Outpatient physiotherapy for stroke

Rewire your brain, regain mobility

Your life doesn't end with a stroke. It evolves. The brain has the ability to adapt through neuroplasticity, forming new connections that support recovery. Our stroke-specific rehabilitation sessions are designed to leverage this process, helping individuals regain function and improve their quality of life. Our outpatient stroke physiotherapy sessions can help you:

• Improve balance, strength, movement, coordination, and mobility
• Regain spatial awareness
• Enhance walking ability and reduce fall risks
• Relearn everyday tasks like standing, reaching, and gripping
• Reduce stiffness and improve flexibility

Access our disability-friendly gym and stroke-specific equipment

Our gym offers an ideal environment for recovery. Our spacious facilities and specialised equipment maximise your brain and body's ability to strengthen your muscles, improve balance and coordination, and regain movement.

Personalise your recovery

First, we shall evaluate the impact of stroke on your movement. We will look at muscle length, body alignment, strength, movement, and overall function. Your therapists will then work with you to establish a rehabilitation plan. We respect your values, beliefs, and goals on health. With us, you can navigate your journey in ways that reflect your identity.

Rates, referrals and funding support

Initial physiotherapy assessment: $180/hr
Follow-up rehabilitation: $140/hr
Physiotherapy assistant: $90/hr

Funding options may be available. We accept self-referrals and referrals from healthcare professionals.

Enquire or get assessed

Fill out this form or reach us through the following:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 03 338 2009

You're also welcome to drop by: 26 Nash Road, Halswell, Christchurch 8025.

Meet your therapists

Jack Haughton is General Manager for Rehabiliation and Therapy at St John of God. With over 20 years of experience, he is a UK-trained physiotherapist who has dedicated much of his career to stroke rehabilitation. He moved to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2008 in search of a more balanced lifestyle and has since worked in a range of clinical environments, including the stroke and neurosurgery wards at Christchurch Public Hospital.

After an early career in the building trade, a life-changing accident led Jack to retrain as a physiotherapist. His passion for stroke rehabilitation was sparked by an inspirational supervisor, and he continues to find deep satisfaction in the personal connections and tangible impact that come with his work. Outside the clinic, he enjoys cycling, running, and exploring New Zealand’s outdoors. Jack completed postgraduate study at the University of Otago in Rehabilitation and Advanced Physiotherapy Management.

Jake Gardner is Senior Physiotherapist who has a variety of experience in the National Health Service in the United Kingdom. He has worked in stroke rehabilitation units, regional spinal injury centres, spasticity management clinics, and community and outpatient therapy services. Whether addressing neurological conditions, musculoskeletal challenges, or mobility concerns, his commitment to evidence-based care helps clients achieve meaningful progress and improved quality of life.

Jake has provided individualised rehabilitation, focusing on enhancing movement control and supporting clients in regaining optimal function. Passionate about working closely with patients, Jake tailors each treatment plan to meet individual needs, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive rehabilitation journey. He has a Bachelor's degree with Honours (Physiotherapy) from Leeds Becket University and is a member of NZ Bobath Association.

Sophie Ryan has been a Senior Physiotherapist at St John of God since 2018. With more than 15 years of experience in neurological rehabilitation, she has supported stroke survivors across hospital, outpatient, and community settings in New Zealand and the UK. Her career spans roles in Christchurch as a junior rotational physiotherapist and in Auckland with the Community Stroke Team.

She also provided in-patient and community-based neurological rehabilitation in both the UK's National Health Service and in private hospitals. Sophie has completed both Basic and Advanced Bobath courses and is deeply committed to helping individuals rebuild their lives after stroke. She values the privilege of being part of each person’s unique recovery journey. Outside work, she enjoys time with her two young children, catching up with friends, and traveling. She holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Otago.