Dr Beth Clarke
Osteopath
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land I live and work on. In particular the Gunditjmara people of the Maar nation. I acknowledge the first nations people of this country and their ongoing connection to their culture, lands and water. I pay my respect to past present and emerging elders and acknowledge their strength and resilience.
Dr Beth Clarke, Osteopath
(Ba App Sci (Clin) Ba Osteo Sci.)
I have been practicing as an Osteopath for over 20 years and love its inclusive and holistic approach to health care.
Since graduating from RMIT (2000), I have continued postgraduate study in a style of Osteopathy that is non manipulative, light touch, and deeply calming for the patient. This is known as Cranial Osteopathy with a Biodynamic Perspective.
My professional journey has led me to study and practice with highly regarded Osteopathic teachers in Australia and America. I am honoured to have worked with many mentors and significant elders who continue to inform my practice.
In my practice I treat all age groups including pregnant mums, infants, babies, children, teenagers, adults and older adults. Osteopathic treatment focuses on balancing and releasing strains in the body. Optimal health occurs when the whole body is balanced and functional.
I am very happy to be returning home with my husband and two young kids to share all I have learnt with my community of Warrnambool.
Member of Osteopathy Australia
APHRA Registered
Post Graduate study (2005 - 2021) -Biodynamics of Osteopathy and Biodynamic Osteopathic Treatment of children with James Jealous D.O. (USA.) Robyn Seamer D.O.(Aus.) and Manuela Da Rin D.O. (Aus.)
Yoga Teacher Training, 2010, Lorrie Bell, Warrnambool
An Osteopathic approach to paediatrics (2023), Jamie Taylor NZ (online)
What is
Osteopathy?
Dr Still, the founder of Osteopathy, said the Osteopaths role is to "find the health".
Our primary therapeutic tool is our hands. Our hands have been trained to feel or "palpate" the health in the patient. We monitor changes in tissue texture and function as we find a point of balance, homeostasis or "neutral". From here, we listen deeply and quietly and allow the health to express itself. Changes in the patient's breathing, freedom of movement, feelings of ease and space in the whole person may emerge. Warmth and a sense of deep relaxation may be felt by the patient. All these are indicators that health is present.
Osteopathy is holistic. It is based upon principles like "The body is a unit" and "The body has an innate capacity for healing" and "Structure and function are interrelated". So, when we feel the health in an area of the body we feel it in the whole. This allows the whole to once again express its health.
Osteopathy for Babies and Children
Treating babies and children is sacred. They are so connected with their health even when they are unwell. We can learn a lot from them. Children are a living wholeness. Growth and development is done as a whole, not in parts.
Treatment is not about forcing them in any way. I use very light techniques so that tensions can be resolved and balance restored. During a session I am always with the wholeness and health of the child. Because of this children love being treated this way. They can play with a toy, read a book or just relax during the treatment.
Osteopathy for Adults
Adults can be dealing with a lot of stress these days and are pulled in many directions. Osteopathy is about restoring balance and finding homeostasis in the body. With a decrease in allostatic load or stress on the system and an increased functional reserve we can cope with life and all it requires of us.
Family health is something I care deeply about and Osteopathy is all inclusive. Depending upon the presenting complaint we may talk about nutrition, exercise and stretching routines. Osteopathy acknowledges many reasons for disease or imbalance including emotional, social, environmental or familial factors that are influencing your health. I may refer you to your GP for further investigation if I think it is required.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about osteopathy and our clinic.
No. Osteopaths are Primary health practitioners you do not need to be referred.
Yes if you have extras it should, but always check with your health fund first to make sure.
No, I treat in a way that does not require clothing to be removed.
No. I do not manipulate. I use very light techniques.
Yes. Our clinic is very accessible for all.
Contact us
Beth Clarke Osteopath provides safe, welcoming, inclusive services for all.