LAURA KELLY
Podiatrist & Co-Owner
Meet Laura, our esteemed Clinical Director and Co-owner at The Foot Studio, whose expertise in Podiatry is only matched by her fervor for sports and running. With a Bachelor of Podiatry from Charles Sturt University, Laura brings over a decade of professional experience epitomising both knowledge and dedication.
Laura’s journey in Podiatry is fueled by a deep-rooted love for sports and an active lifestyle. As a seasoned runner, she has conquered the Great Ocean Road Half Marathon and Melbourne Half Marathon, experiences that not only enhance her understanding of athletes’ needs but also infuse her practice with a unique perspective.
At The Foot Studio, Laura’s approach is holistic and comprehensive. Her expertise spans across various treatments, including dry needling, mobilisation therapy, high-power laser/photobiomodulation therapy, and shockwave therapy. She is especially skilled in biomechanics, sports injuries, and orthotics, making her a vital ally for athletes. Furthermore, her proficiency in injection therapy extends from managing ingrown toenails to alleviating chronic pain conditions like Morton’s neuromas and chronic recalcitrant heel pain.
Laura’s compassionate nature shines in her dedication to treating patients with complex needs, disabilities and, reflecting her belief in inclusive healthcare. Her experience in a Paediatric Health Care orphanage in Vietnam, working in a multidisciplinary team, has enriched her approach to patient care. Laura has a special interest in designing custom ankle braces and ankle foot orthoses for adults and kids with chronic ankle instability and pain, foot drop, adult acquired flat foot deformity, cerebral palsy and other neuromscular conditions.
When she’s not in the clinic, Laura lives an activity-filled life with her husband Courtney and almost 2 year old daughter. Laura is an avid water sports enthusiast, enjoying activities like kiteboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, free diving, and fishing. Her recent accomplishment of catching a Marlin in Exmouth is a testament to her adventurous spirit. Laura also loves running, cycling, swimming and has recently taken to the sport of triathlon.
Laura’s philosophy, “I enjoy treating all walks of life, from little feet to the elderly. Every person is different, and that’s what makes my job so interesting,” perfectly encapsulates her inclusive and personalised approach to Podiatry.
Whether you’re an athlete aiming for your next personal best, someone dealing with a foot condition, or seeking comprehensive Podiatric care, Laura’s blend of professional expertise and personal athletic experience makes her the ideal Podiatrist to guide you on your journey to optimal foot health and performance.
STEPHANEE HOLT
Podiatrist
Steph grew up on a farm in country Victoria and graduated from La Trobe University (Bendigo, Victoria) in 2017 with a Masters of Podiatric Practice and a Bachelor degree in Health Science.
Steph has broad and well-rounded experience working in both the public health sector and privately at The Foot Studio. With a passion for providing high quality treatment tailored to each individual, she strives to give you the care you need. Steph is known for her attention to detail and taking her time ensuring your needs are met during your Podiatry consultation, “I love being able to paint a picture and help my patients understand the ‘why’, linking all aspects of the lower limb”.
Although enjoying all aspects of podiatry, Steph has a keen interest in sports podiatry and varying musculoskeletal conditions that affect all ages. Steph is very passionate about looking at the broader aspects affecting a condition and using combination therapy to get the best results. To complement this, Steph has completed further study in Foot Mobilisation & manipulation, dry needling and injection therapy.
In her spare time Steph loves cooking and eating nutritious food, getting amongst the outdoors – camping/4WD, hiking, running, SUPing and spending time at the beach. Steph is looking forward to meeting you and your family, to help you put your best foot forward. Steph is available for consultation at our rooms in Claremont or via telehealth video or phone consultation.
Samantha Tapper
Podiatrist
Samantha completed a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine at The University of Western Australia, after completing a Bachelor of Science majoring in Physiology. Samantha was born and raised in New Zealand before moving to the Pilbara with her family in 2012.
Having a diverse background influenced Samantha to attend Podiatry placements in the Goldfields and Kimberley; This exposed her to a diverse range of conditions and clinical scenarios and has been key in the development of her problem solving and versatility when it comes to treatment plans.
Samantha’s experience working with children as a tutor and nanny sparked her interest in assessing and managing Paediatric conditions. Samantha has a passion for providing a high standard of care and educating patients to ensure they have full autonomy over their foot health. Samantha is invested in continually learning and advancing her skills and knowledge in podiatry.
In her spare time Samantha loves travelling WA, spending time in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Samantha loves to dance having completed advanced grades of the RAD ballet syllabus and placing in Aerobics and dance competitions. These days you may catch her having a boogie in the studio corridor. Samantha can’t wait to meet you and assist in your journey to happier healthier feet.
Sezen Shevketoglu
Podiatrist
Sezen graduated from Queensland University of Technology and has over 10 years of experience in Podiatry. She has worked interstate and treated in many clinical settings including tertiary hospitals, private practices, and aged care facilities.She has extensive experience in all areas of podiatry including general foot care, musculoskeletal pain, high risk foot management, paediatrics, orthotic prescription and manufacturing, footwear prescription and modification, dry needling, foot mobilisation, and surgical management of ingrown toenail and plantar warts.Having grown up with many healthcare professionals in the extended family, Sezen knew from a young age that her passion lies in healthcare. She enjoys practicing all aspects of Podiatry. She prides herself in being an excellent communicator and is very thorough with all treatment options with her patients. Her keen interests are dermatological and musculoskeletal presentations. She believes compassion, critical-thinking, detail orientated, and interpersonal skills are essential qualities to possess as a podiatrist.She is originally from Perth and moved back in June 2023. Outside of work, Sezen loves exploring the local restaurants and hiking! She thoroughly enjoys cooking all cuisines, particularly Italian and Japanese appetizers. She’s a proud supporter of the West Coast Eagles and Liverpool F.C!
