Meet the Team

Director and Principal Neurological & Paediatric Physiotherapist 

Mary-Anne founded Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre in 1990 and Moore Intensive Therapy Studio in 2021. She has over 30 years of experience as a neurological and paediatric physio so she is also very familiar with the services and supports families may need in the Greater Melbourne Area. Mary-Anne has a special interest in supporting accessible healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 

My Approach 

Mary-Anne combines a variety of research-backed assessments and physio techniques to achieve results. Mary-Anne's approach is shaped by her extensive experience of over 30 years with children. The following are a few highlights:

• Interviewed on Acquired Brain Injury on 3AW Radio Station 
• Awarded the Research Design and Development award at the National Press Club, Parliament House, Canberra
• Presented as an expert witness in the Supreme Court as well as prepared Medical-Legal reports

Mary-Anne earned her post-graduate degree in Health Research Methods for Physiotherapy. Mary-Anne's approach is constantly developing as an active member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, Paediatric Physiotherapy National Group and the Neurological Physiotherapy National Group. She continues to develop her innovative and evidence-based physiotherapy techniques through professional development courses. The following are a few highlights:

• The Specialised Treatment of Cerebral Palsy & Neurological Conditions - Bobath Neuro-Developmental Course
• Hydrotherapy in Paediatrics - Halliwick Method
• Lower Limb Biomechanics - APA

A Little More About Me 

On the weekends, you'll find Mary-Anne creating things in her craft room or tending to her flowers in her garden. Feel free to contact her at m.xenitelis@paediatricphysiotherapycentre.com

Senior Paediatric Physiotherapist & Allied Health Manager 

Stephanie is our Senior Paediatric Physiotherapist and Allied Health Manager.  Stephanie is also our primary student clinical educator working primarily at our Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre location. In addition, Stephanie is one of the leads for our Bike Club and Baby Moves & Massage Program. Stephanie has a special interest in infant conditions, early intervention for developmental delays and neurological conditions. 

My Approach 

Stephanie takes a holistic, family-centred approach; she works closely with each child’s multidisciplinary team and uses fun, goal-oriented activities to support each child. Stephanie’s evidence-based approach has been underpinned by engaging in ongoing professional development. The following are a few highlights:

• DMI (Dynamic Movement Intervention) Trained - Level A 
• Paediatric Physiotherapy Course - Royal Children's Hospital
• Paediatric Physiotherapy Level I & II - APA
• Clinical Gait Analysis Course - Royal Children's Hospital 
• Typical Child Development - Australian Bobath Neuro-Developmental Therapy Association 
• Plagiocephaly Technology Advancements and Management - Orthokids & Serkle
• Neurodevelopmental Treatment for Young Children – APA
• Mobility and Gait Re-Training – APA 
• CHAIN Bike Riding Program – University of Melbourne 

Stephanie's practice was first shaped at LaTrobe University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science and Master of Physiotherapy Practice degree. Stephanie's approach is constantly developing as an active member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and Paediatric Physiotherapy National Group. 

A Little More About Me 

Stephanie enjoys travelling the world and was fortunate enough to complete part of her physio studies in Denmark. In her spare time, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and fur babies. Feel free to contact her at stephanie.c@paediatricphysiotherapycentre.com 

Lead Physiotherapist for Moore Intensive Therapy Studio 

Sonia is the Lead Physiotherapist for Moore Intensive Therapy Studio (MITS) and also works with children at our Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre location. She is one of the leads for our Bike Club Program. Sonia has a special interest in disability sport inclusion, infants as well as neurological and genetic conditions.

My Approach 

Sonia takes a family-centered approach to make a meaningful impact on a kid's everyday life. She utilises a variety of physiotherapy techniques, assistive technology, motivational strategies, and has  learnt some basic Auslan (Australian Sign Language). Sonia's evidence-based approach has blossomed from the ongoing professional development she has completed.  The following are a few highlights:

• DMI (Dynamic Movement Intervention) Trained – Level A & B
• Paediatric Physiotherapy Course Level I & II – APA
• Fundamentals in Paediatrics Course – Kids+ Foundation
• MAT Seating Assessment & Wheelchair Prescription – Sunrise Medical
• CHAIN Cycling Program – Melbourne University 
• Musculoskeletal Paediatrics & Growing Pains – Angela Jackson
• Observational Gait Analysis in Paediatrics – APA
• Idiopathic & Non-Idiopathic Toe Walking – APA

Sonia is trained in the Prechtl's General Movements Assessment which can be completed on infants from birth to 16 weeks old. This assessment is used to screen babies for conditions affecting their movement and gross motor development, for example, Cerebral Palsy. 

