About Us

We are a multi-disciplinary specialist practice which provide neuro spinal surgery services in Western Australia.

Neurospine Institute was formed with the desire to offer comprehensive and cohesive treatment of brain and spine injuries, trauma and disease.  

The four specialist surgeons are supported by a dedicated team of specialist medical and rehabilitation physicians, physiotherapists, nursing and administration staff, allowing the delivery of high quality clinical outcomes and service to patients in need of neuro-spinal care.

Neurospine Institute Vision:

To be recognised as the leader in the provision of best quality healthcare services for people with spinal and neurosurgical problems in the regions that we serve.

Neurospine Institute Values:

CARE

  • Compassion: We care for our patients and understand their needs, feelings and concerns.
  • Accountability: We are responsible for giving our absolute best effort in everything we undertake.
  • Responsiveness: We are committed to providing patients and referring doctors with access to a highly responsive service.
  • Excellence: We deliver quality patient outcomes and continually seek to improve and advance medicine in Australia.

Read below about the Perth team at Neurospine Institute.

Dr Michael Kern

Neurosurgeon

Dr Michael Kern

FRACS MD MS

Neurosurgeon

Accredited at the following health care facilities:

  • St John of God Hospital Subiaco*
  • St John of God Hospital Murdoch*
  • Mount Hospital, Perth*
  • Dr Kern visits Busselton (Vasse) bi-monthly
*currently operates here

Dr Michael Kern was born and grew up in Neckarsulm, a small town in Southern Germany. In 1990, following graduation from High School he moved to Berlin where he was fortunate to witness the excitement after reunification of the divided Germany. Michael was one of very few select students who were accepted into a combined University programme in both medicine and biochemistry. He graduated with a Masters in Biochemistry after extensive basic medical research on bacteria causing severe infection in humans. Michael graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at the Humboldt University of Berlin in 1999. He was awarded a PhD (Doctor of Medicine) after 3 years of experimental research on head injury. This work provided Michael with an opportunity to acquire microscopic operating skills even before the commencement of his neurosurgical training.

After one year of Neurosurgical training in Morgantown, WV and Phoenix, AZ, where Michael worked under pioneers in Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery like Dr Robert Spetzler and Dr Volker Sonntag, he returned to the Charité Hospital in Berlin. The artificial disc and the concept of motion preservation in spine surgery were invented by surgeons at the Charité hospital. For this reason, Michael has been trained in this surgery years before this technology was introduced to Australia.

Michael moved to Perth in January 2003 for what was initially planned to be a one-year fellowship. He fell in love with Australia and Perth in particular. He became an Australian Citizen in 2009. After further neurosurgical training at the Neurosurgical Service of Western Australia Michael was admitted as a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons in 2009.

Between 2008-2010 Michael undertook post fellowship training in spine surgery, paediatric and epilepsy surgery at the Westmead Hospitals in Sydney working with Dr Andrew Kam, Dr Gordon Dandie and Dr Mark Dexter.

Michael returned to Perth in 2011 to commence private practice with a keen interest in spine surgery. He strongly believes in the benefit of a multidisciplinary approach to treatment of spine and brain diseases. He has built a network and closely works with neurosurgical and orthopaedic colleagues, neurointerventional and pain specialists, oncologists, physicians, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists and clinical psychologists. He has extensive expertise in motion preservation surgery (artificial disc and dynamic fixation surgery), fusion surgery including atlanto-axial and occipito-cervical fusion, using minimally invasive techniques, computer guidance and intraoperative imaging. He specialises in surgery for brain tumours using the most advanced intraoperative guidance and imaging technologies.

Outside work Michael loves to spend time with his wife and two daughters. He is passionate about training his dogs. His Dobermann is trained in the very difficult sport of Schutzhund / IPO. His other hobbies are racing cars, skiing and reading.

Michael is a long term member of the Mount Hospital Medical Advisory Committee, the Credentialing Committee and the Clinical Review Committee. He operates at the Mount Hospital, St John of God Hospitals Murdoch and Subiaco. He also consults every second month in Busselton .

Dr Andrew Miles

Neurosurgeon

Dr Andrew Miles

FRACS MBBS

Neurosurgeon

Accredited at the following health care facilities:

  • St John of God Hospital Subiaco
  • St John of God Hospital Murdoch*
  • St John of God Mandurah Consulting Suites
  • Mount Hospital, Perth*
*currently operates here

Dr Andrew Miles was born in Liverpool UK but emigrated to Perth, Western Australia with his family 2 years later where he was raised and ultimately became an Australian citizen. He was educated at a government school (Greenwood primary and Greenwood senior high schools) and studied medicine at the University of WA.

In January 1991, Andrew graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of WA and commenced working as a resident/registrar in teaching hospitals in Perth. Formal neurosurgical training accredited by the Royal Australian College of Surgeons was commenced in January 1995 and completed at the end of 1999. Andrew initially undertook neurosurgery training in Perth and then completed his final year of neurosurgery training at the Austin Hospital in Melbourne, a centre renowned nationally and internationally for the neurosurgical management of epilepsy. Andrew was admitted as a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons in February 2000.

Andrew initially continued working as a consultant neurosurgeon at the Austin Hospital, furthering his training and experience in general neurosurgery, epilepsy surgery and spinal surgery before moving to Seattle USA to work as a neurosurgery fellow at the University of Washington. At the University of Washington, Andrew had the privilege of working with Dr George Ojemann, one of the world’s most renowned epilepsy neurosurgeons, further developing his training and experience in techniques such as awake craniotomies and functional brain mapping for epilepsy and brain tumour surgery. Also whilst at the University of Washington, Andrew worked with a number of internationally prominent neurosurgery and orthopaedic trained spinal surgeons undertaking training in complex spine surgery.

