Our Team

Chris Constantinou

Director and Physiotherapist

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy)
• Graduate Diploma (Manipulative Therapy)
• Sports Physiotherapy Australia (SPA) Level 3 Course
• Dry Needling and Trigger Point Therapy
• Clinical supervisor undergraduate and post graduate students

Special Interests

• Spinal and pelvic conditions
• Acute/chronic neck and back pain, sciatica, disc pathology
• Lumbo- Pelvic dysfunction/imbalance
• Frozen shoulder and rotator cuff injuries
• Hip and groin pain syndromes
• Acute/chronic knee injuries and degenerative conditions
• Foot/ankle rehabilitation
• Post-operative rehabilitation
• Recalcitrant tendon conditions
• Shockwave therapy ( ESWT )

Affiliations

• Australian Physiotherapists Association (APA)
• APA Private Practitioners Group, Chairman (Vic chapter) 2002-2004

Background

Chris joined as an MPPFG partner in 1992 and has had a long career in sports physiotherapy. After completing his studies at the Lincoln Institute, Melbourne University, Chris gained extensive experience working with a variety of sports teams before returning to private practice.

Chris worked as a physiotherapist for a number of years in Toronto and Whistler on the ski slopes and was the consultant physiotherapist for the Canadian Downhill Ski Team in 1985. He was also a co-founder of the APA’s “Get Fit to Ski” program and the Falls Creek Physiotherapy Centre.

Chris was appointed to the Socceroos Physiotherapy Panel 1984 and again from 1988 to 1992. Chris was also previously the physiotherapist for NSL teams South Melbourne and Heidelberg United and the consultant physiotherapist for the Victorian Soccer Federation.

Chris’ most recent sporting involvement included being a consultant physiotherapist to the Melbourne Football Club.

Chris’ involvement include:

• Melbourne Football Club, Consultant Physiotherapist, 2005-2008.
• Physiotherapist to NSL teams South Melbourne (1988-1995) and Heidelberg United (1981-1983)
• Victorian Soccer Federation, Consultant Physiotherapist, 1988-1995.
• Socceroos Physiotherapy Panel 1984, 1988-1992.
• Canadian Downhill Ski Team, Consultant Physiotherapist, 1985.
• Whistler B.C Canada, Physiotherapist, 1984/5, 1986/7 ski seasons.
• Bobby Orr Sports Medicine Centre, Toronto, Physiotherapist, 1984-1985.

Greg Cunningham

Director and Physiotherapist

Manipulative Physiotherapist

Qualifications

• Musculoskeletal physiotherapist
• Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy)
• Post-Graduate Diploma (Manipulative Therapy)
• Diploma of Physical Education

Special Interests

• Neck & back pain
• Frozen Shoulder
• Osteitis Pubis
• Knee & ankle rehabilitation

Affiliations

• Australian Physiotherapists Association branch Council (2 years)
• Manipulative Therapy Group Council (10 years)
• Coordinator and Major Lecturer of Manipulative Therapy Courses
• Tutored in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Post-Graduate Course (5 years)
• Sportsnet – Board member and Director (6 years)
• Rehability – Board member and Director (4 years)

Background

Greg initially studied a Diploma in Physical Education at the Lincoln Institute, Melbourne University. During this time he developed an interest in sports injuries and rehabilitation. This interest was enhanced by his own personal sporting involvement including a stint in the Hawthorn Football Club Reserves.

Pursuing this interest, Greg commenced a Physiotherapy degree at the Lincoln Institute, Melbourne University and later completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Manipulative Physiotherapy.

Following his studies Greg started Windsor Physiotherapy Clinic – later to be known as MPPFG. He concurrently established the Manipulative Therapy Unit at Saint Vincent’s Hospital Outpatients and lectured and tutored Post Graduate Manipulative Therapy courses.

As MPPFG’s primary founder, Greg has been a driving force behind its growth and expansion into a wide range of services including its esteemed Pilates practice along with his Partners Chris and Wendy. Throughout his career Greg has also worked as Head Physiotherapist at two AFL clubs – the Western Bulldogs and the Melbourne Football Club – amongst many other sporting involvements.

Greg’s efforts are now focused on MPPFG’s new clinic and studio and its development in the new therapy environment.

