Health Specialists
Dr Anthony Yeuong
B. App Sc (Chiro), B. App Sc (Clin Sc), Cert (Acup) Grad Dip (Clin Nutrition), Cert (Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis) Cert (Inj Nutrients), Dip (Life/Psychotherapy)
Dr Anthony Yeuong has been passionately inspiring and caring for his clients to reach the highest levels of health, happiness and internal peace for over 18 years. His integrative approach to health management and strong understanding of body and mind wellness medicine means he is rapidly becoming the first choice of care amongst his clients. He has extensive knowledge and experience in general and functional pathology testing as well as live blood screening. He has also completed his certificates in Food Allergy training and Allergy & Anaphylaxis training with the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA). This enables him to accurately diagnose complex conditions and therefore design an effective plan of management. He has a strong understanding and knowledge of both western and eastern methods of healthcare and uses food as medicine. Dr Anthony Yeuong’s passion lies in creating new pathways to improve communication between the digestive, nervous and immune system. As a result improving stress reactions, nervousness and anxiety and physiological symptoms such as tiredness, weight gain and sleeplessness.
His focus lately is researching molecules called neuropeptides and its effect on the body when exposed to stress and uncertainty. Dr Anthony Yeuong is currently working on writing his book titled ‘The Thinking Body & The Clouded Mind.’ Dr Anthony Yeuong enjoys travelling and being exposed to different cultures and learning their methods of living and healthcare. He enjoys bikram yoga, RPM classes, meditation and spends many hours investing in different areas of personal development, learning and happiness. He enjoys keeping extremely active from daily gym sessions, running half marathons and more recently, completing the ‘Ride Along the Bay’ challenge. Anthony is also a member of Chiropractors’ Association of Australia (CAA), Australian Spinal Research Foundation (ASRF), Australian Integrative Medicine Association (AIMA), Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS) and Australasian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (ACNEM).
Gill Needleman
BA., Postgrad Dip Psych., M Psych (Couns)
Gillian Needleman is a clinical psychologist with 20 years’ experience in public mental health and 15 years’ experience in private practice. She has worked across both private and public sector mental health services in a variety of senior roles. Gillian has worked extensively in areas of depression, anxiety, panic, grief and loss, trauma and abuse, addiction (drug, alcohol and gambling), eating disorders, sexual and relationship counselling, women’s health and menopause, and with personal crisis involving suicidal/self-harm behaviours. She regularly attends professional development to maintain knowledge in current research and therapeutic interventions to ensure clients receive the best in quality care. She utilises a combination of cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness and narrative therapies to create an individualised service to assist people to move towards the changes they wish to make in their lives. Generous Medicare rebates are available for up to 12 sessions per year. She is also a member of APS Clinical College.
Mary Ingamells
MBA MAPS COP
Mary is an experienced psychologist providing counselling, psychotherapy, hypnotherapy and coaching for individuals, couples and groups. She aims to create a supportive space for clients to build their inner resources help them to move their life forward in a positive direction.
Clients face a range of challenges and emotional pain from anxiety, depression, grief, stress, loss of focus, emotional confusion, lack of confidence, life and workplace stress and relationship issues. Using a range of therapeutic techniques and interventions including meditation and mindfulness, clients are empowered to find the solutions they need to achieve their potential and to have a rich and meaningful life. Consultations by appointment – daytime, evening and early morning sessions are available Medicare rebates and health insurance rebates may apply. She is also a member of Australian Psychological Society.
Meghan Barker
Bach Health Science (Myo)
Meg graduated from the Southern School of Natural Therapies with a degree in Myotherapy. As well as working with various sporting clubs around Melbourne, she has worked in a clinical environment treating musculoskeletal pain involving the neck, shoulders and lower back. Meg treats with a wide range of techniques including: soft tissue release, trigger point therapy, myofascial dry needling, myofascial cupping, joint mobilisation, stretching and strengthening exercises. She is also a member of IRMA (Institute of Registered Myotherapists of Australia).
Dr. Natasha Doulgendis
Doctor of Clinical Psychology
Dr Natasha Doulgeridis MAPS is a registered clinical psychologist and is a full member of the clinical college of the Australian Psychological Society. Natasha has completed her Master and Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology at the Australian Catholic University in Melbourne. Natasha has been working in private practice since 2004, providing clinical services to individuals needing assistance and support for a wide range of psychological disorders. From 2003- 2010 Natasha was the program manager of the Drug and Alcohol Program at St John of God Pinelodge Clinic, a large and reputable psychiatric facility in Melbourne. Natasha has had formal training in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a range of DSM psychological disorders, including depression, anxiety, personality, sleeping and substance-related disorders. She has further developed and conducted psycho education groups on a range of topics including anxiety, depression, grief, stress, anger, sleep, self-esteem, communication, and dual diagnosis.
