I've been seeing Paul for over 15 years. He's a true healer. He has the gift of being able to find and fix the root of the problem. As an aerialist, I've had a lot of muscular issues in my back, shoulder, neck, hip...you name it. Paulie fixed them all and got me back up in the air quickly. Paul also weaves energy work into his sessions, so I leave feeling emotionally uplifted as well. I've recommended over two dozen people to him, and almost all became regular clients. Paul is simply the best there is. read more

The only one I trust to clear my field! Paul is extremely professional and effective at removing blocked energy and emotions in the body. I feel more clear and totally aligned after each session. It takes a skilled person to protect your field while clearing it to allow such clarity to come in. A great protector in my experience! Any emotion that comes to surface I know is mine to work with but his intuition is strong so he gives it light and then pushes it away. IMO: I'd say first couple sessions are for really just clearing and connecting you to the field if you've never had a clearing. Goodbye stuck traumas and learned patterns! After those, sessions become more like a fresh tune-up. I bring a few questions/intentions I want answered for my path and sometime during the session I'll see visions that answer those questions (after the lighter clearing that happens generally for me so like after first 20-30 minutes of clearing I get to pure clarity zone! read more

Thank you Paul for my husband and my amazing treatments! We will definitely be back. His PTSD is much better because of you....we will see you again very soon read more

Had a couple of sessions. Massages were pretty good; have had better, have had a lot worse. Then a deeply unsettling, unprofessional thing happened. I'm not comfortable talking about it here, but I CANNOT recommend Paul. Doubly for female clients. I went to make a report to the licensing board. They have no record of him. He's operating without a license (a felony, it turns out). "Creep" is a generous, polite euphemism. read more

Had a great session and looking forward to making this a regular practice while I'm in town

Eight years later and sometimes 2,000+ miles between us and I keep coming back. I'm so happy to be able to see Paul in LA now too!

Have you ever read a ton of Yelp reviews that were amazingly positive & then there's that one that's so negative as to seem to be written by a sour spoil sport with too much time on their hands? Today dear readers, I am that spoil sport. However, I am neither sour nor brimming with hostile vengeance, as those lone negative reviews seem to imply. What I am, is a licensed massage therapist myself who knows the differenece between well trained hands & some ones who's winging it. This dude, based on my 1 incredibly bad experience with him, falls into the latter category. So, 1st of all, I was completely willing to overlook the damned tiring 5 floor WALK UP to his teeny tiny, didn't smell so fresh, billyburg studio. We all gotta get our hustle on right? After explaining in great detail what my issues were, even pointing to the distressed areas, I felt confident that dude would hook me up. After getting on his rickety table (dude you charge $100 for those 90 minutes, invest in a real massage table!) this man proceeded to do...what, I don't even know. This is what I do know: a therapeutic massage done by well trained hands is: fluid; involves various massage techniques such as: kneading; compression; tapotement; and maybe even some stretching; you always know where the therapists hands are; simultaneously therapeutic & relaxing; you are always appropriately draped; there are smooth transitions between whatever techniques are being used. Dear reader I could go on but you didn't ask for a mini swedish massage lesson did you? Basically, this dude would quickly rub an area, then hold it for several too long minutes (this doesnt equate to "energy" work which ideally begins or ends a session, not randomly interspersed throughout), then he moved on to a different area. My body felt like a discombobulated series of separate parts due to his chaotic movements. I have NEVER had such a sucky massage & I've been getting massage for several years now. My advice is to ask for Clarence at Graceful Services in the city, which is my usual place of choice but I just didn't feel like making that trek from Brooklyn. The one great thing about this otherwise terrible session is that I too, am completely inspired to offer massage out of my home for $100 per 90 minute session. But mine will actually be massage done the right way. read more

