practitioners | Empowered

+ practitioners

Millie & Max
Our practice mascots

Dr Cristina Grace Scalora
Chiropractor and Director

Hey everyone and Welcome to Empowered Spine and Mind!

My name is Cristina and I am your super friendly, chatty and energetic Chiropractor and small business owner here at Empowered.

My career in health started when I was 17 working as a sports trainer for my local football and netball club in the country where I grew up. I grew up in Tooleybuc NSW and moved to Melbourne for University in 2009. I studied Biomedicine at uni, and loved being a trainer so much I decided to do a Remedial Massage course.

I absolutely loved being a massage therapist, and after graduating from Biomed, I realised I wanted to pursue a career in Chiropractic. It felt like the best fit for me! I wanted to help people stay healthy, feel good, move better and reduce pain as much as possible and as naturally as possible.

I graduated from Chiro and started working as a Dr of Chiropractic in 2018, which brings us here! This clinic is my little dream come true and my happy place. I always wanted a clinic where people could relax, feel comfortable, have a laugh but most importantly enjoy their treatments and feel better about themselves.

At the moment we offer Chiropractic, Remedial Massage, Relaxation Massage, Myotherapy, Reiki, Rehabilitation, Infrared Sauna, Recovery boots and Ice Bath. We hope to grow and offer as many soul, body and mind nourishing therapies possible to our beautiful community.

We are so grateful for the beautiful people who come into this clinic and love being part of your health journey.

Grazy
Remedial Massage Therapist
(currently on maternity leave)

I am passionate about massage therapy and believe it helps people enhance their psychological and physical wellbeing.

I believe in good communication with my client to better understand their personal health history which then allows me to elaborate an efficient and individualized treatment plan.

I have completed my diploma of Remedial massage at Endeavour College of Natural Health. I am experienced in

Foot reflexology
Acupressure massage
Relaxation massage
Lymphatic drainage
Sport massage
Deep tissue massage

I often combine massage techniques with joint mobilisation, cupping, hot stone, trigger point therapy (TrP) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) in treatment plans in order to meet each individuals' needs.

Gael
Massage Therapist / Myotherapist

Hi, I’m Gael and I work at Empowered Spine and Mind as a Myotherapist/remedial massage therapist.

My journey as an allied health professional started when I developed a passion for health, sport and helping others. I first completed my studies as an allied health assistant then continuing my studies to become a Myotherapist.

I work with a range of different clients and also specialise in working in the sports field. I currently work at the Carlton AFL football team and have had experience working Highlanders Super Rugby team and a local soccer team.

My aim is to provide the best quality treatment by tailoring an individualised treatment plan based on the client's complaints and needs and overall improving musculoskeletal health and well-being.

Looking forward to meeting you all!

Josie
Reiki Practitioner & Holistic Therapist

Josie is a qualified Reiki Practitioner and Holistic Therapist.

She has also qualifications in Reflexology, Aura Healing, Space Cleansing , Color Therapy & Bach Flower Remedies.

Reiki is a beautiful ancient Japanese technique that supports and enhances the body’s natural healing ability.

Reiki can ease tension, stress improve mental clarity and improve your wellbeing.

You might find me walking around the clinic with crystals or smudging the room

Reiki on my furry friends :)

I love sharing my love and passion for Reiki❤️

Jesse
Chinese Medicine Practitioner

With 8 years of clinical experience and a 4-month internship in China, Dr. Jesse has honed in his treatment methods and found an effective way to treat his patients with maximum results. While studying at RMIT, Jesse was fortunate enough to live in China for 4 months, allowing him to complete an internship in a hospital that integrated both modern day western medicine and Chinese medicine. Through this experience Jesse was able to see the real impact of having both types of medicine work alongside one another. Jesse continued his passion, and with 8 years of clinical practice he has helped over 1,000 patients reach their health goals. Patients frequently sought out Jesse for help with conditions such as Chronic pain, Nerve pain, Anxiety, Poor sleep, Stress and Digestive issues.

Because of this, he takes a holistic approach to healthcare, advocating for both alternative therapies and conventional medicine.

Jesse is a fitness advocate with a sports background, so he understands what it’s like when the body isn’t working quite right, both mentally and physically. It can be very debilitating and stressful on the mind and body. This is where his passion for helping people overcome their bodies comes from.

Jesse has assisted many patients with;

Chronic Body pains
Chronic pain management (eg. Neuropathy, Fibromyalgia, Arthritis)
Sports injury recovery
Female conditions (Menopause, PMS, Fertility etc.)
Anxiety/Depression
Insomnia
Lingering Cold/flu symptoms
Bowel/Digestive issues

Jesse provides a range of treatments to help his patients achieve their health goals. These include; Acupuncture, Electro Acupuncture, Herbal medicine, Cupping, Moxibustion (aka Moxa), Guasha (scraping) and Tuina (Chinese massage)

Dr Julia Bianco
Chiropractor

Hi, I'm Julia and I'm a graduate of RMIT University with a double degree in Bachelor of Health Science and Bachelor of Applied Science (Chiropractic).