Natasha provides integrative therapeutic approaches to meet the needs of each client. These approaches include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), DBT- managing emotions, solution-focused therapy, interpersonal therapy, harm minimization, motivational interviewing, relapse prevention and general supportive counseling. Natasha is registered to provide clinical psychology services under Medicare and Private Health Funds.
Michael Hines
BA, Grad.Dip.Soc.Sc. (Psychology), Postgrad.Dip (Psychology), Assoc.MAPSC.C.C.P)
Michael views clients as ‘stuck’ rather than ‘broken’, and works collaboratively with you to help you live a richer, fuller, and more meaningful life. This is achieved in part by teaching you new skills to handle difficult thoughts and feelings more effectively so that they have less impact and influence. He has extensive experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief/loss, anger, and adjustment issues. Given his knowledge in Positive Psychology Michael also addresses your positive resources such as positive emotions, character strengths and meaning.
Michael is of the belief that mental health is more than merely the absence of mental illness, much like physical health is more than the absence of disease. As such, he will help you develop the skills to proactively stay on top of your mental health and to build resilience.
Michael also provides coaching for personal or professional development.
Priscilla Mulhern
B.Sc., Dip.Ed.Psych., MPsych
Priscilla Mulhern is a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children, young people and adults, across a range of psychological issues. She has training at a Masters level in both developmental and clinical psychology, and has extensive experience working in both the public system and private practice. Priscilla’s experience includes depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma and abuse, grief and loss and addiction.
Priscilla works collaboratively with clients to ensure that individual’s unique needs are met. She focuses upon assisting individuals to make the choices, and develop the skills, which will lead to positive change in their lives. She is associated with Specialist Registration (Clinical) Psychology Board of Australia and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society.
Dr. Carrie Ann Gallagher
Doctor of Chiropractic (USA) B. H Sc (Canada), Certified Clinical Chiropractic Paediatrics (C.C.C.P)
Dr. Carrie Ann Gallagher is committed to serving all people with low force chiropractic care throughout their lifetime. She specialises in pregnant women and children. Dr. Gallagher is committed to educating each person about the benefits of chiropractic care and helping them to achieve optimal health throughout their life. She serves the community with the highest quality family chiropractic care so that each person may realise their full human potential. Dr. Carrie Ann Gallagher has attended many seminars in Canada, the United States and Australia. She is a natural born communicator and educator and is available for community seminars and workshops.
When she’s not in the office, Dr. Carrie Ann enjoys spending as much time as she can with her two young children and her husband. It’s no surprise that, as a chiropractor, she takes an all-natural approach to parenting. Healthy eating and exercising regularly allow Dr. Gallagher to maintain balance in her life. She is a member of the International Chiropractic Association (ICA), the World Chiropractic Association (WCA) and the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA).
Dr. Debby Cheung
Bachelor Health Science (Acupuncture)
After working in the corporate world for several years surrounded by stress and unhealthy lifestyles provided Dr. Debby Cheung with the realisation to return to what drove her passion in life – making a difference to peoples’ lives by helping them become the truest and best versions of themselves. Dr. Debby Cheung believes that the ultimate goal is in preventative care where maintaining good health and wellbeing means people will become less susceptible to illness, recover faster, and their picture of health is intertwined into the fabric of their being.
Being a logical and realistic thinker who likes to lead by example, Dr. Debby Cheung utilises the ancient principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Acupuncture to remind the body of its self-healing abilities. With a particular interest and experience in treating women’s health conditions, Dr. Debby Cheung has helped clients to come off the oral contraceptive pill (OCP), regulate menstrual cycles, restore fertility to become pregnant, IVF support, as well as maintain and nurture pregnancy to the end with labour induction and into motherhood. Stress release and pain relief for musculoskeletal conditions is also at the foundation of her experience where she is often able to assist clients leave at the end of a treatment rejuvenated and changed for the better.
