Meet the Team
Dr Simone Licciardi
B.H.Sc, B.App.Sc (Osteopathy), Currently Studying - International Diploma in Animal Osteopathy
Simone founded West Osteopathy in Hoppers Crossing in 2021 after a decade of clinical work - and one clear realisation: treating the symptom without treating the nervous system underneath it doesn't actually fix anything.
Her focus is TMJ pain, chronic headaches, and the kind of persistent, hard-to-explain symptoms that have often already seen a dozen other practitioners. She is also a neuroaffirming practitioner with a particular interest in working with neurodivergent clients of all ages - understanding that nervous systems are not one-size-fits-all and that effective treatment means adapting to the person in front of her, not the other way around.
Treatment at West Osteopathy goes beyond the joint or muscle. Simone looks at the nervous system as the root driver - because until that's regulated, the body doesn't feel safe enough to change.
She trained at RMIT University, has worked with elite sporting teams including Melbourne Victory FC and Essendon Football Club, and is currently completing an International Diploma in Animal Osteopathy. When she's not in clinic, she's training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai, lifting weights, diving in Port Phillip Bay or watching The Office for the hundredth time usually with her dog Murphy close by.
Dr Jack Gatt
B.Biomed & Ex.Sci, B.Sc (Osteopathy), M.H.Sc (Osteopathy)
Jack graduated from Victoria University and joined West Osteopathy with a clear focus: helping people move well and get back to doing what they love.
His approach combines hands-on osteopathic treatment with exercise rehabilitation - because getting out of pain is only half the job. Jack also runs one-on-one strength and conditioning sessions for patients who want to build on their treatment, move with more confidence, and stay out of the clinic long-term.
He draws on joint mobilisation, soft tissue therapy, dry needling and cupping. He tailors active rehabilitation programs to each person's goals rather than applying a generic template.
Outside of clinic, Jack plays football and basketball, runs, lifts and spends time outdoors. He's also the kind of person who will always find the best local food spot wherever he ends up.
Ray Gatt
Remedial Massage Therapist (Diploma of Remedial Massage)
Ray is a dedicated and passionate Remedial Massage Therapist who graduated from The Gordon in 2026. Combining a deep appreciation for human anatomy with a clinical mindset, he specialises in body mechanics and chronic pain management. He approaches the body as an interconnected system, focusing not just on relieving immediate discomfort but on identifying and addressing the root biomechanical imbalances that drive persistent pain.
As a neurodiverse practitioner, Ray brings a profound level of empathy, unique insight and genuine care to his practice, particularly when working with other neurodiverse clients. He understands firsthand that sensory processing, nervous system regulation and communication needs vary greatly from person to person. This is why he is deeply committed to providing a safe, predictable and highly accommodating clinical environment where every individual feels truly heard, respected and at ease.
A signature element of Ray's approach is his extensive focus on personalised rehabilitation and self-care. Beyond hands-on treatment, he develops customised stretching programs tailored precisely to each client's unique postural habits, daily routines and movement patterns, empowering clients to take an active role in their own long-term healing, flexibility and injury prevention.
Ray is committed to continuous professional development and is actively pursuing further qualifications in dry needling and myofascial cupping. These advanced modalities will allow him to offer an even more comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to pain relief and functional restoration.
Murphy
Clinic Manager/Chief Happiness Officer
Meet Murphy, our four-legged clinic maestro and the fluffiest member of our team! He’s a Toy Cavoodle with a hypoallergenic coat as soft as clouds, and at 3 years old, he’s now a seasoned professional in tail-wagging therapy.
Murphy takes his role as Chief Happiness Officer very seriously, greeting every patient with a wagging tail and a smile that says, "Welcome, human. I’ve been expecting you." Now working full-time, he's the heartbeat of the clinic - boosting moods, calming nerves and occasionally stealing the spotlight.
But don’t let his adorable looks fool you. Behind those puppy-dog eyes is a cunning negotiator who’s mastered the art of scoring attention and initiating spontaneous games of fetch in the hallway. He reigns as the unchallenged king of charisma - and he knows it.
Outside the clinic, Murphy is a beach bum at heart. He lives for sandy paws, salty air, and wild frisbee chases. Whether he’s splashing in the waves or snoozing in the sun, he makes the most of every moment off-duty.
Murphy isn’t just a clinic pup - he’s a vital part of our team and a big reason our space feels warm and welcoming. We’re beyond lucky to have him, and we know you’ll love him just as much as we do.
Welcome to Murphy’s world—where every day is a tail-wagging adventure!