FUNCTIONAL REHABILITATION AND EXERCISE PROGRAMS

WE ARE SPECIALISED HEALTH

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Complete the form and we’ll allocate our best mobile EP for your customer. We’re looking forward to helping out 

FAQS ABOUT US

To potentially save you some time, here are a few answers to some often asked questions about our programs which might answer your query.

LEARN ABOUT US

Specialised Health is a dedicated provider of Exercise Physiology treatment and work conditioning services for customers within the Australian compensable schemes.

Specialised Health is the leading provider of Exercise Physiology rehabilitation programs for the compensable schemes in Australia and New Zealand.

For the last 12 years our EPs have specialised in the following areas:

Mental Health Management
Fatigue Management
Musculoskeletal Injuries
Cancer Rehabilitation

Get in touch to find out more about how we can help with the above as well as cardiac, neurological, pulmonary conditions and more.

WHY WE’RE NO. 1

Our evidence based programs are at the forefront of pioneering healthcare

Recent research will always power our programs. Whether it’s new metrics such as heart rate variability, wearable tech or mindfulness and sleep tracking, you can be confident our rehabilitation approach for all conditions will be strongly evidence based.

We specialise in helping customers who are covered under a compensable scheme.

Whether it’s Income Protection, Veterans Affairs, Motor Accidents or Workers Compensation, in these arenas our level of communication is unmatched. Rehabilitation process can be slowed by treatment providers who do not provide updates or engage with other parties, therefore, you can be assured everyone will be in the loop at every step of the way

Choose your own adventure

Specialised Health has 30 mobile Exercise Physiologists across 4 states in Australia as well as both the North and South Islands of New Zealand who have been delivering face to face rehabilitation programs in local gyms, parks and homes for the past 9 years. Video-based interventions are available for those in rural and remote areas and have become a key offering helping those with reduced access to care.

Where We Are

Where you can find the best Exercise Physiologists in the game. Hover over your city to see who’ll be helping you out.

Free Guide to Achieving Outcomes in Every Rehabilitation Case

It may seem unusual to put an Exercise Physiologist on the case for a mental health condition. Everyone knows that exercise is good for improving physical health conditions, but for mental health? The science is clear – and we see the proof first hand in our work – exercise is a fantastic tool for improving mental health outcomes.
Here are 3 reasons that we believe that ALL mental health claims should have an exercise physiologist involved.

Still considering whether you should be engaging an Exercise Physiologist? Or maybe you’re still unsure of what it actually is that an EP does and how they can help? This video will help

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Join the conversation and find us on our social media platforms, for everyone else who wants to get connected with us regularly, do not hesitate, we are waiting for you!

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OUR BLOG POSTS

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Case Studies

Prehab Turned RTW: Freddie’s Journey to Recovery

At Specialised Health, we’ve seen time and time again how ‘prehab’—a proactive approach to rehabilitation—can set clients up for success. Freddie’s story (name changed for privacy) is a perfect example of how a structured, targeted program can not only prepare

Read More »

OUR TEAM

We believe in a diverse range of personel to bring creative skills, thoughts, and ideas to the table.
  • Aidan McFarland

