Billie Atherstone
Bowen Therapist
Kinesiologist
Founding Co-Director
Billie Atherstone
Billie has been actively working as a health practitioner since 2003 and together with her sister, Pip, opened Kundalini House in 2006 with the shared vision to create a space where they could both work together, and with others, to help people feel supported on their journey of self-discovery and optimal health.
She began her studies in natural medicine in her early twenties when she concluded that she was too young to be experiencing back pain and felt strongly that she could become a better version of herself if she healed her mind and body.
Her realisation that the body and mind had an innate ability to heal itself with basic attention fuelled her drive to continue her studies. She is a qualified Kinesiologist, Bowen Therapist and is a Kundalini Yoga Teacher and teacher trainer. Billie loves to listen and work directly with the body helping to restore balance plus working directly with the mind and emotions and the psychology of living a life that is meaningful and connected to your own source of happiness.
In her sessions she weaves together her studies of Kinesioloy, Bowen and Yoga Therapy to guide her clients towards better health and a greater awareness of the patterns, habits and behaviours that create dis-ease; stress and trauma.
Area’s Billie loves to work with, but not limited to, are:
- Back & neck pain; TMJ dysfunction
- Anxiety and depression
- Life direction & focus
- Trauma Recovery
- Relationships & communication
- Yoga Therapy
Billie also teaches Kundalini Yoga for the Recovery of Childhood Trauma courses. Click here for more info
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Pip Atherstone-Reid
Acupuncturist &
Chinese Medicine
Founding Co-Director
Pip Atherstone-Reid
BHSc (CM), DipHSc (Acu), DipCCM, CMRB, ATMS
Pip has been practicing Chinese Medicine for over 15 years, finishing her Bachelor of Health Science Acupuncture at the end of 2001 with an internship in Nanning, China. She spent 3 years working in Ireland and 6 months in Malawi, Africa before returning home. She knew she wanted to work in a team environment where clients could be supported to heal in a safe and professional space. So in 2006, with her sister Billie. she opened Kundalini House.
She has since completed a post-graduate course in Canonical Chinese Medicine, which specialises in the application of Clinical Herbal medicine. Pip decided she was going to study Chinese Medicine while sitting on top of a mountain in the Himalayas. After struggling with depression since she was a teenager, she travelled extensively looking for a way to truly heal herself. After having an extraordinary experience with a Tibetan doctor in India, she decided to study the next best thing, Chinese Medicine. She returned to Melbourne where she was lucky enough to meet an Acupuncturist and Qi Gong master, where she finally found her path to real health.
This experience has shaped her interest in clinic and she enjoys helping people with mental/emotional problems such as anxiety, depression or history of trauma. She also has an interest in fertility and pregnancy and is a mother of two beautiful children. She enjoys the diversity of general practice and sees a wide range of problems during clinic.
Adriana Ramirez
Acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine
Adriana Ramirez
Adriana is a doctor of Chinese medicine who completed her Bachelor of Health Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine in Melbourne, Australia. She has also studied other areas of holistic medicine, such as Tan Acupuncture, cosmetic acupuncture, Ho’oponopono, and Hawaiian traditional herbalism.
With a kind, non-judgmental and empathetic approach, a consultation with Adriana will involve acupuncture and herbal medicine, as well as diet and lifestyle coaching. She is passionate about growth and brings all aspects of body, mind and soul together to ensure you achieve your health goals. She believes small changes are more successful than drastic changes, and she will support you in every stage of your way to wellness.
Adriana’s main areas of interest and expertise are:
- Skin conditions and cosmetic acupuncture to treat acne, rosacea, scarring and blemishes
- Women’s Health issues such as period pain, irregular periods, PMS symptoms, PCOS
- Fertility and Pregnancy
- Pain management for sport injuries, chronic pain, back pain etc.
- Hay fever
- Sleep problems
- PTSD, stress, anxiety & depression
Alla Demutska
Clinical Psychologist
Alla Demutska
DPsych (Clinical), PostGradDip (Psych) GradDip (Psych), MAPS, ACPA
Alla completed her undergraduate training in psychology at the University of Melbourne, and her doctoral training in clinical psychology at Monash University. Prior to studying psychology, Alla studied linguistics, and worked as a journalist and lecturer in Ukraine.
She is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA), and is endorsed for the practice of clinical psychology by the Psychology Board of Australia.
- DPsych (Clinical), Monash University, PostGradDip and GradDip in Psychology, Melbourne University
- Member of Australian Psychological Society (MAPS)
- Member of The Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA)
Alla has always been fascinated by human nature. Alla came from a country with many problems and extensive history of unrest, wars, and traumas, which affected people’s life over generations. Alla has always been interested in how you can heal from trauma and grow.
Alla believes difficult emotions and distress are a normal part of life, and we need to learn to be with and learn from these experiences. She believes well-being comes with awareness, with gentle holding of your pain, with seeing common nature of your painful experiences and those of other people, and with learning to become a good parent to yourself. Alla believes well-being also comes from pushing yourself gently towards expanding your life, getting outside of your comfort zone, and learning to be vulnerable with yourself and others.
Alla is passionate about understanding human nature, the human mind, how we experience our emotions, how we connect with others, and what stands on the way of our growth or helps us to heal. She enjoys getting to know my clients and constantly advancing my knowledge in a psychology field – and in other related areas too! Alla enjoys exploring the world, travelling, meeting people from different countries and understanding how they live. She loves nature, dancing, swimming, diving, and skiing and taking pictures of the natural world and people.
