Frequently Asked Questions

Chronic pain specialist shows a female patient mirror box therapy
 
 

  • Rob is an ESSA accredited Integrative Exercise Physiologist & Chronic Pain and Fatigue Recovery Coach.

    He has over 12 years of experience working with people living with chronic pain, fatigue and dysautonomic conditions.

    Tertiary Qalifications

    • Masters in Clinical Exercise Physiology (Deakin)

    • Bachelor of Exericse and Sport Science (Deakin)

    • Advanced Diploma of Myotherapy (RMIT)

    Current Studies

    • Graduate Certificate in Counselling (University of Tasmania)

    Key Professional Development

    • Pain Reprocessing Therapy

    • Graded Motor Imagery

    • Integral Movement Method for Hypermobility

    • Applied Somatics Training

    • Acceptance Commitment Therapy

    • Trauma Informed Therapy

    • LGBTQI+ Inclusivity Training

  • As an Integrative Exercise Physiologist and Pain/Fatigue Recovery Coach I help people living with chronic pain, fatigue, dysautonomia and other related conditions regain stability, function, and confidence in daily life.

    I use an evidence-based, whole-person approach that combines movement, pacing strategies, nervous system regulation, and practical tools tailored to your unique needs.

    Rather than quick fixes, I focus on sustainable progress, helping you understand your body, manage symptoms, and rebuild capacity safely.

    Sessions are collaborative, supportive, and always adapted to your current energy and goals.

  • At Heal & Thrive, my approach goes beyond symptom management.

    While traditional medical care often focuses on diagnosis and medication, I take a whole-person, evidence-informed approach that integrates:

    • Knowledge sharing about how your condition works and what drives your symptoms

    • Self-management strategies, including pacing, energy conservation, and nervous system regulation

    • Guided reconditioning and movement, tailored to your capacity

    • Collaborative planning with your GP or healthcare team

    This allows you to actively participate in your recovery, understand your limits, and gradually rebuild function in a way that is safe, sustainable, and personalised to your goals.

  • Telehealth at Heal & Thrive works just like an in-person session, but over a secure video platform. During your appointments, we can:

    • Discuss your symptoms, goals, and daily challenges in detail.

    • Guide you through tailored exercises, pacing strategies, and nervous system regulation techniques.

    • Review symptom tracking, energy management plans, and practical strategies you can implement at home.

    Most of my work focuses on education, coaching, planning, and guided movement, all of which are highly effective for chronic pain, fatigue, fibromyalgia, POTS and related conditions. Many clients find telehealth convenient and just as impactful as in-person care.

  • Your first session at Heal & Thrive is an extended, in-depth consultation designed to understand you and your condition fully. We will:

    • Discuss your health history, current symptoms, and past treatments (what’s worked and what hasn’t).

    • Review any related health conditions that may affect your care.

    • Explore your goals and what meaningful improvement looks like for you.

    After gathering this information, I’ll share knowledge about the underpinning causes of your condition and construct a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs. I can also liaise with your GP or healthcare team if required to ensure coordinated care.

    This session sets the foundation for a safe, evidence-informed, and practical approach to building stability, energy, and function.

  • The term "Medically Invisible Illnesses" encompass a range of conditions like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), fibromyalgia, Long COVID, and others. The term "medically invisible" is used because, more often than not, traditional medical exams and tests like blood tests, MRIs, and CT scans don't provide a clear picture of what's happening.

    It's crucial to understand that just because these conditions aren't easily detected through standard medical procedures, it doesn't mean they're not real or serious.

    Contrary to common misconceptions, these conditions are not a product of the imagination or solely psychological. They demand serious attention.

    Managing these conditions goes beyond biomedical approaches; it requires a comprehensive strategy involving cognitive, behavioral, movement, and lifestyle considerations, as well as medical management.