I just moved to NY from the Bay Area (massage capital of the U.S.) and Paul is the best thing that has happened so far. After the big move, my body was a wreck. I went in to see Paul feeling like ten bucks and left feeling like a million. Paul has an easygoing manner, broad hands, and a perfect mix of gentle and deep massage techniques. I have a past back injury, and so am picky about massage. I will definitely go back to see Paul and I heartily recommend him. I even set up this Yelp account just to do that! Note: Paul does massage in his own, friendly little apartment--it is not done in a proper spa or health club. He does have a private room with a massage table. This may put some people off but honestly you will forget about your surroundings the minute Paul starts to work his magic. UPDATE: I have now been going to Paul once or twice a month for 6 months. He is still awesome, and I've even upped this review from 4-to-5 stars. read more

Paul. I heart you. You worked on the kinks in my back and paid special attention to my specific needs. Quite a nice change from the general, jaded masseurs in NYC who are clearly just going thru the motions with each client, regardless of individual needs. You made me feel special, important, and most importantly, my shoulders were three inches lower upon leaving than they were upon arrival. Gorgeous experience. My non-existent disposible income will be going to Paul from now on. read more

I have been spoiled over the last few years. My little sister has been using me as a practice doll for her massage therapy, so I've been getting free work and she's awesome. However, she recently moved up to Seattle and finding another massage therapist has been challenging. I am from LA and I was visiting old friends in the NYC. After a steak at Peter Lugar's (review soon to come), I decided to get a massage. Thank god for yelp. I happened upon Paul. He is a super bad ass at massage. You can tell if someone is any good and if they know what they're doing when they have a huge massage vocabulary and they use it accordingly. This was no "paint-by-numbers" massage. Paul seemed to have used a combo of Swedish, rolfing, and some energy work (reiki, perhaps?) on me. No only did he work out the kinks in my neck, but my arms and shoulders were totally butter by the end of it. He works out of his apartment and he's a total find. No joke. I'm not sure how competitive the massage scene is in the NYC, but for anyone who's looking for a more personal approach, a wide massage vocab, and the strength to work through any muscle tension, Paul's the man. Do yourself a favor and get an appointment with him before the secret gets out. read more

Paul is a pro! I needed a massage terribly because my shoulders were extremely tense from delivering food and playing tennis. I've felt like my sleep hasn't rested my back for a loooong time now, so I googled masseurs (bc I needed someone strong) and read all these awesome recommendations on yelp about Paul Gillard. This is my 1st review..like ever..so bare with me. I called, he answered right away, scheduled to visit the same day and got a muscle-relaxing massage for longer than planned. (Thank you soo much Paul. I really truly appreciate it.) It hurt a bit @ first, which it should because my muscles were tight, and progressed into a soothing type of massage. Thank you for helping me man~ :) read more

Paul... Phenomenal Awesome Unique Loving If you don't go see him, you're only hurting yourself! read more

Paul is my hero. I've been going to him for years, and it's made a world of difference. I do a lot of work at the computer, and my back and shoulders were wrecked, he helped me immensely through this. He has the most amazing touch of any massage therapist I've been to, and is a very sweet and easy-going person, putting you instantly at ease. My friends I send to him leave a session in an almost cult-like awe. Paul not only works through those knots, he aligns and releases energy that gets pent up (& messed up) in everyday life. I leave feeling like 10 years have been knocked off my age, and my head is clear. I can't recommend him enough. Every person living in this city could use this! read more

If there was a suitable scale when it comes to body work, the best possible scenario would be to have a friend work on you. Someone who understands you on a deeper level than sore shoulders. I have a friend in Paul, not the "what are you up to this weekend" kind of friend but in the context of what he does -- someone who I trust, feel comfortable with and know that he truly has beautiful energy.. which i gladly soak in and continue to feel days later. for those who would leave Paul's house thinking about the number of stairs you walked up to see him, I feel dangerously sorry for you.. I wonder what other potentially transformational experiences you miss on a daily basis? read more