Areas of interest/specialty:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Emotional problems
- Trauma
- Immigrants mental health and adjustment
To book an appointment:
Call Alla Demutska: 0476 131 281
Or the clinic: 9482 4325
or
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Anna Papadakis
Body Centred Therapist
EFT Therapist
Anna Papadakis
Anna has been working as a Body Centred Therapist for over 8 years. Her training has included, Body Transformation (postural integration), counselling, working with trauma, group facilitation, doula Training (birth support), birth education, rebirthing (breathwork) and hypnosis.
Anna came to this work after the birth of her twin boys in 2001. Having had a background in both the corporate and the spiritual worlds her interests and skills came together when she discovered her passion for birth. This sent her on a journey of first becoming a doula (birth attendant), which led her to a deep trust in the body and it’s instinctive capacity to not only birth a baby, but to integrate all life experiences (including traumatic experiences) into a fully connected sense of being alive.
Anna has combined all of her skills into Body Centred Therapy which is a unique blend of somatic therapy and counselling.
Anna’s particular strength and skills lie in enabling people to learn how to deeply connect with their body, to listen to their body and psyche’s messages with deep compassion. She believes that when we are connected to ourselves in a loving way, we connect with nature and others in a loving way. From here love, healing and change are natural outcomes.
Book a treatment by contacting Anna – 0408 954 120 –anna@openingtolife.com.au or call the clinic – 9482 4325. www.annapapadakis.com.au
Arion Light
Essence Coach
Arion Light
Hello Kundalini House Family. I am delighted to join the tribe. Already I have heard so many stories from friends about how much they love this place, and they also work, practice and teach yoga here! Friends everywhere! It’s like a second home I didn’t know I had. Thank you Pip, Billie and team for welcoming me so fully.
Who am I and what do I do?
I am an ‘Essence Coach’ assisting you to
- Go beyond your mind to awaken to your own essential nature
- Clear lethagy to awaken your bodies natural wisdom and vitality
- Go beyond force and control to access your natural creative power
I have been working with thousands of people for over a decade and I bring this experience to get right to the core of where you really are (not where you think you are) and where your real growth edge is. Then from this we create a training plan that maps a grounded path for your growth.
I have founded the Essence School, the Activation Program and I also run a year long Warriors of Love program. I run retreats in Melbourne and am the author or several books around the same theme. My work is a grounded approach to holistic living, giving people a framework to both honour their spirit and their power to take real action in their lives.
How does it work?
Essence coaching is a very unique modality in that it centres around making connection to your own deep essential nature then bringing that forward for your own awakening, healing and creative expression. It involves talking, meditations and embodiment exercises that help unify your body, heart and mind. I work with the Essence Work ™ model that I have created over the last decade that provides a map for how the conscious and unconscious work in dynamic flow with your essence. When you align these three you will find deep, real growth happens effortlessly.
Is it for me?
I find that most people get an inner ‘yes’ if its time to work with me. I work mostly with people with a rich connection to their own spirit who are yearning to live this spirit more fully in their bodies and their lives. If you feel a resonance through what you have read then the next step is to book in a single session and we will take it from there.
How do I book a session?
To book in for an Essence Reading click on the link below. We will explore your challenges and dreams and how this essence work may serve your path.
Arion Light
The Activation School
What we embody, we create
Arion works at Kundalini House every Wednesday.
t. 0434 140 154.
Beth Ladwig
Naturopath
Kinesiologist
Beth Ladwig
BHSc (Nat)
Beth is a qualified Naturopath, combining intuitive healing with Medical Herbalism, Nutrition, Pathology, Iridology and Flower Essences forming a degree in Health Sciences and is currently completing a Diploma in Neuroenergetic Kinesiology.
Beth is passionate about combining an in-depth understanding of how our body functions and how this is a constant response to how we process emotions, memories, lifestyle, food, environmental factors and inherited genetic patterns. Beth believes that by using the above health tools, Naturopathy can enable us to make an incredibly positive impact on how we feel and move through each day.
Beth has travelled extensively, working in diverse fields and cultures; witnessing that she was constantly repeating the same emotional responses in particular situations and how her health overtime began to dictate how she was living. It was through studying Naturopathy and now Kinesiology that she has a deeper understanding about why this is so and how to support, nourish and change these cycles in the body and mind.
“We are more than our blood and tissue with a mechanical heart; we are a culmination of our love, our pain, our knowledge and our experiences. How this is expressed symptomatically in our body is the tip of the iceburg”.
Beth has experience in working with a wide range of health problems that range from incessant colds to complex autoimmune, hormonal and digestive conditions. Beth is passionate about respecting and understanding each person’s unique health picture, from all ages and backgrounds.
Carolina Xavier
Remedial Massage Therapist
Carolina Xavier
Remedial Massage Therapy
Info to come
Celeste Battisti
Massage Therapist
Celeste Battisti
Massage Therapy
Celeste has studied Massage Therapy and has been working in a Chinese medicine clinic for over 2 years. She is passionate about health and continuing to add to her skills as a therapist. She is currently studying Zen Thai Shiatsu and Remedial Therapy and adds this knowledge to her treatments.