In 2002, Andrew returned to Perth, Western Australia to commence private practice in neurosurgery and spinal surgery. Until 2006 he was also the appointed epilepsy neurosurgeon for the Western Australia Comprehensive Epilepsy Service at Royal Perth Hospital. Currently, Andrew operates at St John of God Murdoch Hospital and Mount Hospital.

Since returning to Perth, Andrew has been at the forefront of complex spine surgery in WA, being involved in the introduction of a number of new and innovative spinal surgery technologies and techniques. In 2002 he was one of a small number of forward-thinking Australian neurosurgery and orthopaedic trained spinal surgeons who undertook the first Australian training course in cervical arthroplasty using the Bryan prosthesis led by the inventor of the device, US Neurosurgeon Dr Vincent Bryan. In 2003, Andrew attended Australia’s first training course in lumbar arthroplasty using the Prodisc-L prosthesis led by Prof Rudolph Bertagnoli, one of the world’s leading artificial disc replacement surgeons.

Andrew has continued to maintain and advance his interest and expertise in spinal motion preservation technologies as well as other complex spinal subspecialty areas such as minimally invasive/minimal-access spine surgery and surgery for sacroiliac joint disease. Most recently, Andrew was the primary driving force behind the introduction of intraoperative CT scan imaging with Airo CT linked to BrainLab Neuronavigation at SJOG (Subiaco) Hospital, the first hospital in Australia to utilise this technology. SJOG Hospital remains the Southeast Asian/Australian reference site for this technology and Andrew has regularly hosted spine surgeons from around the country interested in Airo Intraoperative CT and its application in neuronavigated complex spine surgical procedures such as minimal-access lumbar fusion and sacroiliac joint fusion.

Aside from his complex spine surgery practice, Andrew continues to utilise the skills and techniques he originally learnt while working with Dr George Ojemann in Seattle USA, in the management of patients with benign and malignant brain tumours.

In addition to being a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons, Andrew is also a member of the Neurosurgery Society of Australasia, AOSpine and the International Society for Advancement Spine Surgery.

Outside of work, Andrew maintains a keen interest in photography, travel, ballet, music (1980s New Wave and New Romantic genres) and the appreciation of fine wine and whisky (particularly single malt Scotch but also Japanese and Australian varieties). He has 2 beautiful daughters who, above all else, are his greatest achievement.

Dr Paul Taylor CSC

Spine Surgeon

Dr Paul Taylor

MBChB, LLM, FRCSEd, FACLM, FRACS, DMCC

Spine Surgeon

Accredited at the following health care facilities:

  • Mount Hospital, Perth*
  • St John of God Subiaco and Murdoch* Hospitals
  • Hollywood Private Hospital
  • Royal Darwin Hospital
  • Albany Amity Health
  • St John of God Mandurah Consulting Suites
  • Dr Taylor visits Geraldton annually
*currently operates here

Dr Paul Taylor CSC, MBChB, LLM, FRCSEd, FACLM, FRACS, DMCC is an experienced spinal surgeon. His extensive training in both orthopaedic and neurosurgical spine surgery was gained in Australia and internationally. He has particular expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS), adult deformity surgery and anterior spine surgery.

Paul was educated in England and studied medicine at Sheffield University winning the Riker Prize.  After moving to Australia, Paul trained in orthopaedic surgery and gained Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in 2009 undergoing advanced level training in well known centres for spine surgery in Europe. In Bristol he trained with orthopaedic and neurosurgical departments before moving to Europe’s largest spine deformity surgery centre at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in London later working in the leading neurosurgical training hospital The Walton Centre in Liverpool, working exclusively in complex spine surgery, finally working in one of India’s most prestigious centres for spine surgery. Paul then commenced his private practice at The Mount Hospital in 2011.

Paul’s practice focuses on the management of complex adult cervical and lumbar spine degenerative conditions including the surgical management of adult and paediatric deformity (scoliosis and kyphosis), microsurgical decompressive and fusion techniques (MISS), vertebral cement augmentation techniques (vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty), total disc replacement devices, and the management of primary and metastatic disease (cancer) in the spine.

Paul trains and mentors other surgeons in minimally invasive access techniques and was the sole orthopaedic surgeon asked to join the MISS Education Task Force for the leading global spine surgery education body, AOSpine.  He hosts and conducts live surgical demonstrations for surgeon education, and travels nationally and internationally to teach, mentor and support surgeons adopting these techniques into their practices.  Paul was the first surgeon in the Southern Hemisphere to use the Airo Intraoperative CT scanner for navigation assisted spine surgery. He has taught in Thailand, Taiwan, Singapore, India, Africa and Australia. He is a frequent guest speaker at various medical and surgical meetings and conferences.  He has teaching, consulting and implant and instrument design agreements with a number of international spine companies. Paul also held the chairman of The Mount Hospital Medical Advisory Committee and the Credentialing Committee position for 8 years, recently retiring from these roles mid 2021, however still remains as a Member of the Clinical Review Committee.

Paul joined the British Army as Paratrooper and was deployed during the Rwandan massacre in 1994 before the Australian Army then recruited him to command the Parachute Surgical Team. He served in operational command in Bougainville and commanded the medical relief operation to the Papua New Guinea tsunami disaster in 1998 winning the Conspicuous Service Cross for this work.

