Meet the Team
Sam Lancaster
APAM
Expertise
- Hip and knee osteoarthritis, including being a GLA:D program-accredited practitioner
- Sports physiotherapy and running-related injuries
- Preoperative and postoperative rehabilitation
Meet Sam, a friendly and passionate physiotherapist who prides himself on delivering high-quality care tailored to each individual.
Since graduating with a Master of Physiotherapy in 2021, Sam has worked with a wide range of clients, including sporting populations, individuals recovering from shoulder surgeries and joint replacements, and those managing hip and knee osteoarthritis. He is currently the Head Physiotherapist for the Adelaide Croatia Raiders Soccer Club and also pursues his passion for education and development as a casual tutor within the physiotherapy program at the University of South Australia.
Sam has completed further training in sports physiotherapy, dry needling, and strength and conditioning, enhancing his ability to deliver well-rounded, evidence-based care.
Outside the clinic, Sam enjoys staying active — whether that’s in the gym, out for a run, or playing a round of golf with friends. He also enjoys winding down with quality time spent with his Miniature Schnauzer puppy, Millie.
Victoria Emsley
APAM
Expertise
- Dance Physiotherapy & Pre-Pointe Assessment
- Low and mid back pain
- Neck pain
- Sporting injuries
- Child and adolescent conditions
Victoria is a passionate physiotherapist and former dancer who understands the unique demands of dance. With experience as a Pilates instructor, WNPL sports trainer, and ASCA-accredited strength and conditioning coach, she combines physiotherapy expertise with tailored strength and movement training to help dancers perform at their best.
Whilst having a special interest in dance Physiotherapy and providing pre-pointe assessments, Victoria also enjoys working with clients across all demographics to help them reach their goals, combining traditional style physiotherapy techniques with strength and movement training.
She utilises her knowledge within the fitness industry to tailor treatment plans to prevent injury and support recovery. Her philosophy encompasses the idea that “strength comes through movement” and she aims to empower each client, building strong relationships to assist them at all stages of their journey.
Victoria enjoys working with a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including sporting and Cross-Fit-related issues, or individuals striving to improve their athletic performance. She is dedicated to developing her physiotherapy skills and looks forward to a rewarding career as part of the team at Thrive.
Outside the clinic, you’ll find Victoria working on her own CrossFit skills, running or teaching the odd Pilates class here and there. She enjoys spending time with family and friends by the beach over an iced latte or sharing home-baked goods.
Joe Carey
APAM
Expertise:
- Chronic lower back pain, including being a GLA:D Back accredited practitioner
- Sciatica
- Shoulder and knee pain
- Sports and tendon-related injuries, with a strong focus on soccer, tennis, and gym-based injuries
Meet Joe, a dedicated and driven physiotherapist committed to helping his clients move, feel, and live better. He combines hands-on treatment, tailored exercise programs, and clear, empowering education to help people achieve meaningful, long-term results.
As a GLA:D Back accredited practitioner, Joe has completed specialised training in evidence-based exercise and education for chronic and persistent low back pain. He is passionate about helping clients build confidence in their back, reduce flare-ups, and return to the activities they love.
With a strong sporting background — including several years as a tennis coach and extensive experience working with soccer, tennis, and gym-related injuries, Joe has a deep understanding of performance, loading, and return-to-sport rehabilitation. He enjoys supporting clients at every stage of recovery, from early rehab through to high-level performance.
Joe has also completed further training in dry needling and Pilates. With over a decade of gym experience, he loves helping people get stronger, more resilient, and confident in their bodies.
Outside of the clinic, Joe enjoys staying active, heading to the beach, and catching up with friends over coffee.
