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ACNEM 2026 Annual Conference: Hormonal Health Across the Lifespan

Access

12 months

Format

Annual Conference

Duration

16 hours

Presenters

Dr. Nicole Bijlsma, Dr. Leah Hechtman, Dr. Giselle Cooke, Carla Wrenn, Rhiannon Hardingham, Kira Sutherland & more

ACNEM 2026 Annual Conference

Hormonal Health Across the Lifespan: Fertility, Midlife & Longevity

Hormonal health is central to every stage of life, influencing fertility, metabolism, mood, cognition, and ageing. As the pace of modern living accelerates, clinicians are increasingly faced with patients experiencing hormonal imbalance, fertility challenges, and metabolic decline.

The ACNEM Annual Conference 2026, Hormonal Health Across the Lifespan: Fertility, Midlife & Longevity, brings together leading experts in integrative and nutritional medicine to explore the complex relationships between hormones, metabolism, environment, and longevity. 

What you’ll learn
Across two immersive days, practitioners explore the complex interplay of hormones, metabolism and longevity across the lifespan. The program examines:

  • The impact of environmental exposures on healthy endocrine function
  • The role of mitochondrial health throughout a woman’s life and its influence on longevity
  • The key drivers contributing to the decline in male fertility
  • The influence of the gut on hormonal health in peri-menopause and post-menopause
  • The critical role of exercise in hormonal regulation, metabolic health and healthy ageing
  • Emerging perspectives on hormone replacement therapy, including when it is indicated and when caution is warranted
  • Strategies for optimising the healthspan in post-menopausal women
  • Common hormonally driven cancers and integrative considerations in prevention and care
  • Metabolic changes in midlife and evidence-based nutritional protocols to address them

Key Speakers
Our presenters are respected medical practitioners and academics in the field of hormonal, metabolic, and integrative health and include:

  • Dr. Nicole Bijlsma (PhD) 
  • Dr. Leah Hechtman (PhD) 
  • Dr. Giselle Cooke (PhD) 
  • Carla Wrenn
  • Dr. Paul Taylor (PhD)
  • Dr. Michelle Woolhouse
  • Kira Sutherland
  • Rhiannon Hardingham
  • Heather Musgrove 
  • Lisa Costa-Bir 
  • Mick Alexander
  • Dr. Penny Caldicott
  • Adrian Adams
  • Dr. Julia Malkowski
  • Sandra Villella

Topic Overview

Topics
Speaker
Endocrine Disruptors: The Toxic Burden of 21st Century Living
Dr. Nicole Bijlsma
The Mitochondrial Arc of Womanhood: Peri-Menopause, Post-Menopause, and the Longevity Continuum
Dr. Leah Hechtman
Male Fertility in Crisis: Understanding the Drivers of Declining Sperm Health
Dr. Giselle Cooke
Perimenopausal and the Midlife Gut Microbiome: Mechanisms, Clinical Patterns and Insights
Dr. Julia Malkowski
Exercise and Longevity: Translating Evidence into Practice
Dr. Paul Taylor
Pioneering Shared Care: The Next Evolution of Integrative Medicine
Dr. Penny Caldicott, Adrian Adams, Dr. Caitlin O’Mahony & Rhiannon Hardingham
Hormone Replacement Therapy: Indications and Clinical Cautions for Oestrogen, Progesterone & Testosterone (livestreamed)
Dr. Louise Newson
The Perimenopause Framework: Understanding the Drivers. Targeting the Treatment
Sandra Villella
The Clinical Use of Soy in Hormonal Health: Mechanisms, Safety and Translational Practice
Rhiannon Hardingham
What Actually Works after Menopause? Case Based Strategies for Metabolic Health and Longevity
Heather Musgrove
Hormone-Driven Cancers Clinical Insights into Breast, Ovarian and Prostate Cancer
Carla Wrenn
The Menopause Metabolism Blueprint Evidence-Based Nutrition for Insulin Sensitivity, Body Composition and Long-Term Health
Kira Sutherland
Through the Patient’s Lens
Hosted by Daniel Baden
FX Medicine Panel: Brain Health in Midlife: Hormones, Mood and Cognitive Change
Dr. Michelle Woolhouse (host), Lisa Costa-Bir & Mick Alexander

