My clients experience a variety of struggles including, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, body image difficulties, and work stress. I work from a person-centered, trauma-informed approach with an emphasis on self-compassion and employ modalities such as ACT, CBT, and DBT. We will collaborate to find strategies that are the most effective for you.

I have a passion for working with individuals with various disabilities, particularly those with hearing loss, and their families. I recognize that coming to terms with a diagnosis of a disability can be difficult for you and your family members. I am also working to increase my knowledge in counselling individuals with chronic conditions such as pain and fatigue.

Originally from British Columbia, I made my home in Nova Scotia in 2015. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I am a Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists and a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.

My clients experience a variety of struggles including, depression, anxiety, relationship issues,... Read More

My Bio on Coastal Main Website

Jodi is a veteran massage therapist with 14 years of clinical experience. Her time working in a clinical setting has provided her with the skills and knowledge to treat conditions and injuries to a diverse population.

She has experience in treating Postural dysfunction; Headaches; Chronic pain; Whiplash; Neurological disorders (such as Multiple-Sclerosis, Parkinsons and FND); PTSD; Sport injuries and Frozen shoulder to name a few. She encourages regular treatment and preventative care for optimal tissue health. Jodi has taken a number of educational courses over the years but finds good old fashion deep tissue massage and stretch to be the most effective. Her experience in treating all age groups allows her to make quick adjustments to her treatments to meet individual client needs.

Jodi is a proud Beaver Banker who spent most of her childhood training at Taiso Gymnastics Training Centre. During her career as a gymnast, she competed in two Canada Games and at six National Championships bringing home the Team Bronze Medal at the 1991 Nationals. When she retired from gymnastics, she continued coaching gymnastics while completing her Science Degree at Mount Allison University. It was her involvement in gymnastics and her love of Biology that led her to a career in Massage Therapy. Jodi graduated from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 2007 at the top of her class.

In her spare time, you will find Jodi with her family at the ski hill or running back and forth from soccer practice to basketball practice with her kids. She loves to cook for her friends and family and is always looking for a new hiking trail to explore.

My Bio on Coastal Main Website Jodi is a veteran massage therapist with 14 years of clinical exp... Read More

Emily has been practicing as a Registered Massage Therapist for 7 years and is a graduate from the Canadian College of Massage & Hydrotherapy. Over the years she has treated a multitude of different conditions such as chronic pain, concussion, whiplash, enhanced care and has a strong interest in treating neurological conditions and post-operative care. Continual education has been a keen interest to Emily, and she is currently in the process of becoming a neuro fascial reset specialist. Emily has also taken additional courses to become a birth doula and has a history of working with pregnancy and women’s health.

After working in the massage industry for 2 years, Emily decided to expand her knowledge by enrolling in the Acupuncture Diploma Program at the Canadian College of Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine. She became a registered Acupuncturist in 2021 and offers traditional acupuncture, facial rejuvenation and electroacupuncture.

Emily’s goal is to work together with her clients to create a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.

Qualifications: - Neuro Fascial Rest- Lower Body - Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture - Acupuncture for Fertility & Mental Health - Trained Birth Doula - Guasha - Indian Head Massage - Cupping Therapy

Emily has been practicing as a Registered Massage Therapist for 7 years and is a graduate from th... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website

Laurie has been in active practice since 2000 and spent 14+ years of her career as a massage therapy instructor at colleges in Toronto and Halifax. She has taught and developed curriculum mainly in anatomy, physiology, and pathology. Laurie teaches sciences to yoga teacher trainees, athletes and coaches, worked with the Etobicoke swim club contributing to their dry land training program, co- wrote and developed a yoga manual and recorded a race visualization for competitive swimmers. She also regularly travels between Halifax and Toronto to teach assessment and movement courses that she has developed, based on her clinical and educational experience. She is the only Level 3 certified practitioner in Atlantic Canada using a technique called NeuroKinetic Therapy™(NKT), and currently runs study groups for other practitioners in the Maritimes. Recently, Laurie has adopted the term Integrative Manual Therapy (IMT) to describe her treatments. This approach involves a combination of innovative sensory and motor techniques that help to identify the source of dysfunction and improve the way the body creates purposeful movement. She is able to assess for dysfunctions related to vision, brain injury, ligament trauma, scars, postural strain, repetitive injury, nerve entrapments, and a variety of other conditions. Laurie has additional training as a yoga teacher and personal trainer, and uses those skills to inform the creation of home care for her clients.

