We believe in a collaborative approach
At Restore Hand Therapy, we understand the intricate nature and remarkable capabilities of the human hand. Our mission is to provide exceptional care and rehabilitation for individuals facing hand and upper extremity conditions or injuries.
With a team of highly skilled and experienced hand therapists, we are dedicated to helping our patients regain optimal hand function, alleviate pain, and enhance their overall quality of life. Our therapists have extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of hand therapy, combining evidence-based practices with a personalised approach to address each individual’s unique needs.
Meet Our Team
Bergen De Carvalho
Registered Hand Therapist, Director
Bergen completed her studies at the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa in 2014, earning a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Occupational Therapy. Following her graduation, she practiced in South Africa for three years before relocating to New Zealand in 2017.
For the past six years, Bergen has dedicated herself to full-time hand therapy, and she officially became a fully registered member of the hand therapy board in 2020. Additionally, she has actively served as a member of the executive committee of Hand Therapy New Zealand for three years.
Bergen possesses a particular professional passion for tendon rehabilitation and the application of kinesiology taping techniques.
In addition to her professional pursuits, she is a devoted mother of two children and finds joy in engaging with various arts and crafts activities.
Lauren Stevenson
Registered Hand Therapist, Director
Lauren qualified with a Bachelors in Occupational Therapist from Stellenbosch University, South Africa in 2004.
In SA and the UK she worked in the community rehabilitation field with specific interest in the treatment of clients with neurological and spinal conditions. In 2011 she completed a post graduate Diploma in Hand Therapy at the University of Pretoria, South Africa.
In 2012 Lauren moved to NZ and has worked in private practice Hand Therapy for the past 12 years. She became a registered Hand Therapist with Hand Therapy New Zealand in 2014. Lauren has a particular passion for working with clients with complex conditions / trauma.
She is the mother of beautiful twin girls and loves getting out into the great outdoors and spending time with friends and family.
Olivia Bailey
Registered Hand Therapist
Olivia was born and raised in Hamilton, New Zealand completing her Bachelor of Occupational Therapy through Otago Polytechnic in 2016. She then moved to Wellington working in Wellington hospital for 2 years in various wards finding her passion for the hand and upper limb. Olivia completed 6 months over in the Sunshine Coast in Australia working in pain management in various retirement villages.
Moving back to Wellington she then fulfilled the roll and completed her post graduate studies in hand and upper limb rehabilitation and has been working in hand therapy for 4.5years.
Olivia’s particular passion is creating functional splinting and scar management.
Olivia is a proud new mum to a wonderful little boy and enjoys boxing and going to the gym.
Natalie Blackburn
Registered Hand Therapist
Natalie holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. She spent eight years at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, where she gained extensive experience in neurological, spinal, orthopedic, and hand rehabilitation. In 2018, she transitioned into hand therapy, working closely with a multidisciplinary team and treating post-surgical patients.
In 2022, Natalie immigrated to New Zealand, continuing her work in hand therapy.
Outside of work, she is a dedicated mom to a busy little boy and enjoys spending quality time with family and friends.
Tegan de Longchamps
Registered Hand Therapist
Tegan completed her Occupational Therapy degree at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. She began her career with a year of service in a rural hospital setting before immigrating to New Zealand, where she developed a strong passion for hand therapy. Since then, she has dedicated her practice to the specialty, becoming a Registered Hand Therapist and completing her Postgraduate studies through the Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) examination.
Tegan has a particular interest in wound care and post-operative rehabilitation, and she finds deep fulfilment in seeing her patients thrive. She values being part of their recovery journey and is committed to delivering skilled, compassionate care tailored to each individual.
Outside of work, Tegan is a proud mum and wife. She enjoys dancing—especially hip hop—and spending quality time with her family and friends.
Jessica Mouton
Receptionist
Jessica is an aspiring professional with a strong foundation in law, having completed three years of a Bachelor of Law in South Africa. She recently immigrated to New Zealand and is expanding her skills in accounting and finance.
With a passion for reading, organising, and delivering quality work, Jessica is deeply committed to helping others and making a positive impact.
Her strong sense of service drives her desire to contribute meaningfully to any community or organisation she is part of.