Jack Nolan
APAM
Expertise
- Vestibular and vertigo conditions
- Spinal pain, with a focus on lower back and neck issues
- Pre- and postoperative rehabilitation
- Gym and CrossFit-related injuries
Jack is a dedicated and energetic physiotherapist who loves helping people get pain free, embrace healthier lifestyles and regain confidence in their physical abilities. He believes in combining the power of exercise—because “motion is lotion”—with hands-on therapy to provide pain relief and support recovery. Jack takes pride in clear communication, ensuring clients feel informed and confident throughout their treatment journey.
He has a particular interest in musculoskeletal conditions, including back and neck pain, knee pain, tendon issues, and injuries related to gym or CrossFit activities.
Outside of work, Jack enjoys staying active at the gym, playing basketball, catching up with friends over coffee, or discovering Adelaide’s vibrant restaurant and café scene.
Darcy Burns
APAM
Expertise
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and dysfunction (jaw pain)
- Hip and knee osteoarthritis (certified GLA:D practitioner)
- Lower limb injuries (hip, knee, ankle) including tendon injuries
- Sports injuries, with a special focus on golf physiotherapy
Darcy is a warm, approachable, and dedicated physiotherapist who takes an individualised, holistic approach to care. With extensive training in manual therapy, Darcy combines hands-on techniques to provide pain relief with exercise-based strategies to deliver long-term solutions. His excellent communication skills enable him to focus on each client’s specific goals, creating tailored treatment plans for people of all ages and abilities.
Drawing on his rich sporting background in cricket, golf, and tennis, as well as experience as an amateur football physiotherapist, Darcy has developed a strong passion for sports rehabilitation.
When he’s not at work, Darcy enjoys playing golf at the Glenelg Golf Club (hint: he’s a very handy golfer!), running, watching sports, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Kelsey Jachmann
APAM
Expertise
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and dysfunction (jaw pain)
- Spinal pain, including lower back and neck conditions
- Falls, balance and conditioning for the elderly
Kelsey is a warm and dedicated physiotherapist who finds fulfilment in making a meaningful difference in the lives of her clients. She enjoys working with a diverse range of musculoskeletal conditions and populations. With an expertise and special interest in jaw pain, Kelsey recognises the value of hands-on therapy in reducing pain and building trust with her clients.
Complementing her manual therapy skills is her extensive knowledge in exercise prescription. With a strong grounding in reformer pilates, Kelsey is equipped to guide clients through every stage of their recovery. Kelsey takes a personalised, multi-faceted approach to managing longstanding pain, empowering her clients with education and tailored strategies to achieve lasting results.
Outside the clinic, Kelsey enjoys practicing Pilates, catching up with friends, or spending quality time with her family by the river.
Kate Baxter
APAM
Expertise
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
- Pelvic pain conditions, e.g. Endometriosis
- Pregnancy & Postpartum care
- Headache & Migraine Management
Kate is a warm and empathetic physiotherapist with a passion for improving the lives of her patients. She believes in creating an environment where her patients feel heard, empowered, and supported.
Kate is deeply committed to empowering women through personalised care in the field of Women’s Pelvic Health. With a genuine passion for helping women reclaim control over their bodies, she treats a wide range of issues, including urinary or bowel incontinence, prolapse care, sexual dysfunction, pregnancy/postnatal care and pelvic pain conditions (such as Bladder Pain Syndrome, Endometriosis, and Adenomyosis). Kate is dedicated to creating a safe space where women can address their concerns and guide them on their journey toward a better quality of life.
Kate also practices as a Level 3 Watson Headache Practitioner. Kate brings her expertise in headache and migraine management, focusing on providing effective strategies to help her patients live headache-free.
Outside of her professional life, Kate enjoys spending time with her husband and their Labrador, Max, exploring the scenic Adelaide Hills and travelling overseas whenever the opportunity arises. She values catching up with family and friends, attending her favourite group exercise gym and sitting in front of the fire with a red wine!
Sophie Alderslade
APAM
Expertise
- Antenatal care
- Postpartum care and reconditioning for returning to the gym or running
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
- Pelvic pain conditions, e.g. Endometriosis
Meet Sophie! A bubbly, warm, and empathetic physiotherapist with an energetic and motivating personality that is truly infectious. Sophie’s ethos is to not only help individuals find comfort but also to educate, empower, and support them in achieving meaningful, long-lasting outcomes.
