You're in good hands with our multidisciplinary team of Physiotherapists, Exercise Physiologists and Allied Health Professionals.
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Deborah Carrera
APA Titled Neurological Physiotherapist
Deborah has worked with neurological and complex rehabilitation clients for 35+ years, after graduating from Lincoln Institute in 1985. Her Masters by research was completed at the University of South Australia in 1997, and her thesis encompassed exploration of postural control, dizziness and brain injury.
Extensive post graduate training has been undertaken across a range of areas in physiotherapy care and holistic health care, including the management of vestibular problems. She has worked in private and public settings nationally and internationally. Most recently working privately in Canberra for the last 17 years. Concurrently, she developed and lectured the neurological physiotherapy teaching program at the University of Canberra, between 2004-2007, and completed writing of the ‘Physiotherapy competencies for the entry-level graduate in neurology’. She started Neurospace in 2008 and within that has continued to develop her special interest treatment of dizziness and complex rehabilitation. She loves to look for new approaches and is always buying new cutting edge equipment for the therapists to play with. The interest in the use of laser to supplement our work has been part of this exploration.
Deborah has sought to promote the benefits of neurological physiotherapy throughout her career, including involvement in the past with the National Neurology Group across three states, and representative for the Australian Physiotherapy Association’s National Advisory Committee. She is also an athletics Paralympic classifier. To be part of a process that has the potential to see people have an opportunity to feel involved in sport is of great importance to her.
In her spare time Deborah loves being with her family, escaping to the beach, getting outdoors and Latin dancing.
Simon Smith
Physiotherapist
Simon graduated from the University of Canberra with a Masters of Physiotherapy in August 2016. Prior to this, he a completed bachelor degree in sport science in his native UK.
Since graduation, Simon has worked in public health, working in both the acute inpatient (including both the intensive care and acute neurology units) and in sub-acute rehabilitation settings at the Canberra Hospital.
Simon joined Neurospace in February 2018 to continue working with complex neurological conditions and to gain practical experience with assessing and treating musculoskeletal conditions concurrently.
His special interests include treating dizzy patients and those with vestibular balance disorders, acquired brain injuries and concussion management.
He focuses on problem solving complex multifactorial impairments and strives to help patients reach their functional goals in order to make a positive impact on their quality of life.
In his spare time, Simon likes to keep active with cycling, frisbee and football (aka soccer). He enjoys spending time with friends and family both in Canberra and at the coast and enjoys canoeing, snorkelling and scuba diving. He loves to travel and visit new places both within Australia and abroad.
Laura Davidson
Physiotherapist
Laura graduated from the University of Canberra with a Masters of Physiotherapy in August 2016, after completing her undergraduate degree in Applied Science. Since beginning her career, Laura has gained a variety of physiotherapy experience, working in an acute inpatient setting at the Canberra Hospital, as well as a Pilates-based private practice in Deakin. Laura joined Neurospace in September 2017 to fulfil her passion of working in neurological physiotherapy. She is particularly interested in stroke and spinal cord injury rehabilitation, as well as developmental neurological disorders. She strives to achieve relevant, functional, and meaningful goals for her clients, and thrives on the difference physiotherapy interventions can make to a person’s quality of life.
In her spare time, Laura likes to stay active by playing soccer, hiking, and walking her dogs.
Marian Cappellari
Physiotherapist
Marian graduated from University of Canberra in 2008, with a Masters in Physiotherapy. She has previously completed a Bachelor of Sports Science. Marian has lots of experience in acute neurology, particularly working with clients who have had a stroke or brain injury. Marian has joined Neurospace in October 2022, to continue her love of neurology and helping people remain independent, and to manage any chronic conditions. Marian likes walking her dog, attempting to grow veggies, and laughing at her own jokes.
Tran Luc
Physiotherapist
Tran graduated from the University of Canberra with a Masters of Physiotherapy after completing her Bachelors of Medical Science at the Australian National University. She gained valuable experience working in the age care and local disability sectors before joining Neurospace in 2018.