Assessments

Predisposing 
Online quiz
post-video
Feedback Survey
Testimonials

What our students say

The ACNEM Conference was an excellent couple of days of evidence-based learning, with a great blend of emerging research and practical clinical application. I came away with plenty of new insights, particularly around hormonal, metabolic and gut health, that I’m already thinking about how to integrate into my clinical practice. There was a wealth of knowledge in the room, not just on the stage, and the opportunity to connect with other practitioners was just as valuable.
J.S, Naturopath
It was my first attendance to ACNEM Annual Conference. I found it very informative, I enjoyed all the talks and learned a lot as a fellow GP. I would definitely recommend it to all GPs and planning to come next year.
Dr. Arvandi
This conference offered an outstanding depth of clinical knowledge, delivered by high-quality, highly knowledgeable presenters across two well-organised days. I came away with practical, evidence-based strategies I can apply immediately in my practice, along with a renewed confidence in supporting women through hormonal health across the lifespan. A fantastic opportunity to learn alongside like-minded, patient-centred professionals
M.L, Naturopath

MEET THE PRESENTERS

Dr. Leah Hechtman

PhD, MSciMed(RHHG), BHSc(Nat), ND, FNHAA  
Dr. Leah Hechtman (PhD) is a globally respected naturopathic clinician, a revered lecturer and a sought-after keynote speaker. Driven by her insatiable curiosity and a passion for the nexus of science and spirituality, Dr. Hechtman (PhD) constantly endeavours to enhance her understanding of medicine. She shares her insights through lectures, events and programs. Widely recognised for her expertise, Dr. Hechtman (PhD) receives numerous referrals from specialists and fertility clinics on a global scale.

Dr. Nicole Bijlsma

PhD, ND, BHScAc(Hons), GradDipOHS, DipBuildingBio, Certified Mould Remediator, Ct IV Feng Shui, Ct IV TAE
Nicole is a researcher, bestselling author (Healthy Home Healthy Family) and founder of the Healthy Home (Building Biology) movement in Australia. She established the Australian College of Environmental Studies in 1999 to educate people about the health hazards in the built environment. Nicole has lectured at tertiary institutions for over 30 years, has published in peer reviewed journals and is regularly consulted by the media to discuss mould, electromagnetic fields and toxic chemicals, and lectures in Australia and abroad about environmental health issues. Her PhD research explored the impact of environmental exposures on human health and their ramifications for general medical practice.

Dr. Giselle Cooke

MBBS, DBM, PhD 
Giselle has practised holistic & integrative medicine in Australia since graduating from the University of NSW in Medicine and Surgery in 1979. Over the next 20 years she expanded upon her medical training with postgraduate studies and qualifications in Traditional Chinese, Western Herbal, Nutritional, Ayurvedic and Psychosomatic Medicines. Giselle founded the multidisciplinary clinic, Pymble Grove Health Centre, in 1989, which became a centre of excellence for integrative medicine. She transitioned to operating a hybrid retail/clinic in 2003 when she created The Modern Apothecary herbal dispensary & teahouse alongside her Health Alchemy practice. Having taught at universities and colleges since 1983, Giselle has also presented extensively at integrative and natural medicine conferences in Australia, America, Singapore and Malaysia. She is the author of two books, six research publications and has written extensively for magazines and newspapers over 4 decades. She has 15 years’ experience in talk back national radio and made many television appearances as an industry expert.