Sonia graduated from LaTrobe University with a Bachelor of Applied Science and Masters of Physiotherapy Practice. Sonia's practice is constantly developing as an active member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and Paediatric Physiotherapy National Group. 

A Little More About Me 

Sonia enjoys being active and plays cricket, volleyball, and dances! She also loves trying out new restaurants and travelling!  Feel free to contact her at sonia.r@paediatricphysiotherapycentre.com

Paediatric Physiotherapist 

Julia works at both Tasma House where she sees children for individual sessions, and Moore Intensive Therapy Studio where she sees children for intensive therapy. Julia enjoys working with babies, children, adolescents and their families to create goals that are meaningful for them, especially throughout the intensive therapy program. 

My Approach 

Julia is keen to assist children of all abilities to make positive changes to children's lives using techniques practiced at Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre. She also using a variety of techniques and equipment to deliver individualised physiotherapy programs to children of all abilities.  Julia partakes in ongoing professional development to support her evidence-based practice. The following are a few highlights:

• DMI (Dynamic Movement Intervention) Trained - Level A
• Neuromuscular Conditions - APA
• Exercise, Sports, and Participation in NDIA - APA 

Julia graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science and Master of Physiotherapy Practice. Julia is an active member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and the National Paediatric Group. 

A Little More About Me 

Julia enjoys spending time with family and friends, and in her spare time can be found reading a good book. Feel free to contact her at julia.r@paediatricphysiotherapycentre.com

Paediatric Physiotherapist 

Claire works at both Tasma House and the Moore Intensive Therapy Studio seeing children for individual sessions. Claire graduated from LaTrobe University and while studying worked as an Allied Health Assistant within Western Health. Claire has a special interest in assistive technology, neurological and genetic conditions as well as a special interest in disability sport inclusion.

My Approach 

Claire is excited to assist children of all abilities to achieve their goals using a variety of techniques. She combines a variety of manual techniques, modalities, games and evidence-based clinical reasoning to individualise physiotherapy sessions to each child. Claire prioritises teamwork and values working with patients, their families and multidisciplinary teams including Occupational Therapists and Speech Pathologists.

Claire’s evidence-based approach to treatment has derived from ongoing professional development, this includes being an active member of Australian Physiotherapy Association and Paediatric Physiotherapy National Group. A few highlights include the following:

• Paediatric Physiotherapy Course – Royal Children’s      Hospital
• Interventions for Children Born Preterm - APA
• Equipment Prescription - APA
• Neuromuscular Conditions - APA
• Observational Gait Analysis - APA 

A Little More About Me 

Outside of work Claire enjoys the outdoors, especially anything involving water. She is involved in Surf Life Saving and competed at an international level in Slalom Kayaking. Within these sports she helps coach athletes from a range of ages, helping them step out of their comfort zone.

Claire also enjoys spending time with her friends and family as well as her two adorable Cavoodles.  Claire can be contacted at claire.t@paediatricphysiotherapycentre.com 

Paediatric Physiotherapist 

Yoshini works at both Tasma House and the Moore Intensive Therapy Studio seeing children for individual sessions. Yoshini graduated from James Cook University with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy. Yoshini enjoys working with kids of all ages to help them progress their independence, confidence and skills!

My Approach 

Yoshini is very excited to be joining the team at the Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre. Yoshini utilises manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercises, and modalities to enhance physical development. Yoshini prioritises creating tailored treatment plans and fostering a supportive environment for young clients and their families. With a passion for paediatric care, she is committed to ongoing professional development and integrating evidence-based practices into care alongside her supportive colleagues. Yoshini continually refines her approach through active involvement with the Australian Physiotherapy Association and the Paediatric Physiotherapy National Group.   The following are a few highlights:

• Observational Gait Analysis  – APA
• Autism Inclusive Sport Course  – Inclusive Sports Academy
• Introduction to Paediatric Disability  – APA

A Little More About Me 

Recently making the move from sunny Queensland to the vibrant city of Melbourne in 2024, I am a lover of travel and the simple joys of spending time with family and friends. Feel free to contact Yoshini at yoshini.a@paediatricphysiotherapycentre.com

Practice Manager 

Nurlan manages all aspects of the operations, finance, and human resources at Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre and Moore Intensive Therapy Studio. She also is our social group organiser. Her dream is to continue our social group for our teen clients and help them to form close friendships and bonds between each other. 