Paul is a MARVEL. best best best best best massage/bodywork I HAVE HAD IN YEARS. After reading the swoony slew of good Yelp reviews (and one, fussy bad one, which I am so grateful I ignored), I decided to pick up the phone and see if by some insane twist of fate, he might have an opening today (my 30th birthday, actually)...AND.... 1. he did! Or perhaps, he chose to. But in any event, he made time, and at 5pm, I hiked the twisty marble stairs to his 5th floor walkup space and 2 hours later, I floated down in a blurry grateful fog. 2. it's his birthday too! Not the most coherent Yelp review I've ever written, but GOOD GOD: wow. I've lost my words. Thank you thank you thank you thank you thank YOU Paul! Happy Birthday, too. read more

Thank u Paul Highly recommended He helpt me with my back pain He focusd in serten erias that were tens Thank u Paul I feel great read more

Look, I can't speak to these 5-star reviewers' experiences, all i can say is that the only review on here that seems at all accurate to me is Shakti H.'s and I wish very much that I had paid more attention to it before seeing Paul. My massage was terrible (am in more pain than when I arrived, and this has never happened to me in *years* of massage therapy), the location (er, his dirty apartment) is really unfit for massage, I felt pretty uncomfortable during it throughout (he basically saw me entirely naked), and I have a string of other legitimate complaints. Please feel free to message me if you want to discuss in more detail, but really, you get the picture. Instead I'll tell you that he is unlicensed to practice in New York State and that practicing massage therapy in New York without a license is a felony. And for the record, I confronted him and he admitted this is true. So you make your own call. I am sure he means well -- i.e. I don't think he's maliciously doing any of this -- but I can only speak to the fact that with me he did not *do* well AND that what he is doing is essentially a crime. And this experience was upsetting enough that I'm writing my first Yelp review in over a year about it. Given that Yelp led me to him, I feel an obligation to let anyone in my position know about what happened. And Yelp REALLY ought to delete his listing on site, they're basically accessories to a crime at this point. P.S. Called a massage clinic in Williamsbug -- a real, licensed one -- and the head of the clinic immediately guessed Paul's NAME when I told her I had a really weird massage with a dude who made my back problem worse. So he has a reputation. read more

So I can cross 'find a masseuse' off my things-to-do list. That search is officially over. My session with Paul was amazing! He was able to find all of my problem areas without me having to tell him anything. He has a very peaceful presence. His choice of music was calming...it was perfect...well except for the fact that my stomach appeared to be speaking Chinese during our session. How embarrassing! LOL But seriously, he is very talented at what he does...I left his place feeling renewed and I plan to go back very soon! read more

In the past year I have had acupuncture and massage from other sources. I would see a little relief, but not very much. I am generally cold, and it is obvious from the touch of my hands. After the first massage with Paul my body temperature actually seemed to change. For days afterward I was actually warm/hot. It was noticeable even to others, that my hands were no longer cold. In addition, my neck and tension in my back eased up and I felt better overall. I also like that Paul has a calm presence. I really think he's helping me. He has the ability to find a balance between enough pressure to release tension but not so much that it's unbearable. I am very thankful to have found him! read more

I now see Paul once a week. He is much more than a "massage therapist". He uses an accumulated knowledge of massage techniques practiced over (I guess if I can remember) 10 yrs. but this is only 50% of what he does. What I get from him is yes, a much more limber and relaxed body, but as a whole--I leave in a completely "cleansed" sort of way-mind, body, spirit. I feel nourished and energetic and open. I def. cannot go over 10 days without seeing Paul, unless I am out of town on a job. His hands are very healing and powerful. There is no one else I go to for his work is original and unmatchable. thank you Paul! read more

Disregard the 3 negative reviews about this man and really listen to what the other 20 something five star reviews say!!! I usually do not post reviews but as a man suffering from back pains caused by an accident years ago on a motorcycle, I just have a few things to say about Paul. This man is a gentleman and a true healer in his craft!! He knows exactly what he's doing and does it WELL! I've been to Chinatown shops, physical therapists, chiropractors and orthopedics, and no one did what this man did and that's to rid my pain! I'll be honest, it did hurt a little bit but then I felt warmth and comfort! He real eased the negative energy I had as well as the knots I had built up! He also readjusted my right shoulder, and I'll tell ya, I feel new again!! He is a professional in his craft and flexible with appointments, I recommend anyone looking for a deep, healing massage to look no further!! He is as real as it gets!! Paul, I will be seeing you again my friend!!! read more