Celeste’s philosophy on life is to lead with your heart, like Hermman Hesse said “You know quite well, deep within, there is only a single magic, a single power, a single salvation, and that is called the loving”
She is passionate about Body-work therapy and helping to facilitate in someone’s healing to allow what is now for them. She loves doing DYI projects in the name of ‘recycle, reuse, reduce’ and enjoys caring for her plants at home and beyond.
Celeste’s specialties lie in Deep Tissue-Relaxation massage, with joint mobilisation and trigger point therapy when needed. She also has a lot of experience treating women during their Pregnancy and providing postnatal care treatment too.
Please note Celeste currently does not provide Health care rebates.
Fiona Dixon
Psychologist
Fiona Dixon
Fiona is a registered Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PBA)/ Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). She is down-to-earth, friendly and empathetic. Fiona genuinely likes people and believes everyone has a story to tell. Fiona has worked with a diverse range of clients having worked in private practice, NFP (not for profits), crisis services, community services, primary schools and employee assistance programs (EAPs).
Fiona has over 20 years counselling experience working with both adults and children with a range of presenting issues. She utilises a range of therapeutic approaches, which include Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Psychological First Aid and Positive Psychology. Fiona is also LGTBQI friendly.
Fiona believes wellbeing isn’t the absence of difficulties or challenges, but rather when we have sufficient support and resources both internally and externally, to be able to manage life’s difficulties.
Fiona is passionate about supporting, and working with; new Mums and Dads and also those struggling to conceive. And is familiar with, and experienced in, working with the stress associated with pregnancy, conceiving, miscarriage, assisted reproductive technology (ART) and secondary infertility. They say “it takes a village to raise a child” and yet in this modern world many don’t have that village and the support they need. She also specialise in grief and loss. Fiona believes our society isn’t particularly supportive or understanding of grief and of the types of losses we experience (eg. Loss of a loved one, loss of a relationship, miscarriage, loss of health etc). We will all experience grief or loss at some point in our lives and many often feel overwhelmed and unsupported in their grief.
Areas of expertise:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Grief and loss
- Trauma
- Suicidal ideation
- Self harm
- Parenting issues
- Relationship issues
- Couples counselling
- Adjustment issues/transitions
- Stress management
- Critical incident stress management
To book an appointment:
Call Insight Psychology Centre on: 0476 131 281
Or the clinic: 9482 4325
Insight Psychology Centre
Jane Johnston
Hypnotherapist
Jane Johnston
Dip. Clinical Hypno
Jane Johnston studied a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy and has been practicing for over a decade. Jane wrote a thesis on the Science behind Meditation, while studying Yoga Teaching and she has also studied and practiced Buddhist Meditation, Transcendental meditation, Guided meditation, Kundalini meditation and has an interest in Mindfulness practices and many forms of relaxation therapy. Jane has also studied and worked with Guided Breath work practices and Yoga Nidra.
After teaching Hatha, Kundalini Yoga and meditation for several years and enjoying teaching deep relaxation therapy and stress management techniques Jane came to study the modality Clinical Hypnotherapy.
Jane works with scripts and the guiding principles of the Australian Clinical Hypnotherapy Association and from Maggie Wilde and Dr Rick Collingwood PHD, two of Australia’s leading and internationally renowned Hypnotherapists. Jane also studied the Mongan method of Hypno-birthing and teaches the simple, effective practice of Breathing, Self Relaxation, Visualisation and Endorphin triggers for a safe comfortable birthing experience. She has helped dozens of couples feel more empowered, confident and enjoy a more comfortable and healthy birth.
Jane has successfully worked with many corporate groups, including Ligeti Partners Lawyers, Sparky Helmore, ACCC and the N.A.B bank. She has looked after a wide variety of presenting conditions including stress related conditions, depression, anxiety, weight loss, smoking, fears and phobias. Clinical hypnotherapy was a natural evolution from teaching Yoga, Meditation and relaxation therapies.
Jane’s philosophy is that the storage of memory, behaviour patterns and belief systems is holistic in our mind and body. We can open, connect and invite change with the deep mind/body relaxation of Hypnotherapy. Here habits, unwanted behaviours, and fears can be released and new patterns and positive changes made for better health and happiness. Her warmth, compassion and motivational success encourages people to easily create positive healthy change and fully realise their potential.
With a warm and healing energy, Jane is deeply compassionate and committed to empowering her clients to improve their lives and discover their inner potential. Whatever it is you try to change through your own positive affirmation can be powerfully enhanced, magnified and multiplied through Hypnotherapy so you see results quickly.
To book an appointment with Jane, please call 0417 545 475.
www.clinicalhypnotherapyinmelbourne.com.au
Jess MacKenzie
Psychotherapy & Social Worker
Jess MacKenzie
Psychotherapist & Social Worker
Jess has worked in the mental health sector for over 20 years. She has worked in private practice, the community health sector and in high schools. She is passionate about therapeutic work, and inspired by the people she works with.
For Jess, therapy offers a unique opportunity to be objective as well as subjective about our selves, our relationships and our experiences. It opens up a space in which a person can be supported to examine deeper internal mind and body processes. Therapy also allows people to gain insight into different parts of themselves that they may want to grow or change.
As a counsellor, Jess is welcoming and friendly. She recognises the importance of building a therapeutic relationship to which people can bring problems and issues without judgement. Jess understands that we all experience uncomfortable and unhelpful behaviours and feelings. With support and some gently challenging, these behaviours and feelings can start to shift.