Paul holds the degrees of Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, Master of Laws, Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Fellow of the Australian College of Legal Medicine, Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Fellow of the Australian Orthopaedic Association and Diploma in the Medical Care of Catastrophe.  He has full medical registration as a Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon in Australia.

Publications and Research:

  • Combination subcapital and intertrochanteric fractures of the femoral neck.
  • Taylor PRP, Hepple S, Stanley D. Injury 1996 Jan; 27(1):68-71.
  • Deep venous thrombosis in an injured child with an underlying thrombophilia -a case report.
  • Taylor PRP Injury 1997 Nov-Dec; 28(9-10):699-700.
  • Operation Shaddock – the Australian Defence Force response to the tsunami disaster in Papua New Guinea.
  • Taylor PRP, Emonson DL, Schlimmer JE. MJA 1998 Dec; 169:602-6
  • Metastatic Chondroid Syringoma.
  • Carey Smith RL, Taylor PRP. Zelei D, Robbins P, Wood D. ANZ Journal of Surgery. 2007 May 77 Suppl 1:69-70,
  • Massive sternal amyloidoma – the importance of multidisciplinary specialist management and case report.
  • Carey Smith RL, Taylor PRP, Robbins P, Wood D, Poster, Australian Orthopaedic Association ASM Gold Coast QLD July 07
  • Removal of the Well-Fixed Hip Resurfacing Acetabular Component A Simple, Bone Preserving Technique.
  • Taylor PR, Stoffel KK, Dunlop DG, Yates PJ. Journal of Arthroplasty. 2009 Apr;24(3):484-6
  • The comminuted midshaft clavicle fracture: A biomechanical evaluation of plating methods.
  • Taylor PRP, Day RE, Nicholls RL, Rasmussen J, Yates P, Stoffel K. Clinical Biomechanics June 2011, 26/5(491-6)

A/Prof Greg Cunningham

Spine Surgeon

A/Prof Greg Cunningham

MBBS FRACS FAOrthA

Spine Surgeon

Accredited at the following health care facilities:

  • Mount Hospital, Perth*
  • St John of God Hospital Murdoch*
  • St John of God Hospital Subiaco*
  • St John of God Carine Specialist Centre
*currently operates here

Assoc. Professor Greg Cunningham is a spinal surgeon with unique experience having completed both orthopaedic and neurosurgery spinal fellowship training. He is experienced in treating all manner of spinal problems including the most complex or those requiring a second opinion. Greg has a special interest in surgery of the cervical spine and the treatment of athletes spinal conditions to return them to peak performance.

Greg is passionate about delivering a tailored approach to your spinal care. With his unique training he is able to offer treatments that promote a rapid recovery and return to your activities. He utilises some of the most advanced techniques in spinal surgery available worldwide. These include motion preserving disc replacements, minimal access or “key-hole” surgery and computer-assisted 3D navigated surgery. Greg has been on the forefront of advancements in spinal technology, this includes being a part of the small team of surgeons to first introduce robotic spinal surgery in the UK.

Having grown up in Western Australia and studied medicine at the University of Western Australia, Greg understands the importance of mobility and comfort to make the most of an active lifestyle in WA.

Greg first became a specialist orthopaedic surgeon, spending 7 years training in Queensland and Western Australia. He then worked as a specialist orthopaedic surgeon in Western Australia treating a multitude of orthopaedic conditions including traumatic and sporting injuries, hip and knee arthritis with joint replacements, shoulder and upper limb conditions such as rotator cuff tears and carpal tunnel compression. His broad training and experience allows him to consider all conditions that may affect your care.

After practicing as a general orthopaedic surgeon, Greg spent 2 years abroad undertaking international sub-specialty neurosurgical and orthopaedic fellowship training in spinal surgery at some of the worlds most renowned centres. This included fellowship training at:

  • Oxford University Hospital, focusing on complex paediatric spinal care and minimally invasive degenerative disc disease treatment
  • The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, London, the largest spinal deformity treatment unit in Europe, managing the most complex spinal conditions referred from around Europe including international level athletes in all sporting disciplines
  • The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square London, one of the largest dedicated neurosurgical hospitals in Europe catering for the most complex neurosurgical patients and offering motion preserving fusionless surgery including microsurgery and disc replacement for the cervical and lumbar spine.

Greg has also undertaken focused training in New York and Switzerland to be able to deliver world class care in Western Australia.

Greg is the director of spinal surgery at Fiona Stanley Hospital Orthopaedic Department. This position focuses on delivering surgical training and teaching to doctors training to be surgeons. Greg is the Head of Department for Spinal and Neurosurgery at St John of God Murdoch hospital and the Coordinator of Spinal Surgery training for Western Australian Orthopaedic Surgery Trainees.

Greg has lectured in spinal and orthopaedic surgery at the three medical schools in Western Australia and is an Associate Clinical Professor at Curtin University where he has an ongoing involvement in many research projects that aim to improve the treatment of spinal conditions. He has worked with and developed links with research departments across the world including Oxford University Hospital, University College London, and The University of Western Australia. Patients under the care of Greg may be offered to take part in a trial or participate in the long-term monitoring of spinal health.