Greg’s involvements include:

• Founding director, Melbourne Physiotherapy Pilates and Fitness Group.
• Melbourne Football Club, Senior Physiotherapist, 2000 – 2008.
• Footscray Football Club, Senior Physiotherapist, 1985 – 1998.
• Socceroos, Physiotherapist, 1984 – 1994.
• Victorian Soccer Teams – Youth, 1984 – 1994.

Mark Tomlinson

APA Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist

Manipulative Physiotherapist

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy)
• Graduate Diploma (Manipulative Therapy)

Special Interests

• Headache & migraine management using the Watson Headache ® Mark has been able to achieve significant reductions in severity of headache & migraines in 80% of sufferers. All headache and migraine sufferers should have access to a highly accurate & specific neck assessment to INCLUDE or EXCLUDE the neck as the cause of their symptoms.

• Sports injuries, particularly Track and Field Athletics, Swimming, Australian Rules Football and Cricket

Affiliations

• Member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association
• Member of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Australia (Committee member 1999-2006)
• Member of Sports Physiotherapy Australia
• Member of Chartered Society Physiotherapy (U.K.)

Background

Mark graduated from La Trobe University in 1990 before working in the United Kingdom between 1991-1992. Upon returning to Australia, Mark qualified in his Post Graduate Studies in Manipulative Physiotherapy at La Trobe University in 1995.

His involvements include:

• Physiotherapist Commonwealth Games (Melbourne) 2006 (Gold Coast) 2018
• Physiotherapist Sydney Olympic Games 2000

• Senior Physiotherapist Peninsula Old Boys Football Club (VAFA) 2016-Present
• Senior Physiotherapist Old Melburnians Football Club (VAFA) 2001-2015
• Physiotherapist VAFA Victorian Representative Teams 2013-Present
• VAFA Tour of Ireland 2015
• Consultant Physiotherapist Cluden Cricket Club (CMCA) 2010-2012
• Consultant Physiotherapist St Kilda District Cricket Club (Victorian Premier Cricket) 2008-2009
• Assistant Physiotherapist Melbourne Football Club (AFL) 2005-2008
• Physiotherapist Kealba Football Club (FDFL) 1999
• Physiotherapist Monash Blues Football Club (VAFA) 1996-1998
• Physiotherapist Melbourne High O.B. Cricket Club (VTCA) 1994-2002
• Physiotherapist Abbey Rugby team (Berkshire, UK) 1991-1992

Emma Joukadjian

Physiotherapist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Physiotherapy
• APMA Pilates Instructor

Special Interests

• Acute sports injury rehabilitation,
• Pelvis, Hip, Knee, Shoulder and Spinal manual and stability physiotherapy,
• Real-Time Ultrasound assessment and use in muscle retraining
• Core stability programs incorporating Real-Time Ultrasound and Pilates
• Acrobatic Specific Pilates
• Injury Prevention

Affiliations

• Australian Physiotherapy Association

Background

Emma has extensive experience in the circus arts, gymnastic, dance, elite sports and athletic worlds. Her focus is on stability and holistic treatment with a collaborative team approach to athlete/artist loading and control.

Emma is physiotherapist for the Australian Mens Artistic Gymnastics’ team, Trampolining and been physiotherapist for Australian Rhythmic Gymnastics team. She has worked internationally at World Championships, World Cups and Pacific Rim FIG competitions. She is Physiotherapist for the Victorian MAG, Trampolining and Acro Gymnastics teams at the Annual Australian Gymnastics Championships and Physiotherapist for the Victorian Men’s Artistic Gymnastics High Performance Program.

Emma is also a contracted Cirque du Soleil Physiotherapist and has worked internationally with Corteo, Quidam, Saltimbanco, Kooza, Kurios, Toruk, Ovo and Totem. She was physiotherapist for international circus groups- Cirque Le Noir, Cirque Stratosphere, Circus1903 and Compagnia Finzi Pasca’s La Verita in Melbourne, for local groups Flying fruit circus and Gravity and other myths and was also physiotherapist for Cirque Eloize ‘ID’ in Singapore.

