Prior to her career as a Psychologist, Grace was a full time serving member of the Australian Army. Her lived experience of service has led her to work extensively with current serving and veteran military clients.
Often neck issues come from motor vehicle accidents, both major and minor, involving whiplash. Likewise, sporting injuries are responsible for damage to the cervical spine affecting the joints, nerves, muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is important to consider how our lifestyle choices can impact our neck, and how susceptible it is to injury.
Poor or incorrect posture often occurs as a result of daily activities or performance of work duties. Poor posture is always related to spinal misalignment. The most common cause is improper sitting, especially for those who work in offices. Poor posture can also be linked to other factors such as job stress and strain.
While hip problems can be caused by injury, overuse, and trauma – pain in this area is always related to alignment issues. This can include: joint dysfunction, nerve interference in the spine, or nerve interference in the pelvis and lower limbs.
Nearly 80% of the population has experienced or will experience some sort of back pain in their lifetime. Back pain is always related to spinal misalignment. Back pain can range in intensity from mild to severe. Some of the causes of back pain include poor spinal alignment, and muscular or skeletal injuries. Some other causes of back pain include disc injuries, kidney infections, and kidney stones. Many of the issues relating to back pain are caused by lifestyle, and your chiropractor is able to help with a natural approach.
While leg problems can be caused by injury, overuse, and trauma – pain in this area is always related to alignment issues. This can include: joint dysfunction, nerve interference in the spine, or nerve interference in the pelvis and lower limbs.
While feet problems can be caused by injury, overuse, and trauma – pain in this area is always related to alignment issues. This can include: joint dysfunction, nerve interference in the spine, or nerve interference in the pelvis and lower limbs.
Lee’s passion for chiropractic care began at just seven years old, after an early experience with a chiropractor sparked a lifelong fascination. Seeing how simple, precise adjustments could make such a profound difference inspired Lee to dedicate a career to helping others achieve better health through chiropractic care.
After completing studies at RMIT University and graduating in 2006, Lee purchased a chiropractic practice in Beechworth, which was run successfully for eight years before relocating to New Zealand. There, Lee worked as an associate for three years before taking ownership of a multi-disciplinary clinic, which was managed for a further seven years.
Committed to ongoing learning and excellence, Lee has pursued extensive postgraduate education, including:
Lee has also completed further training in dry needling and elevated paediatrics, broadening the ability to support patients of all ages and activity levels.
Lee’s approach to care focuses on finding and addressing the root cause of each patient’s concerns, rather than simply treating symptoms. Education is central to this process—Lee takes the time to help patients understand their bodies and make lasting improvements to their health and wellbeing.
When not in the clinic, Lee enjoys keeping active at the gym, exploring new places through travel, and spending time in nature—whether camping, hiking, or simply appreciating the outdoors.
A valued member of the Chiropractic Plus team, Matt works closely with our chiropractors to support patients on their journey to better health and movement. With a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology, he combines deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, PNF stretching, and cupping to effectively target problem areas and address the root causes of discomfort.
Matt’s personalised approach ensures every session is tailored to your individual needs — whether you’re recovering from injury, managing chronic pain, or simply seeking to unwind from the demands of daily life. His goal is to help restore function, improve mobility, and leave you feeling your best.
Experience the difference that remedial massage can make. Book with Matt today and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced body.
She is a wife and mother of two young children with a strong administration background. During her time at Chiropractic Plus Emma worked her way up to become a Practice Manager and now strives to provide holistic patient care and interactions.
Emma is always available to speak with should you have any questions or concerns.
We’re excited to welcome Elysia to our Psychology team!
Elysia is a Registered Psychologist with a Master in Professional Psychology from the University of Newcastle and a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from UNSW. She has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and families, supporting a wide range of neurodevelopmental and psychological challenges.
Passionate about cognitive and behavioural psychology, Elysia takes a compassionate, relationship-led approach to therapy. Her expertise includes ASD assessments (2yrs+), ADHD (7yrs+), general counselling, anxiety disorders, depression, addiction, grief and loss, workplace stress, gender identity support (LGBTQIA+), and more.
Elysia is dedicated to empowering individuals with practical, evidence-based strategies to navigate life’s challenges. Book an appointment today to start the journey toward well-being.
She is a wife and mother of two young children with a strong administration background. During her time at Chiropractic Plus Kirbie worked her way up to become a Practice Manager and now strives to provide holistic patient care and interactions.
Kirbie is always available to speak with should you have any questions or concerns.
Prior to her career as a Psychologist, Grace was a full time serving member of the Australian Army. Her lived experience of service has led her to work extensively with current serving and veteran military clients.
In his long career he has worked with hundreds of people with back and neck related problems. John became interested in chiropractic at an early age, as his father was also a Chiropractor. John graduated with his Doctor of Chiropractic from the world’s most prestigious chiropractic university – Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davonport, Iowa. John joined Chiropractic Plus in 2007.
