Our Team

Elle Uljarevic is the owner of Health Volition, a role she assumed in January 2020 after years of involvement with the clinic. Her journey with Health Volition began in 2013 as a Business Development Manager, where she demonstrated her strategic vision and leadership. By acquiring the practice, Elle brought new perspectives and a personal connection to the clinic's mission.

Elle's leadership is grounded in the traditional core values of Health Volition, ensuring the preservation of its legacy within the organization. Her passion for the field is deeply personal, stemming from her own experience with weight loss surgery in 2014. She views Health Volition as more than just a clinical support provider—it’s a holistic community dedicated to helping individuals achieve their health goals.

Elle’s diverse background includes approximately 12 years as a paralegal, over three years in a health professional role with Metro North Hospital Health Service (MNHHS), and ten years as a facility manager at a privately owned medical centre. Her entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in her eight years as the owner-operator of a photography business.

Beyond her professional achievements, Elle has made significant contributions to the community. She volunteered for over six years with PCYC Queensland, including a one-year term as a Committee Member, and has been a registered Justice of the Peace (Qualified) for the Department of Justice Queensland since 2007, underscoring her dedication to public service.

Known for her approachable and caring nature, Elle is deeply engaged with patients, prioritising a personalised and empathetic approach. With her extensive experience and strong leadership, Elle is committed to guiding Health Volition to new heights, building on past successes, and positively impacting more lives.

• CV: LinkedIn
• Email: elle@healthvolition.com.au

Lisa Bartzis (nee Peterson), a dedicated and Accredited Practicing Dietitian who has been a valuable member of the Health Volition team since 2016. Lisa is recognised by the Dietitians’ Association of Australia, holding accreditation that reflects her commitment to professional excellence. She holds a Bachelor of Health Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours), showcasing her academic prowess in her field.

Lisa is not just a dietitian; she is a friendly and approachable professional with a refined expertise in bariatric post-operative care. Her passion lies in empowering Health Volition's patients to improve their health through personalised and innovative approaches. Lisa is dedicated to helping each client achieve their unique goals, emphasising the importance of establishing lifelong healthy attitudes towards food.

With a wealth of experience, Lisa has worked in various settings, including one-on-one consultations, couple and family therapy settings, as well as workshop and public speaking engagements. Her versatility allows her to connect with individuals on a personal level, tailoring her approach to meet the diverse needs of her clients.

Lisa firmly believes that weight loss surgery is a tool that, when guided correctly, can lead individuals and their families to a healthier, happier, and longer life. Her emphasis on nutrition education, both pre and post-surgery, reflects her belief that anyone can change lifelong behaviours to enhance their quality of life.

What sets Lisa apart is her understanding of psycho-dietetic issues. She listens attentively and collaborates with clients and their support teams to provide recommendations that are not only psychologically minded but also sustainable for the long term. Lisa recognises that success in dietary changes requires a holistic and collaborative approach.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lisa is a published author with two cookbooks, "The Mediterranean Diet - The Lifestyle of Eating" and "Mediterranean Eating - Eat Cook Live." In her personal life, Lisa is happily married, with two young children and a fur baby. This multi-talented professional brings a wealth of knowledge, warmth, and dedication to her role at Health Volition, contributing significantly to the well-being of the individuals she serves.

• Email: nutrition@healthvolition.com.au

Fern Warren, a Qualified Clinical Hypnotherapist, demonstrates remarkable effectiveness in addressing a wide range of issues. These include smoking cessation, weight management, habit formation, chronic pain, grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, social anxiety, phobias, confidence building, immune support, addiction, and various other areas. Her sessions provide a confidential, supportive, and gentle space for therapy, aiming to deliver profound and life-changing results.

Employing a safe and gentle approach, Fern utilises the brain's neuroplasticity to strengthen positive neural pathways in the subconscious mind. The process involves "Synaptic Pruning" to eliminate unwanted neural pathways, allowing for the rewiring of new, healthy thought patterns that align with desired goals.