Modalities:

Integrative Manual Therapy Therapeutic Massage NeuroKinetic Therapy Personal Training Remedial Exercise RockTape Experience:

She has had personal and professional experience in powerlifting, long distance running, and obstacle course racing. She has also worked with many different populations including Olympic athletes, bodybuilders, competitive swimmers, post-surgical recovery patients, and post-concussion patients.

My Bio on Main Coastal Website Laurie has been in active practice since 2000 and spent 14+ years... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website

Chris Donnelly, RMT, graduated from the 3,000 hour, 3-year Massage Therapy program at Okanagan Valley College of Massage Therapy in Vernon, BC in 2010 with a diploma in Massage Therapy. Upon graduating and passing his provincial board examinations under the College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia, Chris operated a mobile massage therapy practice, and eventually joined the team at Okanagan Health and Performance in Kelowna. He opened and operated West Kelowna Massage Therapy from July 2014 to 2018. He sold his practice in BC and he and his family moved to Bedford in October 2018 and he is now a proud member of MTANS. Chris is also currently working to complete his Bachelor of Health Sciences degree.

Chris is very treatment-oriented and his practice mainly focuses on Integrated Fascial Techniques(IFT). These include Myofascial, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Visceral and so much more. Chris has studied and completed two 3 year IFT series under his mentor and friend Natale Rao since 2010. Chris can help you with acute or chronic injuries, digestive issues, musculoskeletal dysfunction and even post-concussion syndrome. His technique combines deep fascial releases with techniques very similar to osteopathy. Some of the fastest growing portions of his practice in Kelowna were Women’s Health (primarily uterus and bladder work) working with infants and children and also working with many high performance athletes including NHL players. He believes in helping you find the right therapy for your body, whether that means a different approach, a different RMT, or a different therapy altogether. Chris is passionate about what he does and his goal is to get you the help you need to make the fastest recovery possible and to become strong and stay healthy. However it wont be your typical massage therapy treatment. He does not use oils or lotions and may have you up and down off the table testing and re-testing things, trying to figure out the root of your issue. For this reason and your comfort, all clients remain partially and sometimes fully clothed during the treatments which he will explain further during your first treatment. So whether you are looking for a new set of eyes on an old issue or you would like to get a new issue resolved to get back on the field, Chris will be able to help.

Chris grew up on Vancouver Island, and has lived in and traveled through Europe and China. He has lived in the interior of BC for 15 years where he met and married his wonderful wife Katy, and has four amazing children. He and his family recently traveled across Canada on a 3 month family motorhome adventure and Chris is now happy to be living and sharing his expertise in Bedford, Nova Scotia.

My Bio on Main Coastal Website Chris Donnelly, RMT, graduated from the 3,000 hour, 3-year Massag... Read More

Leah Duncan R.Ac

Leah Duncan, R.Ac, B.Sc, is a qualified acupuncturist who completed a 3-year diploma in Traditional Acupuncture at the Canadian College of Traditional Chinese Medicine (CCATCM) in Bedford, Nova Scotia. She also received additional training in sport acupuncture. scalp acupuncture and facial rejuvenation acupuncture. In addition, Leah has completed a Bachelor of Science and Applied Nutrition and Dietetics at Mount Saint Vincent University.

Leah has a particular focus on sport acupuncture, and she is skilled in addressing a wide range of conditions and common sports injuries related to musculature and tendons, such as strains, sprains, tears, and tendonitis. In addition, Leah is experienced in working with individuals who suffer from acute or chronic pain injuries, TMJ discomfort, migraines, stress, women’s health issues, and digestive problems, among others. She takes pleasure in treating all conditions and creating a personalized treatment plan for each patient. Leah uses a treatment style that combines western and eastern medicine, making it easy for clients to understand. She believes that every person has the ability to facilitate their body’s natural healing process by using acupuncture and works to bring the body back into balance.

When she’s not in the clinic, Leah enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, and staying active through cycling, hikes, and swimming.

Additional courses: - Acupuncture Sports Medicine - Scalp Acupuncture - Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture

Leah Duncan R.Ac Leah Duncan, R.Ac, B.Sc, is a qualified acupuncturist who completed a 3-year di... Read More

Eileen was born and raised in South Africa, where she studied Sport and Exercise Technology and once graduated, decided to do some travelling. She first worked at a Sports Club in Ireland, as a multi-sport coach; then moved to Canada and after spending some time working at a local fitness chain, she ended up as a Fitness and Sport Instructor and Sport Athletic Trainer with the Canadian Forces in Halifax. This position offered some unique opportunities, including going on secondment for a year at the military base in Goose Bay. She was also able to take part in one of the last deployments of the military destroyer, the Athabascan, before it was decommissioned.

