FAQ

WHO WE ARE

Joel van Doorn graduated in 2003 from Auckland University of technology and has since returned there to complete a post graduate certificate in Chinese Acupuncture and Women’s Health Acupuncture.

He travelled to China in 2008 to observe and learn how acupuncture is used there to treat many conditions in their hospitals.

He has been the head physiotherapist for multiple high level sporting code teams and is currently the Physiotherapist for the Tairua Senior rugby Team. He is an experienced hands on practitioner with extensive knowledge around sports and work injuries.

He enjoys acting, surfing, golf, hiking and staying fit through various fitness endeavours.

Terri Evanson grew up on a lifestyle block near Whitianga. Outside of work she enjoys an active lifestyle, running, yoga and playing sports.
Terri graduated from Auckland University of Technology in 2016. She then worked in Auckland for a private practice alongside an experienced team. She moved back to Whitianga in 2019 and has enjoyed settling back into the Coromandel pace of life.

Terri is PINC and STEEL certified which allows her to support clients living with cancer or after cancer treatments to cope with side effects and have a better quality of life. Terri completed her post graduate certificate at Auckland University of Technology which focussed on breathing mechanisms and management; and in persistent and chronic pain assessment/management and treatment.
Terri is a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist having completed her pelvic health training. She is equip to support clients experiencing pelvic health issues such as incontinence, prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and/or pain. She has completed PNZ dry needling certificate and various other manual handling and sports based courses. She is passionate about exercise based rehabilitation and taking a holistic approach to returning patients to full function.

Terri has worked within the sporting environment since the beginning of her Physiotherapy career. She has worked with Northcote rugby club, North Harbour Maori and North Harbour Junior Woman’s teams whilst living in Auckland. And the Mercury Bay Rugby Club and Thames Valley Heartland teams throughout her time in Whitianga. She was also involved with the Masters Games, assisting with the football teams

Sajjad Yousaf graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy from RIPHAH International University, Pakistan in 2016 and continued there to complete an M.Phil degree in Physiotherapy.
In 2023, he earned an MSc degree in Physiotherapy with focus on neurological conditions from University of Antwerp, Belgium. where he integrated advanced academic learning with practical experience.

His professional experience consists of working with a diverse range of patients addressing neurological and musculoskeletal conditions.
His extensive knowledge and expertise allows him to develop tailored treatment plans to meet diverse patient needs. His international exposure has enhanced his approach to physiotherapy by enabling him to combine evidence based methods with cultural awareness.

In addition to professional interests, he is a passionate cricket enthusiast and enjoys engaging in various activities that promote a balanced and active lifestyle.

Charlotte Porter graduated from Auckland University of Technology with a Bachelor of Health Science in Physiotherapy. She has previously worked in private practice as a musculoskeletal physiotherapist in Auckland. She has experience with acute neurological rehabilitation for stroke and traumatic brain injuries, and physiotherapy pre and post organ transplant.

Charlotte is passionate about exercise rehabilitation and enjoys working with patients of all ages to develop a treatment plan that aligns with their goals.

In 2021 Charlotte studied a Diploma in Paramedic Science. She is a volunteer with St John Ambulance.

Outside of work, Charlotte has represented NZ internationally in sailing. She has previously worked for one of the local sailing charter boats in Whitianga. She enjoys being outdoors including diving and surfing.

Lauren Bromley PG Cert. HSC Rehabiliation BOccTher

At Physio First Whitianga we are extremely fortunate to partner with Lauren Bromley local specialist Hand Therapist at Coastal Hand Therapy Whitianga – to provide this new specialist service to the community.
Please feel free to give Lauren a call on 027 317 6926 to book an appointment or alternatively visit her website.

Born and raised in Thames, the Coromandel Peninsula is where I call home. After leaving the area for study and career advancement, I have returned and am very fortunate to now call Whitianga home.

After graduating in 2017, I followed my chosen career path specialising in Hand Therapy. I completed a postgraduate certificate in rehabilitation specific to hand and upper limb rehabilitation and pain management. Since 2017 I have gained clinical experience working at the Christchurch Public Hospital and private Hand Therapy Clinic’s in Hamilton and Cambridge.

I’m very excited to be able to provide a specialist Hand Therapy Service to Whitianaga and wider Coromandel Peninsula community. I’m very passionate about helping clients regain full pain free function.

Outside of work, I enjoy being outdoors, on the water fishing and diving with my partner. Having previously completed in many of the Peninsula's adventure races as a young female, I still hold a passion for Outdoor Adventure Racing and would like to continue it now I live back on the Coromandel Peninsula.

WORK WITH US

Play and work in paradise.
Private practice position available in Whitianga which is located in the stunning Coromandel Peninsula.

Part or full time. You decide.
Contact 027 466 7213 or info@physiofirstwhitianga.co.nz