Emma was the Supervising Physiotherapist for the Disney’s -The Lion King Australian Tour and was the company physiotherapist for Disney’s -The Lion King and the A Chorus Line tour in Singapore.

Emma has proudly worked with Melbourne Commonwealth Games (Hockey), Melbourne Football Club (AFL), Melbourne Tigers (NBL), NSWIS Swim team- Victorian Open Swim Championships,  high performance gymnastics (MLC) and Rowing Australia (MUBC).

She is a Senior Physiotherapist at MPPFG in St Kilda. She lives in Melbourne and is very happy and be working in the acrobatic and physical performance worlds that she loves.

Pinakin Godse

Physiotherapist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• APA Titled Sports and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
• Bachelor of Physiotherapy
• Masters of Musculoskeletal and Sports Physiotherapy
• Certified Mulligan Practitioners
• Sports Physiotherapy Australia (SPA) Level 3 Course
• Certification in neuromuscular dry needling
• Certification in spine manual therapy
• DMA Level 1 Pilates Certificate
• Certified GLA:D Australia Instructor
• Badminton World Federation (BWF) Accredited Coach (Level 1)

Special Interests

• Sports injury, management and prevention, especially racquet sports
• Shoulder injuries
• Spinal conditions
• Tendon injuries
• Strength and Conditioning
• Mindfulness

Affiliations  

• Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)
• Sports Medicine Australia
• Mulligan Concept Certified Practitioners
• Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand
• Indian Association of Physiotherapists

Background Pinakin completed his Masters in Musculoskeletal and Sports Physiotherapy at the University of South Australia. He is also one of very few certified Mulligan practitioners in Melbourne. In the past, Pinakin has worked with the Sports Authority of India and many private practices around Melbourne. He has been involved with various sports such as badminton, hockey, boxing, judo and athletics. Pinakin has been a professional badminton player and currently continues to coach. He is also associated with Badminton Victoria and Badminton Australia. Pinakin was the on field Physiotherapist and first aid co-ordinator for the Oceania Badminton Tournament (Jan 2019) and Australian Open Badminton Tournament (June 2019). Being closely associated with sports, Pinakin’s passion lies in sports injury management and prevention. He has shown special interest for shoulder and spinal injuries. He believes in incorporating education and self-management strategies to create optimal long term outcomes for injury management. When he is not working, you will find Pinakin trekking (He has been to Mount Everest base camp 5364mt above sea level in 2019), playing badminton, reading books or being snob for  single malt whiskey.

Brendan Duncan

Physiotherapist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Physiotherapy, La Trobe University
• Masters of Physiotherapy (sport), UQ
• ASCA Level 1 Strength & Conditioning coach
• DMA Level 1 Pilates
• Advanced Dry Needling Certification

Special Interests

• Sports injury, management and prevention
• Shoulder dysfunction

Affiliations

• Member Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)
• Member Sports Physiotherapy Association
• Member Australian Strength and Conditioning Association

Background Brendan commenced an undergraduate Bachelor of Health Sciences at La Trobe University in 1998 complementing his work as an Allied Health Assistant within a community health setting. In 2001 he transferred into Physiotherapy at La Trobe, graduating in 2005. He returned to study in 2010, achieving a Postgraduate Masters in Physiotherapy (Sports) at the University of Queensland. Brendan has worked within private practice and across a number of professional and amateur sporting clubs/associations. Most notably with:

• The Australian College of Sport (basketball, netball and golf programs)
• Essendon, Williamstown, Victorian Country (U/19 & senior representative teams) Australian rules football sides
• A-League referees, Altona Magic, Melbourne Victory Women, Victorian boys and girls U14-16 NTC Representative teams and is the current team Physiotherapist to the Essendon Royals Soccer Club
• Melbourne Aces Baseball Club.

Brendan likes to combine manual therapy, patient education, exercise prescription and a range of other modalities, such as dry needling and taping, to obtain optimal patient health outcomes and empower his clients to better understand and self manage their presentations. Brendan represented Western Jets, Victorian Metro U/19, EssendonFC, WerribeeFC, WilliamstownFC and CoburgFC during his aussie rules playing days and continues to support the Essendon and Geelong Football Clubs. Cricket is Brendan’s other love and he recently racked up over 35 years playing as an all-rounder and achieved Life Membership of Aberfeldie Park Cricket Club. Outside of working hours, Brendan enjoys spending time with family, hitting the gym, great food and drink, the odd punt (especially during the Spring Carnival!) and relaxing in front of a good movie or a favourite TV series.