Through her time as a trainer with the military, she was also fortunate to be selected to coach in 2 separate Invictus Games, one in Toronto, one in Australia. This experience sparked an interest in learning more about functional movement patterns, and reliving pain at this time she decided to enrol to become a Massage Therapist. While pursuing her studies, an employment opportunity presented itself that she could not refuse, Regional Coordinator for Soldier On. Eileen presently works with ill and injured military members and veterans, planning events to engage them with like-minded individuals, and promote staying active for life.

Fitness has been a huge part of her personal life as well as professional. In 2014, she placed 4th at the IPF Classic Powerlifting World Championship in South Africa. In 2015, she placed 5th at the IPF Classic Powerlifting World Championship in Finland. She then switched gears and began training in CrossFit and Strongman competitions. Eileen earned the title of Atlantic Canada’s Strongest Woman in 2018 and 2019. In 2018 she competed in the Arnold Classic Amateur Strongman and placed 14th among a fierce competition. She is currently retired from fitness competitions, but still manages to train and stay active in her everyday life. Motion is lotion!

As a Massage and Fascial Stretch Therapist Eileen uses functional movement screens, asses the soft tissue and joints of the body and uses a variety of treatments to assist in prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissues and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain. She also works with your body’s connective tissue in different ranges, discovering its stability or instability. Whether it’s from bad movement over the years or injuries past or present, she finds all the “cobwebs” and clear them out to discover the dysfunctions and imbalances. By using Massage and Fascial Stretch Therapy to help the body move without pain or at maximal capacity, we uncover your true potential. By focusing on fascial remodelling, strengthening and neural re-patterning, we can train the kinetic chains in action – fascia, myofascial, muscle and joints – so you can fine tune for maximum athletic performance.

Eileen was born and raised in South Africa, where she studied Sport and Exercise Technology and o... Read More

Laura Gfeller is a physiotherapist who completed her bachelor’s education at Dalhousie University and then moved on to graduate with her masters in physiotherapy in 2014 from McMaster University in Hamilton Ontario. Originally from Orillia Ontario, she began her career in Calgary Alberta, and has called Nova Scotia her forever home since 2016.

Laura is an active athlete and found her passion for the profession as a chronically injured young athlete who made herself a second home at the local physiotherapy clinic.

When Laura is not treating, you can find her on her bike, paddling on the lake, or training for her next marathon or Ironman triathlon. She is highly involved in local running groups and is also an accomplished age-group athlete, who has represented Canada at the ITU Age Group Triathlon World Championships. Laura believes in a comprehensive approach to treatment and will work with you to achieve results specific to your individual goals. She combines soft tissue release techniques, dry needling, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, shockwave therapy, electrical muscle stimulation, and kinesiology taping in conjunction with functional exercise to help you recover from, and prevent further injury.

Laura is the therapist of choice for hundreds of local runners, and is consistently recommended within the HRM running community. She offers one-on-one running assessments on the treadmill to offer feedback on form and function, as well as recommendations for training and footwear. Laura has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the treatment and prevention of running injuries and will make it a priority to minimize downtime and get you back to the sport that you love.

Laura Gfeller is a physiotherapist who completed her bachelor’s education at Dalhousie University... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website

Nelson completed his Masters in Physiotherapy in 2013 at Dalhousie University. Prior to this, he completed a Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics from STFX University in 2010.

Nelson spent the last 5 years working in orthopedics at a sports clinic in Red Deer, AB. He treated a variety of patient populations from sport-specific athletes, to infants and the elderly. Nelson believes in building a rapport with his patients and maintaining a positive attitude in their recovery process. Every injury is not just a physical injury.

His treatment approach begins with a thorough assessment, and proceeds with hands-on manual therapy in combination with injury-specific exercise prescription. Nelson is trained in other types of therapeutic interventions such as functional dry needling, anatomical acupuncture, and shockwave therapy.

Nelson has been an active person all of his life. His sports background includes hockey, baseball, soccer, tennis, and volleyball. He plays hockey in the winter, and recently joined the Dartmouth Drillers of the Metro Intermediate Baseball League. He consistently promotes maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle to reduce the risk of injury, and improve overall physical and mental health.

My Bio on Main Coastal Website Nelson completed his Masters in Physiotherapy in 2013 at Dalhousi... Read More

Alicia Grant (she/her) earned a diploma in osteopathy from the Swiss International College of Osteopathy in 2020 and a Bachelor of Fine Arts honours degree in dance from York University in 2007.

