Our Team
Your Chiropractors
Your Chiropractors at Essential Health Chiropractic are committed to provide an enjoyable, vibrant and relaxing atmosphere to cater for all different ages. With our fun kids area, our educational tools, our friendly staff and professional Chiropractic doctors, we aim to create the right environment to promote wellbeing. We are passionate about serving the community and helping to create happier and healthier individuals.
Dr. Gerald Vargas – Chiropractor
Dr. Gerald, the principal and founding Chiropractor at Essential Health Chiropractic brings his knowledge and passion for functional and integrative Chiropractic care to assist individuals to function at their very best. His motivation and drive to further Chiropractic and natural medicine came from his own health challenges early in life. At 16 years of age, he was diagnosed with a severe inflammatory disorder of the bowel, called Crohn’s disease.
This spurred his own search for solutions to regain his health, which he found through Chiropractic. His passion for working with children and patients with ‘challenging health issues‘ inspires him to continue to do what he does.
Dr. Gerald studied at Sydney University where he obtained his Bachelor of Medical Science Degree. He then went on to receive his Masters of Chiropractic from Macquarie University graduating in 1998.
Following his Chiropractic studies, he then continued his education with training in Acupuncture and Biomesotherapy. In 2003, he travelled to the U.S. to undergo further studies and examination to receive certification in Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET).
During 2006, he was awarded Advanced Certification in Sacro-Occipital Technic (SOT). He also became certified in the Webster’s Technique, which is a technique which may be helpful for pregnant women throughout pregnancy.
In 2008, Dr. Gerald was awarded by the board of SOTO-Australasia the title of “Certified Craniopath” which is a rare and distinguished honour.
He has previously served on the board of examiners for SOTO-Australasia and was past-President for the organisation. He has also served as a “Primary Educator” for SOTO-Australasia, teaching SOT to Chiropractors both locally and internationally. Dr Gerald has also been a regular speaker at SORSI (Sacro-Occipital Research Symposium International) in the USA at their annual international conference. He has also been a regular examiner at the International Certification examinations in San Diego for Neuro-emotional Technique (NET).
HOURS:
MONDAY | 7.30 – 12.00PM | 3.00 – 7.00PM |
TUESDAY | 7.30 – 12.00PM | 3.00 – 7.00PM |
THURSDAY | 7.30 – 12.00PM | 3.00 – 7.00PM |
FRIDAY | 7.30 – 12.00PM | 3.00 – 7.00PM |
Clair Duque Perez – Orofacial Myofunctional Therpist (OMT)
Claire Duque is a dedicated and highly passionate Occupational Therapist and Paediatric Myofunctional Therapist. After completing her Bachelor of Applied Science in Occupational Therapy in 2011 through The University of Western Sydney, she has built a career marked by human connection, skill, and a commitment to improving the lives of her clients. Growing up in the Hills area of Sydney as one of six children, and having attending a small school, she developed a strong sense of community and support, which she brings to her professional life.
She has provided intensive support and skill-building therapy for 13 years to individuals with severe and enduring mental illnesses. This work required patience, empathy, and a trauma-informed approach. She Is very excited to be part of our team and offering services to our little ones.
I have joined Essential Health Chiropractic (EHC) due to our aligning interests in childhood development and learning, EHC’s high level of clinical expertise, and also the positive results seen in our family members from having treatment with Dr Gerald Vargas.
Outside my clinical practice, I regularly attend the gym, maintain long-standing friendships and am actively involved in my son’s school, serving on the parent volunteer team. I embrace a community ethos, believe in the importance of uplifting those around you, and practise gratitude daily.
My heartfelt commitment to this field, combined with my experience and compassionate approach, I feel makes me a standout Paediatric Myofunctional Therapist. I’m excited to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of the children and families I work with.
Our Management staff & Assistants
Jessica Rogue – Chiropractic assistant
Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge in the area of customer service, having worked in medical centres and in the area finance previously.
She’s excited to bring her level of attention and care in making the experience for the practice members memorable. Jessica being a local resident of the hills, enjoys working in his vibrant team who committed to making a difference one patient at a time.
We are delighted to have her part of our team, as she helps facilitate the service that we provide towards our patients.
e.
Jordan Vargas – Chiropractic Assistant
Jordan is currently in his second year at university studying his Bachelor of Chiropractic at Macquarie University. He enjoys playing soccer and playing video games in his spare time.
He enjoys working at Essential Health not only because of the positive environment, but also the training and hands-on opportunity that it offers him as a future Chiropractor. Learning how to connect with patients and making them feel welcome and looked after is what he enjoys. By doing so, he feels that this will further support and encourage more growth.
Jordan is able to bring great leadership qualities to the team, allowing himself to teach and mentor others whilst also refining his own skills. He prides himself on his inter-personal skills, which further adds to the team and the patient experience. This allows patients to feel looked after and have their needs taken care of. This ensures they enjoy their experience whilst receiving the upmost care.
Alexia Terlikar – Chiropractic Assistant
Alexia being one of our newest members of our team, brings a level of maturity and care towards the patients of our centre. Her involvement in bringing our special and unique service into the community via social media platforms is one of her many talents.
She is committed towards providing a level of care and attention to our patients, so that they both feel welcome and looked after. In her spare time she also studies at university and enjoys time with her family and friends.
We are so pleased to have Alexia part of our unique and vibrant tea m.
Lara Holstein – Chiropractic Assistant
Hello, my name is Lara, and I am currently studying Marketing and business. Outside of studying I enjoy hanging with friends, makeup and fashion. It’s a great way to relax and recharge!
I enjoy health and wellness and all things spiritual, working at Essential health is special to me. I believe that it is important to work for a company with the same morals and values as me. On top of that it is great that I am surrounded by an environment of educated individuals to share and collaborate ideas with.
I hope to bring a sense of kindness and positivity to each patient I meet and am looking forward to assisting in all booking and admin needs.