With a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of South Australia, Sophie has also pursued advanced qualifications in neuromuscular dry needling, clinical Pilates, pelvic health, and the assessment and management of pelvic floor dysfunction. She has completed a postgraduate certificate in Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy and is currently undertaking a Master’s in Pelvic Health, on her pathway to APA titling.
Sophie is passionate about empowering women throughout all stages of life. Whether it’s supporting women through pregnancy, guiding postpartum mums in regaining strength and confidence, or helping individuals overcome pelvic health challenges, Sophie is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space. She specialises in helping women return to the gym, safely resume running, and feel strong and capable in their bodies. Sophie treats a range of women’s and pelvic health conditions, including bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction, menopausal changes, pregnancy- and postpartum-related issues, and pelvic pain or endometriosis.
Growing up with a love for sport, Sophie also enjoys helping individuals recover from injuries and get back to doing what they love most.
Outside the clinic, Sophie is always on the move! You’ll often find her catching up with friends over coffee, gin, or wine (true to her Barossa Valley roots), hitting the gym, or dancing the night away at a music gig.
Dylan Crouch
APAM
Expertise
- Complex neck and back pain management, including sciatica
- Tendon pain, including gym, CrossFit, and sport-related injuries
- BPPV (vertigo) and dizziness rehabilitation
Meet Dylan, a passionate and empathetic physiotherapist dedicated to helping people move better and live pain-free. With a wealth of knowledge and experience that belies his years, Dylan integrates hands-on therapy with exercise to provide effective pain management strategies tailored to each client’s needs. He believes in achieving optimal long-term results by addressing the complexity of pain through both passive therapy and active rehabilitation.
Dylan is truly invested in the rehabilitation journey of his clients. He understands that the key to a successful experience lies in truly listening to each person’s story and collaborating to create personalised treatment plans. Whether overcoming minor injuries or managing persistent pain, Dylan has the tools and expertise to help clients achieve their goals. His philosophy is that “motion is lotion,” and he leverages his extensive knowledge of exercise to promote recovery and enhance overall well-being.
A self-proclaimed “physio enthusiast,” Dylan is committed to continuous professional development. In his spare time, he immerses himself in the latest research by reading studies and listening to informative podcasts, ensuring he stays up-to-date with advancements in the field. This dedication allows him to better serve his clients and provide the most effective treatment options.
When he’s not at work, Dylan enjoys spending time with friends, watching and playing various sports, or working out at the gym.
Erik Nesbitt
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Types of Massage Therapy Offered:
- Remedial Massage
- Trigger Point Therapy
- Myofacial Release
- Relaxation and stress management
Erik takes a holistic, client-centered approach to massage therapy, using a diverse range of techniques to create personalised treatment plans tailored to each individual. By integrating various modalities, he not only targets pain and tension but also works to restore balance to the body, and promote long-term well-being.
Whether you’re seeking relief from everyday stress, targeted pain management, or recovery from sports and work-related injuries, Erik’s therapeutic approach ensures a comprehensive and results-driven experience. He takes the time to understand your lifestyle and needs, ensuring each session is as effective as possible in restoring function and vitality.
Outside of Thrive and his own practice, Erik enjoys competitive golf, fishing, camping, weightlifting, cooking, and spending time with his partner, family, and friends.
Giancarlo Sossi
APAM
Meet Giancarlo, one half of the founding team of Thrive Physio Plus, who joined forces with Luke in 2018 to establish Thrive from the ground up. With 13 years of experience as a practicing physiotherapist, Giancarlo possesses invaluable insights from working with highly acclaimed performing artists and renowned manipulative physiotherapists. Although he no longer consults, his extensive clinical background informs his focus on marketing, finance, and enhancing the overall client experience within Thrive.