Jess is guided by gestalt psychotherapy methodologies and her work is underpinned by trauma informed practice and attachment theory. Her therapeutic approach is also influenced by current developments in neuroscientific research that encourage greater regulation of the nervous system. Jess has an Arts Degrees, majoring in politics and anthropology, a Masters in Social Work, and has completed an internship in gestalt psychotherapy.
If you would like to book a session with Jess, please call or text her on 0415 662 690.
Jodie Cicaji
Psychologist
Jodie Cicaji
BA(SocSci);PGradDip(Psych);MPsych(Ed&Dev);MAPS
Jodie is a caring, client-centred psychologist who is passionate about supporting clients to explore and understand new ways to work through and overcome their personal challenges. Since 2006 she has worked extensively across various settings, including primary and secondary schools, the tertiary education sector and in private practice clinics providing psychotherapy to adults, children and adolescents. Jodie is an experienced facilitator of mindfulness-based programs for adults. She is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and a Supervisor of early career psychologists.
Jodie uses a range of evidence-based therapies in her work to best suit client needs and preferred learning styles. These include Mindfulness-Based therapies, Emotion-Focussed Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy. Her counselling approach is collaborative, holistic and solution focussed.
She provides treatment for a range of concerns, including:
- Anxiety, worry and panic
- Chronic stress and burn out
- Work related stress
- Depression
- Difficulties adjusting to life changes
- Trauma, grief and loss
- Relationship challenges
- Existential issues
For students, Jodie offers specialist counselling to assist with study-related stress and to improve overall levels of wellbeing. In particular, she provides support for academic progress concerns (especially for VCE and University students), test and exam anxiety, chronic procrastination, study/work/life balance and mindfulness coaching and relaxation training.
Jodie also offers play therapy and mindfulness-based therapies to younger children to assist with anxiety, depression, school refusal, peer issues, confidence building and accessing personal strengths.
Prior to working as a Psychologist, Jodie trained in classical yoga teaching and worked within child care and early childhood development. She has been engaged with yoga and Buddhist meditation for nearly 20 years. Through these experiences Jodie continues to be humbled by the extent to which we can build our capacity to deeply understand ourselves as a way of living more connected to others, our community and our environment.
To book an appointment:
Call Insight Psychology Centre on: 0476 131 281
Or the clinic: 9482 4325
Insight Psychology Centre
Kathrin Schmieder
Remedial Massage
Kathrin Schmieder
Dip Remedial Massage, Cert IV Massage Therapy, Doctor of Philosophy.
Four years ago, I decided to turn my passion for human touch into a profession. I completed my Certificate IV in Massage Therapy at the Holistic Education College in Brunswick and later on I completed a Diploma of Remedial Massage Therapy at the Melbourne Institute of Massage and Myotherapy in Heidelberg. Since 2016 I have been working in my own studio and love providing a kind, warm and holistic service.
Kundalini House is a place close to my heart. It is where I did my first pregnancy and postnatal yoga and meditation classes several years ago. I have always loved the energy of the space and I am very grateful and happy to now be working here two days a week.
Stress is one of the major reasons for health problems in western societies. The touch of a massage therapist can help to reduce stress, release tensions and pain, unwind and recharge. I came to this modality as I felt the urge to counteract our stressful lifestyles and to make a contribution to a health care system where touch is often under-utilised. I truly believe that massage therapy is an important and often overlooked aspect of health care – and especially helpful for people who deal with chronic conditions, trauma, depression and anxiety.
In times when our daily routines sometimes appear to be overwhelming I see the need to refocus on the things and values that have always been important in life – touch is one of them. I am passionate about creating a massage experience that supports people in need and really enjoy serving and accompanying them on their health journey on a regular basis. My vision is to see a shift in how massage and other complimentary health practices are viewed, as I truly believe they should be an integrated module of public health care, rather than separate from it.
I am especially interested in Women’s health and like to offer a massage that nurtures and acknowledges the whole person – including body, mind, spirit and emotions. An integral element of my practice is to create a safe, warm and kind atmosphere that allows the client to leave the business of the day behind. The massage itself is a time for mindfulness and meditation in order to achieve a calm and deeply relaxing experience. If there is a need to focus on specific symptoms, the treatment can also be interactive and might include passive or active movements of the receiving person. I believe it is important to tailor the massage to the specific needs of the client and offer the best experience I am able to create.
Lee Beaton
Relationship Counsellor
Psychotherapist & Counsellor
Lee Beaton
Lee is an accomplished psychotherapist and counsellor who is committed to creating a safe and dynamic environment that supports therapeutic change.
An emotionally-attuned, warm and insightful practitioner, she works collaboratively with her clients to help them achieve greater self-awareness and move towards their goals.
Lee brings a depth of life experience, compassion and humour to her work.For the past 20 years, she has worked in the fields of counselling and mental health across the private, community and corporate sectors.
A practitioner of Gestalt Therapy, she believes change comes through recognition and understanding of our own life experience and the environment around us. Her approach is based on the latest advances in working with trauma, therapeutic change and neuroplasticity, and in particular how compassion and gratitude can be used to rewire the brain.
She works with individuals, families and teens to achieve a range of desired outcomes, including in the areas of personal growth, parenting and family dynamics, and trauma.
Having studied with Relationships Australia, Lee also works with couples who want to resolve relationship challenges to create secure and loving connections. As a first-time mum in her late 40s, she understands first hand the joys and trials of raising a clever, headstrong child while maintaining a long-term relationship.
