A Specialist Physiotherapist has achieved the highest level of clinical qualification available to physiotherapists in Australia. This title is awarded by the Australian College of Physiotherapists and recognises advanced expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and management within a specific field of practice.
At BodySense Physiotherapy, referrals for Specialist Physiotherapy may come from health care providers, insurers, rehabilitation providers, or through self-referral. Specialist Physiotherapy is particularly valuable for people with complex or chronic pain presentations requiring a higher level of clinical reasoning and guidance.
Michelle du Plessis is our Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist and a Titled Pain Physiotherapist. Her area of expertise is in the assessment and management of complex and chronic pain conditions, supporting people who require detailed evaluation, clear diagnosis, and structured management planning.
Specialist Physiotherapy is designed for people whose presentation is more complex, persistent, or difficult to understand. It is often most helpful when progress has stalled, symptoms don’t follow a typical pattern, or when you are seeking clearer answers about your condition and recovery options.
People are commonly referred for Specialist Physiotherapy when there is uncertainty about diagnosis, management direction, or expected recovery timeframes, or when additional clinical insight is required to guide next steps in care.
Specialist Physiotherapy may be appropriate if you are:
Choosing a Specialist Physiotherapist provides access to advanced clinical reasoning, detailed assessment, and a higher level of diagnostic clarity. The focus is not only on identifying what is contributing to your symptoms, but also on helping you understand your condition and make informed decisions about your care.
Specialist Physiotherapy can support both patients and referrers by providing structured recommendations, realistic recovery guidance, and clear communication to ensure care remains aligned and effective.
With Specialist Physiotherapy, you can expect:
Specialist Physiotherapy consultations can be accessed via referral or self-referral. Following assessment, you may choose to continue with Specialist Physiotherapy input or return to your regular physiotherapist with a clear management plan and recommendations.
This approach supports collaborative care and ensures your treatment remains aligned with your goals.
We’re now welcoming patients at Pier Street Medical, right next to HBF Park.
