Julia Ryan

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 Paediatric Physiotherapist at Moore Intensive Therapy Studio 

Sonia is the Lead Physiotherapist at Moore Intensive Therapy Studio (MITS) and also works with children at our Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre location. She is also a student clinical educator and one of the leads for our Bike Club Program. Sonia has a special interest in disability sport, infant conditions, and working with children 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 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 loves to travel and learn about other countries and cultures. She has lived in Fiji working in a school and has provided physio to kids in Vietnam. She enjoys being active and plays cricket, volleyball, and dances. Feel free to contact her at sonia.r@paediatricphysiotherapycentre.com

Paediatric Physiotherapist  

Claire works at both Tasma House and the Moore Intensive Therapy Studio seeing children for individual sessions. Claire has recently graduated from LaTrobe University and while studying worked as an Allied Health Assistant within Western Health.

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 the other skilled physiotherapists working in our amazing Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre team. 

Claire's practice is constantly developing as an active member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and Paediatric Physiotherapy National Group.  

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, family and dogs.  Claire can be contacted at claire.t@paediatricphysiotherapycentre.com

Paediatric Physiotherapist  

Yoshini, a James Cook University graduate with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy, continually refines her approach through active involvement with the Australian Physiotherapy Association and the Paediatric Physiotherapy National Group. 

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, Yoshini is 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 young adult 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 physio 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 and Allied Health Assistant 

Emily is a valued member of our team who serves as an Executive Assistant and Allied Health Assistant at a Pediatric Physiotherapy Centre and Moore Intensive Therapy Studio. In her role as an Executive Assistant, Emily excels at managing administrative tasks, organizing schedules, and providing valuable support to the team. As an Allied Health Assistant, Emily's passion for helping children shines through as she assists healthcare professionals in delivering care and support during therapy sessions. Emily's dedication make her an invaluable asset to both organizations, ensuring that young patients receive the best possible care.

My Experience 

For the past three years, Emily has been an integral part of the team at the Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre. Last year, Emily achieved a major milestone by obtaining her Allied Health Assistant Cert IV, further enhancing her expertise and ability. With her knowledge, passion, and commitment, Emily continues to play a crucial role in helping children achieve their developmental goals and improve their overall well-being. 

A Little More About Me 

Emily is currently completing a Cert IV in Personal Training, Women's Fitness and Nutrition. 

Executive Assistant 

Madeline helps out our practice manager with operations at Moore Intensive Therapy Studio and Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre.

My Experience 

Madeline has been an executive assistant at Paediatric Physiotherapy Centre for over two years. Before that she grew up around the clinic watching her mother, Mary-Anne, run the clinic - Madeline is literally part of the family! Madeline knows the little ins and outs of a lot the families here and the importance of smooth administration. 

A Little More About Me 

Madeline is studying fashion at university to be a designer in the future. She loves pasta and Japanese food; ask her for recommendations!