want to discuss your needs first, you can also email lavinia@inherentholistic.com or contact me directly. I'm happy to help you find what works.

  • I'm based in Cork and offer in-person treatments at Blackshields Therapy Clinic in Ballyvolane, Cork, Ireland. There's ample free parking on site. If you're using public transport, bus 207 (500 metres away) and 203 (700 metres away) both serve the area.

  • Please provide at least 48 hours' notice to avoid a cancellation fee. You can reschedule through the online booking system or contact me directly.

What to Expect

  • Not at all. Many somatic practices require you to talk, track your internal sensations, or actively sit with difficult emotions. This practice is entirely passive and "no-talk." We use a "bottom-up" approach, meaning we work directly with the physical body to soothe the nervous system, without requiring you to think, track sensations, or analyse your experience. You are never put on the spot, asked to describe your stress, or forced to focus on your trauma. Your only job is to lay down, rest, and let your body receive the care.

  • No. This practice does not offer traditional luxury spa pampering, nor do we focus on deep tissue work or physical sports therapy. While our full-body massage sessions include skilled physical bodywork to address muscle tension and knots, the primary goal is always deep, genuine relaxation and ease. Every session is designed to help your body shift out of "fight-or-flight" and into a deep, physiological state of safety. I work strictly within your comfort level and respect your body's unique boundary of pressure. We never "force" a tight muscle to release through pain; instead, we invite it to let go by making your entire system feel deeply safe.

  • Each session begins with a short conversation about your needs, any medical conditions, what you're hoping for, and any previous experiences with massage or Reiki. This ensures your session is safe, tailored entirely to you, and meets you where you actually are.

  • In-person treatments in Cork are 60 minutes, which includes an initial consultation. The actual treatment time is approximately 50 minutes. Distant Reiki sessions are available in both 30 and 60-minute options.

  • For Reiki, you remain fully clothed throughout.

    For massage, I usually recommend undressing to your underwear so I can work directly on the areas being treated. However, you're always in control—you can keep on as much clothing as feels right for you. Certain areas can easily be avoided.

    Throughout the session, you'll be properly covered with towels. Only the area being worked on is ever uncovered.

Treatment Details

  • No, I do not treat, process, or diagnose trauma. Trauma processing is best suited for licensed mental health clinicians. My role as a trauma-informed bodyworker and Reiki practitioner is simply to provide a deeply safe, predictable, and non-confronting physical space so your body can experience what true relaxation and safety feel like.

  • Yes, absolutely. Every session is tailored to you. If you want to focus on particular areas or avoid others, just let me know and your session will be adapted accordingly.

  • This depends entirely on your needs. Some people find monthly sessions support their general wellbeing. Others benefit from weekly or fortnightly sessions when addressing deeper tension or ongoing stress. The best guide is tuning into your body and noticing what actually helps. There's no fixed rule.

Safety & Medical

  • If you have any medical conditions or take medications, it's worth mentioning them during your initial consultation. In some cases, I may ask for GP clearance or a signed disclaimer to ensure your treatment supports you safely without aggravating anything.

  • I'm not currently offering massage during pregnancy. Reiki, however, is entirely safe and can be received at any stage of pregnancy.

  • I'm not currently able to offer massage to clients undergoing cancer treatment. Reiki, on the other hand, is gentle and non-invasive with no contraindications, and many find it supportive during this time.

  • Every session is designed to support your body gently. The goal is to release tension and help you settle into ease, never to cause pain or aggravate existing conditions. You're always welcome to speak up if anything feels uncomfortable or if you'd like the pressure adjusted.

Payment & Insurance

  • Yes. As a member of the Irish Massage Therapists Association (IMTA), I can provide receipts for massage treatments, which may allow you to claim back part of your session cost with Irish Life Health, depending on your plan. Reiki sessions are not currently eligible for insurance claims.

  • Payment is made online at the time of booking. You'll receive a payment receipt by email to the address you provided. Insurance receipts are available upon request.

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