Carla Wrenn

BHSc(Nat), AFMCP, AdvDipNat, DipHerbMed, DipNutr
Carla Wrenn is an Integrative Naturopath and Nutritionist with over 24 years of clinical experience. She holds a Bachelor of Health Science and has completed postgraduate studies in Integrative Oncology, Autoimmune Diseases, and Functional Medicine in both Australia and the USA.  Carla specialises in supporting patients with complex and chronic conditions, with a focus on Oncology care. A passionate advocate for Naturopathic and Complementary Medicine, Carla has trained over 1,500 practitioners in Functional Medicine, Acute Care, Oncology, and Long COVID support.  You can learn more about Carla’s newest clinic here: PROSPER Cancer CARE. Carla is also the owner of Peninsula Herbal Dispensary & Naturopathic Clinic, where Carla works with 11 Naturopaths who love providing Acute Care, consultations, and lifestyle retail offerings to their Mornington Peninsula community and beyond.  In 2023, she was honoured as Australian Practitioner of the Year (ATMS). 

Dr. Paul Taylor

PhD, MSc(ExercSci), MSc(HumNutr), PostGradCert(Neurosci.), BSc(Hons), ACSM Health & Fitness Instructor
Dr. Paul Taylor is a Psychophysiologist, with a PhD in Psychology, separate master’s degrees in Exercise Science and Nutrition and a postgraduate qualification in Neuroscience. A former Royal Navy Officer and former Adjunct Professor at University of San Francisco, Paul is a leading expert in hardiness – the cutting-edge science that transforms stress into competitive advantage. As Director of Paul Taylor Consulting, he delivers keynote talks and hardiness training, leadership and performance workshops to companies such as Oracle, SAP, PWC, NAB, CBA, BUPA & the Australian Military. He has conducted published research that shows that his programs have proven benefits for increasing hardiness, cognitive function and employee wellbeing, whilst reducing burnout across multiple industries. Paul is the author of the best-selling, multiple award-winning book “Death by Comfort” and has just released his second book, “The Hardiness Effect”. Paul also hosts a podcast, Hardiness with Dr. Paul Taylor which is in the top 0.5% of all podcasts globally, and has developed a Hardiness app to help people develop this crucial life skill. He has co-hosted the TV series “Body and Brain Overhaul”, appeared regularly on “The Biggest Loser” Australia as a subject matter expert on Biological Age testing, and has been voted Australian Fitness Industry presenter of the year twice. Paul’s high-pressure leadership experience includes roles as Airborne Anti-submarine Warfare Officer and Helicopter Search-And-Rescue Crew Member with the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm. He’s undergone rigorous Military Combat Survival training, became a professional boxer in 2012, and in 2021, both Paul and his son Oscar became Australian Karate Champions.

Rhiannon Hardingham

BHSc(Nat) 
Rhiannon is an experienced fertility naturopath, presenter, practitioner educator and author. Rhiannon is committed to the successful integration of natural and conventional medicine, regularly working alongside Melbourne’s top fertility doctors to achieve the best outcomes for her patients. As testament to this, Rhiannon is routinely invited to present on the topic of collaborative patient care to medical specialists and naturopaths alike. With over 20 years of clinical experience in the area of hormonal and reproductive health, Rhiannon provides professional mentoring and education for functional medicine practitioners in both group and individual settings. This highly specialised area is outside the scope of standard naturopathic education and as such, her reproduction and hormonal masterclasses mentoring programs are a rare opportunity for practitioners to further their skills.

Kira Sutherland

BHSc, GradDipSportsNut (IOC), AdvDipNat, AdvDipNut, AdvDipHerbalMed, MATMS
Kira Sutherland is an Australian Naturopath, Herbalist and Sports Nutritionist with over 30 years of clinical experience. She balances her time among clinical practice, undergraduate-level teaching, and mentoring health practitioners in holistic sports nutrition. Known for her straightforward teaching style, Kira aims to empower her clients and students to achieve their best selves, whether as athletes or healthcare professionals. She was the recipient of the 2019 Bioceuticals practitioner of the year for Nutrition and Dietetics and a finalist in 2024 for Lecturer of the Year by the ATMS. She is a lifelong endurance athlete herself and the current performance nutritionist for the Sydney Marathon. Kira’s journey exemplifies dedication to wellness and excellence, inspiring others to pursue their own paths to optimal health and performance. 

