Matt Ivan

BPhty, APAM

Biography

Matt is a trusted headache clinician at the Gold Coast Headache & Migraine Clinic, renowned for his unique blend of deep anatomical expertise, precise methodology, and holistic patient care.

As a Watson Headache® Trained Practitioner™, he employs rigorous, evidence-based assessment techniques to identify the root causes of headache and migraine disorder, particularly focusing on the upper cervical spine and brainstem dysfunction.

He complements this with a gentle, non-invasive treatment strategy rooted in the clinic’s, Prevent Headaches4Life Plan™, delivering sustainable long-term relief without reliance on medications.

Well-versed in complex human anatomy and driven by a strong commitment to ongoing professional development, Matt integrates advanced dry-needling techniques into his practice.

This adds a precise, innovative dimension to his therapeutic approach, enabling faster symptom resolution and improved patient outcomes.

Credibility

Matt is a highly experienced physiotherapist with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physiotherapy and advanced training in headache and migraine management.

He is a Certified Watson Headache® Trained Practitioner™ and has completed both the Level 1 Watson Headache® Foundation Course and Dry Needling Introductory and Advanced Courses ® CPD Health Courses™.

With a strong background in sports physiotherapy, Matt has served as Senior Physiotherapist for Senior Men’s and Women’s NPL Football and Lead Physiotherapist for Senior Men’s and Women’s QAFL teams, where he focused on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance optimisation.

Passionate about helping patients manage complex headache and migraine conditions, Matt combines his expertise in advanced dry needling and individualised rehabilitation plans to provide effective, patient-focused care.

Philosophy

Matt’s philosophy is grounded in compassion and individualised care. He believes that effective treatment extends beyond relieving headaches and migraines, focusing on empowering patients with knowledge and strategies to prevent recurrence.

His commitment is to provide tailored, evidence-based care that helps patients restore their confidence and wellbeing by breaking chronic pain cycles improving overall quality of life.

Qualifications

Bachelors Degree of Physiotherapy
Dry Needling Introductory Course ® CPD Health Courses™
Dry Needling Advanced Course ® CPD Health Courses™
Certified Watson Headache® Trained Practitioner™
Level 1 Watson Headache® Foundation Course
Advanced Sports Taping® Sports Medicine Australia™
Sports Physiotherapist 2.5 years

Fun Facts about Matt

Outside of the clinic, Matt loves staying active and adventurous. He can often be found on the golf course (sometimes with a few balls in the water), lifting at the gym, snowboarding overseas, surfing, or simply relaxing at the beach.

He’s a passionate Brisbane Lions AFL supporter, enjoys catching live heavy metal bands and, of course, never says no to a delicious cup of coffee.