Jesse Soopaya
Integrative Physiotherapist
Jesse is a dedicated integrative physiotherapist who specializes in musculoskeletal therapy, neurological rehabilitation, and empowering individuals to overcome pain, injury, and body imbalances. After graduating with a Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Physiotherapy Practice at La Trobe University with top honors, he combines Eastern and Western therapies.
With over a decade of experience, Jesse's approach integrates advanced techniques such as Active Release Techniques (ART), Functional Movement Systems (FMS), and Dynamic Neuromuscular Stability (DNS), which he learned under renowned educators in the field. His journey includes working with athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those seeking to restore harmony within their bodies.
“we started Lionheart as an initiative to empower purpose-driven, health-conscious people to align within and shine in their full potential.”
Jesse's holistic perspective was shaped by personal experiences, including supporting his mother through a stage 4 cancer diagnosis. Witnessing the importance of addressing health from a physical, mental, and spiritual lens, he began incorporating practices like Yoga, Chi Gong, and Transcendental Awareness Meditation into his work. This expanded his therapeutic approach, allowing him to treat not just symptoms but the deeper root causes of pain and dysfunction.
Jesse co-developed The Physical Freedom Method with Molly Rose Johansson, a unique program designed to restore alignment, optimize movement, and foster self-empowerment. His passion lies in helping clients unlock their innate healing potential, guiding them toward greater vitality and resilience.
Beyond his clinical work, Jesse enjoys participating in humanitarian work, exploring nature, playing music, and traveling. He believes in the power of aligning one's lifestyle, habits, and core beliefs to achieve lasting well-being. Whether you’re looking to enhance physical performance, recover from injury, or simply find more balance in your life, Jesse's compassionate and integrative approach offers a path toward holistic health and self-discovery.
You can listen to his podcasts on understanding pain and the use of nutraceuticals in rehabilitation.
Training & Education
My background in working with the human body started in 2015 when I undertook manual therapy training with Active Release Techniques (ART). I began working as a manual therapist in athletic environments. Since then, I have continued to develop proficiency in various bodywork techniques which I utilize today.
In 2017 I immersed myself in the Functional Movement System (FMS) and enjoyed applying this knowledge to both my own and my clients exercise programs. This helped me develop a high level of skill in biomechanical assessment, movement coaching, and corrective exercise prescription.
Shortly after, I was drawn to studying the nervous system and trained in Functional Neuro-Orthopedic Rehabilitation (FNOR). This ignited my passion for neuromuscular rehabilitation and in 2019, I undertook my first training with the Rehabilitation University of Prague in Dynamic Neuromuscular Stability (DNS). I have continued learning and applying the principles of DNS today because of its unparalleled effectiveness.
After receiving the dux in the Masters of Physiotherapy Practice at La Trobe University I began working as a physiotherapist in 2019. Despite all the tools I had at my disposal to help others I realised something was missing not only in the therapy I was providing but also in my own life. I found these missing pieces in Transcendental Awareness Meditation, Yoga, and Chi Gong.
The study and application of these practices have enhanced my therapeutic offerings and well-being immensely. I am deeply grateful to be able to integrate Eastern and Western therapies into my practice. I believe it is essential to view physical manifestations of pain from a holistic lens in order to truly understand and treat the root cause.
- Jesse David Soopaya
it is essential to view physical manifestations of pain from a holistic lense in order to truly understand and treat the root cause.