Dr David Hamilton

Specialist Pain Medicine Physician

Dr David Hamilton

BSc (Hons), MBChB, MRCS, FANZCA, FFPMANZCA

Specialist Pain Medicine Physician

Accredited at the following health care facilities:

  • Mount Hospital, Perth*
  • St John of God Hospital Subiaco*
  • Hollywood Hospital*
*currently operates here

Dr David Hamilton is a Specialist in both Pain Medicine and Anaesthesia.  He is committed to helping individuals with acute and chronic pain gain meaningful relief and regained quality of life utilising interventional multidisciplinary care. He was born in Scotland and initially pursued his interest in science, gaining a First-Class joint honours degree in Biochemistry and Immunology in 1997 and the Immunology Prize from the University of Strathclyde.  To continue with his undergraduate research developing a novel TB vaccine, David was awarded the prestigious Caledonian Scholarship.  On the advice of the 1996 Nobel Prize in Medicine winner, he instead turned his attention to medicine, graduating from The University of Glasgow in 2002.

David completed surgical training in the southwest of England, gaining Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons of England in 2006, before commencing training as an anaesthetist and founding a development company focussed on converting heritage barns into exclusive residential dwellings.  He emigrated with his young family to Western Australia in 2013 and completed the Western Australian anaesthesia training program, gaining Fellowship in 2018.  Enthused by the meaningful difference Pain Specialists can make to individuals’ quality of life, David undertook further specialist training in Pain Medicine that included the interventional fellowship at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.  His current practice covers all aspects of adult pain medicine.

David enjoys time spent with the family, cycling and snowboarding.

Dr Andrew Berg

Surgical Fellow

Dr Andrew Berg

Surgical Fellow

Dr Berg graduated from medical school in 2008 from the UK and completed the early parts of his postgraduate medical and surgical training in the North-East of England during which time he gained Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons of England. There he developed an affinity for spinal surgery spending time as a clinical and research fellow in spinal surgery.
 
He moved to the North-West of England to embark on specialist training in trauma and orthopaedic surgery gaining Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of England and entry to the UK register of specialists as a trauma and orthopaedic surgeon in 2020. 
 
Deciding he wanted to dedicate his practice to spinal surgery Andrew started his subspecialist training in the prestigious position of National Spinal Fellow in Leeds, UK. 
 
Intent on completing further overseas fellowship training Andrew did not allow the COVID pandemic to hinder his ambitions. In February 2021 he moved, with his family, to Perth, Western Australia, to commence the WA State Spinal and Scoliosis fellowship based at Royal Perth Hospital and Perth Children’s Hospital.
 
Throughout his training Andrew has been active in the education and research. He has gained a Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Education and is a member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s Faculty of Surgical Trainers. He has presented research at numerous international conferences, published widely and was awarded the prestigious John Charnley and the Margaret Dodson Awards for a large multicentre study he led in the UK. 
 
To further develop his experience in minimally invasive spinal surgery, motion preservation, adult deformity correction and neurosurgical techniques Andrew has joined the Neurospine Institute for further fellowship training.

Dr Juan Amaya

Surgical Fellow

Dr Juan Amaya

Surgical Fellow

I have always had an interest for science and a passion for people’s well-being, that’s one of the main reasons for getting into Medicine. I studied med school at Universidad Del Norte in Barranquilla, Colombia. I have always been eager for new experiences that can enrich my life and others. So, I did half my internship (6 months) at the Harrington Program at Jackson Memorial Hospital and University of Miami Hospital.

After finishing medical school, I was certain that wanted to pursue a career in the surgical field in Orthopedics. But before starting my medical residency, I had the opportunity to live in Germany for 7 months allowing to learn the language and gain a new tool.

I started my residency in Orthopedics at Universidad Libre, Barranquilla, Colombia and during my first year I developed an interest in spinal surgery. As a result, I made the most of every opportunity that presented to deepen my knowledge in spine surgery. Continuing with that line of interest, I did my electives in spine surgery at Hospital Universitario de San Jose, Bogota Colombia. At that point, I was convinced of my passion for spinal surgery and that I wanted to pursue a career in it.

After finishing my medical residency, I was looking for a fellowship position that allowed me to grow not only in my knowledge but also as a professional. Therefore, I took a fellowship position at Centro Hospitalar São João and Hospital CUF in Porto, Portugal in 2022. Being there allowed me to broaden my knowledge in spine surgery in deformity and trauma cases.

After that, I wanted to continue growing in this field and came to Australia under Dr. John Choi’s teaching and training, I was able to being expose to different ground breaking techniques in spine surgery such as MISS, lateral and single position surgery, unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) and robotics surgery.

Currently, being thrilled to join the Neurospine Institute family, and having the opportunity for learning from the best Spinal surgeons in the region. I am confident that this next step will help me to continue growing not only as surgeon, but also as a person.

Dr Adebola Adeiye

Occupational Physician Registrar

Dr Adebola Adeiye

MBCHB, PGDipOccMed, DAME, CIME, PGCertClinOccMed , MRO, Approved Medical Specialist (Workcover WA)

Occupational Physician Registrar

Dr Adebola Adeiye joined our practice in November 2023, adding to our service offering of Occupational Health Medicine. Dr Ade completed his Medical Degree in 2006 and then relocated to Perth from Nigeria in 2012.
He worked as a GP and senior medical officer in emergency departments across various hospitals in the Wheatbelt. Dr Ade is also a fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
Dr Ade is a designated Aviation medicine examiner with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority ( CASA) and is also a Certified Medical Review Officer. He is currently an Occupational Physician Registrar with Australia’s Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
He has a particular interest in fitness for work assessments, injury management, return to work programs and assessments for motor vehicle accident claims.
He works closely with workplace rehabilitation providers and injury management consultants to return injured workers back to their occupations promptly. He is a Certified Independent Medical Examiner ( CIME ) and performs permanent impairment assessments using AMA 5 Guidelines.
Dr Ade also holds a  Postgraduate Diploma in Occupational Medicine from the University of Otago and is an approved Medical Specialist with WorkCover WA.