Conor Brennan

Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Physiotherapy

Special Interests

• Acute traumatic sports injury – knees, shoulders, hips
• Spinal injuries – Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar
• Exercise Rehabilitation – Pilates
• Strength and Condition, Performance
• Biomechanical Screening – Functional Movement Screen (FMS)
• Dry Needling

Affiliations

• Australian Physiotherapy Association
• AHPRA

Background

Originally from County Tipperary in Ireland, Conor graduated from the University of Limerick in 2007. He joins the MPPFG team, with a wealth of experience having worked in private practices in Ireland, New Zealand and Australia over the past 14 years. 

Being a keen sportsman all his life made physiotherapy a natural career choice for Conor. His fascination with sports has led him to work with a wide range of athletes from amateur to professional including elite PGA golfers and golf academies, All Blacks rugby, Queenstown Rovers Football team, Southern Stampede Ice Hockey, Ireland Basketball team as well as International skiers and snowboarders.

He enjoys treating clients from all walks of life and all exercise levels. His initial ‘hands on’ approach includes massage, joint mobilisation, dry needling and electrotherapy to reduce pain and restore movement. When this is achieved the focus turns to rehabilitation and strength to correct any underlying muscle imbalances and address the root cause of the injury. Conor is big on education and teaches his clients how to manage their injury to empower them to take control of their condition and bullet-proof their body for the future.

Conor is trained in Pilates with Polestar (complete matwork series) and Back in Motion (Level1 & 2 Clinical Pilates matwork and reformer). He has also completed further training in dry needling, Functional Movement Screen and Y-balance.

Felicia Wong

Physiotherapist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy) (Curtin University)
• Certification in Pilates for Rehabilitation (Polestar® Pilates Australia)
• Level 1 Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety
• Certification in Advanced Dry Needling

Special Interests

• All spinal conditions
• Corporate, home and car ergonomic assessments
• Biomechanical and postural retraining for injury prevention or rehabilitation
• Hypermobile conditions
• Aerial/ circus sports injuries
• Clinical Pilates for injury rehabilitation, general mobility and flexibility, postural improvement, senior’s well-being and dynamic stability for hypermobile joints/bodies

Affiliations

• Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)
• Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

Background Felicia has experience in areas of private practice, aged care and occupational health and safety. She is a certified Polestar Pilates instructor, and is fully qualified to prescribe exercises for the purpose of injury prevention and rehabilitation. Felicia maintains a keen eye on optimal movement patterns, dynamic alignment and techniques in the Pilates studio and often places emphasis on using the breath to facilitate movements. Felicia’s aim is to help individuals improve body awareness and in doing so reduce risk of injuries. She particularly loves helping seniors exceed their own expectations of their physical capabilities! Felicia can be sought for ergonomic assessment services. Her services best suit employees of corporations where overuse injuries and musculoskeletal pain from sedentary work or poor work station set-up are prevalent. Outside work, Felicia enjoys testing her physical limits through pole fitness and aerial silks.

Mary-Anne Camenzuli

Physiotherapist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Health Science
• Masters of Physiotherapy practice
• Certificate III in fitness
• GLA:D Australia qualified physiotherapist

Special Interests

• Sports injury, management and prevention
• Osteoarthritis conditions
• Strength and conditioning
• Spinal conditions, particularly cervical spine and headaches

Affiliations

• Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)