Alicia has 13 years of experience working as a professional contemporary dancer and choreographer in Toronto, Canada, and Berlin, Germany. Her training as an osteopathic manual practitioner combined with her background in dance have provided her with a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all systems of the body. Alicia is passionately dedicated to connecting people with their innate ability for self-healing and self-regulation through osteopathy and movement.

Alicia can help with both acute and chronic conditions through osteoarticular, myofascial, visceral, and craniosacral techniques. In particular, she has a special interest in sports injuries and digestive problems. As an osteopathic manual practitioner, Alicia aims to provide a supportive space for clients to explore their health and vitality at their own pace.

Alicia Grant (she/her) earned a diploma in osteopathy from the Swiss International College of Ost... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website

Hailing from Ontario, Mikaela is a graduate of St. Francis Xavier University with both a BSc. Human Nutrition with Honours and BSc. Human Kinetics. Mikaela is a Registered Dietitian in good standing with the Nova Scotia Dietetic Association and is currently working towards a sports nutrition specialization.

Being involved in sports her entire life kick-started her passion for nutrition. With experience in a wide array of areas in nutrition Mikaela is able to help you meet your nutrition goals.

Areas I can assist with, but not limited to: - General healthy eating & lifestyle change - Sports nutrition - Meal planning, preparation, and grocery shopping - Weight loss, weight gain, and body composition change - Food allergies & intolerance - Digestive issues & conditions (including celiac disease) - Diabetes & hypoglycemia - High blood pressure & Cardiovascular disease - Nutrient deficiencies - Vegetarian & vegan diets - Nutrition supplements - Family nutrition - Nutrigenomix testing (eating according to your genes)

Qualifications: - International Olympic Committee Diploma in Sports Nutrition Part 1 - 2018

My Bio on Main Coastal Website Hailing from Ontario, Mikaela is a graduate of St. Francis Xavier... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website

Her passion began with the love of gymnastics at a young age and became a competitive gymnast. She then began coaching gymnastics in 1988 leading girls to the Provincials, Atlantics, Eastern, Canada Games and Nationals. She is known in the gymnastic world as the conditioning “Nazi”. Becoming a Mom and wanted nothing more but to be there for her little girl, meant a trip back to school to receive her Fitness and Lifestyle Management Diploma where she graduated top of her class receiving Outstand Performance Award. Shortly after graduating she started her own fitness business.

Outside of work you can find Nadine enjoying time with her family, fishing tournaments and hunting.

Nadine is very excited to be joining the team of Coastal Sports and Wellness as she believes it is the experts in all the industries that help us achieve full wellness.

My Bio on Main Coastal Website Her passion began with the love of gymnastics at a young age and ... Read More

Maxine Jeffrey, initially an occupational therapist, kinesiologist and certified yoga instructor, has been offering health services to her clients since 1993. After raising her two children, teaching yoga classes and providing yoga teacher training programs, offering exercise therapy and occupational therapy services for the past two decades, she decided to go back to school in 2014.

Maxine graduated from the Collège d’Études Ostéopathiques, Halifax Campus, in 2020 as an osteopathic manual practitioner. She has completed her thesis on GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease) and has obtained her DOMP status and is a member in good standing with the Nova Scotia Association of Osteopaths and with the Ontario Association of Osteopaths. She is accepting new clients and is looking forward to helping you on your journey to better health.

Additional courses: Osteopathic Mechanical Link 1 – The LMO Concept Applied to the Spine and Thorax. May, 2019

Osteopathic Mechanical Link 2 – The LMO Concept Applied to the periphery. October, 2019

Osteopathic Considerations for Surgical and Burn Scars Webinar- 2021

Maxine Jeffrey, initially an occupational therapist, kinesiologist and certified yoga instructor,... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website

The only Chiropractor in Atlantic Canada who has her CACCP designation- International Chiropractic Pediatric Association to specialize in preconception, prenatal, postnatal and pediatric chiropractic care.

Dr. Michelle MacDonald graduated from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in 2010 cum laude and clinic honours. Upon graduation, she received the Gilbert H. Young Memorial Award for attaining the highest average in her clinical year. Dr. MacDonald has spent the past 7 years working in Toronto and is finally happy to return back to the beautiful province of Nova Scotia. She was born and raised in Brookfield, NS and then achieved her undergrad degree at St. Francis Xavier University.

Dr. MacDonald spent 5 years taking courses and studying with The International Chiropractic Paediatric Association to receive her designation in preconception, prenatal, postnatal and paediatric chiropractic care. In 2016, she finished her research and completed her paediatric exam to obtain her CACCP designation through the Academy of Chiropractic Family Practice. Dr. MacDonald is currently the only Chiropractor in Atlantic Canada to hold this designation.