Dr Jelena Zeleskov Djoric

Registered Psychologist (Clinical Psychology Registrar)

Dr Jelena Zeleskov Djoric

PhD, MClinPsych, MPsych, MPsychTh, BPsychSc(Hons), BPsychSC

Registered Psychologist (Clinical Psychology Registrar)

Dr Jelena Zeleskov Doric was born in Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia (Ex-Yugoslavia), Southeast Europe. She grew up in Nis, a small town in Southern Serbia. In 1998 following graduation from High School, she was accepted into a University programme in psychology at the University of Nis, Serbia. She graduated from the University of Nis in 2003 as the best student of the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy and University of Nis and she was awarded several recognitions and scholarships from the Ministry of Science Republic of Serbia during her studies. In addition, Jelena was awarded the Royal Norwegian Embassy Award for the best student at the University of Serbia during her studies. After completing her Bachelor of Psychology training including Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) Jelena continued her education and was accepted into the Master of Psychology (Psychotherapy) at the University of Novi Sad (Serbia) which she completed in 2006 as one of the best students in her generation. Jelena was also awarded a PhD (Doctor of Psychology) after 3 years of research on resilience and job satisfaction in physicians at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade (Serbia) in December 2011.

During her academic studies, Jelena also completed four years of experiential, phenomenological and holistic psychotherapy training in Gestalt psychotherapy at the Gestalt Studio Belgrade, European Accredited Institute for Gestalt Psychotherapy. She was awarded the European Certificate for Gestalt Psychotherapy (EAGT) and European Certificate for Psychotherapy (EAP) in September 2008.

In October 2012 Jelena also started postgraduate two years psychotherapy training in psychopathology and contemporary disturbances in Sicily (Italy) with leading Gestalt psychotherapists in Europe – Dr Margherita Spagnuolo Lobb (psychologist) and Dr Gianni Francesetti (psychiatrist) which she completed in December 2014. After Italy training, Jelena commenced one year of body psychotherapy training in Berlin (Germany) which she completed in 2015.

Jelena continued her psychotherapy education and she enrolled in a Master of Gestalt Psychotherapy at the Gestalt Psychotherapy Training Institute Malta (GPTIM) remotely. This two-year program (2016-2018) awarded her a Master of Gestalt Psychotherapist qualification accredited and recognized in the European Union. Jelena participated in numerous Gestalt and body psychotherapy trainings across Europe and she completed a psychotherapy workshop with Ruella Frank delivered by the Centre for Somatic Studies, New York, USA.

In Australia, Jelena completed a Master of Clinical Psychology at Charles Sturt University and Psychology Board of Australia Supervisor Training. She became a Psychology Board of Australia (PBA) Supervisor in 2020.

Before moving to Australia, Jelena worked as a Research Fellow at the School of Medicine, University of Belgrade. She also worked at the Institute of Criminological and Sociological Research in Belgrade.

Jelena was also employed as a consultant clinical psychologist and psychotherapist for Sava Perovic Foundation Centre for Genito-Urethral Reconstructive Surgery, Belgrade (Serbia) where she worked with Dr Rados Djinovic, reconstructive surgeon, Dr Sasa Tomovic, urological surgeon and Dr Uros Kenic, urological surgeon.

In addition to this, Jelena was a Vice-President of the European Association for Gestalt Therapy (2010-2016) and a Board member of the European Association for Psychotherapy (2010-2016). She was a full member of the American Psychological Association for more than 10 years and a full member of the European Association for Gestalt Therapy for more than 15 years. Jelena was a full member of the Australian Psychological Society (2017-2022) and the Singapore Psychological Society (2018-2022). Also, she was an International Co-Chair of Gestalt Australia and New Zealand (GANZ). Upon being active in many organisations for several years Jelena decided to put her memberships on hold and maintain her psychology registration status in Europe and Australia.

In Australia, Jelena worked as a Lecturer in Psychology and Psychological Therapies at Charles Darwin University (2016-2018) and as a Discipline Lead and Senior Lecturer in Counselling and Psychotherapy at the Australian College of Applied Psychology (2018-2020).  Jelena is currently a Visiting Professor at the American University of Cyprus (remote). Her research, writing and advocacy are focused on attachment theory, chronic pain, resilience, human movement and body processes important in understanding the relationship between client and therapist.  So far, Jelena authored and co-authored over 40 books, chapters, peer-reviewed papers, and national and international conference presentations in the fields of resilience, attachment theory, chronic pain and psychotherapy. Since 2012 she has been reviewing academic papers for various international journals. She has been awarded numerous national and international scholarships and fellowships.

Jelena opened her private practice Gestalt Healthcare which collaborates with other healthcare providers. Jelena worked for Ramsay Psychology Wollongong until March 2023 when she relocated to Perth.

Jelena currently provides telehealth psychology consultations at Advance Healthcare (Melbourne) and sees private patients as part of her Gestalt Healthcare private practice.

She joined the Neurospine Institute in March 2024.

Jelena’s services are available in English and languages of ex-Yugoslavia (Serbian, Croatian, Macedonian, Bosnian and Slovene).

Outside work, Jelena loves to spend time with her husband and two daughters. She is passionate about photography and art. Her other hobbies are skiing, walking her dog, reading and traveling.

