About
Meet Dr Louisa Dalla Riva
“Bringing Joy to the Body and Peace to the mind”
Credentials
- Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine) – Southern School of Natural Therapies (Torrens University)
- BHSc in Youth Studies with a focus on drug and alcohol addiction (Victoria University)
- Diplomas in Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies, Remedial Massage, and Holistic Counselling (Australian Shiatsu College)
- 200-hour certificate in yoga teacher training (Santosha Yoga Institute)
- 50-hour certificate in pre and postnatal
- Advanced Applications of Anti-Aging Cosmetic Acupuncture theory and techniques with Michelle Gellis LAc MAc DipLAc
Registrations
- Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA)
- Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
- Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia (STAA)
Louisa is an AHPRA-registered Chinese Medicine and Shiatsu practitioner supporting the North & Western Melbourne community.
An integral component of Louisa’s practice is creating a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where clients feel heard, respected, and at ease in their healing journey. With a background in counselling, Louisa understands the importance of active listening and communication in building strong patient relationships. She enjoys the diversity of general practice, whether your main complaint is chronic pain, digestive issues, low energy, gynaecological concerns, stress, trauma or pain. Her approach allows healing to happen gradually and consistently over time.
Passionate about women’s health across the lifespan from menstruation through to menopause. Louisa has a special interest in supporting pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. She understands that every stage of this journey brings unique physical and emotional demands. Her personal experience gives her a deep appreciation for both the magic and challenges of motherhood.
Louisa is continually inspired by the wisdom of Chinese Medicine and remains engaged in further study to deepen her knowledge. Education is a key part of her approach, integrating practical dietary and lifestyle advice to empower clients in their health journey. She believes that when clients understand the principles behind their treatment, they can make more informed choices, actively participate in their healing, and maintain long-term well-being.
Her journey into Eastern Medicine began after a decade of working in a drug and alcohol youth service, where she provided trauma-informed care to vulnerable young people. Through this work, she witnessed firsthand the connection between emotional trauma and physical health, sparking her interest in holistic, body-based healing approaches.
Seeking integrative methods to support health and well-being, she trained in Shiatsu, drawn to its ability to restore balance through touch and movement. Her passion for this hands-on approach led her to further her studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Today, she integrates her diverse experience to provide comprehensive, compassionate care that supports healing on all levels.