Meet Us
Director and Sports Physiotherapist
B.Sc (Exercise Science) | M.Sc (Physiotherapy) | M.ClinPhys (Sports Physiotherapy)
Alex Skinner
Alex is the Refresh Physiotherapy owner and director.
He has been a physiotherapist for over 13 years. He returned to University to complete his Masters degree in Sports Physiotherapy at Curtin University in 2018.
Alex’s experience supporting elite sports teams includes state AFL, state hockey, state netball and a wide range of elite individual athletes. He also worked at the Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast in 2018 where he worked with international gymnasts and wrestlers.
In the community he has also worked with team sports including soccer, AFL, rugby and netball as well as many individual athletes including runners, swimmers and triathletes.
Alex believes in the importance of evidence-based practice and is passionate about helping his patients to become stronger and more resilient. He specialises in shoulder injuries, sports injury management, professional bike-fitting, running analysis and exercise rehabilitation
Outside of the clinic Alex enjoys spending quality time with his young family, trail running, mountain bike riding, growing veggies with his kids and he loves a good coffee.
Senior Physiotherapist - APA Titled Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
B.Sc | M.Phys | M.ClinPhy (Continence and Pelvic Health)
Issy Downie
Issy has been a physiotherapist since 2014 and completed her Masters degree of Clinical Physiotherapy Continence and Pelvic Health at Curtin University in 2022 and was awarded the credential of APA Titled Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist in 2025.
She can help with conditions involving bowel or bladder disorders, sexual pain/ dysfunction, pelvic pain disorders such as endometriosis and IBS, exercising through the woman's life cycle including ant/postnatal and menopausal/ postmenopausal issues, functional strength training to improve power and endurance for recreational activities.
Issy has also completed training in advanced chronic/complex pelvic floor disorders and upskilling in pessary fittings for pelvic organ management.
Issy will use exercise as well as hands on management with all clients and is passionate about ensuring her clients receive a strong treatment plan and understanding of their body.
You can see her on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays at the clinic as well as most mornings at the beach!
Ellie Frew
Physiotherapist
B.Sc (Physiotherapy)
Ellie graduated from Curtin University in 2015, she has been a physiotherapist for close to 10 years and has worked exclusively in the private practice setting. Ellie has worked as the head Physio for premier grade rugby union in Perth as well as first division netball clubs.
She has completed further training in neck pain, dizziness and vertigo, whiplash and headaches and very much joys providing relief and treatments for these conditions. She is also passionate about finding long term solutions for all musculoskeletal conditions, acute or chronic and has been using exercise therapy and clinical pilates for many years.
Ellie is qualified in dry needling treatment and finds it particularly effective in treating chronic pain conditions.
Outside of the clinic Ellie will be chasing either her two children, six chooks or one naughty puppy around Busselton and loves to play social netball, swim at the beach and work in her veggie patch.
Ashlen Sheridan-Bell
Physiotherapist
B.Sc (Physiotherapy) B.Sc (Exercise and Sport Science Majoring in Health Promotion)
Ash completed her Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of Notre Dame Fremantle, after also graduating with a degree in Exercise and Sport Science, majoring in Health Promotion.
She has worked as a head trainer and in injury prevention and rehabilitation with WAFL and WAFLW teams, building a strong foundation in helping athletes perform at their best and recover with confidence.
Ash is passionate about supporting a wide range of people — from women navigating the postnatal journey and individuals with disabilities to athletes and children. She has a special interest in working with at-risk and underserved communities, helping her patients build trust in their bodies and return to the activities they love.
Her approach combines strength training, mobility work, and hands-on techniques, with an emphasis on individualised, evidence-based care tailored to each person’s goals.
Outside the clinic, Ash enjoys Pilates, coastal walks, and exploring the outdoors with her family and energetic toddler.
Ricky-Lee Merrick
Myotherapist
B.Health Science (Clinical Myotherapy)
Ricki-Lee is a Myotherapist who graduated in 2021 and has experience in treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. With hands-on experience in multiple clinics over the years and working alongside different practitioners, Ricki-Lee has developed a versatile approach to treatment.
As a Myotherapist, Ricki-Lee uses a combination of techniques, including soft tissue release, dry needling, cupping, joint mobilisation, and exercise prescription to enhance movement, reduce pain, and improve overall function.
Throughout her career, Ricki-Lee has had the opportunity to work with the Geelong Cats during a season, gaining valuable insight into the sporting world. She has worked in big multidisciplinary clinics across Sydney and Melbourne but is now happy to call Margaret River home.
Outside the clinic Ricki-Lee is a busy Mum to a 1 year old, who loves going to the beach, bikes rides along the river, and anything that involves being outdoors.
Chiara Confortino
Receptionist
Front Desk - Admin
Chiara is the friendly face you’ll see when you first walk into Refresh Physio. She ensures our clinic runs smoothly and efficiently.
Chiara is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and support, helping patients feel welcomed and at ease from the moment they arrive.
When Chiara is not at work, you’ll find her keeping active and embracing the outdoors. She’s passionate about martial arts, enjoys swimming, and never says no to a weekend hike along the stunning Cape to Cape track. A true coffee lover, she appreciates a good brew almost as much as she loves fresh flowers—both of which brighten her day!