First and foremost, Cleo is an excellent massage therapist. I have a lot of shoulder tightness and pain and felt so much relief at the end of the appointment. I think the best part of my experience though was how Cleo was so intentional and focused on making sure I was nothing less than 100% comfortable the entire time and let me set the pace. I have a hard time with physical touch (#trauma) but the detailed, initial conversation that set the stage on what I was looking for/felt comfortable with and the check-ins throughout the massage let me fully relax and enjoy the experience. Also, the [jojoba oil] she used was amazing for my very sensitive skin! Overall, Cleo gave me the best massage experience I've ever had and the vibes were 10/10. Definitely book with her!

Chuck S.

I’m a queer and trans powerlifter who experiences periodic back soreness from training and decided to look for an affirming practice to get my first professional massage, and was directed to Cleo. Cleo was very communicative and attentive to my concerns about my pain. She checked in regularly during our session and was very accommodating. I left our session feeling transformed! When I woke up the next day, the shoulder in which I had been experiencing debilitating pain for weeks was entirely painless. I look forward to booking with Cleo regularly.

Veronika E.

I cannot speak highly enough about Cleo's professionalism, warmth, trauma-informedness, and inclusivity as a bodywork practitioner. As a trans person, massage has always been something I desire deeply but have a lot of anxiety about. I felt safe coming to Cleo based on her web presence, and my experience in real life exceeded any expectations about what bodywork could be. Cleo was communicative before, during, and after the session, which made me feel very cared for and like my comfort was of utmost priority. Her touch is gentle yet transformative— I could feel the tension dissolving almost immediately upon the session beginning. It's clear that this is a woman who knows her stuff.

Ari K.

Cleo provides trauma-informed, compassionate, queer+ affirming body healing grounded in consent in Bull City and I am so thankful I went to her for my first ever massage. The entire session catered to my personal needs, some I didn't even realize I needed! The massage was amazing and eased the pain I had been feeling for weeks. The Reiki session was so impactful— I still reflect on it now months later. My favorite part of the session was discussing it together afterwards. Both sharing our experiences and checking in was extremely profound. If you want to show up for yourself, book with Cleo.

Andi W.

Highly recommend scheduling energy work with Cleo! I'm not local to Durham so Cleo worked with me virtually for a Reiki session. The session left me clearer, calmer, and more grounded. Cleo has a naturally gentle and comforting presence that eased any nerves I had about my first Reiki session. She communicated clearly and encouraged me to ask as many questions as I needed before and after the session. Really excited to work with her again and I feel confident sending others interested in body and energy work her way!

Brennan M.

I recently had a massage with Cleo and it was an amazing experience. I can tell that she approaches her practice with intention and encourages open communication. Typically, after massages I experience quite a bit of pain in the days after. This was the first time I've ever experienced a massage that left me feeling this refreshed and relaxed. I also experienced no pain during or in the days following my massage. If you are queer or have chronic illness, Cleo absolutely knows what she is doing!! I will be coming back and telling everyone I know about her amazing work.

El C.

MAGICAL! Cleo is absolutely fantastic!!!! If I could give 50 stars I would!!! Best massage of my life by a landslide. I got a 90 minute massage and was extremely relaxed afterwards— I slept 10 hours that night!!! Cleo is kind, welcoming, and respectful. She was very accommodating to a physical limitation I have and I really appreciate that. Highly recommend!

Jayden S.

I suffer from chronic pain (mostly in my neck and shoulders) and have been for a number of years, so having a session with Cleo was such a welcome gift for my tired little body. She creates such a safe and affirming environment for every one of her clients, and her practitioner style is very gentle and respectful of any comfort level. I couldn’t recommend her enough.

Cait L.

As someone who has never had a massage before, I was a bit nervous and self conscious. After arriving and consulting with Cleo I felt at ease due to the relaxing space and her calming demeanor. My experience was perfect. I really appreciate her walking me through every step and making sure that I was comfortable during the session.

Malea G.