Fern tailors each session to uncover individual needs and preferences, guiding clients through a relaxing and empowering therapeutic process. The objective is to create and reinforce new neural pathways in alignment with the client's goals, establishing automatic positive emotions, thoughts, and behaviours.

Clinical Hypnotherapy with Fern proves effective for various issues, including lifestyle habits, weight management, smoking cessation, chronic pain, fears, phobias, grief, anxiety, depression, and relaxation. It can even assist in alleviating symptoms of medical conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Fibromyalgia.

Fern's warm and client-centred therapy sessions seamlessly blend heart-based and science-based approaches. Each session is meticulously designed to help clients achieve optimal results, promoting a calm, balanced, and connected life. Fern guides clients towards self-awareness, self-compassion, self-love, self-healing, and self-connectedness, facilitating closure and peace with unresolved issues.

To prioritise your health and well-being, reach out to book an appointment with Fern. Committed to reminding you of your deserving nature, she provides unwavering support to help you achieve the results you seek. No matter what has transpired in your story so far, it's the upcoming pages that hold significance. Discover the sunshine in your soul and schedule your appointment with Fern today.

About Fern, Qualified Clinical Hypnotherapist:

- Holds a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy.
- Trained in DeTrauma Technique (DTT)™.
- Certified Life Coach and Business Coach.
- Recognized by Hypnotherapy Training Australia.
- Executive Member of IICT (International Institute for Complementary Therapists).
- Practitioner Member of CTAA (Complementary Therapists Accredited Association).
- Holds a Blue Card for working with children.
- Additional certifications in Psychotherapy, Neuro Linguistic Programming, Professional Counselling, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Modern Applied Psychology, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Neuroplasticity, Early Childhood Education, Workplace Trainer and Assessor, Business Coaching, Financial Services, and Psychosensory Techniques (Emotional Freedom Technique, Thought Field Therapy, and EMDR).

• Email: therapy@healthvolition.com.au

With 25 years of experience in the health industry, Kathy has garnered extensive administrative knowledge, having worked in roles such as reception, executive assistant, and medical records at Ramsay Health.

Joining our team in 2018 as the Front of House Receptionist, Kathy has now transitioned in her role to provide incoming patients with information about our procedures and services that are available. She coordinates procedure bookings, whether for surgical or non-surgical, offering vital support in onboarding new patients on their weight loss journey and beyond. A cornerstone of the clinic, Kathy brings a wealth of information and support to our team.

Outside of work, she enjoys an active lifestyle, engaging in activities like running and playing netball, all while balancing a family life with two girls and a fur baby.

• Email: welcome@wmsaustralia.com.au

Introducing Jodie, a seasoned professional with a diverse and accomplished career that reflects her dedication and versatility. Jodie's journey began as an office junior for a Family Law Specialist, where her exceptional skills and work ethic propelled her to a senior position as a PA/paralegal within a short span of time. For an impressive 15 years, she navigated the intricacies of family law, demonstrating her commitment and proficiency in this specialised field.

After a brief hiatus to start and nurture her family, Jodie continued her professional journey on a part-time basis, contributing her expertise to various Family Law Specialists for an additional 17 years. It was during this time that she crossed paths with Elle, and their professional connection began to take shape.

In 2009, Jodie ventured into a new domain, taking on a role in administration for a Mining Engineering Consultancy company that provide services to the coal mining industry. This move showcased her adaptability and capacity to excel in diverse work environments. Even as she embraced this new challenge, Jodie continued to contribute as an integral part of the legal and administrative teams.

Currently, Jodie serves as the Office Manager for the Mining Engineering Consultancy company on a part-time basis, showcasing her continued commitment and capability in this role. In 2018, she expanded her professional horizons by joining Health Volition team on a part-time basis. In her role at Health Volition, Jodie takes charge of managing private health fund and Medicare billings, while also providing support to the rest of the team as needed.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Jodie remains actively engaged with her family of five, balancing her career with her personal life seamlessly. Her part-time roles in both in mining sector and Health Volition, highlight Jodie's remarkable ability to manage multiple responsibilities and thrive in dynamic environments. Her dedication to her work and her family showcases a commitment to excellence that defines her professional journey.