    North Sydney

  • Anthony Clappers

    South East Melbourne

  • Ashley Saunders

    West Auckland

  • Brad Domek

    Director

  • Brandon Woolley

    Wellington

  • Caitlin Milne

    Caitlin Milne

    Tasman-Malborough

  • Cara Leyten

    Palmerston North

  • Carmyn Barnes

    Christchurch & Canterbury

  • Cathy Barakat

    Administration

  • Crystal Stavris

    Executive Assistant

  • Daniel Logan

    East Brisbane, CBD, Redland

  • Eric Suh

    North West Sydney

  • Gary Calitz

    Hamilton

  • Gracie Costa

    Christchurch

  • Hayden Kelly

    North Sydney

  • Hussein Taoube

    Inner West & East Sydney

  • Jacinta Chalhoub

    Inner & South West Sydney

  • Jack Philp

    South West Sydney & Wollongong

  • Jennifer Santos

    Administration

  • Jessica Knaggs

    Western Melbourne

  • Kellie Worell

    Townsville

  • Leanne Groves

    South Brisbane & Gold Coast

  • Mae Heard-Pennel

    Head of Learning and Development

  • Mark Watson

    South West & Sydney

  • Melissa Mills

    Administration

  • Mike Munsie

    Northern Suburbs of Perth

  • Naser Biksmati

    Perth

  • Natalie Winterton

    Natalie Winterton

    Auckland

  • Nina Brandt-Sandral

    Mackay

  • Renee Trevarthen

    North Brisbane & Redcliffe

  • Ryan Free

    Melbourne

  • Samuel Panton

    Samuel Panton

    Wellington

  • shara kinney

    Shara Kinney

    South / North West Sydney

  • Sidney Cubasch

    Brisbane & Gold Coast

  • Staci Ball

    East, SE & NE Melbourne

  • Steven O’Keefe

    Head of Operations

  • Tessa Nielsen

    New Plymouth

  • Tessa Thurston

    Adelaide

Aidan McFarland

North Sydney

Aidan has over 6 years of experience as an Exercise Physiologist in compensable spaces, assisting people with recovery, return to work and their normal daily activities. He has an expert understanding of these schemes and how to provide the best patient-centred treatment to achieve the return to work and ADL goals.

He has extensive experience supporting an RTW for those with musculoskeletal injuries, mental health, fatigue management, cancer recovery and pain management.

Anthony Clappers

South East Melbourne

Anthony graduated with a degree in Exercise Physiology from Victoria University in Melbourne and has been working as Accredited Exercise Physiologist since 2022.

Having previously worked with Australia Post workers, Veterans, mental health clients and the general population, he enjoys collaborating with his clients, always trying to find the most optimal treatment plans which will lead to the best possible outcomes. He is always looking for ways to improve as an EP and assisting individuals in becoming more active. Anthony has experience in completing functional capacity evaluations & pre-employments screenings and is always client centred and goal oriented.

Aside from being an EP, Anthony thoroughly enjoys battling iron in the weight room, loves his skateboarding despite the occasional fall & is always on the lookout for upgrading his Chicken Parma.

Ashley Saunders

West Auckland

Ashley obtained her Master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology from the University of Auckland. She has gained experience working with a range of conditions, including cardiovascular, metabolic, musculoskeletal, neurological, and cancer. Ashley is dedicated to helping individuals improve their physical function and overall quality of life through personalised, evidence-based exercise prescription.

Outside of work, Ashley enjoys staying active through sports such as netball and squash and gym workouts (while also coaching at BFT), as well as spending quality time with her family and friends.

Brad Domek

Director

Director – Northern Sydney

As an EP with 16 years experience in occupational rehabilitation Brad has worked within all major compensable schemes in Australia and New Zealand. Brad has been a Guest Lecturer at ACU, has presented to Insurers and Re-Insurers in both Australia and NZ on topics such as Exercise Physiology in Occupational Rehab, using EP to assist customers with Mental Health, Fatigue and Cancer as well as Exercise Physiology in the Life Insurance Industry. With a clinical background as well as long history working as an Occupational Rehabilitation Provider, he has developed a blend of experience in both the treatment and occupational settings which has now become the foundation of all work provided by the EPs at Specialised Health.

Brandon Woolley

Wellington

Brandon completed a Master of Health Science degree at Massey University, Wellington in 2013, in which he investigated the effects of exercise on vascular health in Stroke survivors. Brandon continued to be heavily involved in various research projects and lectured in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Prescription and Sports Nutrition.

Brandon managed a stroke rehabilitation clinic at Massey University and has developed extensive knowledge of neurological disabilities in addition to his work with physically disabled and visually impaired clients.

Brandon is an avid mountain biker and surfer, who can often be found riding the many trails located around the Wellington region, or in the waters of Lyall Bay. He is also always keen to talk about cricket!

Caitlin Milne

Caitlin Milne

Tasman-Malborough

Caitlin graduated from Otago University in 2016 with a Bachelor’s degree in Science, majoring in Exercise Physiology with honours. She has extensive experience working with patients with chronic health conditions and illnesses including cancer, mental health and musculoskeletal injuries.

Caitlin is a strong advocate of ‘knowledge is power’, Caitlin goes above and beyond to empower her clients and ensure they have a complete understanding of the what, why and how. She also has an in depth understanding of the role an engaging and integrative health model can have on the long term health outcomes for anyone.

