Meet the team
senior osteopath
Natalie Griffiths
For Natalie, movement has always been a way of life.
With a background in dance, more than 20 years as an osteopath, and a passion for yoga, exercise and breathwork, Natalie has always been fascinated by how the body moves, adapts and recovers.
Originally from London, Natalie graduated from the University College of Osteopathy (formerly the British School of Osteopathy) before moving to New Zealand, where she has practised for more than two decades. Over the years, she has continued to expand her clinical knowledge through further training in Visceral Osteopathy at the Barral Institute, as well as extensive paediatric and obstetric study.
Natalie particularly enjoys working with complex and longstanding presentations, where there may be multiple factors contributing to a person’s symptoms. She has a particular interest in headaches, migraines and TMJ, and enjoys working with children and teenagers, including helping young athletes recover from sports injuries.
Natalie’s approach is grounded in the osteopathic philosophy of treating the person as a whole. She draws on a combination of cranial, structural and visceral techniques, adapting each treatment to the individual and their goals.
Her interest in movement and wellbeing extends beyond the treatment room. Having completed Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training and Buteyko training, Natalie enjoys bringing these disciplines together with osteopathy to help clients understand their bodies, improve the way they move and breathe, and take an active role in their own wellbeing.
Natalie has also spent many years teaching and sharing her experience with others. She ran her own osteopathic clinics at Motherwell in Mount Eden and in Grey Lynn for 10 years, while simultaneously working as a clinic tutor on the osteopathy degree programme at Unitec in Auckland.
For Natalie, osteopathy is about more than treating pain. It’s about helping people move towards optimal function so they can keep doing the things they enjoy, whether that’s getting back to sport, moving more freely, managing the demands of everyday life, or simply feeling more at home in their body.
“I use a wide range of manual therapy techniques which I tailor to suit your specific condition, from gentle cranial and functional approaches to myofascial release and joint manipulation – whatever you prefer.”
~ Matthew
why choose matthew?
This osteo really does feel your pain.
Matthew has worked in the health sector since 1996, first as a sports massage therapist and since 2008 as an osteopath. He is also an active participant in sports, mostly cycling and running. He has run everything from miles to marathons and even an ultramarathon.
In addition to his long list of qualifications, Matthew has experienced both sides of the therapy table. A snowboarding injury in his youth left him with chronic back and hip pain and after trying traditional treatments, he discovered the benefits of osteopathy and at last found relief from his pain.
In a nutshell, the holistic philosophy of osteopathy — that the musculoskeletal system must be aligned for all body systems to function optimally — resonated with Matthew, who quit his sport massage therapist job at a London clinic and returned to New Zealand to complete a Masters in Osteopathy. Since then, he has continued to expand his clinical expertise, travelling the world and studying under global experts in the specific areas of cranial, fascial, foot and ankle osteopathy.
In theory, Matthew has all the qualifications to heal your pain, and in practice he also has the credentials to say that he literally does feel your pain, plus he is committed to the belief that Unity Osteopathy will help you to regain and improve your body’s optimal function.
Pain-free living
Why live with pain? If your mobility, sleep or mood are being affected by nagging pain and discomfort, we would love to help you find freedom. Osteopathy treatments effectively relieve pain and improve mobility, allowing you to return to the activities you love.
Recover faster
Injuries and illnesses can be incredibly frustrating - thankfully osteopathy offers a path to faster recovery. Our tailored treatments enhance circulation and alleviate pain and inflammation, helping you regain your strength and vitality quickly.
Perform at your best
Osteopathy is a powerful approach to promoting overall health and wellness. Its treatments effectively improve circulation, enhance the immune system, and significantly reduce pain and inflammation, empowering you to lead a healthier, happier life.
What to expect from
Your osteo appointment
Pre-consultation
Gather any pre-existing documents like ACC claim number, relevant imaging (x-ray, MRI), or injury details and fill out our online intake form.
Consultation
This is where we meet for the first time and discuss your specific issues. Matt will probably crack a dad joke but things do get better from there.
Examination
Physical assessment of posture, range of motion, and pain areas and osteopathic exam. Osteopathy takes an integrated approach, assessing not only the troubled area but also related regions e.g. knee pain may stem from lower back, pelvis or ankle issues.
Diagnosis
Formulation of a diagnosis and treatment options.
Treatment Plan
Development of a personalised plan, often including manual therapy and stretching.
Osteopathic Treatment
Hands-on techniques to relieve pain and enhance mobility.
Follow-Up
Advice on exercises and lifestyle changes, with follow-up appointments to track progress.
happy clients
“Comprehensive & holistic approach”
“Unity Osteo is an excellent practice. I regularly go to see Matt who is an exceptional osteopath. He has insightful expertise and cares about his clients. He is well-researched and consistently keeps up to date with modern developments within his field. He makes recommendations for complimentary practices when necessary and ensures a comprehensive and holistic approach. I have been going to him for many years.“
~ Louise H, Marketing Manager, Auckland
our core values
Our Commitment to You
Our philosophy
At the core of our philosophy is the body’s ability to heal and repair when aligned and functioning as designed. Our osteopaths use gentle yet powerful hands-on techniques to bring your body back in line.
Right there with you
We are warm, understanding and very present with you in your osteo journey. We have extensive and expert training in hands-on treatment. We don’t stick you on a machine and walk away.
Change takes time
Our appointments aren’t five minutes long because we know how the body adapts over time from dysfunction and pain back to pain-free function. We’re in it for the long haul with you.
Time for your prime?
If thriving in your body feels better than just surviving, you’ve come to the right place. Unity Osteopaths are passionate about helping your body find optimal health - ready to find your prime?