Treatments not only encompass TCM (Acupuncture, Cupping, Moxibustion, Chinese herbal medicinal pills /powders) but also lifestyle advice, exercise, and diet; ensuring the best of both worlds of East and Western medicine for optimum health. She is a member of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Authority (AHPRA), Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA) and Australian Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA).
Candice Fieg
Clinical Psychologist M.Psych Assoc. MAPS
Candice Fieg is a warm, compassionate, and experienced clinical psychologist who has had a wide range of experience in both hospital and community settings, providing quality therapy in both individual and group settings. She is passionate about empowering her clients to identify and overcome the barriers in their lives to effect positive change, build meaning, and improve quality of living.
Candice specialises in delivering high quality evidence-based therapy using a range of modalities and approaches including:
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)
Trauma informed therapies, including Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
Mindfulness
Self – Compassion & Strengths-based approaches
She has been strongly involved in the development of a new mental health service at one of Melbourne’s largest hospitals, and continues to develop and implement innovative and effective therapy programs for the community She believes in the importance of research informing clinical care, and therefore is involved in researching effectiveness of therapy programs.
Candice has had experience working effectively with a wide range of mental health difficulties, including but not limited to:
Anxiety – Including panic attacks, social anxiety, phobias, and generalised anxiety
Depression
Bipolar Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Stress and life adjustment issues
Trauma and PTSD
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Relationship issues
Grief and Loss
Candice understands the importance of finding the “right fit” for your therapist. Your first conversation will be an opportunity for you both to get to know each other, for Candice to get to know your needs and assess how she might be able to help you achieve the best possible outcomes in therapy.
Daniel Padgett
Bachelor Health Science (Chinese Medicine), Dip Chinese Med Remedial Massage
Daniel is a Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioner who is passionate about the Chinese Medicine Classical texts. He is a member of ATMS (Australian Traditional Medicine Society.) The Traditional approach to Chinese Medicine incorporates holistic treatments, taking into consideration the environment and seasons. With the Traditional approach, Daniel uses modern research to help consolidate his course of treatment.
Daniel has found satisfaction supporting clients as they have made remarkable improvements in fertility, gynecological disorders, musculoskeletal injuries, digestive problems, hormonal imbalances and their general wellbeing. Daniel’s Acupuncture techniques are gentle and painless, and treatments are tailored to clients’ needs. Chinese Herbal Medicine is another important modality used commonly in chronic cases, such as allergic rhinitis (recurrent hay fever), PMS, insomnia, chronic migraine, men’s health and menopausal symptoms (pre, peri, or post).
Sierra Williams
Diploma of Remedial Massage & Dry Needling
Sierra is a fully qualified remedial massage therapist with a Diploma of Remedial Massage and a mamer of the Australian Association of Massage Therapists. She enjoys working with clients that have complex health issues, whether that be chronic illness, rehabilitation of sporting injuries, or postural correction. While she was trained to be a remedial massage therapist, she has a clinical focus and an understanding of functional anatomy and pathology relevant to muscular skeletal conditions. She negotiates treatment plans with clear goals.
Shira Ashkenas
Shira is an American/Israeli import to Australia, she has spent many of the last years travelling and teaching yoga. She is currently on her journey studying to be a naturopath. When she isn’t studying or working at Beingwell; Shira loves to practice yoga and cook healthy and wholesome vegetarian food for her family and friends.
Patty Karakostas
Front of house manager, Patty Karakostas has several years of experience within the specialty coffee industry. Having owned two successful Melbourne cafes, she’s now sharing her experience with us at MOM. During this time, she discovered what it took to run a happy and successful business. She leads by example, with a strong work ethic and broad skill set she embraces challenges with determination, creativity and optimism. In her spare time, Patty enjoys yoga, reading, cooking and going to the beach
Brad Gough
Brad is our head barista and is an outgoing, self motivated individual with a passion for the specialty coffee industry. After leaving the UK over two years ago to work in Australia, followed by a year in Amsterdam to expand his knowledge and experience in the coffee industry. Brad, is a true professional, possessing a strong aptitude for multitasking, providing seamless and smooth service, second to none. Outside of MOM life Brad enjoys cooking, jujitsu, the beach and enjoying good food.
Kamara Pather
Kamara is part of MOM Cafe’s floor staff. She has had a passion for nutrition and health since a young age which has led her to studying a degree in Nutritional Science at Monash University. Kamara moved from Sydney to Melbourne and enjoys using her spare time discovering new trail runs, playing touch football with friends and cooking. She is also an avid traveller having previously resided in New Zealand and with plans to study in Norway. She enjoys helping people achieve their nutrition goals and through her volunteering experience, she hopes to help combat global health issues in developing countries. In the future, she says we may find her establishing her own not-for-profit clinic/restaurant, but in the meantime, she aims to inspire others through her health blog.