Known for her warm, approachable nature and keen attention to detail, Abigail is passionate about creating a calm and welcoming environment. She brings experience, reliability, and genuine care to everything she does, taking pride in making each patient feel supported and comfortable.
Abigail is always available to assist and is often your first point of contact when visiting the practice.
Utilising gentle Chiropractic systems including Applied Kinesiology and Neuro Emotional Technique, Dr. Pine brings a variety of techniques to our practice that address traditional Chiropractic, Nutritional and Metabolic needs and emotional stressors.
Dr. Pine’s background involves the unique combination of Chiropractic and Functional Medicine with martial arts and healing disciplines of the East.
While in Chiropractic school, he studied Ayurveda with the American Institute of Vedic Studies. Later, he interned at a centre for Chronic Degenerative Disease Reversal in Santa Rosa, California called TrueNorth Health. There he trained in Plant Based Nutrition and medical supervision of Water Fasting for addressing conditions including hypertension and heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid disorders, autoimmune conditions, obesity and more.
Dr. Pine works closely with other allied health professionals including GPs, Psychologists, Physiotherapists, Ballet and Gymnastics teachers, Strength and Condition coaches and more to ensure his patients all reach their health goals.
When not with patients, Dov is actively engaged in the martial arts, calisthenics and weight training. Otherwise, he is probably goofing around in the Chiro Plus kitchen, annoying his wife or enjoying a good history book.
Dov participates regularly in Chiropractic and Functional Medicine symposiums, training seminars and research presentations to maintain and improve cutting edge skills for his patients.
Jackson Manahan is a dynamic and passionate Remedial Massage Therapist who embarked on his professional journey in 2019 after obtaining his Diploma of Remedial Massage. A vital component of the Sydney Swans medical team, Jackson honed his skills on the field, supporting athletes in reaching peak performance through expert massage therapy.
With a voracious appetite for learning and a commitment to enhancing the well-being of his clients, Jackson is presently in his third year of studying Physiotherapy at Newcastle University. His distinctive approach includes the practice of dry needling and a specific focus on functional corrective therapy, where he is dedicated to not only relieving pain but also correcting the root cause of musculoskeletal imbalances.
Jackson’s enthusiasm continues as he joins the esteemed team of health professionals at Chiropractic Plus, bringing his valuable expertise into collaboration with some of Australia’s most experienced Remedial Massage Therapists and Chiropractors. With his unique blend of knowledge, skill, and a patient-centred philosophy, Jackson is eager to contribute to and learn from the multidisciplinary environment at Chiropractic Plus.
Whether you are recovering from an injury, seeking to improve function, or aiming for better overall health, Jackson’s integrative and evidence-based approach ensures personalized care tailored to your individual needs. Join Jackson on a path toward optimal health and experience the embodiment of healing hands in motion.
Meet Rachel
We’re thrilled to welcome Rachel to our Psychology team!
Rachel brings a wealth of experience in evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). With a strong passion for working with adolescents, she is dedicated to helping young people navigate life’s challenges with practical, proven strategies.
Rachel is exclusively available at our Warners Bay clinic. Reach out today to book your session and support your teen’s mental well-being.
Ruby is always ready to assist you with appointment bookings, payments, and any queries you may have in clinic or over the phone.
Tayla is always ready to assist you with appointment bookings, payments, and any queries you may have in clinic or over the phone.
Simon’s background includes an Honours Degree in Economics & also Diploma in Remedial & Sports Massage as well as years of experience at a high level in athletics and basketball. Simon has worked closely with the Australian Netball Team, the Australian Rugby League team, the Wallabies and was the Newcastle Knights Injury & Rehabilitation Co-ordinator in 2001 when they won the NRL premiership.
Dr. Clairemarie graduated from Murdoch University (WA) in 2009. She blends her background in nursing with chiropractic and wellness coaching to deliver a holistic, patient-centred approach that supports patients through every stage of life—from pregnancy and newborns to active seniors. Her treatments are tailored to individual needs and comfort, utilising a variety of techniques including Thompson (drop-piece), Activator, Accustim, dry needling, and soft tissue therapy.
Clairemarie is passionate about helping families move better, feel better, and live well through practical lifestyle advice and evidence-based care.
Outside the clinic, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and their dog.
In 2014, after graduating from Macquarie University with a Masters of Chiropractic Peter moved to Queensland and for six years worked in private practice.
He uses evidence-based practice utilising the diversified technique, dry needling, drop piece, and rehabilitation exercises.
Peter has tutored first and fourth year chiropractic students at Central Queensland Universities’ Brisbane City Campus. He is a qualified Pilates Mat Instructor after completing Polestar’s Pilates Matwork Certificate IV in 2019.
Peter is a passionate and friendly chiropractor who works with integrity and enjoys interacting with a wide range of patients from pediatrics to adults.
We are pleased and excited to announce the return of Dr. Matthew Hoffman to the New Lambton Clinic at Chiropractic Plus. Dr. Matthew is a dedicated family chiropractor with over 30 years of experience, passionately helping his patients reach their personal health goals. He collaborates closely with patients to establish personalised adjustment schedules, incorporates corrective exercises, and assists in breaking bad postural habits.