Paul did an amazing job on my husband and I. Much better than any $200 spa massage. He has a seperate room in his apartment as his massage parlor. My husband was definitely feeling the effects two days later. If you have any sort of tension, stress related or not, Paul is your man he zeros in on your trouble area and makes it all go away! We will be going back! read more

I can't possibly explain the effect Paul's work has had on me. I now view my life in two parts: Pre-Paul and Post-Paul. I am so madly stressed out every minute in this crazy city and the only true serenity I find is on Paul's table. I have endured so many regrettable, weak, ineffective massages before finding Paul and I will never go to anyone else. I used to think that massages were a luxury but now they are a necessity. Go. Go now. read more

Very professional, yet super approachable. I hope to return sooner than later.

I was a little skeptical but 10 mins into the massage- everything changed.. This guy definitely knows what he is doing... Everything was above standard. Will definitely go back.....amazing.... read more

I've been getting massages from Paul for over a year now. Being a personal trainer, it's very difficult to find a massage therapist that makes a difference, not only in my physical well being, but in my mental well being also. After reading some of the negative comments on here, I had to write about my experience. Paul is the utmost gentleman, he's the last person I'd call creepy (hippie may be a better adjective)! I sent my own mother to him as well as several friends who ALL had healing experiences. If you didn't, please realize that it more than likely wasn't Paul's fault...maybe his style just isn't for you. If you want a true mind, body and soul healing experience, then go to Paul. He has a God-given gift. read more

It was a couple of years ago that I had a few sessions with Paul. They were excellent, but I found communications so problematic - particularly a scheduling snafu, in which the email chain clearly showed him to be in error (yet did not apologize.) So I'd advise caution. read more

He fixed my neck pain in one session. As simple as that. I messed it up while training (jujitsu), and the pain was so severe that I couldn't sleep all night, and today I could not look up or down, left or right, only straight ahead and with lots of pain. For $100 I got full body massage, very detailed, intuitive, hitting and healing the right spots. Only now I read all the bad reviews, which there are always should be bad reviews otherwise we are talking about a nonexistent place. And I would like to point out that I agree that Paul does not do the Swedish massage, or Thai massage, or deep tissue massage. What he does is he identifies the problem in your body, the source of pain, and he deals with it. If you are a person who is dealing with an injury, go to Paul. I'm confident he'll fix it. I do care that he doesn't have a state license, but we all are trying to make it in NYC. I trusted my precious body in Paul's hands, and I have no regrets, and I have no pain. Will be going back for more. Cheers! read more

Go.... Just go and then let me know what you think. He knows what he is doing and I will be going back to him again. He really works your body. I did not feel as though I was just getting a rub down. He worked the cramps out of my body and this is especially helpful since I have a race this weekend. I look forward to going back to him again. read more

If you need REAL massage, this guy is a HEALER not just a muscle pusher. After two appointments my body is Finally relaxing. I've been to three other massage people with no where near as good results. read more

Paul is a true healer. Those who haven't had INTUITIVE bodywork before should know that they will never be able to simply get bodywork without the intuition. This man puts care into your body, spirit and cosmic health. Don't rush him and you'll enjoy new found clarity AND carefree ligments. read more

I created a Yelp profile just to give Paul a 5 star rating. He worked my back so good my foot cracked. He took a huge ball of ugly from my lower left and threw it out the window. Yes, he has a 5th floor walk-up in a single dude's Williamsburg apt., but damn, if you can take it, he can throw down. Sorry chick, check your breathing. Kate read more