Background Mary-Anne graduated from Latrobe University in 2016 with a Masters of Physiotherapy practice, and is currently studying her Graduate Certificate in sports physiotherapy at Latrobe University.  Since graduating, Mary-Anne has worked in private practice physiotherapy and within sporting clubs, including football, soccer and hockey. Mary-Anne’s background as an elite swimmer and subsequent experience as a physiotherapist has fuelled her passion for exercise and leading a healthy, active lifestyle. Mary-Anne is a firm believer in exercise as medicine and as a key component in injury prevention. As part of her current studies, and work with football, Mary-Anne enjoys looking after acute sporting injuries in both elite and sub-elite teams, as well as the weekend warrior. Outside of sports physiotherapist, Mary-Anne has a keen interest in managing spinal conditions and headaches.   Whilst working as a private practice clinician, Mary-Anne became certified to run the GLA:D Australia program 2 years ago, consisting of exercise and education for those with knee or hip osteoarthritis. She recognises the importance of education for those with chronic conditions, and the benefit both physically and mentally of leading an active lifestyle.   Outside of work, she has a passion for the outdoors, and is a regular visitor in Tasmania for some hiking. When in Melbourne, you’ll find Mary-Anne supporting the Western Bulldogs and completing the odd triathlon on the weekends.

Jack Ingram

Physiotherapist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Exercise Science
• Masters of Physiotherapy Practice

Special Interests

• Sports injury, management, rehabilitation and prevention
• Strength and conditioning
• Post-operative orthopaedic rehabilitation

Affiliations

• Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)

Background Jack Graduated from La Trobe University Bendigo in 2020 with a Bachelor of Exercise Science/Masters of Physiotherapy. Jack comes from a strong sport and exercise background where his passion for health and rehabilitation catapulted him into the profession of physiotherapy. Raised in the country town of Rochester, he grew up playing a variety of individual and team sports. His most recent sporting achievement occurred in 2019 as part of Rochester Tennis club’s A-grade side winning their Grand Final in the Goulburn Murray Lawn Tennis Association (GMLTA).  

Jack’s passion for sport and team comradery extends into his work life, with a growing interest in sports injuries and rehabilitation. Already enrolled in professional and clinical development courses, Jack is eager to continue to add to his skillset.  

When away from work, Jack enjoys keeping busy by enjoying the company of family and friends, continuing to trial different modalities of fitness and sport, and where possible finding time for weekend road trips. Jack is very much looking forward to becoming an active member in the community. 

Maria Paz Carenno Castillo

Physiotherapist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Universidad de Chile
• Assessment and treatment of children with neuromotor disorders – Bobath Concept, Universidad de Chile
• Aquatic physiotherapy certificate, AquaBrasil
• Watsu basic level, WABA
• Pilates DMA, 

Special Interests

• Sports injury, management and prevention
• Aquatic physiotherapy

Affiliations

• Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)

Background

Maria is a physiotherapist from Chile that has been living in Australia since 2018. She graduated in 2014, and with a swimming background , she has experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy as well as neurological and aquatic therapy. Maria is an enthusiastic and committed physio who is always keen and looking for new opportunities to learn so she can give the best treatment for her patients. Outside work Maria likes to practice sport and, in particular, spending time in the pool and outdoors.

Luke Boykett

Physiotherapist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science
• Doctor of Physiotherapy

Special Interests

• Sports injury management and prevention, particularly field sports
• Strength and conditioning
• Shoulder pain and instability
• Lower limb rehabilitation and return to sports

Background

Luke graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2021 with a Doctor of Physiotherapy. Luke’s passion for fitness and healthcare spurs from a strong interest in sports and exercise which he has been keenly involved in for several years. Working with the Old Melburnians Football Club in the VAFA since 2019, he has dealt with an array of acute and chronic sporting injuries to help athletes return to the sport they love playing. Luke has spent many years playing competitive basketball himself, but in recent years has expanded his interest in strength training and the use of tailored and structured training programs.

This enables Luke to promote exercise rehabilitation in combination with manual therapy techniques. He also takes pride in helping people to best understand their own conditions in order to maximise their health outcomes. His experience working previously in both junior and adult sports and in aged care helps him to assist people of all ages and backgrounds to exceed their own expectations.

Outside of work, you will find Luke enjoying socialising with friends, exploring the restaurants and bars of Melbourne, spending time in the gym or following his favourite sports – AFL (Richmond) and the NBA (LA Lakers).

Brooke Bakaric

Physiotherapist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• Doctor of Physiotherapy
• Bachelor of Science – Anatomy

Special Interests

• Sports injury, management, rehabilitation and injury prevention
• Strength and conditioning
• Post-operative orthopaedic rehabilitation
• Lower limb injuries: Hip, Knee and Ankle
• Tendinopathy and Tendon injury rehabilitation
• Falls prevention and balance retraining

Affiliations

• Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)
• Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

Background

Brooke graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2021, after completing both her Doctor of Physiotherapy and Bachelor of science degrees. Her passion for and participation in competitive sports from a young age, and her interest in science and anatomy led her to pursue a career in Physiotherapy.

