ABOUT
Makia Matheis
the heart behind rooted across borders.
At the heart of this work is a belief that those who care for others deserve spaces where they, too, can be held. I created Rooted Across Borders to offer a pause—a place where helpers, educators, clinicians, and those living across cultures can reflect, reconnect with themselves, and find the steadiness needed to continue their work with intention and care.
my story.
In 2019, I stepped back from my role after enduring vicarious trauma and burnout, a season that nearly pulled me away from this field for good. Without the steady presence of my therapist and supervisor, I’m not sure I would have found the strength to return. Their care and reflection helped me remember why this work matters—and that I matter, too.
Having lived overseas since 2012 and raising a multicultural, multinational family, I understand the complexity of identity and culture that shapes our stories. I bring this layered perspective to my work, holding space not only as a therapist but also as an educator within the international school system, honoring the intersections of culture, caregiving, and the courage it takes to keep showing up for others and for yourself.
My approach is trauma-informed, psychodynamic, and systemic, creating spaces where reflection and sustainable care can unfold.
Qualifications
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Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW ) #119455
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PhD Student - Smith College (2024 - Present)
Master’s in Social Work (MSW) - University of Denver (2009 - 2011)
Bachelor of Science in Education (B.Sc.Ed), Health Promotion (2002 - 2006)
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Foundations of Clinical Supervision Certificate - Smith College (2023)
Work with me
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A confidential, reflective space for helpers navigating stress, burnout, identity, ambiguous loss, or transitions while working across borders.
45 -50-minute virtual sessions
Trauma-informed, systemic, intersectionally aware
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Reflective supervision for counselors, social workers, and clinicians in international contexts, focusing on sustainability, systemic clarity, and reflective practice.
Individual or small group options
Centered on your professional and cultural context
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Caring for others across cultures can feel heavy. My free newsletter offers a gentle pause in your inbox—a place for reflection, grounding, and care for those who hold others.
Rooted in my work and research on ambiguous loss, identity, vicarious trauma, and sustainability in caregiving, these emails will include:
✨ Reflective prompts
✨ Gentle reminders to pause
✨ Resources for helpers across borders
✨ Insights from the intersection of therapy, education, and living internationallyA quiet companion to support you as you support others.