I was in NYC for a holiday weekend and was experiencing terrible pain in my back, neck and head. Doubting it was possible but hoping for some luck, I looked online for a massage therapist to see if I could find someone within an hour. The reviews on Yelp about Paul convinced me to give him a call. He made himself available on very short notice, and the experience was incredible! He could tell I was experiencing a lot of pain and worked very hard to get some of the worst areas of tension to relax. I really value massage therapy for its healing characteristics and have had dozens of massages from a variety of therapists over the years. My sister is even a licensed massage therapist in Pennsylvania. In spite of all this, I have never had such an effective massage as the one I got from Paul (shhh... don't tell my sister!). He warned me that my back would be sore for the next couple of days, and it was indeed very sore during the following day. But all the tension was gone, and I haven't had any since I got the massage a week ago. For someone who deals with chronic back pain, this is a huge feat! I plan to go back to him when I move to the area soon. If you're looking for a pampering spa experience, Paul might not be for you. But if you're looking for healing and you're willing to walk up a few flights of stairs to get to his home, you will be so glad you did! And if you're not comfortable going to someone's home alone, ask Paul if you can bring a friend to sit in the next room during the massage. However, I don't think this is necessary at all as he is extremely professional, and I never felt uncomfortable. read more

I've seen hundreds, probably, of massage therapists over the course of my life. No joke! I'm lucky enough that my insurance does cover massage. And I need it. But I never found someone worth going back to before Paul. This man is seriously the best! I cant imagine going without my weekly now. He really knows what he's doing. The first time I saw him I just let him do his thing, though typically I'd want to instruct a masseur. He really gets it, so I don't need to instruct. I like just letting him do his thing. His knowledge of anatomy is amazing. The room is nice, and the view out his window is great in the evening. I would pay anything, but he is affordable. read more

After a week of running around New York in the wrong shoes, sleeping on a hostel bed, and getting food poisoning, I figured I'd hit up Yelp for a quick massage. Paul happened to be the first person I called who had same-day availability. All I can say is WOW. I have NEVER had a massage like this. This guy broke knots in my face and chest that had been there for twenty years. I can't recommend him enough - I'd fly back across the country for another session. read more

Having had both low end -walk in LES- and high end Midtown Spa massages in Manhattan, I have never experienced a massage as spectacular as Paul's. He is a truly gifted body work guru. His relaxed vibe belies a profound combination of deep tissue and healing energy work and an in-depth knowledge of the body and it's capacity to store tension. I highly recommend the trek to see him, actually not more than a handful of blocks from the L, which I have come to think of as a pilgrimage. There are few services in this city that one can recommend without reservation to complete strangers. If you are in need of a massage...Paul is it! read more

Paul is a straight up healer. I've had chondromalacia in my knees for about 11 years now. I've been to physical therapists taken anti-inflamitories and done stretching to no avail. I told Paul I was getting depressed from the daily all day pain in my knees. He began to focus on releasing my quads and hamstrings which are the source of my mal tracking Patella. It isn't a pleasant, but it is effective. I didn't have to tell him where I felt pain he found it just by assessing the connections between muscles. I felt like I was walking completely aligned walking out of his apt. That day. After one Massage a week for three weeks I finally feel I'm on the road to recovery. Gimme a break who cares if it's 5 story walk up. If you want a back scratch message with white towels, a robe and slippers go to a spa. If you have a problem you want to be healed go to Paul. read more

I have been going to Paul for almost 4 years now. I would and have recommended him to many people. He is a healer and knows where I have issues before I do. I always leave feeling amazing and it has a lasting effect. Go see him! read more

I'm a female and I've been to Paul 3 times. I found him to have incredible healing talents. I was able to breathe more easily and move much more freely after my treatment (all 3 times). He was really able to pinpoint areas in my back, shoulders and feet with blocked energy - where I was feeling pain and didn't even realize it. There's no question that he has amazing powers! I found him to be extremely appropriate. He does a Kundalini type of massage where he moves energy up from the base of the spine, so that means touching the base of the spine. I've never felt better and I would recommend him to anyone! Paul's building is a standard New York building much like where many of my friends who make six figures live. Also, I even said that I couldn't come back for a while because I'm saving money for the holidays. He could have given me a lesser massage knowing that he wouldn't be making money off of me in the near future, but instead said "I'm going to really make this massage last for a while". I felt better than ever. He cured the pain in my shoulders. read more