About Adriana
A warm, attentive approach to your wellbeing
Adriana Costa de Almeida is a qualified Complementary Healthcare Practitioner based in Llandaff, Cardiff, whose journey with massage began more than 25 years ago. After her career took her in other directions for a number of years, she returned to complementary healthcare with a desire to deepen her understanding of the human body and the important connection between physical health, emotional wellbeing and the whole person. She went on to complete an HND in Complementary Healthcare with Practitioner Status (Merit), followed by a BSc (Hons) in Health and Social Care (2:1). Her commitment to her studies was recognised when she was named Student of the Year.
Professional Training & experience
Adriana's university training provided a strong foundation in complementary healthcare, covering holistic and advanced massage, clinical reflexology, clinical aromatherapy, anatomy and physiology, professional clinical practice and supervised clinical placements.
Her HND and clinical studies included training in pregnancy massage, oncology massage, hot stone massage and silicone cupping. Her clinical placement at the University Hospital of Wales included providing complementary therapy treatments to patients with cancer.
The practical element of her studies allowed her to work with clients with different needs under professional supervision. This experience helped her develop the ability to adapt complementary therapy treatments thoughtfully and safely to the individual, rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.
Adriana has also continued to develop her practical massage experience through working in a professional spa environment, where she has worked with clients from a wide range of backgrounds.
Qualifications & training
- HND in Complementary Healthcare with Practitioner Status (Merit)
- BSc (Hons) in Health and Social Care (2:1)
- Holistic and advanced massage
- Clinical reflexology
- Clinical aromatherapy
- Pregnancy massage, oncology massage, hot stone massage and silicone cupping (HND and clinical studies)
- Anatomy, physiology and professional clinical practice
- Supervised clinical placements
- Clinical placement, University Hospital of Wales (Haematology) — including complementary therapy with cancer patients
- Professional spa experience
Clinical placement
As part of her university training, Adriana undertook a clinical placement within the NHS at the University Hospital of Wales, working in the Haematology Department.
This placement gave her valuable experience of providing complementary therapy within a healthcare environment and of working sensitively with people who may have complex health needs. It reinforced the importance of careful assessment, clear communication, professional boundaries and a thoughtful, person-centred approach to care.
Adriana's approach to care
Adriana believes that wellbeing involves recognising the relationship between physical health, emotional wellbeing and the whole person. She takes time to listen to each client and considers their individual circumstances, needs, comfort and treatment preferences before and during every session.
Treatments are adapted to the individual, with an emphasis on safety, dignity, comfort, professional boundaries and attentive care. Adriana does not take a prescriptive approach — she works with each person as they are, on the day, and adjusts accordingly.
Complementary therapies are not a substitute for medical treatment, and Adriana is clear about the scope and purpose of her work. What she offers is a professional, thoughtful and genuinely caring service for people who want to take time for their own wellbeing.
Cura Holistic Therapy
Cura was created to provide a calm, welcoming and professional environment where clients are treated as individuals and can receive thoughtful, personalised complementary therapy.
Adriana brings together her academic background, clinical experience and professional practice to offer treatments that are carefully considered and individually tailored. Her aim is to provide thoughtful, professional care and make sure that everyone who comes to Cura feels listened to, respected and genuinely looked after.
Professional membership & insurance
Adriana Costa de Almeida is a Full Member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) and holds professional insurance covering the treatments offered at Cura Holistic Therapy.
View FHT profileInterested in a treatment?
Appointments are arranged directly with Adriana. Get in touch on WhatsApp to find a suitable time and discuss which treatment may be most appropriate for your needs.