A regular practitioner of mindfulness and Buddhism, Lee views her life on earth as a blessing and sees herself as a lifelong student of learning and personal growth.
Bachelor of Arts
Advanced Diploma, Gestalt Psychotherapy
The Richards Trauma Process TRTP
Specialist Course in Couples Therapy & Clinical Internship, Relationships Australia
Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia Member, No. 25280
Book an appointment by calling Lee on 0491 638 124.
www.leebeaton.com
Leela Klein
Acupuncturist & Chinese Medicine
Leela Klein
Leela is a graduate of the Southern School of Natural Therapies and holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine). She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as well as the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA).
For the last ten years she has also worked as a Shiatsu practitioner. She studied with the European School of Shiatsu and with Bill Palmer (Movement Shiatsu Post-graduate course) in the UK. She was an Assistant teacher at the European School of Shiatsu and is a qualified Reflexologist and Reiki Master.
She was first introduced to the path of Chinese medicine whilst working as an Assistant Producer and Camera Operator in the British Television and Film industry. “A friend of mine suggested to have Chinese medicine treatments to balance my stressful lifestyle and help with depression that I was experiencing at the time. I will always remember my first treatment, which was like light bulbs going off in my body and mind. I was so taken with my first experience that I decided to study shiatsu and Chinese medicine. Whilst studying I discovered meditation, Buddhism and a new, far healthier, way of being.”
Leela’s treatments often combine bodywork with acupuncture, and ancillary techniques such as moxibustion, cupping, gua sha (scraping), as well as diet & lifestyle suggestions.
Leela has a special interest in psycho-emotional disorders such as anxiety and depression, insomnia, Women’s Health (e.g. pregnancy, menopause, period pain), gastrointestinal concerns as well as autoimmune conditions.
Over the last year Leela has also been a volunteer acupuncturist at Windana, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre in St Kilda.
She is passionate about yoga, meditation, photography and travel and is involved with the Buddhist Community at the Melbourne Buddhist Centre in Brunswick.
Leoni Zakarias
Acupuncturist & Chinese Medicine
Leoni Zakarias
I came into this beautiful medicine of healing, after having a background working outdoors with nature. I travelled at a young age and learnt on my adventures that the power of touch, listening, support and guidance are essential to human beings’ health harmony. When I returned home I delved into studying nutrition, along with various styles of massage. After indulging in energetic work, remedial and Ayurveda styles, I found Tui na; a Chinese medical massage. This modality is one of the pillars of Chinese medicine practice. As I immersed myself in the philosophy and psychology of Chinese medicine theory, the harmony and balance made sense, the theory resonated so strongly with my internal beliefs. So the next step was to master acupuncture, and tune into a flow of a different energetic frequency. I appreciate the simplicity yet there is so much complexity in the art of acupuncture, I know I will be a forever student. I have been a practitioner for more than 12 years now, always passionate about learning and integration.
I always knew that I wanted to integrate food as medicine into my work and my life philosophy, it’s the foundation of health, a way we nurture, heal and sometimes hurt ourselves. The psychology of food fascinates me. Dietary support is a foundation of my treatment plans, tailored to individual requirements, under both a Chinese food therapy and a modern nutrition context. I love food, I find so much joy experimenting in the kitchen with different cuisines, home grown produce from my garden, herbs, spices and flavours. I am always happy discuss the most recent food creation and the latest research on food science.
I maintain myself in a happy health state by waking daily with a breath of gratitude, especially when the sun is shining, I move my body whether it’s a bike ride, a yoga session or soul filled dance, I devour delicious food that my body is craving and enjoy the pleasures of music, entertainment and laughter. I also very much love my work/life role.
I take great pleasure in treating all conditions that are needing support, especially digestive complaints, hormonal issues, fertility support and emotional guidance. I weave into my treatments, acupuncture, bodywork, classical Chinese herbal medicine, nutrition advice with diagnostic lab testing.
Leyna Fennell
Psychotherapy & Counselling
Leyna Fennell
Leyna has extensive experience in working with those impacted by trauma, having worked in the field of Mental Health, Addiction, Family Violence and Sexual Violence over the past 10 years. She is a trauma informed therapist who is committed to ongoing learning and development.
Leyna has a Degree in Person-Centred Counselling and Psychotherapy, she studied and worked in the UK before migrating to Australia in 2012, after which time she has continued to work in the community sector as a Counsellor and Therapeutic Worker.
In addition to working in private practice, Leyna continues to work in the Community Sector, supporting people who are impacted by Family/Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence. She has a strong desire to support people within the community and feels passionate about her role, which she considers involves raising awareness and educating the wider community.
Leyna’s experience includes working with a diverse client group; she welcomes people from all backgrounds, culture, gender, sexuality, age and ability. She values each individual’s uniqueness and is experienced in supporting people presenting with varied needs and life experiences.
Leyna’s intention as a therapist is to provide a safe and honest environment where clients can explore their feelings and experiences and gain a greater insight and appreciation of self. Her background and training is within humanistic approaches to counselling and psychotherapy, adopting the core principles of the Person-Centred approach. She works with clients to establish helpful and meaningful ways to grow, which can include mindfulness practices, creative work, including writing and other explorational work.
Leyna believes that every individual has within them the power and knowledge, necessary for growth and her intention is to work collaboratively with clients to establish ways of achieving this through therapy.
Leyna Practices Yoga and meditation daily and highly values the emotional and physical benefits of regular practice; and is interested in how Yoga can assist with psychological difficulties.