Carly Belideck
Carly is a second year Nutrition and Dietetics student with a distinct passion for overall health and wellbeing and the capacity for food to attenuate or exacerbate various health conditions. She has a particular interest in sports nutrition, the gut microbiome and food intolerances, though she is not yet sure of which avenue she wishes to pursue as a specialty!
Amy Castle
Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)
Amy is a caring and committed Naturopath trained in herbal and nutritional medicine who believes that achieving and maintaining optimal health is the primary focus of treatment. She is passionate about educating and empowering individuals on their journey towards enhanced health and wellbeing, and provides individualised treatment plans that are practical and sustainable. Amy utilises general and functional testing to further clinical understanding of the underlying causes of illness and practices evidence based medicine combined with a holistic approach with consideration of mind, body and spirit. Amy is passionate about treating a wide range of conditions, but does have a special interest in treating;
Immune Dysfunction: Allergies, autoimmunity, low immunity
Gastrointestinal Disorders: IBS, IBD, GORD, SIBO
Mood Disorders: Depression, anxiety
Endocrine Dysfunction: Metabolic disorders, thyroid and adrenal dysfunction
She is a full member of National Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA) and has a Bachelor of Health Science specialising in Naturopathy BHSc from Endeavour College Melbourne.
Bianca
B.H.Sc (Naturopathy), MNHAA, BYCA Life Coach
Bianca is a Naturopath & Certified Life Coach, and has been in clinical practice for 6 years.
She specialises in adrenal health, stress and mood support, chronic fatigue and digestive health, and loves to work with people who are burnt out, exhausted, anxious, and have demanding lifestyles. In addition to general health support, she also specialises in immune, female reproductive health and dietary support.
Bianca is a strong advocate for herbal medicine in treatments, as well as nutritional medicine, diet therapy, food as medicine, and a strong mindset + lifestyle focus. She empowers her clients to take control of their health, activate their own healing & smash their health goals by supporting their mind as well as the physical body.
Over the past few years, Bianca has created online and clinic programs, to help busy people regain control and improve their physical and emotional health, with strong focus on diet therapy.
As a Certified Life Coach, Bianca continues to support patients who are burnt-out, break through negative habits, anxiety, and also has a special interest in confidence and self-esteem coaching.
She is no-fuss and straight talking , but personable, and will make you feel like you are talking to a friend who will support you through your journey towards total balance and wellness.
Marlene Humbert
Marlene recently left a career in accounting to pursue her passion for myotherapy. She has gained most of her experience through a sports clinic, Melbourne Storm Rugby League, Melbourne United Basketball and local soccer and football clubs. Her passion lies in helping people return to a happy and healthy life from musculoskeletal dysfunction due to posture and/or injury. In her spare time, she enjoys socialising with friends, watching movies and playing soccer.
Tanya Wells
GCHPE, B.Sc., B.H.Sc (Naturopathy) MNHAA AMAIMA AMCOS
Tanya is a Health Professional and Educator with expertise in Integrative Medicine and Health Practitioner Education. She has extensive Clinical and Teaching experience in both Medical and Complementary Medicine disciplines, with experience in program design, implementation and assessment. As a clinician, Tanya has been in practice for over 15 years, and is known for creating innovative solutions for difficult cases. In addition to offering treatment for general health issues, Tanya specialises in Integrative Medicine: she uses her knowledge of both conventional and complementary medicines to assist patients reduce the side effects of conventional medicines and helps patients safely withdraw from medications that are no longer required.
Over the last 10 years in particular, Tanya’s main interest and expertise has been the research and development of Integrative Oncology Programs: utilising the best of Evidence based Complementary Therapies in conjunction with Conventional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She recently returned from an Integrative Oncology Hospital Tour of Germany where she collaborated with clinicians at six Integrative Oncology Hospitals.