Cleo is professional, kind and always makes me feel comfortable and safe. She checks in with me during the massage, asks me before starting, and gets an idea of what I'm looking for beforehand. I really appreciate the care and effort she puts in to give her clients a good experience! And her massages feel amazing too of course.

Ken M.

Cleo is an excellent massage therapist and Reiki practitioner. She takes the time to understand my goals for the session. I always feel amazing and lighter after sessions with her. I would recommend her to anyone seeking therapeutic massage and/or relaxation.

Channa P.

I had a fantastic experience with Ember Bodywork! Cleo’s calm energy welcomes you into a space of relaxation. I appreciated the clean space & queer affirming services. The Reiki session left me feeling more present and in tune with myself. Highly recommend booking with Cleo ASAP!

Ro C.

If you are looking for kind and gentle energy/body work, Cleo is your go-to. She takes COVID precautions seriously, communicates empathetically, and is flexible to adjustments. And her space is beyond calming and beautiful!

Peyton K.

I had a great experience with Cleo! I came with a lot of upper back and shoulder pain and tension which dissipated almost immediately after my massage. Not only did Cleo do a great job to relieve my pain, but is also so kind and welcoming. Highly recommend.

Jenna L.

Feeling like a new person after my massage & Reiki session with Cleo. She is extremely intuitive, caring, receptive, and respectful. I felt so safe and relaxed the whole time and now my body is feeling so open.

Wren F.

I had an amazing experience with Ember Bodywork! Cleo was incredibly kind, skilled, and communicative throughout my massage and I left feeling relaxed and connected to my body. I definitely plan on booking again.

Hailey L.

I felt rested and relaxed after my session with Cleo. A few days later, I can report that I feel energized and I have less pain. A really great session in which I felt comfortable. The facility is also clean and has a calming atmosphere. I will be back!

Drew M.

Cleo is amazing at her job!! She helped with my pain from tendinitis through our regular sessions. I highly recommend booking a massage if you're experiencing sore muscles, aches in your back or pain from arthritis or over use of muscles.

Samantha C.

A session with Cleo is soothing from the moment you walk in the door- I'm so amazed at her ability to curate the mood of a space into a safe little cocoon. Highly recommend the massage + energy work combination!

Mars W.

I've gotten a massage from Cleo twice and plan to go back every month! Cleo always make me feel comfortable and safe. She is extremely caring and trauma-informed in her care. I can't recommend her enough!

Jessica M.

Cleo has a light, patient presence. I went in for a reiki massage. My session was absolutely wonderful, so very calming and restful. If you’re thinking about working with Cleo, do it! ♥️♥️♥️

Ipsita B.

I love going here. Cleo is the best. She takes time to listen to her clients' needs and expectations of the session, and you can tell she cares. No body shaming or constant talking, just a relaxing environment. Would definitely recommend going to her!!

Ian M.

This was my first time getting a massage and I felt so soothed, comfortable, and calm. Cleo is thorough in asking questions beforehand and after. I can't wait for my next appointment.

Liam D.

Cleo was warm and welcoming, and she asked thoughtful questions that helped make my first-ever massage(!) a comfortable, relaxing experience. I will definitely be back soon.

Jake C.

I had a lovely experience working with Ember Bodywork & Cleo! The massage felt supportive and responsive to my needs & Cleo is great to work with and so kind, welcoming, and communicative.

Davis H.

Just upon walking in the room, Cleo let off a relaxing vibe and tingly energy. I thoroughly enjoyed my 60 minute massage and will be back!

Elsa A.

Cleo has the warmest, most relaxing hands & touch! I really appreciate our session together!

Artemis L.

Cleo does an amazing job communicating and creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere!

Natalie T.

Cleo creates a relaxed atmosphere with her gentle manner, is a great listener, and you leave feeling wonderful. :)

Alex L.

Had a wonderfully relaxing massage with Cleo and will definitely be back!

S R.

Cleo creates an incredible environment and does amazing work!

D M.

Client testimonials