Brooke has worked with Williamstown FC (VFL) and the Yarraville-Seddon Eagles FC (WRFL) as a sport trainer, managing acute sporting injuries, and assisting athletes through their rehabilitation and return to sport. For the past 3 years, Brooke has also worked as an NDIS support worker, assisting clients of diverse backgrounds and age groups, and with various physical and neurological conditions.

With a Black belt in Japanese Martial arts (Ju Jitsu), Brooke understands that hard work and commitment achieves results. She is passionate about leading an active lifestyle and improving physical and mental health, and is eager to share her skills in these areas to help people to achieve their goals and optimise their health.

In practice, Brooke recognises the benefits of both manual therapy and exercise in rehabilitation, and will often combine these treatments to achieve the best possible outcomes for her clients. She is committed to building on her skills by undertaking further professional development to help her patients.

Outside of the clinic, Brooke is a bit of a foodie, exploring the best of Melbourne’s restaurants and cafes. She enjoys going on road trips and hiking, and is a passionate AFL supporter (North Melbourne). In winter you’ll find her at the alps snowboarding, and come summer, at the beach on a Stand-up Paddle Board. Most importantly, Brooke loves spending time with friends and family, and her cheeky Cocker Spaniel dog Jessie.

Marlene Humbert

Myotherapist

Qualifications

• Adv. Diploma Myotherapy
• Diploma of Remedial Massage Therapy

Special Interests

• Hip/Pelvis functionality
• Chronic Pain
• Sporting injuries/injury management
• Postural correction

Affiliations

• Australian Association of Massage Therapists (AAMT)

Background Marlene left a career in accounting to pursue her passion in Myotherapy, which she obtained in 2016 from VFA while practicing as a Remedial Massage Therapist. Most of Marlene’s experience is through private clinics, Melbourne Storm Rugby League, Melbourne United Basketball, Netball Vic and Tennis Australia. Her goals are to help all kinds of people return to a happy and healthy life from dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system due to incorrect posture or injury.

Emily Camenzuli

Exercise Physiologist and Clinical Exercise Practitioner

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Exercise Science and Masters of Exercise Physiology (La Trobe University)
• Cert III and IV in Fitness
• Cert III and IV in Allied Health Assistance

Special Interests

• Falls prevention and balance
• Rehabilitation for neurological conditions (stroke)
• Exercise for cardiac rehabilitation
• Exercise following cancer treatment
• Injury prevention
• Swimming

Affiliations

• Exercise and Sports Science Australia

Background

Emily graduated from the University of La Trobe at the rural health school in Bendigo, having researched the effect of falls and balance exercise and it’s ability to maintain postural stability. Emily’s passion for human movement stemmed from her experienced swimming background at a National level, having represented Victoria on a number of occasions. This background has fuelled Emily’s ability to work with athletes in injury prevention and rehabilitation.

Emily is a strong believer that exercise is medicine, and is her passion focuses on rehabilitation for a variety of neurological conditions and their effect on an individuals balance. This interest has stemmed from experiences working with individuals with neurological conditions, most specifically Ballarat Health. Emily has experience working with a number of neurological conditions, including stroke, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis and Myotonic Dystrophy. Other interests also include cardiac rehabilitation, musculoskeletal and exercise for diabetes, as well as education on the importance of exercise for all populations.

Outside of the clinic, Emily enjoys travelling, going to the beach and eating out. Her most memorable overseas holiday was at the Philippines in 2017.