• Email: accounts@healthvolition.com.au

Dr. Justin Greenslade seamlessly integrated into the Health Volition clinic in 2020, assuming a pivotal role in overseeing the care of patients undergoing bariatric surgery such as the gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. Renowned for his clarity and concise communication style, Dr. Greenslade adeptly engages in comprehensive discussions regarding all aspects of patients’ health and history. This ensures that tailored and well-informed recommendations are provided, reflecting his commitment to delivering the highest standard of care. His exceptional expertise in the field not only underscores his dedication to patients but also serves to alleviate any hesitations and anxieties they may experience during surgical and non-surgical procedures.

Our unwavering dedication to prioritising patient well-being is evident through our collaboration with a team comprising the most skilled professionals in their respective fields. Our focus lies in delivering exceptional weight loss surgery executed with passion and commitment.

Dr. Justin Greenslade is a highly trained specialist in Upper Gastrointestinal and Bariatric procedures. His expertise spans laparoscopic and general obesity surgery such as gastric sleeve, gastric bypass and revisional weight loss surgery, as well as laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery. Additionally, Dr. Greenslade offers services including laparoscopic cholecystectomy and laparoscopic hernia repairs.

Dr. Greenslade’s journey began with his training at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia, followed by a four-year subspecialty training in upper gastrointestinal surgery, liver and gall bladder procedures, and obesity surgery in Adelaide, Edinburgh, and Sheffield in the United Kingdom.

In 2005, Dr. Greenslade assumed the role of Director of Surgery at the QEII Hospital in Brisbane for nearly four years. Subsequently, he established a dedicated private practice at Greenslopes Private Hospital, where his focus remains primarily on obesity surgeries.

Credentials, Memberships, and Affiliations:

– Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB, BS), 1992
– Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS), 2001
– The Medical Board of Queensland
– General Surgery, Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery & Obesity Surgery
– Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
– Obesity Surgery Society of Australia and New Zealand (OSSANZ)
– Australia and New Zealand Gastro Oesophageal Surgery Association (ANZGOSA)
– Australian Medical Association (AMA)
– Conjoint Committee for Recognition of Training in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
– Director of Surgery, QEII (2006-2009)
– Co-appointment, Upper GI Unit, Princess Alexandra Hospital (2008-2010)
– Visiting Surgeon QEII Hospital 2010-2013
– Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane

Dr Justin Greenslade offers his surgical expertise operating at Greenslopes Private Hospital and Brisbane Private Hospital.

• CV: LinkedIn
• Email: surgeon@healthvolition.com.au

Dr Anastasia Braun is an Australian trained Psychiatrist and undertook post-fellowship training in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry, qualifying her to manage patients with co-morbid medical, surgical, peri-natal, old age and weight management problems.

Her special interests are in consultation liaison psychiatry with a wide variety of neuropsychiatric and psychosomatic problems including:

• Weight management assessment and support for Bariatric patients
• Peri-natal psychiatry
• General Adult Psychiatry
• Anxiety/agitation in the medically ill
• Helping to support the treatment team's role about the suggested clinical interventions
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD)
• Old Age psychiatry
• Somatoform disorders
• Participating in evaluation and management of altered mental status
• Evaluation of cognitive impairment associated with dementia
• Capacity to make informed decisions or to delegate those powers
• Depression in the elderly or medically ill; as well as working with medical patients with serious chronic illnesses.

• CV: LinkedIn
• Email: reception@healthvolition.com.au

Annabelle, an Accredited Practising Dietitian affiliated with Dietitian's Australia, possesses a Master's degree in Dietetics and a Bachelor's degree in Exercise and Nutrition Science from the University of Queensland. She has received specialized training in the application of a low FODMAP diet for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) through Monash University.

