Dr Emma Vanheems
Over Two Decades of Experience in Fertility & Women’s Health
Dr Emma Vanheems is the Founder and Principal of Elsternwick Acupuncture, with over 22 years of clinical experience and a particular focus on fertility, IVF and women’s health.
Emma’s clinical background extends well beyond Chinese medicine. With over two decades in clinical practice, a double science degree, postgraduate studies in nutritional and environmental medicine, and 20 years in pharmaceuticals, she brings a distinctive breadth of experience to her integrative fertility and women’s health practice.
Emma has worked with thousands of women and couples navigating fertility challenges, IVF, pregnancy and hormonal concerns. She has a particular interest in complex cases, especially when patients have undergone extensive investigations or treatment without finding clear answers.
At the centre of Emma’s practice is her commitment to understanding each patient’s individual circumstances. She takes the time to listen, review medical histories and investigations, and explain treatment options clearly. She provides the highest level integrative care – fusing traditional Chinese medicine with modern science and a genuine respect for the individual needs and decisions of every patient.
Areas of Clinical Interest
– Fertility acupuncture, IVF and preconception care
– Reproductive and hormonal health
– PMOS, endometriosis and menstrual concerns
– Pregnancy and postnatal care
– Perimenopause and menopause
– Complex women’s health presentations
Qualifications & Professional Experience
– AHPRA-registered Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Acupuncturist
– Double degree in Chinese Medicine and Human Biology — RMIT University
– Clinical internship — Jiangsu Provincial Hospital, China
– Postgraduate studies in Nutritional & Environmental Medicine — ACNEM
– Over 22 years of clinical practice
– 20 years in pharmaceuticals, including 12 years in women’s health
Outside the clinic, Emma enjoys keeping fit, sailing and spending time with her husband and two children.
Dr Catherine Farchione
Dr Catherine Farchione is our Senior Integrative Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Nutritionist, and Fertility Coach.
Dr Catherine has 22+ years of clinical expertise and is dedicated to providing her patients with a holistic and gentle approach to health. She is passionate about women’s health and fertility and has accumulated many years of experience, successfully supporting thousands of women with acupuncture, herbal medicine and women’s nutritional integrative medicine.
At a young age, Dr Catherine turned to Chinese Medicine for a health issue she wanted to treat naturally. Her interest in Chinese Medicine grew through her continued experience of the benefits, and combined with her passion for helping others, she decided to pursue it as a career. In her many years of experience, she has developed a special interest in women’s health issues from period pain to fertility and pregnancy support.
Dr Catherine has studied in both Australia and China completing a Bch App Sc (Chinese Med) and Bch App Sc (Human Biology). She has also completed post-graduate studies in Nutrition (AIF).
Dr Catherine enjoys reading, listening to music, and spending time with her husband Lucas and two daughters.
Dr Louise Osborn
Louise is a compassionate Acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine Practitioner with a special interest in women’s health, supporting patients through all life stages – from menstruation to menopause.
She has a particular focus on fertility, including IVF, ICSI, and Assisted Reproductive Support, offering collaborative care to help couples achieve their reproductive goals.
She holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Chinese Medicine) from Torrens University and is registered with AHPRA as an acupuncturist, Chinese herbalist, and dispenser. Louise is also a member of the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA).
With over 12 years of experience teaching Pilates, Louise blends her knowledge of movement and Chinese medicine to provide a holistic approach to wellbeing.
Outside of work, she enjoys travelling, hiking, and spending time with her husband Guillermo and their golden retriever, Polly.
Dr Sarah Hennessey
An experienced Acupuncturist and Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Dr Sarah Hennessey has spent over a decade supporting women’s health, fertility, sleep, and stress-related conditions.
With a background in Western Health Science, Psychology, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Sarah takes a holistic approach that honours both the body and mind. Her practice focuses on regulating the autonomic nervous system—the body’s stress response—to restore balance and wellbeing.
Through her gentle, grounding, and compassionate treatments, Sarah helps patients reconnect with themselves and find calm amid modern life. She has been an AHPRA-registered practitioner since 2016 and is a Senior Fellow with the Society of Natural Therapists and Researchers.
Dr Nathan Burns
Nathan Burns is an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist with over 20 years of clinical experience. He holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture) from Victoria University of Technology and practices using a holistic Traditional Chinese Medicine approach.
Nathan has a strong focus on musculoskeletal concerns, nerve-related pain including sciatica, and men’s health. His treatments may include acupuncture, dry needling, cupping, electro-acupuncture, and tailored exercises to support long-term wellbeing.