To book a treatment please call Leyna on 0402 468 382.
Luisa Scire
Remedial Massage
Luisa Scire
Dip. Remedial Massage, Cert. Aromatherapy, Pregnancy Mass. Cert, Reiki I & II
Luisa was in the corporate world when life changed and she needed to find a career that allowed for flexibility. So she completed a Diploma in Remedial Massage at Nature Care College in Sydney. This started a rewarding transition from the corporate world into a heart centred therapy career at a beautiful Wellness clinic in Sydney, where she built a loyal client base.
Her philosophy on health has been that the mind affects the body, so when the mind is out of balance you need to take steps to find it again. This could be by cultivating a life with activities that bring inner contentment. Luisa finds this with whole foods, nourishing meals and moving the body. She enjoys exploring varied therapies until she finds the one that works for her.
Luisa is passionate about Yoga, meditation for mind-body wellness, nature, volunteering in the community and providing Therapeutic treatments that make a difference.
Luisa offers a nurturing intuitive practice that includes the whole body. Her flowing treatments assist in reducing stress and the pattern of holding within the body, allowing for a deeply relaxing and therapeutic effect.
Luisa has also studied, Lomi Lomi Nui in Maui Hawaii, Hot Stone Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Intuitive Balinese Massage and continues to learn.
BOOK A MASSAGE TREATMENT >
Or call the clinic on 03 9482 4325
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Madeleine Fogarty
Psychotherapy & Counselling
Miranda Phaeodonos
Osteopath
Miranda Phaedonos
HSc Osteo, BAppSc Osteo
As a teenager, I suffered a back injury after a bad fall. As I did not seek appropriate treatment, it progressively worsened. It was at this point that I was referred off to an osteopath who, by combining their holistic approach and a wealth of knowledge, was able to assist me in overcoming this injury. This revolutionised the view I had on alternative health medicine.
After five years of rigorous study, I have completed a double degree of Health and Applied Science, Osteopathy, graduating from RMIT University in 2017. I am also qualified in yoga teaching, myofascial dry needling and cupping techniques and am currently in the process of completing a course to enhance my knowledge and treatment of the obstetrical patient.
During my hours in the student clinic, it became increasingly evident how passionate I was about the combination of different interventions to assist in the prevention of injury. This led me to travel to Japan to study yoga and return with the tools that I sought after to complement my osteopathic practice. These modalities combined now allow me to structure a comprehensive treatment and management plan.
My interest in the areas of women’s and children’s health, overcoming chronic pain, sporting injuries and general stress associated musculoskeletal complaints were further emphasised during my placement and observational hours of practitioners’ interstate.
Sessions with me consist of thorough examination, locating and isolating the source of one’s pain, which guide a personalised treatment. A combination of controlled breathing, direct and indirect techniques will be used to build an appropriate treatment protocol.
In my spare time I enjoy practising and teaching yoga and mindfulness meditation, travelling, cycling and hiking with friends, and further developing my practice by reading and researching the most current body of evidence.
Nicola Loizou
Acupuncturist &
Chinese Medicine
Nicola Loizou
BTCM (SITCM), DipCCM, Adv.Cert.InternalMedAcu (China), CMBA, ANTA
Nicola graduated from the 5-year full time Bachelor course at the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and has undertaken official internships with two of Sydney’s most renowned physicians. She has spent 4 years as an intern of Daniel Deng and 3 years as an intern of David White, which has provided her with valuable experience in treating a vast array of conditions. As part of her studies Nicola spent time as an intern in the Guangzhou City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China where she trained in the dermatology, paediatrics, gynaecology, oncology and internal medicine departments.
From a young age Nicola has had an interest in how plant medicine and massage worked to heal the body and would spend her spare time reading about anatomy and herbal medicine. Nicola discovered Traditional Chinese Medicine while living and working in the Netherlands. She took the leap and enrolled for the first semester and during the first lecture found herself passionately enthralled wanting to know more. Nicola realised it was the system of medicine she had been looking to study for many years. From the outset, Nicola found a deep appreciation for the guidance of classical texts of Chinese medicine and has spent much time devoted to understanding and studying these vital texts to further her knowledge and understanding of the human body, nature and their interactions.
Nicola believes that helping and supporting one another on our individual journeys is one of life’s most rewarding values. Nicola understands that life is experienced so differently by each individual and living from a place of open heartedness is vital to stay true to ones self. She feels that part of a meaningful life are the gifts we can bring to each person we encounter.
Nicola is passionate about Classical Chinese medicine and spends may hours of her free time studying the ancient classical texts of the Han Dynasty to better her knowledge of the medicine. Nicola also loves to create fibre art (Knitting, spinning, crocheting and quilting if you are wondering) and to spend time nurturing her garden, which is full of fruit trees, flowers and herbs.
Nicola enjoys general practice and has had specialised training in gynaecology and fertility, complex chronic and autoimmune diseases, cancer support and musculoskeletal conditions. Nicola understands that no two people are the same and works diligently to tailor treatments to your individual and specific needs, with a focus on prevention and dietary understanding. Her goal is to create a partnership in a patient’s healthcare in which the individual must truly feel that they play an important role on their path to good health.
Peter Papadimitriou
Massage Therapist
Peter Papadimitriou
Dip Remedial Therapy
Member: ANTA
Peter is a qualified Remedial massage therapist with over 17 years of clinical experience within the health industry, and has moved from Tasmania to undergo his masters degree in Chiropractic care.