Alice Rose

Dietitian

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Applied Science – LaTrobe University
• Master of Dietetic Practice – LaTrobe University (2020)
• Provisional Sports Dietitian – Sports Dietitians Australia (2021) 
• Level 1 ISAK Anthropometrist – ISAK (2021)

Special Interests

• Sports Nutrition 
• Adolescent nutrition 

Affiliations 

• Dietitians Australia 
• Sports Dietitians Australia 
• International Society for Advanced Kinanthropometry

Background

Alice has always held a strong interest in food and nutrition, graduating from a Bachelor of Applied Science and Master of Dietetic Practice in 2020 from LaTrobe University. Alice’s interests lie in sports nutrition and working with individuals to live, feel and perform at their best. She also enjoys working with a variety of conditions including heart disease, bowel health and diabetes. Alice’s approach to nutrition support is client centred where the person is in the drivers seat of their health and performance decisions. Her collaborative style considers the whole person including lifestyle, finances, diet and movement. Alice seeks to provide support, advice and education which is practical and enjoyable to support long term lifestyle change and habit development. 

Katie Davies

NRG Director & Physiotherapist

Background: Katie graduated in 2003 from Melbourne University and after completing two years in a rotating position at the Royal Melbourne Hospital left Australia with the travel bug. Like most travelling Aussies she settled in London where she began work at the Wellington Hospital. Here she was exposed to a wide range of neurological presentations and a variety of treatment adjuncts. After 6 years in London she returned to Melbourne and commenced working at the Neurological Rehabilitation Group. Her exposure to varied neurological presentations and exceptional mentorship from her time in the UK allowed Katie to join the the Neurological Rehabilitation Group as an experienced and passionate practitioner. In February 2014 her commitment to the area of Neurological Rehabilitation was cemented when she took over ownership of the practice. Aware of the benefits that great leadership can have in a clinical environment Katie has taken on ownership of the practice with excitement and enthusiasm for the development of others. Her team, like her are encouraged to bring their own unique style, passion and expertise to the group, resulting in environment of continuous improvement and exceptional patient care.  

Tess Peverill

NRG Physiotherapist

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Monash University

Special Interests:

• Management of progressive neurological conditions (ie. Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis)
• Vestibular assessment and rehabilitation
• Rehabilitation following stroke and traumatic brain injury
• Management of persistent post-concussive symptoms
• Assessment and treatment of facial palsy
• Functional neurological disorders

Background:

Tess graduated from Monash University and initially worked at Monash Health rotating through a number of different physiotherapy areas. She then spent the next few years working in London at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery where she was fortunate to be a part of a great organisation providing specialised neurological management to patients coming from across the UK.

Tess is passionate about providing holistic and collaborative care to clients in order to maximise function and quality of life. She enjoys seeing a wide variety of patients and helping them work towards and achieve their goals.

Jill Kentish

NRG Physiotherapist

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science, University of Melbourne, 2012
• Doctor of Physiotherapy, University of Melbourne, 2015

Special interests

• Vestibular rehabilitation and treatment of BPPV
• The Bobath approach
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Stroke

Affiliations

• Member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)
• Member of the APA Neurology Group

Background

After graduating from the University of Melbourne, Jill worked in a variety of clinical areas at St Vincent’s and St George’s Hospitals, where she developed her interest in neurological rehabilitation. Jill completed a three-week postgraduate course on the Bobath Concept in 2019 and uses a combination of the Bobath approach and targeted exercise to develop an individualised program to achieve client goals. She coordinates the undergraduate student program at NRG and enjoys including students in her sessions to provide new treatment ideas, extra therapy time and another set of hands.  Jill is one of NRG’s vestibular physiotherapists and has enjoyed the complexity of treating dizzy patients she is currently under the process of upskilling in the area of concussion management in the NRG training program and looks forward to adding this to her skillset shortly.  

Alex Williams

NRG Physiotherapist

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science, Monash University
• Doctor of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne

Special interests:

• Rehabilitation following stroke, acquired brain injury and spinal cord injury
• Management of progressive neurological conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease
• Assessment and treatment of a variety of Neuromuscular Conditions  
• Helping those with ataxia stay on their feet and keep mobile
• Facilitating the return to high level mobility goals such as return to cycling, hiking, swimming or running

Affiliations:

• Member of the Australian Physiotherapy Associated
• Member of the APA Neurology Group

Background:

Alex graduated from The University of Melbourne and initially started her career at Peninsula Health where she rotated through a range of different clinical areas in physiotherapy before moving to The Royal Melbourne Hospital. This is where her interest in neurological physiotherapy was sparked. She then spent a number of years in the United Kingdom working in a number of specialist neurology centers, including The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and The London Spinal Cord Injury Centre. Alex is passionate about supporting her clients to achieve their goals, tailoring her approach to suit the needs of each individual and supporting her clients engage in exercise regularly.