Dr. MacDonald was also fortunate enough to work with the College of Chiropractors of Ontario in Quality Assurance as well as, providing Corporate Wellness for the Canadian Chiropractic Association.

Dr. MacDonald is an avid curler and golfer which helps drive her passion to helping the people within her community live an active, happier and healthier lifestyle. She participated in the 2015 Para Pan Am Games on the medical team and has a wealth of experience treating dancers, curlers and golfers which will serve the athletes well at MSVU.

My Bio on Main Coastal Website The only Chiropractor in Atlantic Canada who has her CACCP desig... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website

Suzanne is a registered massage therapist, with over 10 years experience in the industry and has recently became a Certified Sport Massage Therapist in Nova Scotia.

Suzanne is the sole owner of Coastal Sports and Wellness.

Clinic owner since 2007: operated private practice directly out of college from 2007-2011; In 2011, expand individual practice and operated as “Coastal Massage” adding 4 additional massage therapists to the company. Once this expansion was successful, further expansion occurred in June 2013 to “Coastal Sports & Wellness Inc.” as a multidiscipline clinic adding Physiotherapy, Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, Dietary, Occupational Therapy, Reflexology and Personal Training.

In 2007 Suzanne Moroney graduated with honors from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy and became a Certified Sport Massage Therapist in 2016. She is a member in good standing with the Massage Therapy Association of Nova Scotia as well as the Canadian Sports Massage Therapy Association.

Suzanne uses specific techniques to maximize the treatment and healing time as well as prevention of future injury with: deep tissue massage, trigger point releasing, myofascial releasing techniques, cupping massage, Graston Technique, deep stretching and muscular strength testing to determine neurological dysfunction.

Specializing:

– Sports and athlete treatments

– TMJ (temporal-mandibular joint) associated discomfort.

– Hip, pelvis and low back pain, decrease in range of motion.

– Frozen shoulder and shoulder pain.

– Shin splints, calf pain and plantar fasciitis

Retired as a national level gymnast in 2014, at the age of 28. With over 20 years’ experience in the sport of gymnastics; her knowledge for acute, chronic and preventative care has been enhanced by her experience as an elite athlete. Team therapist for Taiso Gymnastics Training Centre.

Suzanne has attended many sporting events around HRM as part of the medical team offering Sports Massage Therapy: Gymnastics World Championships 2017, Paddling Worlds 2009, Canada Games 2011. She is also the Lead Massage Therapist for multiple sporting events around Halifax: local gymnastics competitions, Beach Volleyball Worlds and Nationals 2014 & 2015, Elite Canada Gymnastics 2016 & 2017, CIS Hockey Championships 2015 & 2016, CIS Basketball Championships 2017 & 2018, FIBA World Cup Qualifier 2017.

Most recently Suzanne was part of the Host Medical Team for Gymnastics World Championships in Montreal, Canada- 2017.

Contact Suzanne directly at: Suzanne@coastalsportsandwellness.com

My Bio on Main Coastal Website Suzanne is a registered massage therapist, with over 10 years exp... Read More

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My Bio on Coastal Main Website

Kendra, originally from Lower Sackville NS, graduated with a Master’s of Science in Physical Therapy from Queen’s University, after completing her Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology from the University of New Brunswick.

Kendra believes in an individual, comprehensive approach to her treatment plans. Which include hands on manual therapy techniques, with supplementation via an active home exercise program, soft tissue release, ongoing education, dry needling, and modalities as needed for pain, inflammation and muscle activation.

Her ultimate goal is to improve movement patterns, functional well-being and quality of life for her patients, all while preventing further injury. Kendra has had the opportunity to work with diverse conditions and age groups within her clinical experience and has a special interest in orthopedics, sports related injuries, shockwave therapy and prenatal/post partum rehabilitation.

In Kendra’s spare time you can find her strength training, doing yoga, hiking outdoors, spending time with her Bernese Mountain Dog, or on her next travel adventure!

