All our osteopaths are highly trained and professionally qualified. They are registered with the General Osteopathic Council and the Health & Care Professions Council.
Our Osteopaths
CHRISTOPHER GAIA BSC (HONS) OST
- Master of Science in Osteopathic Medicine
- Master of Science Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy
Christopher is an experienced Osteopath who has practiced in Balham for many years. You probably already know someone local who has visited him. He has expertise in conventional Osteopathy as well as Cranial Osteopathy and Western Medical Acupuncture. This varied approach enables him to treat a wide range of ailments and a wide range of people, from babies through to the elderly.
Christopher qualified from the British College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2003 with an Honours Degree in Osteopathic Medicine, a Diploma in Osteopathy and a Diploma in Naturopathy. He completed Cranial Osteopathy training levels 1, 2 and 3 soon after. He is also qualified to perform Western Medical Acupuncture and has to prescribe orthotics (tailor made shoe inserts to balance the body).
He has recently completed his Masters in Stress & Pain Management.
Chris is a registered osteopath with AXA PPP, AVIVA, WPA. Chris is not taking on any new patients registered with BUPA.
HAMZA TAHA M.OST
- Master of Science in Osteopathy
- Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy
Hamza is a qualified and fully registered osteopath, who graduated with a Master’s degree from the University College of Osteopathy.
His primary passion lies in restoring functionality for patients from diverse backgrounds, adopting a holistic approach when treating his patients. He ensures they receive individualised care and advice, enabling them to lead fulfilling daily lives.
During his university journey, Hamza undertook placements in specialized HIV and geriatric care. This invaluable exposure has deepened his understanding of musculoskeletal conditions in a variety of patients.
He holds a diploma in Sports Massage Therapy. Over the past two years, he has worked with a diverse range of patients, expanding his therapeutic skill set and providing tailored treatments.
Beyond his work, Hamza is deeply passionate about sports, and his personal interests reflect this commitment. He enjoys regular exercise and has a background in both football and karate. Being trilingual, fluent in English, Arabic and Hebrew, enabling him to effectively connect with patients from various cultural backgrounds.
MARCIA HUGALL BSC (HONS) OST, MSC PAED. OST
- Bachelor of Science in Osteopathy
- Master of Science in Paediatric Osteopathy
Marcia Hugall is a fully qualified, GSoC registered osteopath. She became a MSc in Paediatric Osteopathy in 2009 and has worked at the Osteopathic Centre for Children, Foundation for Paediatric Osteopathy.
Marcia has lectured at the both the British School of Osteopathy and the London School of Osteopathy. She is also a member of the Cranial Academy, a branch of the American Academy of Osteopathy, having carried out post-graduate study in the USA.
Marcia is a registered osteopath with BUPA, AXA PPP and other private medical insurance companies.
RUTH LEVITAN M.OST
- Bachelor of Science in Osteopathy
- Master of Science in Paediatric Osteopathy
Ruth is one of our resident Paediatric Osteopaths. With over 20 years’ experience as an osteopath, she specialises in the treatment of babies, children and post-partum mothers. She holds a Masters in Paediatric Osteopathy from the Foundation for Paediatric Osteopathy and is a tutor at the University of Osteopathy on their Post-graduate Diploma in Paediatrics.
Ruth uses a variety of techniques when treating you or your child, and particularly favours gentler methods such as cranial osteopathy, which suit a wide selection of patients and problems. She uses her extensive experience as a practitioner and lecturer in the UK and Australia to treat patients of all ages.
Ruth is registered with most insurers including Bupa and AXA PPP.
In her spare time Ruth enjoys walking, cycling and yoga. She is a mother to young twin boys.