Demonstrating a fervent dedication to nutrition, Annabelle is committed to assisting individuals in achieving their healthiest and happiest selves. She implements evidence-based nutrition therapy, offering non-judgmental dietetic support to empower clients in enhancing their relationship with food and cultivating enduring healthy habits. Annabelle harbours a particular interest in nutrition related to weight loss surgery, finding fulfilment in contributing to significant and transformative changes in people's lives. Her approach centres on personalised nutrition, taking into account lifestyle factors, and she is enthusiastic about aiding patients in their journey towards improved quality of life.

Look forward to having Annabelle support you on your path to well-being.

Provider ID: 6339998T

• Email: nutrition@healthvolition.com.au

Introducing Lisa, our Front of House Receptionist. Lisa is the welcoming face who greets you with a friendly smile as you step into our reception area. She efficiently manages our team diary, expertly coordinating appointments, especially for our exclusive members throughout their program and beyond.

Lisa embarked on her professional journey in medical reception at a bustling GP clinic in Melbourne's CBD, where her passion for supporting a diverse range of people took root. More recently, she has applied her skills in a front desk position at a specialised Musculoskeletal medicine clinics. Before venturing into the field of medical reception, Lisa thrived as a partner dance teacher, revelling in the timeless melodies of foxtrots and waltzes.

Originally from Melbourne, Lisa made the move to Queensland in 2014, captivated by the pleasant climate, and has since chosen to make it her permanent home with her new family and two stepchildren.

• Email: reception@wmsaustralia.com.au

Among the distinguished professionals comprising in the Health Volition team is Dr. William Braun, a General Surgeon specialising in Advanced Laparoscopic Upper Gastrointestinal, Bariatric, and Hernia surgery. Dr. Braun is also proficient as an upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopist, with expertise in gastroscopy and colonoscopy procedures.

With a career spanning over 15 years, Dr. Braun has established himself as a highly regarded Australian-trained surgeon, celebrated for his surgical precision, meticulous attention to detail, and rigorous post-operative care. His unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional surgical outcomes is matched by his commitment to providing reliable weight loss services. To date, Dr. Braun has successfully performed 10,000 general surgery operations and 3,000 weight-loss surgeries, earning him widespread acclaim and patient trust.

More recently, Dr. William Braun has shifted his focus towards non-surgical solutions such as the Allurion Balloon. He is the first in Queensland to implement the World’s only gastric swallowable balloon – the only gastric balloon without the need for endoscopy, anaesthesia, or surgery. Dr Braun is also leading the metabolic program for patients who choose not to have bariatric surgery or a non-surgical procedure.

As we pursue our objectives, our dedicated team collaborates tirelessly to provide unparalleled weight loss services, encompassing both surgical and non-surgical approaches.

Our enduring commitment to offering trustworthy and effective weight loss solutions is evident in our meticulous selection of highly trained and knowledgeable bariatric weight loss surgeons across Australia. These professionals are driven by a passion for their work and recognise the unique needs of each patient in achieving their desired outcomes.

Dr. William Braun’s extensive experience and expertise contribute significantly to our mission of delivering exceptional patient care. His proficiency in various surgical techniques, coupled with his innovative approach to non-surgical weight loss solutions, allows us to offer a comprehensive range of options tailored to individual patient needs.

Credentials, Memberships, and Affiliations:

– Fellow of Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS)
– Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA)
– Obesity Surgical Society of Australia and New Zealand (OSSANZ)
– International Federation for Obesity Surgery (IFSO)
– Australian and New Zealand Gastric and Oesophageal Surgeons Association (ANZGOSA)
– Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT)
– Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES)
– General Surgeons Australia (GSA)
– Alumnus of Harvard Medical School
– Harvard Club New York (HCNY)
– University of Queensland (UQ)
– Medico-Legal Society of QLD
– Bond University
– Queensland Law Society (QLS)
– Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

Other than our clinic at Chermside, Dr Braun is also in the surgical team at The Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane.