Qualifications:

Clinical RPW (Radial Pressure Waves) Shockwave – 2019 Complete Concussion Management Re-Certification – 2019 Clinical Pilates with a Pelvic Health Perspective – 2019 FMT Rock Pods – 2019 FMT Rock Floss – 2019 The Physical Therapy Approach to Women’s Incontinence - 2019 The Physical Therapy Approach to Dyspareunia – 2019 Complete Concussion Management Re-Certification - 2017 Yoga Tune-Up Core Immersion - 2017 Specific Functional Movement Assessment Level II - 2017 Specific Functional Movement Assessment Level I - 2017 Yoga Tune-Up Level I - 2017 KinetaCore Functional Dry Needling Level I - 2016 Complete Concussion Management Certification - 2016 Yoga Alliance RYT200: Ashtanga and Vinyasa Flow - 2016 K-Taping Pro Course - 2015 Concussion Management Workshop with Shannon McGuire - 2015 Vestibular Rehabilitation with Bernard Tonks - 2015 Sports First Responder with CPR/Standard First Aid - 2014 Hockey Trainers Certification Program Level III - 2014 Level 1 Manual Therapy Certification - 2014 Soft Tissue Release Course with Jim Bilotta - 2014

My Bio on Coastal Main Website Kendra, originally from Lower Sackville NS, graduated with a Mast... Read More

Michelle has over 14 years’ experience treating as a Registered Massage Therapist in Nova Scotia and has joined the Coastal team in October 2021. Graduating with honors from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 2007 from the Halifax Campus, Michelle has had many years to maximize her hands-on skills and finding the best treatment outcomes for her clients.

Michelle’s passion for treatment aims to improve the baseline of your health by focusing on muscle function & control, quality & performance of your joint health & range of motion as well as improving the quality of your life from pain & discomfort, to stress & anxiety. Michelle’s many years of clinical experience has allowed her to treat a wide range of conditions such as SI joint dysfunction, chronic pain & fatigue, sciatica and other nerve related pain, migraines, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and much more.

Michelle is a member in good standing with the Massage Therapist Association of Nova Scotia.

Michelle has over 14 years’ experience treating as a Registered Massage Therapist in Nova Scotia ... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website:

Ashley Seamone RMT, DOMP

In August 2019 Ashley joined the Coastal Sports and Wellness team. She brings us over 17 years of clinical experience with a career predominately working in multi-disciplinary clinical settings.

Currently accepting new clients, Ashley uses a manual therapy hands-on approach while integrating her knowledge of massage therapy and osteopathy. She is able to provide a treatment plan customized to suit the individual needs of her clients.

A graduate of the massage therapy program at ICT Northumberland College, Halifax, in 2004, Ashley most recently completed her thesis and graduated from the Collège d’Études Ostéopathiques’ Halifax Campus in May, 2019. She is an active member and board member of the Nova Scotia Association of Osteopaths (NSAO), Ontario Association of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners (OAO) and the Massage Therapy Association of Nova Scotia (MTANS).

When not in the office, Ashley enjoys spending time with her family and friends, travelling, hunting for sea glass, spending time outdoors, trying new restaurants and getting cozy with a great novel.

My Bio on Main Coastal Website: Ashley Seamone RMT, DOMP In August 2019 Ashley joined the Coast... Read More

Kirsten (she/her), a counselling therapist, began working with autistic children/ children with autism and their families in 2013 by helping them to build various skills to support their already-existing abilities to thrive and live full and meaningful lives. After graduating from Yorkville University in 2020, Kirsten began providing one-on-one therapy in a different setting using a variety of methods to people who are 10 years or older.

Kirsten continues to have a passion in working with children, adolescents and adults using a trauma-informed and person-directed (collaborative) approach. She does not believe in a one-size-fits-all method and will work with you to create a care plan that best suits your current needs.

Kirsten has experience in working with people who are autistic (self-identifying included), experience ADHD or ADD, and others who are experiencing executive functioning challenges. She also supports people experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem and self-acceptance challenges, eating disorders, relationship and boundary needs, and parenting challenges. Kirsten has an interest in continuing to learn more about how to support families as well as perinatal and fertility challenges.

Outside of helping and caring for people directly, Kirsten also has a passion for providing education around mental health using various platforms, discovering community resources and connections to share with others, working in partnership with other community organizations and creating accessible resources for those in need.

Outside of work, Kirsten would be found fully immersed in family life or curled up and reading as many books as she possibly can.

Kirsten (she/her), a counselling therapist, began working with autistic children/ children with a... Read More

Offering female and male pelvic health services.

Jenna grew up in the beautiful Annapolis Valley. Jenna moved to Ontario to complete her post-secondary education in Biomedical Sciences (BSc) at the University of Ottawa in 2012, followed by her Master of Science in Physiotherapy (MScPT) in 2014 at Queen’s University in Kingston, ON.

After graduation, Jenna began practicing physiotherapy in St. John’s, NL in a multidisciplinary clinic. She quickly found her passion treating patients with pelvic floor dysfunction and developed the pelvic floor physiotherapy department to better serve this population.

