I studied for my Bachelors of Kinesiology at the University of Victoria from 2009-2014 before working as a Kinesiologist for a year. Working alongside Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists helped me realized that I loved being a part of the rehabilitation of someone’s journey - I enjoyed being able to build and develop meaningful relationships with clients who were overcoming sometimes significant events or traumatic accidents in their lives. I knew I wanted to expand my skills and knowledge further in this direction, so I decided to apply for my Masters in Physical Therapy. I attended McGill University in Montreal.
Since my return to Nanaimo 5 years ago, I have worked as a Physiotherapist in private orthopedic and neuro-based clinics including CBI and Symphony. One of my passions is working with geriatrics and the neurological population who don’t always have accessibility to a clinic, I began my own mobile Physiotherapy business last year as well as working in the hospital in the acute setting. I have certifications in IMS, Levels 1-3 Pelvic Floor dysfunctions and Levels 1-2 Concussion management.
Over the course of my studies, I had the opportunity to learn and work alongside many wonderful supervisors and therapists who I continue to look up to every day. This includes experiences within geriatric, post-surgical and general Orthopedics in both in-patient and out-patient settings, as well as ICU and acute rehabilitation. There was one supervisor in particular during my studies, Marla Rapoport, who taught me the importance of client-centered care. To her, a patient was not just a number or a time slot to fill. She valued the importance of developing a rapport with her patients so that they felt comfortable and trusting towards her. She understood that being an exceptional Physiotherapist extended beyond just the physical and functional components of one’s rehab process. It involved guiding and supporting the patient through the emotional and psychological turmoil that can be associated with an injury or life-changing trauma/ accident. Under her direction, I witnessed first-hand the benefits of individualizing care and working in a collaborative setting with the patient to achieve their functional and personal goals during recovery. I was drawn to working with the Lantzville and South Wellness Centre for these reasons and believe the clinic follows the same philosophy. With her in mind, my goal every day is to portray these same qualities and characteristics with every patient I encounter. I want to work with patients to target the root of their problems and to provide them with the education to correct, manage or prevent injuries from reoccurring. I believe that active rehab, specifically exercise, is an enormous component of any successful rehab process and should be an essential adjunct to passive treatment provided in the clinic.
