About
Our Team
Our mission is to deliver holistic and person-centered support for Australians living with persistent pain, fatigue, and invisible illnesses.
We believe that everyone has the right to access informed, compassionate care. We are intentional in creating a space in which people can feel safe, with trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming and inclusive care principles underpinning everything we do.
MACP, APAM, BPhysio(Hons), ProfCert PainSc, MScMed(PainMgmt), PhD Candidate
Committee Member - Australian Physiotherapy Association Pain Group (NSW)
Local Pain Educator (Pain Revolution)
sophieshephard.com.au | LinkedIn | ResearchGate
Soph is a Titled Pain Physiotherapist, and founder of Vive. Her special interest in pain, fatigue and invisible illness stems from her own lived experience of ME/CFS, and only grew after graduating as a physiotherapist, as she encountered more and more people who had difficulty accessing suitable support for their complex health needs. She takes a compassionate, holistic approach to practice, and nothing fills her cup more than supporting people with pain, fatigue and other invisible illnesses to move from ‘just surviving’ to thriving.
We’re not joking about the ‘special interest’ bit - not only has Soph spent the last few years working exclusively in this space, but she is also mid-way through a PhD, has published research in academic journals and presented at national conferences, and is an active member of the NSW Australian Physiotherapy Association Pain Group Committee. When she does have some downtime, she loves nothing more than curling up and devouring a good book with a cup of coffee in hand. Her (very large) Golden Retriever Grover, cats Juno and Basil, and husband Caleb usually aren’t far away.
Sophie Shephard
APA Titled Pain Physiotherapist & Director
APAM, B.Physio
Oliver is a Physiotherapist, Yoga and Meditation teacher/trainer, and psychotherapist in training. With over a decade of experience in practicing and teaching Yoga and meditation, he emphasizes a holistic and mindful approach to Physiotherapy, recognizing the inseparable connection between mind and body. This perspective is particularly informed by his own journey with Long COVID and ME/CFS.
Oliver's lived experience and deep interest in the complexities of pain and fatigue have led him to explore new, evidence-informed yet flexible approach to his physiotherapy practice, tailored to the unique needs and contexts of each individual. He has taught pain management courses and workshops to personal trainers and yoga teachers both in Australia and internationally.
When he isn’t working, you'll find him on his meditation cushion, yoga mat, out riding his bike, or relaxing with his big fluffy Samoyed, Appa.