Dr Vijaya Venkataraman

Dr Vijaya Venkataraman

Consultant Physician

Dr Vijaya Venkataraman

MBBS, MD, MRCP, FRCP, FRACP, MMed Perioperative

Consultant Physician

Accredited at the following health care facilities:

  • Mount Hospital, Perth
  • St John of God Hospital Murdoch
  • St John of God Hospital Subiaco
Dr. Vijaya (VJ) Venkataraman is our founding Consultant Physician at Neurospine Institute WA and shares a public and private appointment between NSIWA and Sir Charles Gardiner Hospital. She obtained her MBBS degree in 1997 and MD in 2000 in Northern India (both with gold medal achievements). She further completed a three-year training program in cardiology and echocardiogram at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai.
After her cardiology training, Dr. Venkataraman embarked on a new professional journey by relocating to the Maldives in 2004. In the Maldives, she served as a Consultant Physician at a large private hospital, specializing in acute medicine, cardiology, and provided ICU coverage during emergencies. Following her tenure in the Maldives, she moved to the United Kingdom where she worked in various locum roles for several months and successfully passed her MRCP exams and later received the FRCP Edinburgh Designation.
In 2006, she made her way to Australia, assuming the position of a Consultant Physician at both Mersey Community Hospital in Latrobe and North West Regional Hospital in Burnie, Tasmania. During her time in Tasmania, she completed her Australian Fellowship peer review period, echocardiogram peer review period, and passed her FRACP exam at John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, New South Wales.
In 2012, she relocated to Western Australia, joining Kalgoorlie Regional Hospital (WACHS) as a Senior Consultant Physician with a special interest in Cardiology. Her responsibilities involved providing acute and sub-acute inpatient care and conducted cardiology outpatient clinics. Dr. Venkataraman represented WACHS Goldfields in cardiovascular executive advisory committee meetings and became an Associate Professor at RCS, University of WA in 2013.
Dr. Venkataraman specialises in acute medicine with special interest in cardiology (with a focus on heart failure), complex cardiac conditions in indigenous populations, rheumatic heart disease, and echocardiography. She is deeply passionate about teaching and is actively engaged in mentoring medical students and junior doctors as a medical coordinator with RCS, University of Western Australia , and as a consultant physician and supervisor.
Throughout her career, Dr. Venkataraman has maintained close collaboration with local general practitioners in Kalgoorlie. As a result of this, in 2016 she started offering after-hours private, bulk-billed clinics at Trinity Medical Centre.
In 2019, Dr. Venkataraman sought a new challenge and joined the Department of Medicine at Sir Charles Gardiner Hospital as a Senior Consultant Physician in acute medicine. Additionally, she serves as a Senior Consultant Physician at St John of God Subiaco Hospital and participates on the perioperative physician roster at Mount and Murdoch Hospital. She also displays a keen interest in perioperative medicine and post-operative recovery and has completed her Master’s degree in Perioperative Medicine from Monash University in 2023 with the capstone project, “Establishing a new periop physicians service for a busy private neurosurgery practice in Perth”.
Dr Venkataram has a keen Physician interest in;
  • Cardiology
  • Lipids
  • Perioperative consultations
  • Post operative recovery
and is happy to accept referrals for new patients to:
Dr Vijaya Venkataraman
Neurospine Institute
Suite 10, 178 Cambridge Street
Wembley WA 6014
Neurospine Institute Dr Yee Hein

Dr Yee Hein

Consultant Physician

Dr Yee Hein

MBBS, MRCP, FRACP, DipPOM, FRCP

Consultant Physician

Dr Yee Phyo Hein is a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians and is a Consultant Physician in General Medicine.

She has a special interest in Perioperative Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. Dr. Hein undertook her Basic and Advanced Training in General Medicine in Australia. From the days when she received her primary medical degree from the Institute of Medicine (1), Yangon, Myanmar in 2007, she has been trying to seize every possible opportunity to enrich and broaden her medical knowledge and clinical experience.

With great enthusiasm and tremendous interest, she undertook various rotations in Western Australia, Victoria and Queensland to become a competent Physician. She obtained a Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the United Kingdom (MRCP) in 2018 and a Diploma of Perioperative Medicine (ANZCA) in 2023.  She was awarded the fellowship of Royal Australasian College of Physicians (FRACP) in 2019 and the Royal College of Physicians of London (FRCP) in 2023 . She is passionately committed to the highest quality care for all patients requiring medical care. Yee is also committed to the development of junior doctors by creating and delivering learning and development programs.

Outside of work, Dr Hein’s particular interests include music, collecting cultural curiosities and artifacts and being the ultimate foodie.

Emma Manuel

Spine and Pain Nurse Practitioner

Emma Manuel

Bachelor of Nursing 2001, Graduate Diploma Pain Management 2019, Master of Nursing Nurse Practitioner 2021

Spine and Pain Nurse Practitioner

Emma joined Neurospine Institute in August 2021 as the practice clinical nurse. In mid 2022 she completed her Masters degree to be promoted to Nurse Practitioner.

Emma has been working as a nurse for the past 21 years both in public and private hospitals in Perth, notably the last 17 year at St John of God Subiaco on both the neurosurgical ward and the pain service.

She is very passionate about her role, being able to assist people and help them throughout their journey, making a difference in their recovery and improving patient care.