I am passionate about communicating the chiropractic message of spinal health and its impact on greater health.

I am super excited about encouraging others to take an active role in improving their wellbeing. I have particular interests in the benefit of chiropractic care during pregnancy, and in managing neck pain, headaches and migraines.

I value the multimodal advantage chiropractic care can offer; not only in relation to spinal health, but also in common condition of the extremities (e.g. shoulder, elbow, wrist, ankle, foot).

I incorporate a balance of joint, muscle and nervous system in my care, whilst also appreciating the value simple/noninvasive rehabilitative tools can support treatment outcomes and goals.

I incorporate a range of chiropractic techniques including manual, low force and mobilisation skills. Each offers safe and gentle chiropractic adjustments that are appropriate in all stages of life, and individualised to consider pre-existing conditions.

I support a collaborative space in deciding which techniques offer the most comfort, and take pride in contributing to your health journey.

Elle
Massage Therapist / Myotherapist (Studying Bachelor of Osteopathy)

Hey there, I'm Elle, a proud member of the Empowered Spine and Mind team for the past few years, working as a Myotherapist.

I've been working in the industry a few years, and am currently back at uni completing more study- Bachelor of Osteopathy.

My approach to treatment is all about you—pinpointing your unique needs and delivering targeted care. Whether it's regaining your range of motion, reducing pain, or boosting movement and functionality, I'll work with you to achieve your goals. I love working with clients from all walks of life and addressing a variety of conditions, most commonly TMJ disorder and the usual neck, back and shoulders.

My toolkit includes an array of techniques like dry needling, MET muscle and joint releases, mobilisations, myofascial release, and cupping to ensure you get the best results.

Jess
Receptionist

Hi , I'm Jess

I'm a receptionist here at Empowered, and I’ve been part of the team in one way or another since I was 17. I first joined through a high school work placement, and that experience had such a big impact on me that I knew I wanted to come back. Not long after, I was offered a role, and I’ve been here ever since.

Now 20, I currently work as a disability support worker at Aspect. I’m really passionate about helping people and being part of a space where compassion and care make a real difference. I’m planning to start a Certificate IV in Mental Health next year to continue building on my skills and knowledge in the support space.

Outside of work, I play VFLW footy, which keeps me active, challenged, and always learning. I love the team spirit and the way it pushes me to grow both on and off the field. Whether I’m playing a game, reading a book, or welcoming clients at the front desk, I always try to bring energy, care, and purpose to everything I do.

Jess
Reception & Administration

Hi, my name is Jess and I work Administration and Reception at Empowered Spine and Mind.

I am a long-time friend of Cristina, and we use to work together 13 years ago (babies!)

When I am not behind the reception desk, I am mum to my beautiful toddler Elsie and operating my freelance makeup business.

In my downtime I like watch a movie with the hubby, walk our two dogs, head to a reformer pilates class or catch up with my girlfriends over dinner and drinks.

It’s impossible to have a dull day working at Empowered, and I love the laughs shared with the team and clients here.

I look forward to helping you next time you’re in the clinic!

Erin
Remedial Massage Therapist

Hi, my name is Erin.

I've been a Remedial Massage Therapist for 4 years, with experience in relaxation, hot stone and pregnancy massage.

Focusing on a holistic approach for all of my treatments, this allows me to form deeper connections with each of my clients to fully understand where their tension may be stemming from. From here we create a treatment plan together that best suits the clients needs and main concerns.

I thoroughly enjoy performing relaxation treatments as well. Relaxation gives the client a chance to take some deep breaths, check in with their body and relax the nervous system.

Hot Stone and Pregnancy relaxation massages are also big favourites of mine!

I am working every Monday from 1pm onwards at Empowered and I cant wait to take on more clients!

Millie & Max

Millie and Max are Cristinas beautiful Australian Shepherds. They are at the clinic most days and are generally stars of the show.

Please let us know if you are allergic or don't like dogs and we will make sure they're away for your appointment.

Georgie

Chinese Medicine/Acupuncture & Hijama Practitioner

Hi, I’m Georgie – a practitioner specialising in traditional Chinese medicine and Hijama (wet cupping therapy).

My journey into natural health began with a deep curiosity about how the body heals and maintains balance. This passion led me to study acupuncture, where I learned to take a holistic approach to health—treating not just the symptoms, but the whole person.

I offer traditional Chinese acupuncture, a practice involving the insertion of fine needles at specific points on the body.

Many people seek acupuncture to support general wellbeing, manage stress, assist with digestion, musculoskeletal concerns, and women’s health. In addition to acupuncture, I also practice Hijama (wet cupping), a traditional therapy used in various cultures.

This technique involves applying suction cups to the skin, followed by light, controlled surface incisions. Hijama is traditionally used with the intention of supporting circulation and helping to address areas of stagnation.

My approach is calm, compassionate, and client-centred. I aim to create a safe and welcoming space where you feel listened to and supported, and where treatment plans are tailored to meet your individual needs.

Whether you’re new to holistic therapies or seeking ongoing support, I’m here to assist you on your health journey.

John

Remedial Massage