The Body of Work Team
Each of our team members is experienced and passionate in their area of expertise, all working together to further your wellness goals — whatever they may be.
Click a team member below to go straight to their bio
Ali Sullivan
Director, Massage Therapist
Diploma Health Science (Massage and Sports Therapy) & Registered member of Massage New Zealand
The experience that I bring to my work
I became interested in the human body and movement as a dancer and trained as a dance teacher at the NZ School of Dance in the 1980’s. In later years I studied Health Science papers through Massey University. Looking for something more ‘hands on’ I found a programme in massage therapy at the NZ College of Massage in 2009 completing the Diploma in Health Science (Therapeutic Massage). I returned to the College for a further 6 months in 2011 to complete a post graduate Diploma in Health Science (Clinical and Sports Therapy). I have had the privilege to work with many amateur and professional athletes and dancers, including visiting sports teams such as the All Blacks.
These qualifications and experiences gained along with my background as a Dance Teacher have contributed to the knowledge I can share with my clients.
My professional interests
I have found myself becoming increasingly interested in the area of chronic pain and the effects of inflammation and auto immune diseases on the body. Massage can have some positive effects on these conditions. I am also keen to help active people remain active and get the most movement from their bodies as possible.
My philosophy
I see my role as one of assistance and education for my clients. Helping them to help their own body recover and gain optimal performance. I am also a big believer in continued education, the health field is one filled with changes and it is important to stay up to date with research and education.
What drives me
I find it immensely satisfying to help someone feel better. Whether it is just feeling more relaxed, improve their range of movement or to relieve pain.
What makes me unique
I was fortunate to have had great training and I believe that learning is life-long. I aim to keep up to date with research and education. I am also very lucky to be part of a collaborative team of experts so if there is something that I am unable to provide my clients I am sure one of my team or external referral network will be able to help with.
CONTACT ALI
P 027 227 6177
E ali@bodyofwork.co.nz
Tanya Houpt
Exercise Therapy, Rehabilitation, and Pilates
Diploma in Sport Studies, Post Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation, Classical Pilates Instructor, Personal Trainer
The experience that I bring to my work
I have worked in the Health and Fitness industry for over 35 years in many different roles. I am a perpetual learner and attended university as an adult student which helped refine my area of expertise in rehabilitation to Exercise Therapy. I trained to instruct Classical Pilates in 2008, a turning point for me in terms of corrective movement. Used clinically, I prescribe exercises to correct maladapted postures, restore function, and prevent musculoskeletal issues. In 2020 and 2021, I completed all four postgraduate programs of the McKenzie Method, Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy which treats musculoskeletal issues. Working with hypermobility and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome lead to completion of an Integral Movement Method Course in 2023 to treat both conditions.
My professional interests
Corrective exercise, physical rehabilitation, and movement therapy. I am particularly interested in understanding and reducing factors that contribute to musculoskeletal pain and disability, such as maladaptive postures, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, surgery, injuries, emotional and psychological aspects.
Hypermobility, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS). A recent interest is working with hypermobile clients, particularly those with EDS. When in pain and or stressed, we respond by guarding and protecting our minds and bodies. The IMM (Integral Movement Method, is a no pain, no strain strategy, allowing the body to release stress and tension, replacing it with a calm nervous system and efficient movement patterns. Pain and discomfort, often stuck in the body for years, can often disappear making IMM effective for those experiencing PTSD and chronic pain.
The McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy is the most researched physical therapy-based method available to date. Originally created for the lumbar spine, this effective and structured method is highly effective for all musculoskeletal problems. Most pain is mechanical in origin, meaning it results from abnormal or unusual movement and forces occurring in the tissue. If a movement or activity caused the pain, then it is logical that they could be part of the solution.
Pilates is part of my life. It is my main form of exercise; I do practice what I preach. The principles of Pilates are timeless, perfect for correcting maladapted postures, enhancing healthy ageing, and treating musculoskeletal conditions.
My philosophy
Posture is paramount. This is not unique to older populations. Major postural issues are being seen in our younger generation due to postures assumed and adapted while using various devices. Necks, shoulders, and backs are being severely compromised; it won’t be long before our young are ‘old’.
Move it or lose it…well, move it correctly or lose it. Yes, you can take medication, stop doing what hurts, miss out on sports and activities, or let the garden run riot, but why should you? With our life expectancy increasing, I am an advocate for natural, sustained, healthy ageing, and optimising physical function to your full potential. The most sustainable, low-risk way to continue doing what you enjoy is through corrective exercise.
Treat the person, not the condition. My clients receive all the ‘Insite’ and tools they need to self-manage their bodies, thereby enabling them to participate in activities they consider important in life. This aligns with my firm belief in a positive psychology approach to rehabilitation; finding what is right and increasing it!
What drives me
I am in awe of what our bodies can do. I am constantly motivated by the results I see daily in the studio. Preventing or delaying surgeries, enabling a reduction or cessation of medication, seeing clients self-manage their ‘condition’, reducing pain, and watching the progress of group session participants…this is what fuels me.