Jenna returned home to Nova Scotia in 2017, where she now continues to work passionately in the field of pelvic floor physiotherapy. Jenna has advance education in pelvic floor physiotherapy and currently provides pelvic health care for diverse populations including pre- and post-natal, chronic pelvic pain, pre- and post-surgical, urinary and bladder dysfunction, digestive disorders, and trans and gender diverse folk.

Jenna believes in a patient-centered care approach that begins with listening to the patient’s story and developing a treatment plan together that addresses the patient’s goals. Treatment includes a combination of education, manual techniques, and movement therapy to help patients reach their maximal potential.

Jenna has enjoyed a variety of activities throughout her life including competitive soccer, swimming, running, paddle boarding, and surf-ski. Her current hobbies and activities include traveling, hiking, running, biking, practicing yoga, and spending time with her family.

Certifications

Pelvic Health Certification * Caesarean Birth & Rehabilitation- 2022

• Maritime Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Conference- 2022

• Labour & Delivery: Maternal Support through Comfort Measures and Pelvic Biomechanics- 2022

• Introduction to electrical stimulation for pelvic floor physiotherapy- 2021

• The Running Athlete- 2021

*Diastasis Rectus Abdominus and the Implications for Low Back and Pelvic Health- 2021

• Pelvic Health Care for Trans and Gender Diverse People- 2021

• 2021 Pelvic Health Symposium- 2021

• Physiotherapy for Anorectal Disorders, February 18, 2018

• Pelvic Girdle Pain and the Pelvic Floor- 2016

• Pregnancy and the Pelvic Floor- 2016

• Treating Pain: A New Model of Care- 2015

• Pelvic Neurodynamics- 2015

• Female and Male Pelvic Pain- 2015

• The Physical Therapy Approach to Female and Male Urinary Incontinence- 2015

• Röst Therapy: Relieving Sacro-iliac and Pubic Pain During and After Pregnancy- 2015

Orthopedic Certification

• Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy: Level 3 Upper Quadrant- 2021

• Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy: Level 2 Upper Quadrant- 2015

• Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy: Level 1- 2014

• Mulligan Concept Lower Quadrant- 2014

• Soft Tissue Release- 2014

Pilates Workshops

• Foam Roller Challenge-0 2019

• Matwork Flow with Weights- 2019

• Matwork Flow with Ankle Tubing- 2019

• Precision and Control with the Fitness Circle- 2018

• Pilates with Props, December 2018

• Yoga Tune Up Instructor Certification Course- 2017

Offering female and male pelvic health services. Jenna grew up in the beautiful Annapolis Valley... Read More

Dr. Alexander Vanderlinden is originally from Antigonish, NS. He graduated as an academic All-Canadian student athlete at St. Francis Xavier University in 2014, competing with the X-Men Track and Field team. He then continued to study at New York Chiropractic College, in upstate New York and graduated with his Doctor of Chiropractic in the winter of 2017. Upon completion, he moved back to Halifax and has been practicing in communities throughout the HRM ever since.

Dr. Vanderlinden prides himself on listening to each individual patient first. He believes that in order to reach a positive outcome with treatment, a unique, movement based examination must be performed. His chiropractic treatments can include spinal manipulation, soft tissue mobilization, rehabilitation exercise, education and passive modalities. He strongly believes that collaboration between practitioners is crucial, and your treatment plan may include working with an array of different providers. A combination of different services and treatments may be used to treat a wide variety of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, including acute sports injury management, nagging neck or low back pain, chronic pain, headaches/migraines, tendinopathies, injuries related to a motor vehicle accident, and more.

Dr. Vanderlinden has a keen interest in many sports, but has a special interest in golf. He is a Level 2 provider in the Titleist Performance Institute, and focuses on improving fitness capacity and functional range of motion in the swing. He is excited to join the Coastal team to provide patients of all backgrounds exceptional rehabilitative chiropractic care. Whether you want to perform at your best on the course, or spend more time being active with family, Dr. Vanderlinden will be happy to help in any way he can.

In his free time away from the clinic, you can find Dr. Vanderlinden either on the golf course, spending time with family and friends or exploring many unique destinations Nova Scotia has to offer. Book your complimentary 15-minute consultation to discuss if Chiropractic treatment may be right for you!