Tatenda Zimbwa

Physiotherapy Team Leader

Tatenda Zimbwa

Physiotherapy Team Leader

Tatenda graduated from the University of Zimbabwe in 2002 with a Bachelors Degree in Physiotherapy. She has over 20 years of experience in her profession which has moulded her into a well-rounded physiotherapist who is capable of delivering excellent clinical management to her patients. She has worked in all the major areas of physiotherapy in a variety of settings in three countries including Zimbabwe, Australia and the United Kingdom where she has spent most of her working career so far. She believes that in order to be effective in patient management, a holistic approach needs to be adopted. Hence she enjoys combining exercise, patient education and manual therapy where indicated to manage her patients. Tatenda has a keen interest in managing patients with sporting injuries and musculoskeletal conditions including but not limited to low back pain, hip pain, knee pain, headaches and neck and shoulder pain as well as managing patients following surgery. Her passion for treating sporting injuries led her to complete a Masters Degree in Sports and Exercise Medicine at the University of Nottingham in 2008. She is a member of Australian Physiotherapy Association.  Outside work she enjoys walking, swimming and watching rugby.

Bhanu Thapar

Physiotherapist

Bhanu Thapar

Bachelor in Physiotherapy 2006, Master in Physiotherapy & Paediatrics

Physiotherapist

Bhanu is a highly qualified physiotherapist with 15 years of clinical experience in variable settings. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy in India in 2006. She has since furthered her education by earning a Master’s Degree in Physiotherapy in Paediatrics and received a prestigious gold medal for her achievements. She did research study on pre-term infants in Intensive Care Unit settings with a team inclusive of a Paediatrician, Intensivist, Critical Care Nurse and Respiratory Therapist. She enjoyed working in pre and post operative Adult and Geriatric Rehabilitation in Musculoskeletal, Cardiac, Respiratory and Neurological conditions. She spent the initial four years of her career in a Multi-Specialty hospital and subsequent eight years as an outpatient Physiotherapist and Professor at a renowned University in India. She has a passion to teach and still enjoys mentoring physiotherapy students as her hobby.

 

Upon relocating to Australia in 2020, Bhanu gained further experience in managing sports injuries and Rehabilitation. She also worked as Senior Physiotherapist within Aged Care and Home Care settings leading a team of Allied Health Professionals and Therapy Assistants. She believes in actively contributing towards health awareness and pain management programmes.  She is a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association and Indian Association of Physiotherapy. She believes in maintaining positive working relationships with health care professionals involved in the patient’s care and management. She is highly enthusiastic and self-motivated to help her patients to attain their realistic goals. She thrives for knowledge and continuous upgrading of her clinical skills to provide the best patient care.

Bhavisha Shah

Physiotherapist

Bhavisha Shah

Physiotherapist

Christine Nguyen

Physiotherapist

Christine Nguyen

Bachelor in Physiotherapy 2016,

Physiotherapist

Christine graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2016 with a Bachelor degree in Physiotherapy and has worked with clients across the lifespan living with neurological conditions. She has experience working within a changing sector under the NDIS system and My Aged Care. She has worked in clinical and community settings with paediatrics, youths and adults in the disability sector.

This involved working with assistive equipment prescription, and collaboratively with clients and carers within a multidisciplinary framework. She also enjoys her work with seniors in the community for fall prevention, orthopaedic post-operative presentations and palliative care.

In her role as a physiotherapist, she has also worked in private practice, residential and transitional care settings. Her previous position was providing therapy in a subacute setting for clients with recently acquired brain injuries, amputees, and progressive neurological conditions (such as Huntington’s and Parkinson’s disease).

Christine is a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association. She is motivated to be a part of the patient’s journey throughout their recovery. She is currently completing her Masters in Counselling which she has found insightful when working with clients during physical rehabilitation.

Anna Morosi

Physiotherapist

Anna Morosi

BPhysio

Physiotherapist

Anna recently moved to Perth from England where she graduated from the University of Brighton in 2020 with a 1st class Bachelors degree in Physiotherapy. She obtained her sports massage qualification after her degree and is a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association. She began working in the National Healthcare Service (NHS) before finishing her degree to support increased service pressures during Covid-19.

She has worked as a senior physiotherapist for the last two years completing several different clinical rotations giving her a vast array of experience in all areas of physiotherapy. She has specialised in neurology physiotherapy working with people who have had spinal cord injuries, brain injuries and strokes.

She strongly believes in a patient-centred approach focusing on what matters most to that person and how best to support them in their rehabilitation journey. Anna has a key interest in education and advice, especially regarding returning to work, hobbies, or activities.

She likes to inspire and encourage all of her patients to become as strong as they can, no matter what stage of their life they are at. Outside of work, Anna is a CrossFit enthusiast and loves going to the beach and swimming!

Dr Jessica Gaff

Research Scientist

Dr Jessica Gaff

BSc (Hons), PhD

Research Scientist

Jessica completed her PhD in Biomedical Science at Curtin University. She has several years of experience in medical research with a particular focus on neurological conditions including neuropathic pain and neurocognitive impairment. She is passionate about improving patient care and quality of life.

Alana Celenza

Research Assistant

Alana Celenza

BSc (Hons)

Research Assistant

Alana has completed her Bachelor of Science in Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology with First Class Honours at Curtin University and received the Vice Chancellor’s award for her cohort. She has experience in neurodegeneration and age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease and hopes to develop novel strategies aimed at mitigating the onset of disease through early interventions and preventions, particularly through lifestyle and genetic avenues.

Colin La Galia

Managing Director

Colin La Galia

Managing Director

Leading and coaching people to drive performance and develop people is what keeps Colin motivated. With almost three decades of senior leadership and CEO/MD experience in health and medical organisations including Abbott, Alere, GSK, MSD, Hollywood IVF, and Epichem, Colin brings with him a wealth of expertise in commercial strategy, business development and marketing in Australia and Internationally with a strong track record of commercial success and revenue growth.

