Laurel Hoppis
Associate Physiotherapist
Available for Individual Consultation & Telehealth
Eight Mile Plains, Brisbane, Australia
Fuelled by her dream of becoming a physiotherapist since the age of 13, Laurel graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science 4-year degree from Azusa Pacific University in the United States. Her journey began as a Physiotherapy aide at a private musculoskeletal physiotherapy clinic, where she found joy in guiding patients through corrective exercise programs.
Laurel’s commitment to patient care extends beyond her professional pursuits. Having a close family member undergo medical trauma, this personal experience led her to adopt a passion for actively listening to her patients. She believes this is crucial for effective treatment and can lead to discovering new ways to accomplish physiotherapy goals uniquely. This commitment motivated Laurel to pursue and attain a Doctor of Physiotherapy degree at Bond University in Queensland, Australia.
Laurel’s background in childcare, including nine years as a lifeguard, several years as a substitute teacher, and leadership roles in youth groups, sparked a profound passion for working with paediatric patients. During clinical placements, Laurel collaborated with a renowned children’s physiotherapist at Kindly Moves Physiotherapy in Murwillumbah, solidifying her dedication to a career in paediatric physiotherapy. An online lecture by Sharon Hennessey introduced Laurel to the world of Hypermobility, inspiring her to work in this field and equip patients with tools for an improved quality of life.
Actively pursuing professional development in Hypermobility, Laurel has engaged in personal mentoring with Sharon Hennessey, attended various courses, and acquired certifications in:
- Advanced Neuromuscular Dry Needling techniques including Cupping, Guah Sha, and Electro Dry Needling: Jörgen Forsberg 28-29th of October 2024
- Accredited Biomechanical Taping™ Practitioner -Part A – Foundation & Peripheral Joints: Ryan Kendrick 22-Jul-2023
- Introduction to Reformer and Matwork Exercises for Physiotherapists in Private Practice Course: Chelsea Aston 18 September 2022
- ECHO: Knee/Hip: assessment and management: Sharon Hennessy 23/08/2022
- ECHO: Lumbar Spine, Hip & Pelvis:Assessment and management: Sharon Hennessy 16/08/2022
- HYPERMOBILITY: DIAGNOSIS, COMORBIDITIES & PHYSIOTHERAPY MANAGEMENT: Sharon Hennessy 31/08/2021
- Dietetics for Hypermobility – 19/01/2024
Laurel’s skills include:
- Dry Needling
- Strapping and Taping techniques
- Connects well with kids (4 years and older) and families
- CCI (Craniocervical Instability)
- Rib relocation techniques
- Postural analysis
- Pilates class instruction and program development
- Developing paediatric services
- Recording paediatric programs for PhysiTrack
- MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome)
- POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)
- Foot and ankle rehab (Intrinsics)
In the past 18 months, Laurel has worked with over 200 EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) clients, gaining extensive experience and expertise in managing their unique needs.
Available throughout the week before and after school hours, including every second Saturday, Laurel offers telehealth consultations if desired.
Outside of work, Laurel loves immersing herself in books, canvas painting, and going on off-road adventures, exploring the beauty of this country.