Yana has a particular passion for working with babies and children, with a keen interest in how movement, posture, breathing, physical comfort and early development are connected.
She especially enjoys working with newborns and infants who show a preference for turning their head to one side, neck or jaw tension, asymmetrical movement patterns, or feeding-related concerns where musculoskeletal factors may be contributing. She has a particular interest in the physical strains and adaptations that can occur during pregnancy and birth, and how these may influence a baby’s early movement and comfort.
Another important area of interest is the relationship between breathing patterns, oral function and jaw development. Yana enjoys exploring how tongue and jaw movement, oral posture, neck mobility and breathing interact as children grow, and recognises the importance of working collaboratively with other professionals when feeding, airway or developmental concerns arise.
She also welcomes toddlers, children and teenagers experiencing musculoskeletal pain, headaches, postural concerns or difficulties with movement and coordination.
Yana graduated in Osteopathic Medicine from Southern Cross University and has undertaken extensive postgraduate education in Australia and overseas, with a strong focus on paediatric, cranial, biodynamic and visceral osteopathic approaches. Her further studies in infant feeding, orofacial function, primitive reflexes, sensory integration and vestibular development have shaped her interest in understanding how different aspects of a child’s movement and development interact.
Before becoming an osteopath, Yana worked as a psychologist and counsellor. This background gives her a particular appreciation for the connection between physical wellbeing, emotional development and each child’s individual needs.
As a mother of three, Yana understands how concerning it can be when a baby is uncomfortable, feeding is challenging or a child isn’t moving quite as expected. Her approach is gentle, patient and playful, allowing children to feel comfortable and giving parents time to ask questions and understand what she observes.
Alongside hands-on osteopathic care where appropriate, Yana enjoys sharing practical positioning, movement and play-based strategies that families can use at home. She values collaborative care and works alongside other health professionals, including lactation consultants, GPs, midwives, dentists and myofunctional therapists.
While babies and children are a major focus of her practice, Yana also enjoys treating adults, bringing the same individualised approach to every patient.
Availability
Tuesdays 8:30-5
Wednesdays 9:15-5
Thursdays 9-5
Fridays 8:45-3:15