Welcome! I’m Emma.
Sydney-based Integrative Bodywork Therapist, forever student and an excellent listener
I wasn’t that kid who knew exactly what they wanted to be when they grew up.
But once I found my thing, I ran with it.
It started with a certification in Remedial Massage in 2002, which introduced me to bodywork—and some fantastic teachers at Nature Care College in Sydney. One of whom taught me about myofascial release and Anatomy Trains by Thomas Myers (the founder of Anatomy Trains Structural Integration).
I loved the work. It was very different from the remedial type of bodywork I’d started off with, but the impact it had on me physically and emotionally was huge. It just connected. I continued training with every Rolfer* who visited Australia (there weren’t many in Australia at the time) and when an Australian training finally opened up I was in the second cohort of graduates.
I had found my thing.
My business has changed shape over the years—from a rented room to running my own clinic (not easy with 2 young kids) to working from a delightful little studio in Lilyfield—but at its heart it’s always been the same. I provide a safe space for people to be heard and to heal. And I share all I’ve learned over the past two decades (and a bit) to help them on their healing journey. Many clients from that first iteration are still evolving with me as my experience and knowledge grow deeper.
And I haven’t stopped learning.
In addition to having two mentors: Liz Stewart, a Rolfer of 30 years, and Alison Carroll, one of my very first teachers at Nature Care College, I’m always learning new techniques. Later this year, I’ll begin a 3 year course in Somatic Experiencing, which I’m really excited about. SE can help release trauma held in the body, using a body-oriented approach. It’s an excellent way to help regulate the nervous system. And, most importantly to me, it’s a way of helping individuals reconnect with their own innate capacity to recover.
Because that’s what it all comes down to really—helping people reconnect with their bodies. Helping them to feel into places that have been stiff or numb and helping them move with a freedom they may not have felt for years.
Everyone that comes to see me has a place in my heart. I genuinely care about my clients and the work that I do. I want to be the best practitioner that I can be for the people that need me.
Here are some of the ways that I’ve helped clients in the past:
- Reduction in chronic pain
- Realignment of posture
- Ease of movement in muscles and joints
- Improved body-awareness
For many clients, this work has provided relief from years of chronic tension, acute injuries and emotional stress. Yes, emotional stress—relieving the body from long-standing pain and discomfort can have profoundly positive effects on day-to-day stress, making room for more energy and emotional clarity. And we all need that.
*Rolfing is a shorthand for the type of work I do. The name comes from its founder, Dr. Ida P. Rolf.
Courses, credentials and certifications
I’ve taken a lot of bodywork courses over the years. I won’t bore you with them all (although you can see the full list here). But I know you want to know you’ll be in good hands. So here are the highlights:
- Board Certified (CBSI) Anatomy Trains Structural Integration (ATSI)
- Remedial Massage Therapist
- Certified Yoga Teacher
- ScarWork Therapist
- Fellow and Australian Traditional Medicine Society Member
- International Association of Structural Integrators
Oh, and I’m currently completing a Bachelor of Counselling and Psychotherapy. Seriously, I can’t stop learning.
Ready to start your healing journey?
“Last year I suffered a massive stroke which left my left-hand side paralysed. After many visits with Emma who provides a therapeutic and remedial treatment, I have no doubt the treatments have contributed greatly to my continued improvement.
Emma’s professional, personalised care, and understanding of patient’s needs and [individual] requirements make it a joy to attend each appointment. I highly recommend her to everybody and anybody for treatment.”
~ Jamie H