Dr. Michelle Woolhouse

MBBS, FRACGP, FACNEM, FASLM
Dr. Michelle Woolhouse, an integrative GP, believes in a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing the emotional, physical, mental, spiritual, and environmental aspects of a person’s well-being. With extensive training in medicine, nutrition, mind-body medicine, and various healing techniques. She is the founding medical director of Vively (CGM to simplify successful metabolic health), co-founder of Enliven Retreats, the author of The Wonder Within, and faculty team member of ACNEM. Dr. Woolhouse emphasises a balanced approach to health and wellness, advising patients to enjoy everything in moderation. 

Dr. Louise Newson

BSc(Hons), MBChB(Hons), MRCP, FRCGP, DHealth 
Dr. Louise Newson is a GP, hormone specialist, Founder of Newson Clinic, Dr. Louise Newson podcast and the Balance app. Dr Newson is a highly respected voice in women’s health, with years of clinical experience specialising in women’s hormones. Through her clinical and educational work, as well as her research contributing to numerous peer-reviewed publications, she has empowered a generation of women to have a greater understanding, choice and control over their hormone treatment, bodies and mind. A passionate advocate for education and better training for healthcare professionals, she has played a key role in changing international conversations around menopause and hormone treatments .Louise studied Medicine and Pathology at The University of Manchester and pursued a career in hospital medicine before moving to specialise in General Practice and medical writing. She is a member of the Royal College of Physicians, a Fellow of the Royal College of GPs, Visiting Fellow at Murray Edwards College, Cambridge University and has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Health from Bradford University. Louise has developed an education programme about women’s hormones for healthcare professionals. She has written and contributed to numerous academic papers and abstracts. She works with a range of organisations to widen access to menopause and hormone health care and collaborates with charities and professional bodies to raise awareness about hormones. Louise has worked in the media as an expert commentator on women’s hormone health.

Michael Alexander

BPharm, BHSc(Nat) 
Michael Alexander is a pharmacist and naturopath who owned and ran his own pharmacy for over 20 years. Michael has dedicated his career to exploring the benefits of combining evidence-based vitamins and supplements with pharmaceuticals, to bring together natural therapies and conventional medicine for better patient outcomes. He is now a researcher, writer, and speaker whose goal is to assist consumers take control of their health. As a speaker, Michael is on a mission to transform the lives of his audience through sharing his knowledge and unique insights. Get inspired and educated by Mick’s fresh perspectives and unwavering passion for health!   

Lisa Costa Bir

BAppSc(NaturopSt), MWomHMed
Lisa is a practicing naturopath based in Sydney, Australia. She specialises in women’s health and auto-immunity in her clinical work, as well as working as an academic lecturer and clinical supervisor at Torrens University and Endeavour College of Natural Therapies in Sydney. She is also an Adjunct Fellow of the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine (SCU). She has a Masters of Women’s Health (UNSW), as well as Graduate Diploma of Applied Science in Naturopathy (UWS), and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Naturopathy (UWS). Lisa has written numerous naturopathic articles and was a contributing author for the widely used naturopathic textbooks “Clinical Naturopathic Medicine” and “Advanced Clinical Naturopathic Medicine”. Her greatest passion is psycho-neuro-immunology and understanding how natural interventions can be used to modulate neuro-endocrine-immune responses for optimal patient heath. In her spare time, Lisa enjoys doing Muay Thai, spending time out in nature and making TikTok videos with her daughter and her cat Milo.  

Heather Musgrove

RN, RM, GradDipNurs, AdvDipNat, Western Herbal Medicine, Nutritional Medicine, IFM Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner
A Naturopath, Nutritionist, Herbalist, Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (USA) IFM, Registered Nurse and Midwife who specialises in holistic, individualised care through diet, lifestyle and nutritional therapy. Her clinic Live Well is located in Mildura (regional Victoria). Heather treats clients of all ages and conditions including – weight management, stress management, chronic health conditions including hormonal imbalances and detoxification. Heather has been providing health advice for over 17 years. Studying Nursing in Mildura, Midwifery in Melbourne, Naturopathy/Herbalism/Nutrition in Queensland and Functional Medicine in the USA. Heather is a qualified Metabolic Balance Coach and is helping her clients achieve their current and future health goals with this proven nutrition plan. Heather also qualified as a yoga teacher in 2023 in Goa, India and is running weekly Yin Yoga classes at Live Well. 