What makes me unique
Experience, empathy, and a sharing of knowledge! I want to empower you.
CONTACT TANYA
P 027 443 5293
E insite@bodyofwork.co.nz
Tania Woolford
Massage, Naturopathy & Nutrition
Dip. Therapeutic Massage, Dip. Massage and Sports Therapy, Adv. Dip. Health Sciences (Naturopathy and Nutrition), Cert. Infant Massage Instruction, Cert. Horticulture.
The experience that I bring to my work
I’ve had a lifelong passion for holistic health, nutrition, herbalism and realigning intuitively with ourselves and what serves us best. Naturopathy and nutrition bring together all the modalities of holistic health that I am passionate about and have added to my kete to support clients in their wellness.
I’ve worked as a remedial massage therapist since 2012 in a variety of environments including multidisciplinary clinics, corporate settings, sports events and guiding massage students.
This has provided experience with a wide range of people and conditions including chronic pain, migraines, injuries, OOS, high stress and post-operative care. I provide myofascial release, assisted stretching, scar tissue release, remedial, sports, pregnancy, hot stone and relaxation massage. Ultimately treatment is guided by the needs of the client.
My professional interests
I have a great respect for the complexity of the human body and the many interconnected physical, emotional, social and spiritual facets that impact ones wellbeing. Therefore I love the constant opportunity to support and empower clients in their wellness goals by providing education and tools that contribute towards their health and improved quality of life by restoring balance.
I am passionate about holistic healthcare, individual wellbeing, nutrition and medical herbalism, connecting with our natural world and creating change that brings us into alignment with how we are meant to be living.
My philosophy
I believe in providing supportive client focused treatment tailored to your needs to bring balance, help improve quality of life, increase body awareness and empower you to be involved in your own wellness. Holistic treatment incorporates physical, emotional, social and spiritual elements to treat the whole person, so this approach is taken during treatment. I value connection with the variety of people I am lucky to work with.
What drives me
I am passionate about holistic health and making it achievable for the individual to promote vitality and optimal wellness. I find great satisfaction in helping others improve their quality of life and working towards their goals.
I consider that massage and holistic health tools such as nutrition can benefit every-one in different ways
What makes me unique
I am empathetic and open-minded with a drive to assist where I can and refer on when I more beneficial. I provide a safe, open and confidential space for clients to be themselves and explore their needs. I work in a holistic manner to treat the whole person, so as a naturopath provide a through exploration of areas that can impact ones health.
As a life-long learner, I am ever excited about life and varied avenues to explore.
CONTACT TANIA
P 021 070 6620
E tania@bodyofwork.co.nz
Mark Gray
Bodywork and Hakomi Practitioner
Masters Therapeutic Bodywork, Certificate Structural Integration, and Practitioner and Trainer Certification in the Hakomi Method*
* Hakomi is a method of assisted Self-Discovery
The experience that I bring to my work
My bodywork journey started in 1991, with a 7 day introduction to Structural Integration at the Mana Retreat Centre in the Coromandel. I finished the 18 month Structural Integration training in 1993 and then headed off to Europe for a 6 month OE, I stayed for 22 years! Based in London, I had a bodywork practice, got a Masters in Therapeutic Bodywork, became a certified Hakomi practitioner and trainer, and worked for 12 years at the University of Westminster’s School of Life Sciences in London where I was the Programme Leader and Principal Lecturer on a BSc(Hons) in Neuromuscular Therapy.
My professional interests
I am curious about how we adapt both physically and mentally over time to the experience of our lives. My key interest is to begin to understand this experience especially the core patterns and to evaluate the things that are still relevant and those that are not. One of my favourite sayings is, ”you are perfect just as you are, and you could use a little improvement.” —Shunryu Suzuki
My philosophy
I believe a person-centred approach provides an effective model for how to work with clients. We need to create a therapeutic environment that recognises and works with the unique personal qualities, experience, knowledge and skills each of our clients brings. This requires that as therapists we have a variety of approaches to draw on and the awareness to use them to meet individual needs.
What drives me
I simply want to make a positive difference, not that it’s actually that simple!
What makes me unique
Not really convinced that I am that unique, but perhaps the focus on what’s working rather than what’s not, in other words acknowledging and working with client strengths.
CONTACT MARK
P 022 436 2398
E mark@markgray.co.nz
Trina Woodcock
Massage Therapist
Bachelor of Therapeutic and Sports Massage (Level 7)
The experience that I bring to my work
I studied massage therapy at Southern Institute of Technology in Invercargill and received my degree (level 7) in 2019. All through my studies I worked within a clinical setting seeing clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with sports teams, having provided in-season sports massage for the Southland Stags rugby team, Southern Steel netball team, and the Nutragrain Pioneer Mountain Bike event along with other smaller events throughout Southland. My treatments use a range of techniques such as
neuromuscular, massage with movement, deep tissue techniques, myofascial release, along with pain management and rehabilitation exercises.