He has had the opportunity to work with and study under some of Australia’s elite therapists, building a solid framework and paving a path to his own very unique view of the human body and treatment technique.
Peter has a deep bio-mechanical understanding of the body, and recognises how the relationship of the body’s systems works as a whole. Incorporating a holistic approach, and also drawing knowledge from his recent chiropractic studies, he integrates the most up-to-date musculoskeletal and soft tissue treatment, nutritional recommendations and lifestyle advice such as exercise and stretching prescriptions. Peter can tailor a specific treatment plan and provide you with the correct building blocks to help you achieve your health goals.
Peter’s main areas of expertise are acute and chronic soft tissue injury management, and postural corrective treatment which helps with a wide variety of problems such as sciatica, frozen shoulder, headaches, joint restriction and muscle tension.
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Rachel Hanrahan
Shamanic Journeying
Shamanic Journeying Therapist
Rachel personally trained with Raymond Richards “the urban shaman’ in 2010 as a Crystal Dreaming™ practitioner and completed post graduate study in 2011. She was invited to train as an advanced practitioner in 2011, and in 2014 she was initiated, attuned and certified as a Crystal Dreaming Teacher Trainer. Rachel brings exuberant passion, spiritual prowess and deep insight into her practice as a Crystal Dreaming therapist.
Rachel assists Raym in his trainings when held in Melbourne and continues to apprentice and seek regular counsel from her teacher, who she considers a living treasure with a heart of gold.
On her journey, Rachel was initiated as Quechuan Shaman in Peru in 2008. Since 2009 she has trained with Crystal Dreaming founder Raym Richards.
Rebecca Van Horssen
Naturopath
Kinesiologist
Tarot Reader
Rebecca Van Horssen
BHSc (Naturopathy), Cert IV Kinesiology, Mem.NHAA
Rebecca is a Naturopath & Kinesiologist by trade, and a healer, witch and magic-maker by heart. Currently she is practicing clinically with individual clients, as well as holding space for Women’s Circles and a range of different workshops. By combining her esoteric training with the grounded application of Natural Medicine, Rebecca’s range of skills allows for a deep healing of the physical body, emotional body, and spirit ro unfold. This truly holistic approach can facilitate supporting the body through difficult disease states or symptoms, while concurrently walking the pathways of self-healing, knowing, and understanding.
Weaving together the many elements of her training such as folk & traditional herbalism, food as medicine, the tarot, and shamanic techniques, Rebecca is a deeply intuitive practitioner and facilitator with a focus on soul-centred healing, transformation and growth. Rebecca is especially passionate about empowering women to reclaim their most authentic, true, and aligned version of themselves through deeper understanding of their soul path, menstruality, and intuitive selves. Rewilding the menstrual cycle and challenging the pathologisation of menstruation is a key part of Rebecca’s clinical and wider work, and she often works with women experiencing challenging cycles or difficulties conceiving in a way that is gentle, nourishing and liberating.
Rebecca has been practicing clinically for over 5 years. She holds a Bachelor in Health Science (Naturopathy), a Cert IV in Kinesiology, is a member with the NHAA, and is an Apprentice with the School of Shamanic Womancraft. Rebecca runs her own business making herbal and ritual medicines called Remedy Botanica, and has been reading the Tarot for 20 years since finding her Grandmother’s tarot deck when she was 14.
Rebecca also works with a wide range of men’s and women’s health conditions in clinic such as fatigue and insomnia, mental health such as depression, anxiety and PTSD, digestive dysfunction, recurring immunity problems, and chronic illness or pain.
BOOK A NATUROPATHIC TREATMENT >
Call 9482 4325 to book a Kinesiology or Tarot treatment.
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Sara Cohen
Psychology
Sara Cohen
Registered as a psychologist since 2000, Sara Cohen has worked in a range of settings including the tertiary sector, residential and non-residential drug and alcohol programs, community based organisations and private practice. She has also consulted for local government and the not-for profit sector providing mentoring, executive support and corporate writing and editing services. Sara holds a Master of Psychology (Counselling) from Monash University as well as a combined Bachelor of Arts (Hons Psych)/Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Melbourne. She has completed modules in Advanced Shamanic Practice Training through the Spirit of the Earth Medicine Society, and she has also undertaken training in a range of other modalities including Bach Flower and Australian Bush Flower Essences, Focusing, Internal Family Systems, Havening, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, Thought Field Therapy and Sound Healing. She currently holds the positions of Victorian Coordinator Psychologists for Peace Interest Group (Australian Psychological Society) and Editor of Peace News, has had her work published in both international and national magazines, and has delivered presentations on peace both in Jerusalem and Melbourne.
Sara offers a range of services including holistic counselling and energy psychology, Australian Medicine Dreaming Wheel meditation, spiritual practice, Bach Flower and other vibrational health remedies/medicines, consciousness and heart resonance technologies and space for exploring life/soul purpose.
To make an appointment, please contact Sara directly on 0438 332 115 or via email sara@luminousecho.com.au
Medicare and private health insurance rebates may apply.
Sarina Keam
Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
Sarina Keam
BAppSc (Chinese Med/Human Biology), BAppSc (Phys Ed), AHPRA, AACMA
Sarina graduated from RMIT in 2006 with a double degree in Chinese Medicine and Human Biology. She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and also the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA).