• CV: LinkedIn
• Email: surgeon@healthvolition.com.au

Joyce is a registered psychologist who is dedicated to optimising clients’ mental wellbeing, recovery, and performances. She is a compassionate and genuine practitioner who aims to empower clients to become the best versions of themselves. She enjoys working with clients aged 18 years old and above, and has provided support to clients from a range of cultural backgrounds.

Joyce uses a versatile and holistic therapeutic method that is evidence-informed and follows best practices. She adopts a client-centered, collaborative approach in her work, partnering with each client to provide personalised support for their unique journey to achieve their health goals.

Joyce previously worked a sport institute where she supported athletes and coaches not only in their sporting endeavours, but also in their mental health. She has experience providing interventions to individuals presenting with mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, acute trauma/stress, disordered eating, self-harm, and suicide ideation.

Qualifications:
MAppPsych (Sport and Exercise); BA (Psyc) (Hon)

Provider: 6703572J

• Email: psychology@wmsaustralia.com.au

Anabela Novas, a seasoned clinical Exercise Physiologist and Health Educator, brings a wealth of experience in working with a diverse array of patients grappling with chronic and complex conditions. Her proficiency extends to serving as a health and fitness consultant for elite athletes, including Olympic and Grand Slam tennis players. Anabela's academic accomplishments are noteworthy, particularly in the domains of exercise, immunology, and rheumatology, with her research featured in major international sports and medicine journals. Her enduring passion centres around assisting individuals in elevating their health and wellbeing through educational programs, guidance, and motivation to adopt healthy lifestyle habits.

Since joining Health Volition, Anabela has directed her efforts towards helping patients better manage and prevent lifestyle-related diseases. Embracing an integrative approach to health within a multidisciplinary team, she aspires to create a positive, lifelong impact on each individual. Anabela tailors individualised exercise programs to suit the unique needs of each person. Additionally, she conducts weekly group classes for those inspired to collaborate and forge connections while embarking on a transformative journey in their health and fitness.

Understanding the pivotal role physical activity plays in enhancing physical, psychological, and emotional wellbeing, Anabela is committed to assisting patients in regaining the ability and joy of increased physical activity.

Education and Qualification:
- Doctor of Philosophy (Exercise Physiology/Immunology) – Queensland University of Technology, Faculty of Health, School of Human Movement Studies, Research Concentration: Physical Activity and Disability, Brisbane, Australia (1997-2003)
- Masters in Exercise & Health Science (coursework & research, clin exercise & rheumatology) – Lisbon University of Technology, Faculty of Human Movement Studies, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Bachelor of Physical Education & Sports Science (double degree) – Lisbon University of Technology, Faculty of Human Movement Studies, Lisbon, Portugal.

Registrations and Memberships:
- Accredited Exercise Physiologist (AEP)
- Accredited Exercise Scientist (AES)
- Member of Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA) – since 2007
- Medicare Provider Number (Allied Health Professional, Exercise Physiologist)
- Professional insurance with Guild – Allied Health Liabilities Insurance (for over 10 years, no claims)
- Member of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)
- Member of The International Society of Exercise Immunology (ISEI)

• Email: ep@wmsaustralia.com.au

Doctor Ulahannan qualified from Leeds University Medical School in the United Kingdom in 1991 and undertook specialist training in endocrinology and general medicine in the Oxford teaching hospitals before taking a position as consultant physician in endocrinology and medicine at the Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.

After 12 years consultant practice in Gloucester, he moved to Australia and was a staff specialist in medicine at the Bundaberg Hospital, Director of Clinical Training for junior doctors and University of QLD Clinical Director for medical students before entering full time private practice.

He sees all types of endocrinology referrals including work and occupational clearance. His special clinical interests pituitary patients, obesity and osteoporosis.

His specialist qualifications are Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of London, fellow of the Royal College of Australasian Physicians and Certified Independent Medico-legal Examiner.

Provider: 458572MA

• Email: welcome@healthvolition.com.au