Colin has extensive experience in leading teams of highly dedicated health and medical professionals focussed on achieving patient centric outcomes, working in partnership and collaboration with key stakeholders to provide solutions that make a difference.

Prior to joining NSIWA, Colin was the General Manager and Senior Advisor for Instamed Pty Ltd, a leading Independent Expert Medical Opinion Service Provider with a national footprint.

Colin also holds a number of board positions and committee responsibilities. Colin has qualifications in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Business Management, Human Resources and Project Management.

Daniel Juriansz

Practice Manager

Daniel Juriansz

Practice Manager

Daniel brings a wealth of expertise to Neurospine Institute as an integral part of our practice management team. Having recently joined us in November 2023, his background encompasses significant roles in healthcare administration.

His journey in healthcare management began as Practice Manager within a Corporate GP practice, honing his organisational and customer service skills. Before joining us, Daniel served as the 2IC Practice Manager at a Perth-based specialised Orthopaedic practice. During his tenure in the travel industry, Daniel developed his skillset of operational efficiency and has a proactive approach to operations and management.

Beyond his dedication to patient-centered care, he finds solace and passion in playing Ice Hockey during his leisure time.

Allie Adamson

Marketing Consultant

Allie Adamson

Marketing Consultant

Marketing Consultant (BSc Biology, PGDip Health Care Management)

Allie moved to Australia in 2010 from the USA and has an undergraduate degree in Biology and a post graduate degree in Health Care Management. Allie has spent 12 years working in health care – firstly for a corporate GP organization as practice manager and the last decade in the Private Hospital sector between St John of God and most recently as Business Development Manager at Mount Hospital (Healthscope).  After welcoming her third child in 2022, Allie decided to start her own business and brings a wealth of experience in Business Development and Marketing to the NSIWA team. In her spare time, Allie enjoys playing tennis and boating with her family.

Deb Gauder

Financial Administrator

Deb Gauder

Financial Administrator

Deb has worked in the medical industry as an administrator for over 30 years, in multiple areas ranging from GPs to specialist practices. She has vast experience and is passionate about helping people, providing the very best patient care possible.

Deb enjoys reading, AFL, Cricket, yoga, pilates, and spending time with her family.

Carrie Havercroft

Medical Secretary

Carrie Havercroft

Medical Secretary

Carrie brings to the team over 14 years office experience with her background being in Human Resources and Medical Administration.

Sheridan Ruck

Medical Secretary

Sheridan Ruck

Medical Secretary

Sheri has 2 years experience as a Medical Receptionist here at Neurospine Institute. She enjoys her fast-paced role, particularly working closely with our Spinal Surgeon, Dr Paul Taylor. She is currently studying her third and final year of a Bachelor of Science (Nursing) at Edith Cowan University.   

Wendy Leiblich

Medical Secretary

Wendy Leiblich

Medical Secretary

Wendy has worked in a variety of medical industries from natural health to GP practices and different medical specialists. Her passion is within the specialist medical area where she can show personal attention and compassion with support to patients colleagues and doctors.

Loredana Santoro

Medical Secretary

Loredana Santoro

Medical Secretary

Laurie has had a varied administrative career over the last 20 years, starting out in the WA State Government Policy Division and Dept of Human Services.  She then moved into a medico-legal role for 10 years utilising her specialised knowledge in State and Federal legislation, before switching gears to a PA role at a private Psychiatry practice, prior to joining the team at Neurospine Institute.  

 

Outside of work, Laurie is passionate about the local music & arts scene, resin jewellery making, photography, Pilates, animal welfare and permaculture gardening.

Ahenata Smith

Medical Secretary

Ahenata Smith

Medical Secretary

Hena has worked for many years in administration and management roles in the General Practice sector. She has settled into Private practice where she can focus on assisting patients’ and provides exceptional customer care. Hena likes to network with her local community through sports and is an avid reader in her spare time.

Kaydea Quinlivan

Medical Secretary

Kaydea Quinlivan

Medical Secretary

Kaydea has prior experience working in a GP practice and thrives in a fast paced environment (like ours!) She joined our team after a stent in barbering but wanted to transition back into the medical field because of her love of helping others. On the weekends, Kaydea enjoys socialising and spending time with her family.

Jelena Kaddour

Medical Secretary

Jelena Kaddour

Medical Secretary

Jelena has worked in a variety of administrative roles throughout her career including case management work, as an occupational health practice coordinator and also as a business owner. Jelena is currently studying at St John Ambulance to do volunteer EHS Services.

Jessica Erwee

Medical Secretary

Jessica Erwee

Medical Secretary

Jessica has over 6 years Medical Reception Experience working for a cosmetic surgeon.  She enjoys a fast-paced role and one where she can show her passion for people and provide the best care possible.  In her spare time, Jessica enjoys the outdoors and spending time with her family.

Jacqui Daley

Medical Secretary

Jacqui Daley

Medical Secretary

Jacqui has 20 years’ experience in administration and management working across the worker’s compensation and medical industries. She loves working with people and being able to make a difference in people’s lives. She is planning to commence studying for a Bachelor of Science (Medical Research) later in the year.

Nicole Adamos

Medical Secretary

Nicole Adamos

Medical Secretary

Nicole has worked in the medical industry for over nine years and is passionate about providing a high level of patient care. She holds qualifications in Pathology as well as Leadership & Management and has previously worked in a private hospital before joining Neurospine Institute.

She enjoys helping others and working within a team and has a very friendly personality.

Outside of work, Nicole loves traveling, spending time at the beach and hanging out with family and friends.

FRACS Logo AO Spine Neurospine Foundation