Tanya is an experienced lecturer at tertiary level, primarily focusing on Clinical Supervision/Assessment and her specialist subject, ‘Integrated Pharmacology’. She also lectures Naturopathy students in Herbal Medicine and Nutrition. As a tutor for the Faculty of Medicine at Monash University, Tanya has taught first and third year medical students in areas of Health Enhancement (specifically meditation, nutrition, stress management and exercise) and Community Health Promotion. She has also written and presented a range of ‘Drug-Herb/Nutrient Interactions’ seminars for Medical, Pharmacy and Nursing Professionals in Integrative Medicine. She is a contributing author to a range of clinical text books, including the Cancer chapter of the latest edition of ‘Herbs and Natural Supplements’ by Lesley Braun and Marc Cohen. She is a member of National Herbalists Association of Australia, Australian Integrative Medicine Association and Clinical Oncological Society of Australia.
Dr. Robyn Graley
B.Bus., B.App.Sci. (Chiro)
Dr Graley comes from a dynasty of Chiropractors. Her brothers and cousin are in the field, and her father (the late Dr D. J. Graley D.C.) introduced Chiropractic into N-W Victoria in the 1960s. She is married with three children, two of them young adults and one a teenager at school.
Dr Robyn specialises in family Chiropractic care. She believes that childhood sets the foundation for lifelong health. Thus she is attentive to the correction of postural problems in school-age children, for those problems can lead to more serious concerns such as curvature of the spine in adolescence. With 18 years in the field, Dr Robyn brings to her patients a wealth of experience and knowledge in holistic/ gentle/ safe Chiropractic care. She offers S.O.T., N.S.T. and the latest dry-needling techniques to balance the body for better nerve function and improved health. She is also a member of COCOA Chiropractic & Osteopathic College of Australia.
Sara Dobson
B.S.Sc, M.Psych, M.A.P.S. (College Ed. & Dev. Psych)
Sara Dobson is a fully registered psychologist. She has completed both undergraduate and post-graduate degrees in psychology and is a member of the College of Educational and Developmental Psychologists (Australian Psychological Society). Sara has extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults across a range of emotional difficulties, including anxiety, phobias, depression, self-esteem, stress management, learning and behavioural difficulties. Sara has a special interest in eating disorders. She has worked both in the United Kingdom and locally in Melbourne with individuals, groups and families in the management of eating disorder symptoms, and has developed and managed specialist eating disorder day programs.
Sara offers a range of therapeutic interventions that are holistic, sensitive and designed to meet the unique needs of each individual. With her focus on wellness and personal empowerment, Sara strives to create a collaborative client-therapist relationship that assists individuals to gain a deeper understanding of their concerns and learn strategies that will enable them to make beneficial life changes leading towards positive growth. She is a member of Australian Psychological Society.
Sarah Smith
B. Sc, Master (Nutrition & Dietetics)
Sarah Smith offers unique specialised knowledge in women’s and children’s nutrition. Her specialised knowledge includes eating disorders, weight control, gastrointestinal disorders, allergies, and intolerances, including FODMAPs. Additionally in children Sarah specialises in growth and developmental concerns. She has worked for 8 years at a major children’s hospital, completed post graduate studies in paediatric nutrition, research into children’s vitamin levels and been involved in the establishment of a recognised eating disorder program.
Sarah enjoys helping everyone reach their full potential through nutrition, and never tires of providing freedom and energy to those who have been in discomfort or restricted by their food issues. She is a member of Dieticians Association of Australia (DAA).
Toula Filiadis
BA,BSW, Postgraduate Diploma in Family Therapy, Graduate Cert in Couples Therapy
Toula is an individual, family and relationship therapist with over 18 years experience working with children, adolescence, adults and families with a range of psychological issues. She has trained as a relationship and family therapist and has extensive experience working in public mental health system and private practise. Toula’s experience includes anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, parenting, relationship and family issues. She also has a special interests in eating disorders. She has worked locally in the management of eating disorders delivering specialist family based programs. Toula also facilitates the Tuning Into Kids and Teens parenting programs regularly. She’s also passionate about EMDR in trauma based work.
Toula remains committed toward providing therapeutic interventions which are evidence based and designed to meet the unique needs of individuals and families. Toula strives to work collaboratively with individuals and families and remains passionate about empowering people to make enriching and meaningful changes in their lives. She is associated with Australian Association of Social Workers – Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Australian Association of Family Therapist.
Akiko Kato
Diploma of Remedial Massage & Dry Needling
From working hands-on with athletes or with people in pain, she began to realise how important an understanding of movement patterns was to successfully getting to the root cause of musculoskeletal issues and increasing performance and reduce pain. Akiko is a 2010 Graduate of the Massage School of Queensland. She has spent her entire career practicing sports, medical and deep tissue massage. Her work is intense, site specific and thorough.