Fun fact: She is a social butterfly who hates silence, 5 seconds of silence to Caitlin feels like 5 hours but she is working on it

Cara Leyten

Palmerston North

Cara has worked in the rehabilitation and physical training industry for the last six years, completing a Master’s in Health Science with Distinction along the way. She has predominantly specialised in musculoskeletal condititions – particularly chronic pain and injuries that have been deemed advanced or “tricky” to solve – and has also worked with a variety of other special populations from cardiovascular conditions through to high level sport performance.

Her passion for helping people with chronic and life changing conditions stems from her own chronic back injury that she sustained from a significant BMX crash thirteen years ago.

While she still enjoys riding bikes, Cara has a newfound love for hiking in the hills with her dogs. She is a social, positive, and active person who loves life and the people around her.

Carmyn Barnes

Christchurch & Canterbury

Carmyn went to The University of Stellenbosch in South Africa and has worked as an Exercise Physiologist since 2015. Carmyn specialises in providing treatment for a range of chronic and orthopedic conditions with her favorites being cardiac, mental health as well as cancer rehabilitation where she has always included a wellness focus to her exercise programming.
Carmyn has a second passion for working with young children and studied a postgraduate degree in the gross motor development of children from a rehabilitation perspective.
Random fact: High-key obsessed with dogs, higher-key spider-itis, not yet acclimatised to NZ weather, can withstand copious amounts of caffeine.

Cathy Barakat

Administration

Cathy has been assisting in the WorkCover rehabilitation industry since 2009 and over the years she has developed a significant level of proficiency in rehabilitation administration. In her previous role, Cathy was the National Admin Manager, managing a large team. Since joining Specialised Health in 2019, Cathy has been able to transfer her knowledge to her team, while also learning and adapting her skills in the life insurance scheme. Cathy is well aware of the needs of all parties within the compensable schemes and has been a valuable asset to our administration team.

Crystal Stavris

Executive Assistant

Crystal has been assisting in the rehabilitation industry since 2009 and therefore over the years she has developed a significant level of proficiency in all areas of compensable rehabilitation administration. As a result of working with both worker’s compensation, work conditioning providers and life insurance-based rehabilitation providers Crystal has become acutely aware of the needs of all parties within the compensable schemes.

Daniel Logan

East Brisbane, CBD, Redland

Daniel has over 10 years experience as an exercise professional and specialises in the management of fatigue-based conditions and musculoskeletal injuries. Dan also has vast experience in the chronic pain, post-cancer recovery, and mental health spaces, in addition to working with elite and sub-elite athletes.

Dan is also a seasoned cycling road racing champion with wins throughout the Queensland circuit and was most recently crowned the 2022 Masters Criterium champion.

Eric Suh

North West Sydney

A firm believer of ‘Exercise is Medicine’, Eric has centred his education and qualifications on that which empowers people to manage their health through the therapeutic effects of exercise. He has completed his undergraduate Sport and Exercise Science degree and Postgraduate Diploma (cardiac rehab) in Auckland, New Zealand, and has moved across the ditch to pursue his career as an accredited exercise physiologist in Australia since 2015.

Since his move to Australia, he has applied his skills across various roles and schemes (including both clinical and Rehab Consultant roles) and has a special interest in management of chronic conditions, cardiac rehab, mental health and musculoskeletal injuries.

Eric has a holistic approach to people’s recovery, taking time to listen, educate and empower people to take active measures to better their health.

Gary Calitz

Hamilton

Gary completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Johannesburg in 2008 and his postgraduate studies at the University of the Witwatersrand in 2010. He founded and led his own private biokinetics practice for eight years, specializing in professional athletes, musculoskeletal injury rehabilitation, neuromuscular rehabilitation, and exercise programs for managing chronic diseases.

Relocating to Hamilton in 2023, Gary completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Sports and Exercise Science with distinction, and has worked for Specialised Health since

Passionate about sports and competition, Gary is dedicated to helping clients enhance their physical abilities and overcome psychological barriers to progress. With an empathetic, warm, and patient approach, he supports clients through key phases of their journey toward achieving their goals.

When not helping clients, he’s probably drinking far too much coffee—it’s his secret to staying energized!

Gracie Costa

Christchurch

Gracie graduated with a degree in Exercise Physiology from the University in Sydney in January of 2024.  She has worked with a range of conditions during clinical placement including neurological, cardiovascuar, metabolic, immunological, cancer, musculoskeletal and mental health.  She has worked in both public and private settings, including physiotherapy clinics and hospitals.