Dr Matt’s extensive training includes low force techniques and proficiency in dry needling. He is well-versed in treating pregnant women throughout their pregnancies and has considerable experience working with school-aged children. With a special interest in rugby league, Dr. Matthew has had the privilege of treating many of the Knights’ first-grade rugby league team over the years.
Beyond the clinic, Dr Matthew enjoys playing competition cricket with his 18-year-old son and stays active by participating in seniors’ competition soccer. We are thrilled to welcome Dr Matthew back to Chiropractic Plus, where his expertise and passion will undoubtedly benefit our community.
During the 19 years Andrew has been with Chiropractic Plus he has had the opportunity to work with some of Australia’s elite sportspeople, including the Australia Rugby League team, the Australia Netball team and the Newcastle Knights, but undoubtedly the highlight of his career was the two year period he toured with the Wallabies as their Massage Therapist – arguably the most sought after Massage Therapy position in the country.
During that time, Naomi has worked with both the Wallabies & Knights and was lucky enough to massage Lady Gaga on the Newcastle leg of her 2010 tour. As an avid sports fan, she’s always been interested in the treatment & rehabilitation of chronic and acute training injuries. However after experiencing the benefits of post and pre-natal massage and Chiropractic care herself Naomi has become extremely passionate about helping new and expectant mums feel as healthy & strong as she did both during her pregnancy and after having her beautiful baby girl in 2016.
Kirralee graduated in 2009 to begin her Diploma of Remedial Massage at Body-Lee Massage College. During her remedial massage course, Kirralee was given the opportunity to massage the Newcastle Knights; some invaluable experience for treating sports-specific injuries and muscular damage. Kirralee enjoys dancing and listening to music.
Tom’s approach goes beyond treating muscles, rather, Tom believes in being a pain therapist – with the goal of identifying the source of pain and applying the most effective combination of techniques and modalities to achieve lasting relief. Each treatment is tailored to the individual, addressing not just the symptoms but the underlying cause.
Tom’s fascination with the human body began at an early age. At just 15, he was accepted into the University of Newcastle’s accelerated course in Human Biosciences, sparking his lifelong interest in biomechanics and human structure.
He has since worked with a diverse range of clients, from everyday individuals to elite athletes, including working with the Newcastle Knights reserve team. His practical experience treating sports injuries and chronic pain has strengthened his understanding of how the body functions, and how to restore it to its best.
Tom integrates a variety of advanced techniques into his sessions, including dry needling, cupping and functional cupping, joint therapeutics, and electrotherapy, to deliver effective, evidence-based results.
His mission is simple: to relieve pain, restore movement, and educate clients on their health and the understanding of the human body.
Outside of the clinic, Tom is also a professional musician who performs at weddings, parties, pubs and clubs, and has enjoyed success in musical theatre.
During her Diploma of Remedial Massage studies at TAFE she worked with the Newcastle Knights and went on to be part of the massage team for Fiji in the Rugby League World Cup. With a background in gymnastics and yoga, Kara has always had an avid interest in human physiology and movement, which compelled her to study and complete certificate III & IV in Fitness. A Novocastrian through and through she loves her footy, the Knights and can often be found at the local league or soccer. Kara has a holistic approach to work and life – she surrounding herself with nature, the beach, music and her beautiful family and friends.
Lian brings an impressive range of skills and techniques to massage from her Eastern/Chinese heritage. She uses dry needling, electro-therapy, cupping therapy, and hot stones to enhance and compliment her other traditional massage techniques. Although Lian studied remedial massage in Australia, it is her integration of multiple techniques tailored to the client’s needs, that makes her so unique and such an in-demand massage therapist at Chiropractic Plus.
Lian also studies and researches alternate massage techniques in her spare time to further her knowledge and capability, and to integrate new techniques and methods into her treatments.
When Lian is not in the clinic, she loves to garden and cook. She also enjoys watching rugby league and cheering on her team, the Sydney Roosters.
Nick grew up here in Newcastle, attending Bel Air Primary School and Kotara High School, where he also completed his HSC. Along with his Diploma of Remedial Massage, Nick has a Certificate II in Retail and a First Aid Certificate. A soccer fan, Nick plays for local club Broadmeadow Magic and likes to keep up with the National Premier League. Nick also likes to stay fit by going regularly to the gym. Outside of work and fitness, he enjoys shopping and music.
He studied Agriculture at Tocal then completed his Bachelor of Agribusiness at the University of New England before finally changing track completely – following his heart and entering the health sector with his Diploma in Remedial Massage. Ty grew up predominantly around Newcastle and enjoys keeping fit, travelling, history, agriculture, and a going to the movies.
You can also book Damien for Dry Needling.
Ada is a part of our awesome admin team.
Gabby is a part of our awesome admin team.
Jade is a part of our awesome team of Practitioner Assistants.