Dr. Penny Caldicott

BMed, FRACGP
Dr. Penny Caldicott, a GP at Fugen Health Erina, graduated from Newcastle University and obtained her General Practice fellowship after a brief period in the hospital system. With 33 years of experience as both a conventional and integrative GP, she founded Invitation to Health, an integrative medical practice on the Central Coast. There, she built a team dedicated to blending evidence-based conventional and complementary medicine, delivering holistic care that instills confidence in patients and colleagues. Her passion for integrative medicine (IM) led her to serve as President of the Australasian Integrative Medicine Association for eight years, advocating for IM’s patient-centered approach to healthcare professionals, government, and the public. Dr. Caldicott emphasizes individualized care, focusing on the unique factors contributing to each patient’s health challenges. By addressing these factors, she supports the body’s natural ability to regenerate and maintain health, particularly in preventing and reversing chronic disease. Through deep listening and fostering trusting relationships, she ensures tailored treatment plans that prioritize both physical and emotional well-being, making a significant impact on her patients’ health outcomes.

Adrian Adams

BHSc Naturopath, Nutritionist 
My name is Adrian Adams, and I am a nutritionist, naturopath, and human movement enthusiast. I am also a husband and father of two. I started my journey into health with a realisation when I was younger: if I ate healthy food, moved more and slept deeply the next day, I could run around the school athletics track faster. A simple realisation. However, it sparked an early start in discovering my passion for human biology. With my curious mind and a drive to consistently perform and feel better, this passion continued to develop. After a few lucky meetings with influential people, the successful treatment of my cystic acne with natural medicine and an alternative open-minded mum, I was encouraged to study nutrition and herbal medicine. College became a period of discovery—a world of alternative views and forward thinkers in health. Sifting through the radical views, I developed a clear understanding of the fundamentals that made human beings thrive and live longer without disease. I always knew I needed to choose an evolving profession that kept me learning constantly. I found it. Over the past decades, our understanding of nutrition and lifestyles that affect our health positively and negatively has proliferated. Through my university studies and clinical practice, I have been lucky enough to see this understanding evolve and put it into practice to help people achieve optimal health. Through food, medicinal herbs, supplemental nutrients, sleep, stress management, movement, and social connection, I will help the individual, the couple or the family achieve a health level beyond being ‘just’ disease-free.

Dr. Julia Malkowski

ND, DC
Julia Malkowski, ND DC is dual‑degreed physician specializing in functional diagnostics and systems‑based clinical education. She is known for translating complex science into practical clinical insight. Dr. Malkowski has presented internationally, including the Gut Hormone Masterclass in London, the Institute for Functional Medicine, and the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. Her work has appeared in the Journal of Restorative Medicine, the ACNEM Journal, Townsend Letter, and other professional publications. She currently practices near Chicago, and serves as a clinician, educator, peer‑reviewed author and consultant dedicated to advancing functional medicine.

Sandra Villella

MAppSci(Acup), DipAppSci(Nat) 
Sandra Villella has been a naturopath and herbalist for over 3 decades. After graduating from the Southern School of Natural Therapies in 1993, she completed a Master of Applied Science -Acupuncture. She runs a busy naturopathic practice and has a particular interest in women’s health. She is also the consultant naturopath for Jean Hailes for women’s Health, Australia’s leading women’s health organisation, a position she has held since 1999, where she works in the Jean Hailes Medical clinics, as part of a collaborative health care team with general practitioners, medical specialists and other allied health professionals.  She also creates recipes for the “Jean Hailes kitchen” which provide health based nutritional educational messages. Sandra is a clinical supervisor at Torrens University, Melbourne campus.

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