Since then, Tran has developed a particular interest in vestibular rehabilitation, dizziness, and the holistic management of multiple sclerosis. She also has a special interest in laser therapy, both as a treatment for complex pain and injuries as well as a powerful therapeutic tool for neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathy and dementia. Tran is passionate about working with clients to improve their function, independence, quality of life, striving to help them gain the confidence to achieve their own therapy goals.
Outside of work, Tran likes to spend time with family and friends. She enjoys cycling, exploring the wildlife around Canberra, and tinkering around on the piano every so often.
Languages spoken: English and Vietnamese.
Maddison Breust
Physiotherapist
Maddison completed a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at The University of Canberra in July 2019. Prior to this, she gained experience as a Physiotherapy Assistant with ACT Health for 9 years in rehabilitation and aged care. Maddison joined Neurospace at the end of July 2019 and has a special interest in Parkinson’s disease and rehabilitation in aged care with a focus on improving function, independence and quality of life for her clients. As part of her studies, she completed placements at the University of Canberra Neurological Clinic, Port Kembla Rehabilitation Hospital, and the University of Canberra Musculoskeletal Clinic. Outside of work, Maddison is busy planning a wedding, enjoys catching up with family and friends, tending to her indoor plants and exploring the mountains around Canberra.
Jacqui Edmondson
Physiotherapist
Jacqui joined Neurospace in 2020 after graduating with a Masters of Physiotherapy from the University of Canberra. Jacqui brings with her a wealth of knowledge, with previous degrees in neuroscience and psychology from the Australian National University.
Jacqui has had a long fascination with how the mind and body work, brain plasticity and how neural connections can be changed with exercise and activity. Jacqui enjoys working with clients to improve their function and quality of life.
Outside of work, Jacqui enjoys playing music, catching up with friends, bush walking and trips to the coast.
Mat Callaghan
AHA/Graduating Exercise Physiologist
Mat has previously completed a Bachelor of Human Biology and Nutrition at University of Canberra and is currently finishing his Bachelor of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation, also at University of Canberra.Mat completed a clinical placement with NeuroStudio and began working with us as an AHA after this. He enjoys working with neurological conditions and has a specific interest in musculoskeletal and cardiovascular considerations. Mat has had plenty of exercise delivery experience, working as a Les Mills instructor for 3 years, and as an F45 coach for 5 years.Outside of work, Mat enjoys his own exercise, going on walks and snowboarding in the winter.
Gabby Slattery
Exercise Physiologist
Gabby always wanted to be an EP, growing up with a love of sport and exercise.
She completed a Bachelor of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation at the University of Canberra in December 2020. Throughout the degree Gabby gained experience in a variety of areas including chronic diseases, such as musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, cancer and neurological conditions. As part of my studies, she completed placements at the University of Canberra Health Hub, ICON Cancer Clinic and Neurospace, where she found an enthusiasm for working in Neurological rehabilitation.
Gabby is passionate about helping people achieve their goals through exercise as it is great for both physical and mental health and promotes an active lifestyle. Specifically in Neuro, she is assisting people to be able to exercise and tailoring programs suited to people’s needs.
Gabby grew up in Canberra and enjoys spending time with my family and friends, going to the gym and running and finding great local cafes and restaurants.
Kelly Hamilton
Exercise Physiologist
Exercise Physiologist Kelly loves being active. She enjoys exploring our local area and beyond and keeping active through pilates, swimming and trail running with her dogs. When not out and about she loves to read a good crime novel, country music and watching movies.
From a very young age Kelly has been interested in physical activity and exercise. Movement played a large role in her life growing up, including various sports, dance and yoga. It was through these experiences that led her to pursuing a career in Exercise Physiology.
Kelly graduated from the University of South Australia with a Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology (Honours) in 2021. Completing her degree was just the start of developing a passion for supporting people to improve their lives through movement. Since beginning at Neurospace & Neurostudio Kelly has developed a keen interest in working with people living with a range of conditions.
