As managing director of Physio Health Perth, Shabreena Mavi APAM spends her days helping older adults regain movement, confidence and independence. 

It’s a role that unites her fascination with how movement transforms lives and her belief that physiotherapy is ‘a perfect blend of compassion, empowerment and movement’. 

Shabreena completed her undergraduate degree in physiotherapy and a master’s degree in India before moving to Australia in 2013. 

‘I got married here and sat the Australian exams. 

'I’d already been practising in India so in total I’ve been in physiotherapy for about 14 years. 

'I’ve never wanted to do anything else other than physio.’ 

That passion shaped a diverse career across community care, aged care, paediatrics, private practice and the NDIS. 

Early exposure to different age groups confirmed where her strengths lay. 

‘I enjoyed being with older adults,’ Shabreena says. 

‘Even small wins—seeing someone walk a little further or manage their own transfers—felt huge. 

'They taught me resilience and adaptability and that’s what inspired me to promote healthy ageing.’ 

Founding her own business last year consolidated years of experience managing multidisciplinary teams and supervising junior clinicians across five aged care sites in Western Australia and in NDIS work. 

Those roles strengthened her understanding of what lies at the heart of gerontology: empathy, education and patience. 

‘When you work with older adults, progress can be slow. 

'You have to keep reinforcing how important it is for them to move and you need to listen—not just do what’s on your task list. 

'That’s how you motivate people to stay active and independent.’ 

Her approach centres on tailoring programs to each person’s interests. 

‘Physiotherapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. 

'Sometimes it’s five simple exercises they actually enjoy or movement built into daily activities they love. 

'That’s how we build independence.’ 

Younger clinicians, she adds, often need time to adjust to the slower pace of gerontology work. 

‘If you come from a fast-paced clinic, expectations don’t always match but when you build rapport, you see progress—and that keeps you motivated.’ 

Shabreena’s philosophy of quality over quantity drove her to start her own business. 

‘I wanted to give clients quality time without the stress of finishing early. 

'For me, quality is more important than quantity.’ 

Her work was recognised with an Excellent Service Award in 2020 from her aged care employer. 

Equally important to her is giving back. 

‘I love to serve my community, whether it’s through the APA Gerontology national group or volunteering at medical camps. 

'If I can take away someone’s pain or simply listen with kindness, that’s success for me.’ 

As a secretary of the APA Gerontology Committee in Western Australia, Shabreena has found professional connections and shared purpose. 

‘I’ve met so many like-minded professionals who are passionate about older adults’ health. 

'The discussions, continuing education and shared resources help me maintain evidence-based practice. 

'It’s also given me a fresh perspective on advocacy—what else we can do for older adults and how to build change for future generations.’ 

That awareness shapes her broader view of ageing and care. 

‘One day we’ll all get old. 

'If we understand how it feels, we’ll treat people with more empathy and dignity. 

'When it’s our turn, we’ll hope for the same.’ 

When asked what influences her clinical work most, Shabreena doesn’t hesitate. 

‘My clients are my greatest teachers. 

'Every day brings a different story and a new challenge. 

'They’ve taught me resilience, commitment and compassion.’ 

For Shabreena, physiotherapy is both profession and philosophy. 

‘If you’re not passionate, empathetic and willing to understand people, you’re probably not in the right career. 

'Money is important but fulfilment comes from making a difference. 

'When you work with heart, everything else follows.’