Over the last 12 years Sarina has gained a lot of experience working with many individuals and couples in the area of fertility, IVF support and pregnancy. It brings her great joy to be able to assist and support amazing people on their journeys using Chinese Medicine.
Sarina first came across Chinese Medicine in her late teens in search of answers to some digestive problems she was having at the time. A family friend was a Chinese Medicine practitioner and through these treatments Sarina discovered this fascinating modality. Sarina discovered its holistic approach to healing the body whilst treating the root cause and has not looked back.
Sarina’s treatments involve Acupuncture and often cupping and moxibustion. She may prescribe Chinese herbs where required alongside any diet and lifestyle advice.
Sarina loves working with but not limited to:
- Fertility
- IVF support for individuals and couples
- Pregnancy, birth preparation and the postnatal period
She is passionate about running, cooking up a storm using delicious fresh ingredients, tending to her garden to watch it bloom and spending time with her young family.
Sophie Boord
Psychotherapist
Somatic Trauma Therapist
Sophie Boord
Sophie Boord is a Gestalt Psychotherapist and Somatic Experiencing (trauma) Practitioner (SEP) with a commitment to social justice and a background in the arts and environmental activism.
Sophie works in private practice and community health with a broad range of clients. Sophie works holistically and relationally, she has a special interest in working with trauma and her work engages people with chronic and complex trauma including developmental trauma.
Sophie is a gentle, respectful and highly attuned therapist who brings a certain lightness, sensitivity and creativity to her practice. Sophie finds the therapeutic journey offers a movement towards growth and wholeness, “it’s a journey full of creativity and exploration; sometimes playful, sometimes painful, sometimes joyful”. Sophie incorporates somatic touch work into her practice and is passionate about the value of this work for survivors of trauma.
In addition to her individual work with clients Sophie runs therapy groups and has run therapy groups at Gestalt Therapy Australia. In 2017 Sophie ran process groups for practitioners at the International Gestalt Australia New Zealand Conference and will be presenting work at the International Domestic Violence & Health Conference in November 2018.
Sophie is currently developing a video with women who have experienced family violence in an effort to change the pervasive culture of violence against women. Sophie has previously made videos with people from diverse cultures and recently made a film “Gratitude” with Phillip Maisel OAM and survivor of the Jewish holocaust.
Sophie has completed 3 years training in the cutting-edge trauma modality Somatic Experiencing, pioneered by Dr. Peter Levine, as well as 4 years training at Gestalt Therapy Australia. Sophie holds a Bachelor of Communications with Honours in Fine Arts.
PACFA Reg. Provisional 24384
Member, Gestalt Australia New Zealand.
Book a treatment by contacting Sophie –0439 406 072 – ONLINE
Tina LaRocca
Massage Therapist
Kinesiologist
Tina LaRocca
Dip. Kinesiology, Dip. Remedial Massage, Cert level 1-3 Craniosacral therapy
Tina has a Diploma in Remedial Massage and a Diploma in Kinesiology with training in Craniosacral therapy and currently completing a Diploma in Counselling. Tina has 8 years experience in Kinesiology that then lead her to Remedial massage of which she has been practicing for 5 years.
Tina is also a teacher in Kinesiology and Remedial massage and finds sharing her knowledge with her students extremely rewarding. Tina came to Kinesiology through her own personal difficulties and was able to improve her life, which in turn made her want to be able to help others through the roller coaster of life, help facilitate change and become aware of old patterns that can get in the way. This then lead her to massage, as she found that emotional issues also caused physical pain… healing through touch.
Her philosophy on health and emotional wellbeing is that if we can bring awareness to how we feel then half the work is done. To be present with our feeling, to have a space to be with these feelings will allow for change.
Tina is passionate about her work, always wanting to learn more, which now brings her to a Diploma in Counselling. Tina is now introducing her counselling skills to Kinesiology and finding this to be very effective and powerful.
Tina specialises in working with how we feel, recognising our story and our patterns but staying in the present moment with awareness of our feelings, using this awareness in our emotions and also our physical body. Through massage, touch can help bring awareness back into the physical body, because of our busy and stressful lives we can disconnect from our emotional and physical body, Tina works with reconnecting, feeling and awareness.
BOOK A MASSAGE TREATMENT >
Call 9482 4325 to book a Kinesiology treatment.
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MASSAGE >
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Zi Largiader
Massage Therapist
Zi Largiader
Dip. Remedial Massage
Member: AAMT
Zi began their journey in the realms of body work over six years ago when they took a short course in Ayurvedic massage in India. Equipped with these new tools, Zi began offering outcall treatments in Berlin, working with a number of clients from various walks of life. It was upon returning to Australia that their thirst for a deeper understanding of the body was ignited and they decided to study Remedial massage and Shiatsu.
The blend of two, seemingly polar modalities, flavour their sessions in a unique way. By using remedial tools to diagnose musculoskeletal issues, and the subtle undertones of shiatsu, together they form a more holistic view of the body- this results in a treatment that accesses greater depths.
Zi is also a yoga teacher, with a drive towards holding classes for the LGBTQIA+ community. Their ethos strongly aligns with the importance of health services being accessible and inclusive, irrespective of sexuality or gender; and they aim to create a safe space for anyone in the community.
As an avid seeker of knowledge they are continually learning in the areas of body-mind connection, interoception and brain maps, breath-work and its effects on the nervous system, performing arts and all forms of expressive dance.