In addition to working as an EP, she enjoys reading, being outdoors hiking, mountain biking and running, which allows her to build connections with a range of different clients.

Hayden Kelly

North Sydney

Hayden is a dedicated health and fitness professional with memberships in several prestigious organizations, including Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA), the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA), the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK), the Sports Nutrition Association (SNA), the Asia-Pacific Society for Physical Activity (ASPA), and the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI).

He is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP) having earned a Bachelor of Exercise Physiology from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and is currently pursuing a PhD through the University of Newcastle focusing on advancing the understanding of exercise and health.

Through continued learning opportunities Hayden has developed skills in exercise prescription for a vast array of patient pathologies including cardiovascular, metabolic, musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Through a client centred approach to exercise prescription and education, he has an intention to help others attain better control over the determinants of their health, allowing them to achieve better health outcomes long term.

A passionate and optimistic professional, Hayden is committed to achieving outstanding results for his clients and guiding them toward their full potential. His enthusiasm for the benefits of exercise extends beyond his work, as he is also a competitive natural bodybuilder, dedicated to inspiring others to realize the transformative power of physical activity.

Outside of work, Hayden enjoys traveling, listening to podcasts, savoring quality Japanese cuisine, and spending time with his family.

Hussein Taoube

Inner West & East Sydney

Since graduating as an Exercise Physiologist, Hussein has worked both as an Occupational Rehabilitation Consultant as well as a Treating Exercise Physiologist with 4 years experience in the compensable sectors. Hussein has predominantly worked with individuals with cancer, mental health conditions and musculoskeletal injuries, however, has also developed experience with neuromuscular and cardiovascular rehabilitation.

Hussein has a passion for power lifting and has achieved amazing rehabilitation results for clients by incorporating basic strength training principles into their regimes.

Jacinta Chalhoub

Inner & South West Sydney

Jacinta went to The University of Sydney and has recently graduated as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist. Jacinta has 4 years experience in the Workers Compensation scheme, and also has experience working with clients to rehabilitate musculoskeletal and chronic conditions such as neurological, metabolic, cancer and mental health.

Jacinta has an additional passion for reading and gaining new skills. She plays the piano and loves being outdoors participating in activities such as gym and walking, which she uses to help connect and motivate her clients.

Jack Philp

South West Sydney & Wollongong

Jack is a highly experienced Exercise Physiologist who has a passion for helping people with acute and chronic medical conditions and injuries to improve their physical health and mental well-being. Jack has been working with patients with a range of conditions since graduating in 2018 and has a wealth of experience and knowledge across the compensable schemes. He has speciality experience with cardiometabolic, musculoskeletal, mental health and respiratory conditions.

Jack excels in crafting personalized exercise regimens tailored to individuals’ unique capabilities and lifestyles, while also offering bespoke counsel on lifestyle modifications geared toward elevating overall health.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Jack has been an integral part of numerous high-performance athletic environments and maintains active participation in rugby union, cricket, and golf.

Jennifer Santos

Administration

With years of experience as an administrative assistant, Jennifer has honed her proficiency in delivering top-tier customer service and comprehensive administrative support. Her background includes managing client inquiries, coordinating tasks, and ensuring smooth operations in fast-paced environments. Jennifer takes pride in her ability to assist her team with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail. Outside of work, she enjoys culinary pursuits, particularly baking, and finds joy in music.

Jessica Knaggs

Western Melbourne

Jessica holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from Federation University and has 7 years of extensive and diverse experience within the field. Her professional career has included roles in community health, public health, aged care, mental health and private practice. Jessica employs an individual approach for her clients to achieve their designed goals. By using this approach, and with her experience, she is able to embrace a wide range of clients.

Jessica is able to succeed in occupational rehabilitation as she is able to collaborate with relevant stakeholders through strong communication skills that are employed when working with both consumers, insurers and other providers. This allows Jessica to optimise program outcomes for all parties.

Beyond work, Jessica finds joys and excitement in travelling the globe and staying fit.

Kellie Worell

Townsville

Kellie is accredited as an Exercise Physiologist as well as an Exercise Scientist who is currently studying post graduate Psychology. Kellie is experienced working in clinical settings managing a range of chronic and complex conditions, musculoskeletal and mental health conditions as well as pain management and cancer management.

