
ALLIED HEALTH SERVICES
ALLIED HEALTH TEAM

Kara Cassells
Owner & Manager
Physiotherapist
Kara danced most of her life and has a keen interest in dance and other sporting injuries. This developed into a passion for rehabilitation using Clinical Pilates. She has a strong interest in chronic pain management and has completed further studies in the McKenzie Method to manage lower back and neck pain, and management of Women's and Men's Health, with a special interest in Men's Health.

Christina Laws
Physiotherapist
Christina's speciality lies in treating conditions involving the pelvis and spine, using gentle muscle energy techniques, soft tissue releases, dry needling, and addressing abnormal lower limb biomechanics. Her career highlights include treating members of the Italian Kayaking team for the Sydney Olympics, working for internationally renowned physiotherapist & implementing injury prevention/rehab programs for the ADF.

Kevin James
Senior Clinician
Advanced Sports Osteopath
Kevin experienced many injuries/pain as an elite athlete. He understands the frustration of living with pain for over 2 years, the disabling impact pain has on your life. This led him to dive deeper to understand how to exam, diagnose, treat, manage, and prevent pain & injuries. He demonstrates an advanced scope of practice, completing further education and works at several universities.

Nicole Murphy
Myotherapist
Nicole is an experienced Myotherapist with an Advanced Diploma in Remedial Massage. Nicole has a keen interest in sport and deep tissue work, along with pre- and post-natal therapy. Nicole has many years’ experience working with elite runners and footballers. Prior to moving to Phillip Island, Nicole worked in a private practice in Black Rock, along with sporting clubs.

Kristine Miles
Senior Clinician
Physiotherapist, Lactation Consultant
Kristine’s special interest areas include management of complex spinal conditions, nutrition, and women’s health, particularly in the field of breastfeeding and lactation. Kristine is a International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), has a Certificate IV in Breastfeeding Counselling, is certified in the McKenzie Method and DMA Clinical Pilates, and trained in musculoskeletal acupuncture.

Tim Tracy
Physiotherapist
Tim’s professional areas of interest are post surgery rehabilitation, musculoskeletal injuries, the management of chronic conditions and Clinical Pilates. With a background of endurance running and adventure racing, Tim is passionate about treating sporting injuries and helping athletes of all abilities return to their best. Tim enjoys running, surfing, mountain biking and hanging out with his dog.

Maddy Thorpe
Osteopath
Back in 2016, I didn't just study Osteopathy at RMIT University – I crushed it! When it comes to understanding and managing pain, I've walked the walk.
My personal battles with cancer have deeply informed my modern approach to healthcare. Ready to take the next step?
Breathe easy and remember: your current situation is not your final destination.

Helen Tavakkoli
Remedial Massage Therapist
Helen is a Remedial Massage Therapist with 7+ years’ experience in busy Melbourne clinics. She has experience treating a range of conditions from post-injury dysfunction, migraines, lower back pain and stress induced tension. Helen considers all lifestyle factors when tailoring each treatment, placing importance on relaxing both mind and body.

Casey Cleeland
Physiotherapist, Women's Health Physiotherapist
Casey has experience working with elite athletes and sporting clubs around Melbourne. She worked at Gippsland Power Football Club for two seasons, and at the Junior ITP tennis tournament in Traralgon for five years. Casey has a special interest is Women's Health, including pelvic floor disorders and pregnancy related conditions. Casey completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Women’s Health (pelvic floor) in 2013.

Jason Leonidas
Physiotherapist
Jason graduated with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science from Deakin University and a Masters of Physiotherapy from Griffith University. Jason has keen interest in musculoskeletal physiotherapy, focusing on knees, hips and lower backs. Jason’s passion for physical activity has been evident throughout his life, including a junior career in sports, and working as a personal trainer and strength & conditioning coach.

George Leonardos
Osteopath
George graduated from RMIT University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Health Science and Bachelor of Applied Science (Osteopathy). He is a fully qualified osteopath and member of osteopathy Australia. George loves the holistic nature of osteopathy and believes that we all hold the power to improve our physical health/wellbeing when given the right tools, motivation, and support.

ABOUT
Balance Health is Phillip Island's leading Allied Healthcare group. Balance Health is the evolution of Island Physiotherapy and Clinical Pilates, and Phillip Island Osteopathy. Services have expanded further to include Myotherapy, and to provide greater availability of their friendly, professional services for the whole family.
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Prioritising client's care is a part of the mission of Balance Health. Working as a team as colleagues, with other allied health practitioners, medical doctors and specialists, Balance Health Physiotherapists, Osteopaths and Myotherapists are there to help achieve client goals, getting them back to what they love doing.
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Balance Health Phillip Island is the creation of Kara Cassells, founder of Island Physiotherapy & Clinical Pilates in 2009. Kara is passionate about creating a supportive workplace for her hardworking staff and is honured to serve the Phillip Island community
ADMINISTRATION TEAM

Jo
Practice Manager
Jo who has a background in administration has worked in Allied Health for the past 7 years. She is very proud to be our Practice Manager at Balance Health.
Jo values great customer service and team work and believes positivity and a smile are the keys to a happy day.
In her spare time she enjoys ocean swimming, golf and walking her dogs.

Lisa-Anne
Receptionist
Lisa-Anne brings a bright, positive and upbeat vibe to the reception team. She honestly believes your journey to health and recovery starts with the energy and attitude of the first people you see as you walk in the door.
When she is not working here she is hanging out in some of the most amazing places, mingling with the happiest of people and marrying couples in her role as a marriage celebrant.

Kirsti
Assistant Practice Manager
As a vivacious person Kirsti is warm, welcoming, enthusiastic, and makes the most of each moment. Her ethos is to feel good, and help others to feel good!
Kirsti and her family have truely embraced the lifestyle Phillip Island offers. Living a fun, relaxed outdoors lifestyle of swimming, beach going, skating, walking the dog, and working in the garden - you’ll often see her with family and friends enjoying these activities.
Although travelling and new experiences are important (and a favourite pastime!), there is no where else Kirsti would rather be than Phillip Island, in her community of over 30 years.

Lynn
Receptionist
Lynn has worked as a receptionist in a health environment for many years. She is friendly, caring and loves to chat.
Lynn and her husband moved to Cowes in 2020.
In her spare time she loves walking, gardening, travel, taking pics and spending time with friends and family.