My Experience 

Nurlan is very experienced in caring for a kid and young adult with extra medical needs as a parent and a service provider. Nurlan's daughter has required extra supports, including physiotherapy since she was six years old. As a result, Nurlan understands the complexities of our healthcare system as well as the NDIS and TAC funding systems. She also understands the bliss of seeing your kid achieve small wins. Nurlan has made it her mission to provide the highest quality of care at our clinic. The key components this involves are:

• Understanding unique needs and circumstances of each family and providing them with information to navigate NDIS and our health system
• Ensuring appointment waitlists are short
• Timely and clear communication between physiotherapists, administration, external health practitioners, assistive technology suppliers, families and more

A Little More About Me 

Nurlan loves to do puzzles, go for walks with her dog and bake. She also enjoys a chat over cake, coffee and/or tea! Naturally, Nurlan also organises our Biggest Morning Tea event. Feel free to reach out to her at admin@paediatricphysiotherapycentre.com

Executive Assistant 

Madeline main role is answering telephone enquiries and booking appointments for clients at reception.  She helps out our practice manager with operations at Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre and Moore Intensive Therapy Studio.   She is our social  media executive. 

My Experience 

Madeline has been an executive assistant at Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre for many years now. She started working at reception on Saturdays and now assists with our professional marketing campaigns as well as working on reception.  Madeline knows the ins and outs of the families at Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre as she has been with the organisation for many years.  She understands the importance of fluid administration. She has developed an understanding of the families needs and assists clients to ensure their experience at Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre is a smooth one. 

A Little More About Me 

Madeline has a bachelor of Fashion Marketing and Business degree and hopes to be a designer in the future.  She currently works part time at both paediatric Physiotherapy Centre and at her professional  work place.  She loves pasta and Japanese food; ask her for recommendations! 

Executive Assistant 

Celeste's  main role is answering telephone enquiries and booking appointments for clients at reception.  She helps out our practice manager with operations at Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre and Moore Intensive Therapy Studio.

My Experience 

Celeste is the newest member of the administration team here at the Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre.

She is here to help make your visits as smooth and stress-free as possible, whether it’s answering questions, scheduling appointments, or offering to listen and support.

A Little More About Me 

I feel honoured to have this position as it has fuelled my passion for Allied Health and all its avenues. I began working here as I would love to begin my journey into the Allied Health Field, and I found this was the perfect place to start! Outside my role in administration, I am a qualified Allied Health Assistant in both Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy and am furthering my passion by also currently studying to become an Occupational Therapist.  I’m excited to continue to be a part of this amazing team and look forward to meeting you at your next visit!  

I love to travel to different places and experience new cultures and spend my time laying out in the sun whenever I can- the beach is one of my favourite places! I’m a huge foodie, , you’ll find me trying new cuisines or revisiting childhood restaurants. I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, so if you know of any great places to eat, feel free to share! 

Occupational Therapist 

Pia's business "being human Paediatric Occupational Therapy" is co located in our Moore Intensive Therapy Building.

My Experience 

Pia is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist with 8 years of experience working with children aged 0 – 18. Her experience and interests include assistive technology, positioning and seating, and fine motor development. She is passionate about supporting kids of all abilities to grow in confidence and independence through meaningful, everyday activities.  Her approach is child-led, playful, and tailored to each individual. Building strong rapport with both children and families is at the heart of her practice. Pia takes pride in maintaining professional, ethical, and evidence-based care in line with the OT Australia Code of Conduct.  She is also experienced in using communication supports such as PODD systems and Key Word Sign to help children express themselves and build meaningful connections.  Pia is committed to creating a supportive, inclusive space where every child feels valued and empowered to thrive.

A Little More About Me 

Outside of work, Pia enjoys Bollywood dancing, getting creative with crafts, attending fashion events and spending time with her son and fur baby.