Kellie applies evidence-based prescription to her experience and knowledge to connect with her clients to facilitate best possible health outcomes.

Leanne Groves

South Brisbane & Gold Coast

Leanne is an accomplished Accredited Exercise Physiologist with over 20 years’ experience, a trail running enthusiast and a dedicated professional with a passion for empowering individuals through knowledge and promoting health and wellness.

Having spent six years working closely with serving military personnel, Leanne has gained extensive experience in physical and occupational rehabilitation.

With an unwavering belief in the transformative power of knowledge, Leanne is committed to empowering others. By combining her extensive experience, expertise in exercise physiology, and passion for teaching, she strives to educate individuals, equipping them with the tools and understanding they need to take control of their own physical, mental and social well-being.

Whether it’s helping individuals manage a range of health issues, supporting their rehabilitation journey, or imparting wisdom to enable self-management of their conditions, Leanne continues to make a positive impact in the field of exercise physiology and beyond.

Mae Heard-Pennel

Head of Learning and Development

Mae studied Health Sciences at the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa and graduated withHonours in Biokinetics. After practicing for 8 years and setting up a successful private practice she immigrated to New Zealand in 2019, worked briefly as an Exercise Physiologist with Specialised Health while managing a rehab facility and busy physiotherapy practice. 5 years of upskilling staff has lead her back to Specialised Health doing what she is passionate about- supporting and developing allied professionals.

Mark Watson

South West & Sydney

Mark has over 10 years experience working as an Exercise Physiologist and has worked on the injury management front in both injury rehabilitation and also injury preventative space. Mark has experience working in Medical Practices, Physiotherapy Clinics and Private Practice, covering area’s including; occupational rehabilitation, occupational health and wellness, and musculoskeletal screening and rehabilitation.

Given he’s a highly accomplished triathlete as well, Mark offers a wide range of training and experience that’s relevant for all clients regardless of background or history. Mark has a particular interest in lower limb injury prevention, treatment of tendinopathy pathologies and exercise in a broader context for mental health and psychological wellbeing.

Melissa Mills

Administration

As an experienced Personal Assistant with over 25 years in the legal industry, Melissa has now joined Specialised Health to assist in meeting the needs of clients and has a great understanding of the importance of rehabilitation and recovery.

As a result of her exposure in the legal industry in assisting the management of Workers Compensation and Compulsory Third Party files, Melissa is focused on achieving goals and outcomes for all of Specialised Health’s clients.

Mike Munsie

Northern Suburbs of Perth

Mike has worked in the Exercise Physiology space for the past 8 years, and in the health industry for the past 18 years. He completed an Undergraduate Degree in Sports Science in 2014 and Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Exercise Physiology in 2016. He also completed a year scholarship at San Diego State University in 2012-2013 studying Athletic Training/ Injury Identification and Rehabilitation.

Over the course of his career, Mike has held numerous roles within various sectors including workers compensation and MVA file management, injury prevention and health initiative development, and more recently, corporate health in the resource sectors (primarily iron ore, but also gold, silver and oil and gas). His work has taken him to some interesting places such as the Pilbara, Northern Territory, Cambodia and the northern highlands of Papua New Guinea.

Mike has demonstrated extensive experience in musculoskeletal and chronic disease management, however his passion is working with people from all walks of life to achieve a common goal. With an extensive background in exercise prescription for multiple demographics across an extensive career in the health industry, Mike enjoys the challenge of managing and ultimately thriving in challenging cases. Using his knowledge and experience to assess the entire case, not just the condition itself, to deliver the highest quality results on each and every file.

While exercises will build necessary capacity to return a person to their preinjury duties cand or life, it is the strength of the relationship that will determine how quickly results are achieved and become a part of a person’s everyday life. Mike believes everyone has their own story to tell and is curious to hear yours while getting you back to your physical best.

Naser Biksmati

Perth

Naser graduated from Murdoch University with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology. His expertise particularly shines within the disability, orthopaedic and cardiac spaces, bringing a blend of deep passion and diverse experience.

In his professional practice, Naser has experience working with patients from various backgrounds, including those with complex mental health, neurodivergence, and requiring cardiac and orthopaedic rehabilitation. He also has experience with chronic conditions and oncology patients. His approach is characterised by a commitment to personalised care, catering to the unique needs of each individual.