She strongly believes in preventing the loss of mobility by developing fitness and wellness-oriented regimes to encourage healthier and more active lifestyles. She is a firm advocate of total body wellness and conditioning and seeks to help patients achieve their health goals each day. She is also proficient in shiatsu, trigger point, pregnancy and lymphatic drainage. Akiko is a member of AAMT (Australian Association of Massage Therapist).
Jody Banck
Jody is a qualified naturopath, specialising in clinical nutrition and herbal medicine. She combines the latest evidence-based medicine with a traditional holistic naturopathic approach to work-out a practical treatment plan to achieve the best outcome for her patients health goals. She is passionate about using food as medicine where possible and loves working with her patients to use everyday foods and herbs to support and sustain good health.
Jody is interested in treating a broad range of health conditions including digestive disorders, nutritional deficiencies, allergies and food intolerances, immune and autoimmune conditions, mental health conditions, stress, adrenal health, fatigue, skin conditions, female and male hormonal imbalances and thyroid conditions.
Jody holds a Bachelor of Health Science in Naturopathy graduating from Southern School of Natural Therapies. She is also a member of the National Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA).
Dr. Annette Raber
Dr. Annette Raber
BA/LLB, GradDipPsyc, BSc(Hons), DPsyc(Clin), MAPS
Annette is a registered clinical psychologist who has completed a doctoral degree. She has been trained in assessing, diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychological disorders, with particular experience and expertise helping people with anxiety, depression, alcohol/substance use problems, relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, and life adjustment/transition issues. She works with adults of all ages and offers both short term and longer term therapy.
Annette aims to help people achieve their goals and to reduce or better manage distressing thoughts and feelings. She draws on various approaches depending on her client’s needs. These approaches include cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, interpersonal therapy, schema therapy, and solution-focused therapy. Annette also uses psychodynamic psychotherapy to work with clients who have longstanding symptoms, and/or who wish to deepen their understanding of themselves. Her clients would describe her as warm, friendly, attentive and caring. Annette is associated with Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and Australian Psychological Society.
Liz Ronsisvalle
BA, Dip Ed, MPsych (Couns), M.A.P.S
Liz is a registered psychologist and member of the Australian Psychological Society. Liz has experience working with adults and older adults across a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, carer support, ageing and wellbeing, relationship difficulties, and social skills training. She has worked in both the public and private sector with experience in the education, disability, health (dementia), aged care and community services industry sectors. She has worked with individuals, couples and families and has facilitated group therapy and psycho education sessions.
Liz uses an integrated counselling approach drawing on a range of models, including Person Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness techniques and psychodynamic therapy tailored to suit the individual needs of each client.
Liz works collaboratively with clients to assist them to better understand themselves and their relationships with others, to recognise their strengths and values, to develop life skills and to ultimately live more satisfying and fulfilling lives.
Julia
Julia is our practice manager and has as strong interest in management and administration. Moving from the education sector towards the wellness and health sector, Julia is passionate about committing her energy to contributing to society on a more meaningful level. Being a mother, she understands the benefits of balancing work, health and parenthood. Julia enjoys learning more about children’s development and psychology as well as discovering new ways of cooking low allergenic foods
Sigrid Juers
Sigrid is currently studying a Biochemistry/ Human Pathology double Major with a fascination for how the body adapts and interacts on a biochemical level in instances of infection, disease and chronic inflammation. A life long lover of sport, she enjoys strength training and escaping to any number of Victorias’ downhill mountain bike trails whenever possible. What she brings to the team is personal knowledge in Physiology and Immunology and integrates that with her customer service experience to support and assist the Beingwell Community. She loves being a part of the Beingwell support team and is passionate to create an environment that cultivates and supports people into feeling their absolute best.
David Selex
David Selex is the energetic and passionate head chef at MOM café. Throughout his 20+ year career, David has passed through most renowned kitchens including Florentino and Bacash, London’s Nobu and The Sugar club. He has also written pieces for magazine editorials and made appearances on the BBC (including Master Chef). His strong interest in food as medicine and drive to improve the wellbeing of children and adults through food has lead him to lead MOM Café and join Beingwell Healthcare. Outside of his professional career, David loves being with people and enjoys taking care of his family. One of his keen passions is cycling and he aims to complete ‘Ride along the Bay’ with Dr Anthony Yeuong in 2017.