Jayden Lehman
Exercise Physiologist
Jayden graduated from the University of Canberra with a Bachelor of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation in 2020 and joined the Neurospace team in 2021.
He has an interest in a variety of areas such as Neurological conditions, musculoskeletal rehabilitation and injury prevention, chronic pain and disease management as well as strength and conditioning for sports performance or general health and wellbeing.
Outside of work, Jayden plays AFL for the Queanbeyan Tigers and enjoys going for hikes, camping, fishing and playing video games.
Jayden grew up in country NSW and frequently travels home to see his family and friends as well as spend quality time with his multiple dogs.
Jenniina Katainen
Physiotherapist
Jenniina completed a Bachelor of Physiotherapy in December of 2019 from Finland at Turku University of Applied Sciences. Jenniina joined Neurospace in November 2021 as Allied Health Assistant and is seeking accreditation to begin work as a physiotherapist. She has gained great amount of experience of working with people with variety of issues throughout her work placements, physiotherapy job in Finland and as allied health assistant. Jenniina is passionate about helping her clients to gain independence, reach their goals and to make them feel empowered. Outside work Jenniina enjoys travelling, snowboarding and spending time with her friends.
Meg Rayner
Practice Manager
Meg has worked with participants on the NDIS since its inception in Canberra in 2015. Meg started at Neurospace in 2016 in the NDIS and third party clients Administration space. She is now our Operations and Client Services Manager and is passionate about ensuring that all clients and there support networks have the best experience here at Neurospace. She is also an amazing support to our team.
Meg has come from a telecommunications background after 15 years with Telstra in a range of roles including Retail Manager and Business Sales and Support and holds a diploma in Business Management.
She moved to Canberra in 2015 for the oldest reason – love. 7 years later she has a husband (the same love) and 3 beautiful children! When she is not at work she is simply or not so simply, depending on the day – being a mum!
Niamh Colvill
Physiotherapist
Originally from Cairns, Niamh moved to Canberra to complete a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Canberra, graduating in December 2020. Since graduation, Niamh worked in Forster NSW, gaining valuable experience in aged care and community rehabilitation. She has learnt the importance of a providing holistic approach to physiotherapy assessment and treatment.
Niamh joined Neurospace in June 2021 and has a great interest in neurological physiotherapy. She is passionate about helping her clients maintain their independence and staying healthy and active in all aspects of their daily life. Niamh is also interested in Women’s Health physiotherapy and has completed post-graduate training in APA Women’s health Level 1. She is planning to complete more post-graduate training to further pursue her interest in this area.
Outside of work, Niamh enjoys an active and adventurous life. She also enjoys spending quality time with family, friends, and her dog.
Atticus Gordon
AHA/Physiotherapy Student
Atticus completed a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of New South Wales in 2020. He has always been passionate about studying Physiotherapy and started a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of Canberra in 2022.
He has an interest in neurology and musculoskeletal rehabilitation and is excited to gain more experience as an Allied Health Assistant with Neurospace.
Atticus grew up in Sydney where he played Rugby League and other sports. Since moving to Canberra, he has continued to enjoy sporting life playing touch footy and beach volleyball with friends.
Zuhra Jamay Balagh
AHA/ Afghan Physiotherapist
Zuhra completed her postgraduate physiotherapy studies in Human Movement Science discipline at University of Canberra in March 2022.
Prior to residing in Australia, she worked at Kabul Orthopaedic Organisation (KOO), children ward in Afghanistan for four years. Zuhra gained clinical experience in working with different Orthopaedic and Neurological children’s conditions such as Cerebral Palsy CP, Neuropathies, Scoliosis and other neurological and orthopaedic conditions. After attending training programs in Ponseti method casting for newborn club foot babies at ICRC Afghanistan, she became the founder of Ponseti Method Casting After the Surgery in KOO.
Zuhra aims to do her Master of Physiotherapy so started working with Neurospace as an Allied Health Assistant to gain more experience working with adults, and aged clients with neurological and physiological problems. She is enthusiastic to bring positive changes to the people with neurological conditions in their activities of daily living (ADL). She is currently focusing on home visits, hydrotherapy and supporting clients in the Neurostudio.