My professional interests
The growing number of chronic pain sufferers seems never ending and I have an interest in helping improve quality of life through reducing musculoskeletal pain and mobility restrictions. Along with implementing a personalised rehabilitation program and pain management education. I have worked a lot with people affected by herniated discs, lower back pain, and tension headaches. Having been involved in netball and the equestrian world for most of my life and I have a particular interest in helping with the common aches and pains that accompany these sports. I understand the dynamics and how the body works when performing and aim to keep the body aligned for athletes to perform at their best.
My philosophy
Massage therapy is a team effort from both client and therapist working together to achieve realistic goals. I believe that although no two people are the same, we all want the same thing- to have the freedom and ability to move without hinderance. Through a treatment plan that suits one's lifestyle and availability and willingness, I aim to achieve those goals.
What drives me
I have always had an interest in helping people and enjoy being a part of positive changes in a person's lifestyle no matter how small. Building connections through a non-invasive pain management option is rewarding.
What makes me unique
Having completed a research project in my third year, I appreciate the need for constant professional development. New information is always being produced and to help inform my clients of recent developments or alternate strategies, I aim to gather all possible information available. This allows me to have an informed opinion and reduce any basis.
CONTACT TRINA
P 022 176 1701
E trina@bodyofwork.co.nz
Jena Oberg
Acupuncture
CURRENTLY ON MATERNITY LEAVE
Dr. Acu, Dip. Acu (Honours), NZASA, ACC registered, RYT-200, DIT
The experience that I bring to my work
I studied Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) at MacEwan University in Canada. I was inspired by the transformative effects of Chinese Medicine in my own life, which led me to leave my job as a commercial interior designer and pursue my passion for Acupuncture. In order to practice as an Acupuncturist in Canada, I successfully completed rigorous national and provincial board exams focused on safety and competence. Prior to relocating to New Zealand, I gained valuable experience working in a bustling functional medical acupuncture clinic.
During my Acupuncture studies, I also dedicated myself to obtaining my yoga teacher certification. For five years, I taught yoga while attending university, gaining firsthand knowledge of body mechanics and movement therapy. Teaching yoga allowed me to work with diverse groups of individuals and witness the incredible potential of the human body.
As a registered member of the New Zealand Acupuncture Standards Authority and an approved ACC treatment service provider, I am committed to delivering a practice that is safe, competent, and respectful, adhering to high standards.
My Professional Interests
I am deeply passionate about assisting individuals with a diverse range of concerns, encompassing stress management, emotional well-being, musculoskeletal injuries and pain management, pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum care, digestive and respiratory issues, fatigue, sleep difficulties, as well as women's health and menstrual-related challenges.
My philosophy
The foundation of my philosophy lies in the holistic nature of Chinese medicine, which recognizes the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and mental systems within the body. I utilize education and lifestyle recommendations to empower individuals to take control of their health and make informed decisions that enhance their overall well-being.
What drives me
What drives me is the realization that Acupuncture, as a powerful healing modality, remains underutilized. I consider myself fortunate to be able to bring this transformative medicine to those who are in need. Establishing connections with clients and witnessing their improved well-being brings me immense satisfaction.
What makes me unique
What sets me apart is my belief that every client and condition is unique. I approach each individual with personalized care, tailoring treatment plans to their specific needs. By addressing all aspects of well-being, I aim for clients to experience not only physical improvements but also mental and emotional well-being after leaving the treatment room. I delve deep into conditions, offering advice that extends beyond Acupuncture to include supplements, lifestyle recommendations, and rehabilitative exercises and movements. Taking a holistic approach, I strive to provide well-rounded treatments that bring healing in many aspects.
CONTACT JENA
P 022 392 9085
E jena@bodyofwork.co.nz
Lisa Roberts
Massage Therapist
Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage
The experience that I bring to my work
I have had the privilege of working with a diverse clientele spanning different walks of life. This includes IT professionals, retirees, weekend warriors, expectant mothers, as well as both amateur and professional athletes, such as ultra-marathon runners, dancers, cyclists, and local sports teams like the Phoenix, the Saints, the Lions, the All Blacks, and various visiting international sports teams.
My Professional Interests
My primary professional interest centres around the parasympathetic nervous system, renowned for its association with the “rest and digest” response. Activating the parasympathetic nervous system offers various advantages, including stress reduction, heart health, improved digestive function, enhanced sleep, quicker recovery, heightened mental clarity and calmness, reinforced immune system support, better emotional well-being, and enhanced stress resilience.
My philosophy
My role is that of a guide and educator for my clients. I aim to empower them to engage in their body’s healing process actively. I am a strong proponent of ongoing education, recognising the dynamic nature of the healthcare field and the significance of staying up-to-date with the latest research and knowledge.
What drives me
What truly drives me is the deep sense of fulfilment I experience when I can enhance the well-being of individuals. Whether it involves improving their feelings of relaxation, increasing their mobility, or relieving their discomfort, I’m fueled by the positive influence I can have on my clients’ holistic health.
What makes me unique
I distinguish myself through exceptional training, intuitive hands, and an unwavering commitment to ongoing learning. Additionally, I am fortunate to be a part of a collaborative team of experts. Should there be a service or support beyond my expertise, my team or external referral network can provide the necessary assistance.