Mel Pursell
Mel Pursell is the creative and inspirational chef at MOM café. With many years of experience, Mel’s inspiration comes from great produce, teamwork and the love of preparing beautiful healthy food and provisions. Regularly visiting farmers markets and local suppliers, Mel is always experimenting to create the healthiest, tastiest and freshest options to our menu. She has a very caring nature, strong ethics and her work comes from the heart, and therefore you can taste the love in her food. When you are next in, please try her latest creation ‘Bliss Teff Crackers’ and say hello to her. Outside of her professional career, Mel loves spending time with her cavoodle puppy along the beach and recharging her energy in Hawaii.
Dr Rebecca Gilbert
BAppSc(CompMed-Chiro) MClinChiro
Dr. Rebecca Gilbert was introduced to chiropractic as a child and has received regular chiropractic care since the age of 15 while playing competitive volleyball. Seeing first-hand the incredible health benefits chiropractic care offered both her and her family, she was instinctively drawn to study this unique, vitalistic profession.
Dr. Gilbert graduated from RMIT University (Melbourne) before moving home to Wangaratta to practise in a large family chiropractic practice. In 2010 she embarked on an adventure to the UK, where she practiced in London and Surrey for 4 years, before returning to Melbourne.
Dr. Gilbert is committed to providing chiropractic care of the highest quality, with additional training in pregnancy and paediatric care. Dr. Gilbert loves learning, and enjoys regularly attending seminars and courses to keep her knowledge and skills up to date. In her spare time, she also enjoys an active and healthy lifestyle, spending time with family and friends, doing yoga, travelling, reading and eating out!
Whether it’s working with busy parents and professionals, a precious child, athletes or the elderly, Dr. Gilbert strives to help her clients re-establish balance from within, and sense of trust and understanding in their body and its incredible, innate potential.
Professional Associations
Australian Spinal Research Foundation (ASRF)
International Chiropractic Paediatric Association (ICPA)
Shira Ashkenas
Shira is an American/Israeli import to Australia, she has spent many of the last years travelling and teaching yoga. She is currently on her journey studying to be a naturopath. When she isn’t studying or working at Beingwell; Shira loves to practice yoga and cook healthy and wholesome vegetarian food for her family and friends.
Leesa
Leesa has been involved the health industry since 1989, firstly obtaining a Diploma in Natural Health Sciences and subsequently furthering her knowledge with other therapies and a business degree over the years. Being passionate about supporting and empowering others in their health journey, Leesa has facilitated health and self-development retreats over the past 11 years and, after moving to Melbourne, is excited to be involved in the Beingwell community, helping to grow and nurture the community, and utilising her knowledge to spread the word about health and food as medicine.
Sleiman Abou-Hamdan
Sleiman is a registered Clinical Psychologist, with expertise in performance/sports psychology, mental health treatment, and leadership and organisational development.
With a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, he uses his expertise in the clinical psychology field to assess individual developmental needs and provide the most effective solutions to clients. He draws upon his extremely diverse background in the fitness industry, nutrition, aviation, military and the executive level leadership and project management to help clients achieve their desired outcomes.
As a consultant, Sleiman has expertise in leadership and organisational development, peak performance and lifestyle coaching, and workshop facilitation, focusing on creating high performing individuals and teams. He is experienced in the design, delivery and evaluation of workshops on organisational development. Sleiman is motivated in tailoring creative options, and collaborating with you to achieve exceptional outcomes.
He is also an holistic clinician, Sleiman uses an eclectic approach of evidence-based practices, including mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioural approaches, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Exposure Therapy, and Imagery. He has strong interest in post-traumatic growth, prevention and recovery of executive burnout, and advising leaders on optimising the mental health of their staff.
Sleiman is a member of the APS, and executive member of the APS Coaching Psychology Group and Clinical College. He is accredited to provide personality and cognitive assessments, and registered with Medicare as a Clinical Psychologist.
Tracey Allen
Qualifications
Bachelor of Science (Psychology)
First Class Honours
Master of Criminology (Forensic Psychology)
Professional associations
Member – Australian Psychological Society (MAPS)
Australian & New Zealand Association of Psychiatry, Psychology and Law (ANZAPPL)
Australian and New Zealand Association for the treatment of Sexual Abuse (ANZATSA)
Youth Affairs Council Victoria Inc. (YACVic)
I have been a practicing psychologist since 2004, and have a broad range of experience in both the public and private sectors. I provide intervention and support to adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, work related problems, adjustment issues and socially problematic behaviour. I utilise a variety of therapeutic interventions to support clients to achieve desired results. These include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and supportive counselling. I am an AHPRA Board Approved Supervisor and available for professional supervision of psychologists.