Outside of Thrive, Giancarlo enjoys going to the gym, running, and spending quality time with his partner, Yas, and their dog, Gigi. He loves catching up with friends over a beverage or two, embracing the vibrant community around him and the adventures that come with it.
Luke Finlay
APAM
Meet Luke, who co-founded Thrive Physio Plus in 2018 after returning to his hometown of Adelaide from Melbourne, where he expanded his knowledge with some of the country’s most elite and well-respected therapists. With 13 years of experience as a trained physiotherapist before transitioning to focus solely on the business, Luke is dedicated to overseeing the client experience, ensuring that every individual who walks through the door receives the best journey possible. He also prioritises the development and support of his team, alongside driving business growth.
Outside the clinic, Luke enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children. He loves going to the gym, running, and immersing himself in health-related podcasts or reading. Embracing the blend of life and business, he thrives on the daily challenges and rewards of running an allied health practice.
Eleni Biris
APAM
Expertise
- Lower back pain and neck pain
- Postural and work-related aches and pains
- Knee pain (including runners and sports-related knee pain)
- Lower limb pain (hip, thigh, calf, ankle)
Eleni is a friendly physiotherapist who enjoys helping people feel better and move with confidence. As a former athletics sprinter, and a regular gym and Pilates participant, she understands the demands that sport, exercise, and everyday life can place on the body. She is passionate about providing relief through high-quality hands-on treatment, and where appropriate, developing evidence-based rehabilitation programs that support clients in confidently returning to the activities they enjoy.
Eleni enjoys working with a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions across all age groups. With a background in sports training, athletics, and gym-based exercise, she has a strong interest in injury prevention, movement-based rehabilitation, and building resilient bodies for long-term health. She takes a client-focused approach, supporting and guiding people through every stage of their recovery. Eleni is committed to continually developing her physiotherapy skills and is excited to be building her career as part of the Thrive Physio Plus team.
Outside the clinic, Eleni is excited about starting Taekwondo martial arts, enjoys travelling, beach walks with her dog, cooking, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Michaela Webb
APAM
Expertise
- Lower back pain
- Postural and work-related aches and pains
- Shoulder, knee and ankle pain
- Falls prevention and conditioning for older adults
Michaela is a friendly and caring physiotherapist who enjoys building genuine connections with her patients and working collaboratively to achieve lasting outcomes.
With a background in Exercise Science and ASCA Level 1 Strength and Conditioning certification, Michaela is skilled in delivering guided exercise tailored to each individual’s needs. She believes in integrating hands-on manual therapy with targeted exercise prescription to optimise recovery, restore movement patterns, and reduce pain. Her experience in Reformer Pilates, gym-based group fitness, and her sporting background in netball allows her to create programs that are both effective and enjoyable.
Michaela supports patients to regain functional movement, improve strength and mobility, and return to the activities they love. She enjoys working with musculoskeletal conditions across all life stages and has a particular interest in sporting injuries, especially involving the shoulder, knee, and ankle.
Outside of the clinic, Michaela enjoys Pilates, running (seasonally), beach walks with friends, and exploring Adelaide’s many cafés — she’s always open to new recommendations!
Alysha Mansfield
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Meet Alysha,
Alysha joins the Thrive team with vast experience in the client experience industry, having worked at SkyCity for the last decade. With a track record of going above and beyond for clients and delivering memorable experiences, Alysha will be the first person to greet you on your visit to Thrive Physio Plus.
Outside the clinic, Alysha loves to stay active by participating in crossfit classes, spending time baking, and also volunteering her time with the animal welfare league.
Organised and with a fine attention to detail, expect clear communication with a smile.
Join our team!
We always welcome the opportunity for like-minded people with a passion for the Physiotherapy profession and keeping fit and healthy to join our team. Get in contact with us via email at [email protected] and if we don’t have anything available, we’ll keep your application close by for when something pops up.