Dr. Alexander Vanderlinden is originally from Antigonish, NS. He graduated as an academic All-Can... Read More

Sydney Waite RMT, BKIN

Sydney is a dedicated individual who graduated from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Kinesiology degree in 2019. During her time at Acadia, she contributed to research in Sport Related Concussions, which helped her realize her love for sports and wellness. Sydney also volunteered her time to help develop children’s fine motor skills and provided personal training at the Acadia Cardiac Rehab Program, solidifying her passion for promoting physical activity and overall wellness.

Currently, Sydney is pursuing her passion for massage therapy at the Canadian College of Massage & Hydrotherapy and is set to graduate in May 2023. During her time at CCMH, she volunteered at multiple sporting events, providing sport massage to athletes and combining her love for massage therapy and sports. Sydney is also a proud member of the Canadian Sport Massage Therapists Association and is committed to completing the requirements to become a sport massage therapist.

Sydney strongly believes in the importance of client education and considers it the first step towards establishing a foundation for a physically active lifestyle. She is passionate about helping individuals get back to performing everyday tasks, rehabilitating injuries, and preventing future injuries. With her experience in various massage techniques such as Swedish massage, myofascial trigger point release, deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and sport massage, she is confident in her ability to help clients achieve their wellness goals.

Sydney is excited to continue her journey in the field of massage therapy and wellness and looks forward to making a positive impact on the lives of those she works with.

Qualifications:

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) 2022 Cupping Therapy 2023

Sydney Waite RMT, BKIN Sydney is a dedicated individual who graduated from Acadia University wit... Read More

Laura, originally from Fredericton, New Brunswick, graduated from Dalhousie University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. She then went on to complete an advanced certificate in Athletic Therapy at Mount Royal University in Calgary in 2016. After practicing as a Certified Athletic Therapist for over four years, she decided to expand her skill set and graduated from Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in August 2021.

Laura brings her extensive field and clinic-based experience as an Athletic Therapist into her approach as an RMT. She is passionate about getting people back to pain free living, achieving their physical goals and performing at their top potential. She values whole person care as well as client education and integrates these values into tailored treatment plans and homecare recommendations. Along with traditional Swedish massage, Laura offers cupping, myofascial release, sports massage, and muscle energy techniques.

When not in the clinic, Laura enjoys swimming laps and being out in nature hiking, skiing, or kayaking. She also loves watching any and all sports both on the sidelines and on the big screen!

Qualifications: - Sports Concussion Assessment and Management- American Academy of Neurology - Cervical Manipulative Techniques - Breg Custom Bracing- Rehab Matrix Canada Inc. - Muscle Energy Technique of the Pelvis and Lumbar Spine - Myofascial Cupping - Sports First Responder- certified since 2015

Laura, originally from Fredericton, New Brunswick, graduated from Dalhousie University in 2015 wi... Read More

Dustin graduate from ICT Northumberland College in 2020 and is a member in good standing with the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada.

Dustin is also a member of the Canadian Sport Massage Therapists Association and is focused on completing the requirements to become a sport massage therapist. He has experience working with teams such as the Wanderers, Thunderbirds and Mooseheads as well as some of the local university teams.

Dustin’s dynamic approach to massage therapy aims to connect people with their bodies while further increasing general health and well-being. He has also completed a Bachelor’s degree in Human Kinetics at St. Francis Xavier University. Dustin is experience with Swedish massage techniques, facial specific techniques, sport massage and cupping therapy. With his knowledge of sport massage and background in Kinesiology, Dustin hopes to one day work with professional athletes at the Olympics.

Qualifications: 2020- Cupping

Dustin graduate from ICT Northumberland College in 2020 and is a member in good standing with the... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website:

Francine is an honours graduate from Northumberland College in Halifax in 2001. Upon graduation, she continued her training in Dr. Vodder’s Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Combined Decongestive Therapy. Most recently she has completed five years of study at the Canadian College of Osteopathy and is in the process of writing her thesis to obtain her accreditation as an Osteopath.

Her numerous years in practice have provided her with extensive experience in the assessment and treatment of many different conditions. Her constant strive for continuing education gives her a vast array of tools and techniques to design the most beneficial treatment plan for her patients.

Francine is a huge advocate for volunteering her skills. She volunteered for the QEII’s Sunshine room for three years treating people with Cancer as well as their loved ones. Presently she is volunteering her time with Connections Halifax. The Saturday Free Clinic provides free alternative health care for people with a low income and without extended health benefits.

You can find out more about Francine and her treatment modalities at: http://www.wrightosteopathy.com

Francine placed twice in The Coast’s Magazine’s Best Massage Therapist. She is an active member of the Massage Therapy Association of Nova Scotia (MTANS).

My Bio on Main Coastal Website: Francine is an honours graduate from Northumberland College in H... Read More