Justin Howard
Podiatrist
Born and raised in Perth, Western Australia, Justin knew he wanted to work in health-care. Justin completed his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree at the University of Western Australia following his Bachelor of Science in Human Biology with Honours at Curtin University. During his studies he worked at leading footwear stores across Perth, providing him with an in-depth and up to date knowledge of current footwear trends.
Justin has a keen interest in diabetic foot care, ingrown nail surgeries, and managing complex musculoskeletal conditions of the lower limb. Justin provides tailored treatment plans that suit and support every patient and their individual needs, and is dedicated to empower patients to live their best lives from the ground up.
Outside of work, Justin plays badminton and enjoys an active lifestyle surrounded by family and friends, and understands how important good foot health is to keeping mobile and active.
Chelsea Arlidge
Podiatry Assistant
Meet Chelsea, Our nail therapist all the way from the shores of New Zealand. You’ll find her working her magic in the nail hub or chatting away at the front desk.
Like many Kiwis, Chelsea was drawn here by the promise of lifestyle! When she’s not busy beautifying nails, you’ll likely catch Chelsea spending time with friends or soaking up the sun at the beach. Chelsea’s buzzing with excitement to pamper clients at The Foot Studio.
Eliza Iob
Podiatry Assistant
Elisa is a reliable, cheerful and genuine person. She recently moved from Italy to Perth with her boyfriend to have a great life experience in Australia. Elisa graduated in Italy and later decided to follow her passion for nail care by enrolling in a prestigious private school which allowed her to become passionate about the world of beauty. She has two years of experience in the nail care sector and offers professional and meticulous service.
In her spare time, you can find Elisa in the outdoors going for walks with her dog, swimming and exploring new places.
Elisa also comes from a large family and loves spending time with them.
Elisa is excited to be a part of The Foot Studio team is looking forward to meeting you.
Meet our FRONT OF STAFF
COURTNEY KELLY
Practice Manager & Co-Owner
Courtney Kelly is the amazing Practice Manager and director at @thefootstudio. He has many talents and is a jack of all trades. He studied marine biology and zoology at UWA. He then moved on to a career in the commercial maritime industry which took him up and down the coast of WA and as far as Tasmania. He loves the outdoors and enjoys hiking, nature and photography. Something you might not know about him is that he is a true green thumb and is the reason for so many flourishing plants @thefootstudio He also has an unconditional love for the ocean and enjoys diving, boating and fishing. He is best known for his genuine customer service and amazing cups of tea. Courtney has brought many new recycling and environmental procedures into The Foot Studio including growing mushrooms and composting from recycled shredded office paper Feel free to ask Courtney any of your gardening questions at your next Podiatry appointment.
Jesara Sabin
Front of Staff
Jesara is a bubbly, creative and confident individual. She recently moved to Perth from New Zealand to enjoy the amazing Western Australian quality of life.
Jesara has moved here with wide eyes and can’t wait to explore new places and hobbies like diving, surfing, painting and pottery.
Before joining our team Jesara managed a few retail branches back in New Zealand; the front-facing, service-orientated aspect of these roles shines through at The Foot Studio. Jesara also has experience working in retirement homes and childcare, flourishing in roles that make a difference. Jesara and her partner Andrew both come from large families and she prides herself on being family orientated.
Jesara cant wait to meet you and welcome you into The Foot Studio.
Lucy Highet
Front of Staff
Lucy is an enthusiastic, dedicated and confident person. She loves working in the medical field and is currently completing a Bachelor in Biomedical Sciences, with a double major in Physiology and Neuroscience at the University of Western Australia. Lucy enjoys working in dynamic and fast-paced environment and prides herself on her ability to be empathetic and to go above and beyond for each individual.
Lucy is passionate about delivering exceptional customer service with a goal to make every individual’s experience a memorable one.
Lucy grew up in Western Australia and has also spent some time in the Northern Territory. She enjoys traveling and loves new experiences that require her to challenge herself. Lucy is excited to be a part of The Foot Studio team and is looking forward to meeting you.
Eloise Steslunde
Front of Staff
Eloise grew up in South Africa and is currently undertaking her Honours in Biomedical Research. She is passionate about preventative and individualised medical care, with a particular interest in microbial childhood infections. In her spare time, Eloise enjoys exploring new culinary creations in the kitchen and practising reformer Pilates. Her dedication to both science and personal wellness reflects her commitment to a balanced and holistic approach to life and health.
Jesse Wood
Front of Staff
Meet Jesse, our bubbly front-of-staff member and podiatry assistant, dedicated to bringing joy and good vibes to our clinic. With a deep passion for sports, Jesse actively competes in volleyball, rock climbing, and cheerleading while pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science and Exercise. Jesse is excited to welcome you into the clinic with a smile!
