Our Team

Pilatesfocus was established by Physiotherapist, Pilates Instructor and University Lecturer in Pilates, Polestar Mentor Carolyn Cole (nee Livanes).

At Pilatesfocus we combine Pilates based exercise, hands on physiotherapy and the latest research in rehabilitative exercise.

At PilatesFocus we have a particular interest in the management of complex low back pain, Sacro-Iliac joint dysfunction, scoliosis, Spondylolisthesis/pars defect, Labral hip tears, post hip arthroscopy hip, shoulder and neck pain. We also focus on correcting poor posture that can lead to pain and dysfunction.

Our experienced team of physiotherapists bring with them a broad array of skills to our practice. We keep up-to-date with the latest research and techniques with our regular in-service program and by attending workshops and courses.

Our Team

Carolyn Cole, Principal Physiotherapist, Owner

Qualifications

1994 Bachelor of Applied Science and Physiotherapy , Cumberland College Health Sciences, Sydney University
1999 Pilates Instructors Certificate (Level 1), Australian Pilates Method Association
2007 Rehabilitation Series, Polestar Pilates Australia

Carolyn established PilatesFocus in 2002 after working in both Australia and London as a physiotherapist and Pilates practitioner.

While practicing as a physiotherapist Carolyn came across Pilates in 1995 and knew she was onto a good thing. With a background in movement as a gymnast + coach + judge, Pilates was a perfect fit for her; a combination of both movement and rehabilitative exercise.

It was after her own significant back injury that she found that Pilates was an invaluable tool for her own recovery. She decided to bring this understanding and the benefits of Pilates into her own practice, sharing it with her clients.

Between 2000 and 2005 Carolyn lectured at the University of Technology (Graduate Certificate in Pilates) and became involved with Polestar Pilates Australia as an ongoing mentor and occasionally as an educator to emerging practitioners.

In 2002 Carolyn opened her own studio in Sutherland, southern Sydney. At PilatesFocus Carolyn and her staff combine the health benefits of physiotherapy with the rehabilitative movement and strengthening of Pilates. Her years of practice proved to her that hands on treatment alone was not always enough to rehabilitate an injury, but when combined with Pilates, long lasting and sustainable results could be achieved.

The clients at PilatesFocus attend Private Physiotherapy, Semi Private Pilates, Studio Pilates Sessions and Mat Classes to manage injury, better align their bodies and help them to stand taller and move better.

Continuing education is a priority for Carolyn and the staff at PilatesFocus. Skills are kept up-to-date by attending a variety of courses and researching the latest techniques in health and rehabilitation. All staff members share information with their colleagues via regular staff in-services held in-house.

Donna Featherstone, Senior Physiotherapist

Qualifications

1987 Bachelor of Applied Science and Physiotherapy , Cumberland College Health Sciences, Sydney University
2015 CranioSacral Therapy 1, Upledger Institute
2015 CranioSacral Therapy 2, Upledger Institute
2015 SomatoEmotional Release 1, Upledger Institute
2017 CranioSacral Therapy and the Immune Response, Upledger Institute

Donna started working at PilatesFocus in 2010 and has brought her broad experience from working in hospitals and private practice. She has worked with sports injuries, neural and orthopaedic rehabilitation.

Donna specialises in rehabilitating neck, knee and pelvic injuries. She has had a lot of success working with senior patients.

Donna has also been studying Cranial Sacral Therapy over the past few years. This treatment can help to settle neurol irritation for clients with long standing and complex pain. She has achieved great results for many of our clients with these techniques. Donna will be completing more studies in CranialSacral Therapy in 2018.

With a strong interest in her own fitness, Donna plays, coaches and grades Netball for clubs in the Sutherland Shire and participates in the Pan Pacific Masters Netball competition as a player and as a physiotherapist.

Brie Stacey, Physiotherapist

Qualifications

2012 Bachelor of Physiotherapy at James Cook University in Townsville
2013 Diploma of Polestar Pilates Studio & Rehabilitation Method
2016 Integrated Dry Needling Course

Brie studied a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at James Cook University in Townsville. She completed her studies in 2012 and started working at PilatesFocus in 2013. She quickly has become a valuable member of our team and enjoys working one-on-one with clients as well as instructing our mat and swiss ball classes.

With a special interest in shoulders, Brie helps our clients retain good scapulothoracic rhythm to improve mobility and function. She is also very interested in treating pelvis and low back pain.

In 2013 Brie completed her Diploma of Polestar Pilates Studio & Rehabilitation Method and combines hands-on physiotherapy with movement and exercise. In 2016 she completed a Integrated Dry Needling Course, enabling her to better assist clients recover from injury.

Lena Thiveos, Physiotherapist

Qualifications

2014 Bachelor of Health Science, University of Sydney
2016 Masters of Physiotherapy, University of Sydney

Lena studied at Sydney University, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science and a Masters in Physiotherapy (distinction average).

With a keen interest in sport and fitness, Lena is also a Level 1 Sports Trainer and has competed in team sports such as swimming, running, gymnastics, water polo and Oz tag. As a dancer for 10 years, Lena developed an interest in movement and whilst studying she worked as an educational tutor. These skills have equipped her well to teach our clients to better understand and rehabilitate from their injury and poor movement patterns.

Lena’s area of speciality is hip, knee and ankle performance and rehabilitation. She has worked with sporting groups such as Trinity Grammar School and Football Western Australia.

Karen Gock, Pilates Instructor

Qualifications

2007 Diploma of Polestar Pilates Studio & Rehabilitation Method

Karen has been a part of the PilatesFocus team since 2007 and works alongside our physiotherapists. She has a keen eye for detail and a very good understanding of injury rehabilitation and how your body should move.

With a hunger for knowledge, Karen is continuously expanding her knowledge base by attending workshops and conferences. She is currently completing her Diploma of Clinical Pilates through the Australian Pilates Alliance.