I offer appointments after hours on weekdays and on Saturdays. Medicare and private health rebates may apply.
Dr Flynn Pettersson
B. Chiro. Sc, M. Chiro
Chiropractic has been a part of Flynn’s life since he was a child. His uncle and grandfather being chiropractors, Flynn benefitted from the multitude of advantages chiropractic care provides.
Flynn graduated with a Bachelor of Chiropractic Science and a Master of Chiropractic from Macquarie University in 2010, and has worked in a variety of practices throughout Australia and in Japan, where he lived for three years. He is passionate about helping people achieve their best, in any discipline, and believes regular Chiropractic care complements a healthy lifestyle no matter what your goals may be.
Flynn enjoys travel, sports and continued learning, and hopes to one day see St. Kilda finally break their premiership drought.
Kara Lehmann
Advanced Diploma of Myotherapy
Kara graduated from RMIT with an Advanced Diploma of Myotherapy. She is passionate about helping her clients address and treat the source of their musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction so that healthy pain free function returns. She has an interest in neck pain, headaches, and lower back pain. Kara incorporates a thorough assessment, personalized treatment plain and self-help exercises/stretches and education to assist her clients in preventing future recurrence.
Kara has experience treating a board range of clients and conditions, so whether you are an office worker, manual labourer or athlete, Kara can help you retain normal function.
Anca Vereen
Anca is an Accredited Practicing Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist with a background in psychology. She is passionate about creating lasting health that is personalised to your genetics and mental, emotional, and nutritional needs.
As an integrative practitioner she combines expert nutrition knowledge with practical counselling techniques to identify your unique needs and tailor specific recommendations that suit your circumstances. Her skills are also complemented by the use of the latest technological advances like body composition analysis and nutritional genetics.
Areas of practice include
- Weight loss and healthy eating
- Digestive health (IBS, Chrons, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, gastritis, intolerances, leaky gut, reflux )
- Heart health (hypertension ,high cholesterol, stroke)
- Metabolic health (diabetes, insulin resistance, fatty liver, metabolic syndrome)
- Womens health (fertility, pregnancy, lactation, menopause, PCOS)
- Aged care (malnutrition and weight loss)
- Nutrigenomics
- Sports nutrition
- Body composition analysis
Meagan Hogan
My name’s Meagan and I am one of the team members here at MOM cafe! I am very passionate about health and fitness myself and it is so refreshing being surrounded by likeminded staff and customers at work everyday. I love trying new things, being outdoors and travelling. In summer I may aswell live at the beach and never want to waste a beautiful day. I am constantly wanting to better myself and learn new skills, thats why I am so excited to be apart of the team at MOM to further learn about health and nutrition and be able to pass on this knowledge to others.
Maya
Maya studied nutrition, yoga, and holistic medicine in the United States. In the last several years she worked in a variety of health and yoga retreat centers around the world, where she enjoyed being a part of a community dedicated to personal growth and healthy living. She is passionate about inspiring others to understand that “Food is Medicine” and is dedicated to promoting this along with the importance of holistic healthcare as part of the Beingwell Team.
Alice
Alice is currently studying a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy) and has a background in Media & Communications. Alice is in charge of all things social media, marketing and events at Beingwell! When she’s not studying or working, Alice loves cooking, travelling and yoga!
Sophie
Sophie
Sophie is a Queenslander who has recently moved to Melbourne. She is a Naturopathy student who is passionate about nutrition and optimising her health. She enjoys bulletproof coffee, avocados and a regular meditation practice. She loves sharing ideas with others regarding health so please say hello when you see her on front desk!
Amanda
Advanced Diploma of Myotherapy
Amanda holds an Advanced Diploma of Myotherapy from RMIT and a Diploma of Remedial Massage from TAFE NSW.
She is a qualified practitioner in the assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Aiming to enhance wellbeing and improve performance by utilizing methods such as soft tissue release, triggerpoint therapy, muscle energy technique, dry needling and corrective exercises.
She is also passionate about professional development in the areas of myofascial release, neurodynamics and pain physiology.
Amanda is registered with Myotherapy Association Australia and rebates are available with most leading health funds.