Stephanie Bruce

NRG Physiotherapist

BIO:

Steph graduated with a Master of Physiotherapy Practice from LaTrobe University in 2012 and holds post graduate qualifications in Polestar Pilates and the Bobath Concept. She gained years of experience in acquired brain injury and neurological rehabilitation at Epworth Richmond as well as acute stroke management and community neurological rehabilitation in the National Health Service in the United Kingdom.  Working in outpatient and private practice settings Steph’s clinical areas of interest include rehabilitation following traumatic brain injury, stroke and multiple sclerosis.  She also has a special interest in assisting people return to running following stroke or acquired brain injury.  Steph believes in continually refining her skills and completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Rehabilitation (Neurological Physiotherapy) in 2020.  Steph joined the Neurological Rehabilitation Group in 2021 and is passionate about helping people achieve their goals to improve quality of life within a supportive team.

Laura Blandy

NRG Physiotherapist

BIO: 

Laura graduated from La Trobe University and began her career with Alfred Health working across and number of different clinical areas. In this role she found her passion for working with people with neurological conditions. In 2016, Laura moved to the UK where she spent several years working for a Community Neurology and Stroke Rehabilitation service in East London with the National Health Service. Over this time, she consolidated her clinical specialism in neurology whilst gaining exposure to a wide range of conditions and treatment modalities. 

After 5 years in London Laura returned to Australia and is excited to join the team at Neurological Rehabilitation Group. Laura is passionate about providing holistic, individualised, and collaborative care to patients so that they can achieve their goals and make a positive difference to their functioning and quality of life.

Janita Brown

Senior Podiatrist

QUALIFICATIONS

*Bachelor of Applied Science (Podiatry)
*Post Graduate Podopediatrics (Flinders University)
*Certificate of Manipulation Therapy
*Certificate of Dry Needling
*Advanced Taping and Strapping Techniques
*Dermatology certification

SPECIAL INTERESTS
*Biomechanics
*Chronic Disease Management
*Dermatology (fungal nail and skin conditions)
*Diabetes
*General Treatment (corns and callus)
*Nail Surgery
*Orthotics
*Rheumatology
*Sports Injuries
*Wound Management

AFFILIATIONS

*Australian Podiatry Association
*Dermatology Special Interest Group
*Diabetes Special Interest Group
*Sports Exercise Podiatry AustraliaA graduate from the Lincoln Institute of Health Sciences in Melbourne,  Janita is an accomplished podiatrist with over 30 years experience in hospitals, high risk clinics, community health and sports medicine centres. Formerly the Owner and Director of Port Melbourne Podiatry, she is now pleased to be consulting at the Melbourne Physiotherapy, Pilates and Fitness Group.

Background:

With a special interest in heel pain, joint pain and plantar fasciitis, Janita boasts a skill set that lends itself to weekend warriors as much as it does elite athletes.

Additionally, her years of research and experience have given her a great base in dealing with people with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease and arthritic conditions.

Janita is continually expanding her knowledge base to keep up with current ,evidence based practice

Dr Bhavini Patel

General Practitioner

  Qualifications

• Fellowship of the Royal College of General Practitioners (FRACGP)
• Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health (DFSRH)
• Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS)
• Masters in Pathology (MA (Cantab))

Special Interests

• Mental Health
• Chronic Disease Management – Asthma, Diabetes
• Nutrition and weight management
• Gut Disorders
• Women’s Health
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Affiliations

• Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)
• Australian Medical Association (AMA)

Background Bhavini studied at both Cambridge University and Imperial College London. She also has a Masters from Cambridge in Pathology. She has worked in a wide range of specialities all across London and completed her General Practice training at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital. As a GP, she ensures she treats a person as a whole to provide optimal health.  She has many interests, particularly IBS and gut health, mental health, complex chronic conditions, women’s health and much more. She enjoys working as a team with Melbourne Physiotherapy, which includes dietitians, exercise help and myotherapy to give patients well rounded care. Her interests outside of work include trekking, bouldering, meditation and yoga.