 Naser is committed to empowering his clients, guiding them to understand and actively participate in their own health journey. He strongly believes in fostering intrinsic motivation, enabling individuals to gain independence, and effectively overcome their challenges.

Outside of work, Naser is committed to staying active, enjoying regular gym workouts, and swimming. His creative side is expressed in his aquascaping hobby, where he scapes underwater gardens. Family-oriented and an anime fan, Naser values the time spent with his loved ones immensely.

Natalie Winterton

Natalie Winterton

Auckland

Natalie graduated with an Honours degree in Biokinetics in 2012 from the University of Pretoria, South Africa. She worked as an Exercise Physiologist for 10 years in South Africa before immigrating to New Zealand in 2022.

Natalie has a strong background in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and working with special populations, including those with neurological, autoimmune, and metabolic conditions. She is particularly passionate about working with older adults and has seen firsthand how Exercise Physiology can have a significant positive impact on mental health. Natalie focuses on small, sustainable changes that lead to lasting improvements, helping individuals regain their physical well-being and quality of life. Through personalised exercise prescriptions and one-on-one support, she helps clients return to an active lifestyle.

A random fact about Natalie: she’s a mom of two little girls, loves to run, and stay active. In 2017, she completed her longest distance, running the Comrades Marathon (87 km). She also played college tennis on scholarship in Austin, Texas from 2005 to 2009.

Nina Brandt-Sandral

Mackay

Nina has over 17 years experience working in clinical settings as an Exercise Physiologist and Sports Scientist; complementing this is Nina’s 20+ years instructing, presenting and training in the fitness industry. Nina has extensive experience in exercise prescription and an evidence-based approach in managing chronic and complex health conditions. She has lived and worked all over regional Australia and her allied health work has been across many different industries such as mining and agriculture.

Nina is also employed in education, teaching at a University in health courses. She uses these education skills to assist patients make positive behavioural changes and lifestyle management to improve health outcomes.

Renee Trevarthen

North Brisbane & Redcliffe

Renee Trevarthen is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist who graduated from Queensland University of Technology with a Bachelors degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology in 2012. Renee’s clinical experience has been diverse working across many schemes including Medicare, Veterans Affairs, Workers compensation and private practice. Her passion has always been encouraging others to adopt healthy lifestyle changes that positively impact their present and future wellbeing. Renee is enthusiastic and a hardworking Exercise Physiologist who takes the time to understand the real issues facing a patient and to ensure their goals are met.

Her bubbly and empathetic personality of exercise prescription is well received by her clients, which makes every session fun and informative. Renee has a passion for musculoskeletal and cardiovascular rehabilitation, weight loss, mental health, posture and core stability including back pain, women’s health and overall improving the quality of life for clients.

Ryan Free

Melbourne

East, South & South East Melbourne

Ryan is a technically gifted practitioner with over 14 years of clinical experience having graduated with a Masters of Exercise Rehabilitation back in 2008. His attributes find him regularly assisting clients to reach movement, rehabilitation, life and work-performance outcomes that they thought were never possible.

Ryan enjoys the challenges presented by chronic pain and designates complex musculo-skeletal and movement dysfunction as his special interest areas. He is a highly respected contributor to national GP education programs on Managing Chronic Pain that are changing the landscape with respect to the over-prescription of pain medication. This, together with his expansive experience running group and individual programs at a renowned Psychiatric facility has resulted in many health professionals sending a stream of referrals to Ryan to work with particularly challenging cases requiring a thorough biopsychosocial approach.

He is a passionate, dedicated and empathic health professional which translate into his other areas of interest including AFL, Golf, Carpentry & Business.

Samuel Panton

Samuel Panton

Wellington

In 2014, Sam received an Honours Degree in Physical Activity, Exercise and Health from the University of Wolverhampton, England. Since then, he spent 8 and a half years as a Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Practitioner, firstly working in the British National Health Service, then progressing to General Manager of a Charitable Organization.

Throughout Sam’s career, he has been involved with research into the effect of early intervention of individualised exercise programs on an acute exacerbation of COPD or Pulmonary Fibrosis, and separately into the most effective exercise routines for patients suffering from Post Viral Syndrome (Long Covid). After these experiences, He has become a strong believer that exercise is for all, no matter your barriers to participation or severity of condition.