Zuhra is mother of 3 beautiful children. After work, she switches to her second role as a mum. She enjoys exploring new fun and activity places and socialising. She chose walking as her best physical exercise and does it every day getting to the workplace. She loves music and watching movies and dramas during her free time.
Eoin O’Callaghan
Physiotherapist
Eoin (pronounced Owen) is a Canberra local who’s parents emigrated to Australia from Ireland in the early 90’s. He graduated from the University of Canberra with a Bachelors of Physiotherapy after completing his Bachelors of Applied science in Human Biology and an Honours degree in Applied science in Human Biology. Eoin has a background of working in private practice and the aged care sector in addition to some time working in orthopaedics before joining Neurospace in early 2023.
Eoin has in depth knowledge about degenerative joint disease with a special interest in hip and knee joint osteoarthritis. Eoin has completed his GLA:D certification in 2021 and he has previously run group exercise classes to help address hip and knee arthritis symptoms (both pre-operative and post-operative). Eoin is also working towards attaining his dry needling certification later this year to increase treatment options.
He generally prefers to provide a mixture of treatments, often incorporating hands on therapy and exercises to give the best results to his clients. He has seen a variety of clients from his time working in private practice and aged care including acute, subacute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, chronic pain, degenerative joint conditions (E.g. osteoarthritis) and Parkinson’s disease to name a few.
Eoin strives to enable people to feel more independent and to help his clients to improve their function and quality of life.
Outside of work, Eoin enjoys going to the gym, spending time with his partner and their 2 dogs and generally enjoying the geeky things in life such as 3d printing, miniature painting and tabletop gaming.
Che Stubbs
Physiotherapist
Che has completed a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of Canberra.
Che became interested in working in the allied health field after having a variety of sporting injuries growing up and experiencing firsthand the role exercise can play in recovering from acute and chronic injuries. From this, he developed an interest in growing his understanding of how the body works and how to improve its function.
Che joined the team in February as an AHA after completing his clinical placements in the last year. During his placements, Che gained experience in hospital, aged care and private practice settings and found a passion for working with people with neurological conditions such as stroke, MS and Parkinson’s Disease, musculoskeletal conditions and post operative care.
Outside of work Che enjoys spending his time with family on the coast, playing social sports with friends and learning new songs on guitar.
Sophie Dunn
Exercise Physiologist
Sophie is an Exercise Physiologist who has developed a passion for neurological conditions & chronic disease management. Sophie thoroughly enjoys helping others to reach their full potential and aims to use the latest evidence-based practice to provide clients with the tools needed to reach their goals. She has grown up playing a variety of sports and loves all activities outdoors. She is currently enjoying working with clients with Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injuries and stroke. Sophie enjoys helping people return to exercise and regain their confidence.
Elise Burcher
Allied health assistant
Elise completed a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy/Occupational Therapy) at CIT in 2022.
Having Certificate IV in Fitness, Elise also has experience in group and 1:1 exercise classes working specifically with the Older Population.
Prior to being an AHA, she spent 20 years working as a florist but always wanted to pursue a career in the health sector helping people.
Elise endeavours to use her energetic and compassionate personality alongside her skillset to develop strong rapport with her Clients.
She feels it is a great privileged to be able to support her Clients in improving their quality of life and independence through movement.
In her personal life she enjoys running, pilates, netball, being outdoors and being a Mum to her two children.
Madeleine Holt
Allied Health Assistant
Madeleine (Mads) is currently studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree at the University of Canberra. She is passionate about supporting people reach their full potential and engage in the meaningful activities in their everyday life. In 2023, Mads spent an eye-opening placement in Tonga where she spent time with a physiotherapist working with children with physical and intellectual disabilities and post-stroke patients. So far she has found working as an allied health assistant at Neurospace extremely rewarding and looks forward to continuing to work with clients into the future. Outside of work she enjoys playing a variety of sports especially AFL, and spending time with family and friends.