People would describe Sam as a patient, understanding and empathetic individual who would go out of his way to ensure the best service is provided.

shara kinney

Shara Kinney

South / North West Sydney

Graduating with a degree in Exercise Physiology from Murdoch University in Perth WA, Shara has been an Exercise Physiologist for 8 years and has worked with a range of clients from professional athletes to the elderly, chronic pain sufferers, cancer patients, mental health patients, veterans and general populations. Shara also has clinical experience in hospital-based cardiac rehabilitation programs and working with high risk patients. Since moving to Sydney in 2019, and joining Specialised Health, she has enjoyed working with the the variety of conditions presented, and continues to see how exercise positively changes her clients lives through rehabilitation. She is now leading the team in NSW as a Senior Exercise Physiologist.

In addition to being a great EP, Shara’s bubbly personality and work as a multi-talented Dancer, Entertainer and Professional Singer/Songwriter allows her to build rapport easily and make a positive impact on those going through a difficult period in their lives.

Sidney Cubasch

Brisbane & Gold Coast

Sidney brings 15 years of experience in exercise delivery for rehabilitation, health, and performance. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Exercise Physiology from Deakin University in 2014. Her diverse career includes private practice, research in academia, and running her own business. Sidney specialises in managing musculoskeletal conditions, with a particular focus on low back pain.

Sidney’s passion for health and fitness originated from an elite junior tennis career, and she recently retired from playing women’s state league AFL. Sidney now enjoys golf as her primary sport. She is dedicated to helping individuals recognise their strengths and abilities, leading to improved functional outcomes and empowering them to lead fulfilling lives through movement.

Staci Ball

East, SE & NE Melbourne

Staci holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from Victoria University and boasts 4 years of diverse experience in the field. Her expertise brings over 4 years of comprehensive experience across musculoskeletal, metabolic, neurological, and general health conditions.

Her professional journey has encompassed roles in private practice and gym environments, catering to diverse clients spanning from children to the elderly. Passionate about facilitating others in achieving their fitness aspirations, Staci excels in designing customized exercise regimens that align with individual preferences and goals. Her innovative approach and extensive background allow her to effectively address complex health challenges, embracing a wide spectrum of clients including those with neurological issues, mental health concerns, and various other conditions.

Beyond her professional commitments, Staci finds joy in quality time with loved ones, pursuing fitness at the gym, hiking with her dog, and embarking on adventures around the globe.

Steven O’Keefe

Head of Operations

Steven is a seasoned executive leader with over 15 years of experience driving operational excellence and financial success across multiple sectors, including Retail Banking and Allied Health. His extensive background in both clinical and corporate environments has equipped him with the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, foster stakeholder relationships, and achieve exceptional performance for national organisations.

Steven’s expertise spans across strategic planning, financial management, and operational oversight. He has successfully led large-scale transformations, while navigating critical changes following the Federal Government reforms. His leadership has resulted in significant financial achievements, business scale and growth, enhancing service quality, and achieving high levels of compliance and client satisfaction.

Tessa Nielsen

New Plymouth

Tessa has been immersed in the health and fitness industry for over a decade and began her career as an Exercise Physiologist after completing her master’s degree in 2017. Her master’s research focused on chronic fatigue syndrome, specifically assessing the physiological response to exercise in this population. This sparked a lasting passion for working with invisible illnesses, where she aims to empower individuals to navigate their unique challenges through tailored approaches.

Tessa’s philosophy is grounded in functional training, prioritising movement that directly enhances a person’s ability to do all the things that make life meaningful—work, family, or recreation. She is also deeply invested in the role of exercise in  preventing chronic disease; assisted by a background in education, she is on an added mission to educate everyone she works with (and anyone who will listen really!).

Fun fact: She’s in the top 0.1% of Eminem listeners worldwide and no matter how hard she tries, he’s always her #1 artist.

Tessa Thurston

Adelaide

Tessa commenced working as an Exercise Physiologist in 2008 after completing degrees in Human Movement and Education.

She has had the opportunity to work in Adelaide, Darwin and Melbourne in private and multidisciplinary clinics as well as workplace health and rehabilitation. Tessa has a keen interest in population health and has extensive experience in target pathologies including cardiovascular, metabolic, musculoskeletal and mental health.

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OUR ADDRESS

PO Box 604, Spit Junction NSW 2088

+612 8457 7346

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