Leah Duncan R.Ac

Important update

Leah has recently relocated to Fredericton, NB, but she remains committed to returning to Coastal on a monthly basis to continue serving her regular clients.

To ensure that Leah’s regular clients receive timely and consistent treatment, we kindly request that you add yourself to her waitlist. When doing so, please specify a 3-month time period.

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 Important update Leah has recently relocated to Fredericton, NB, but she remai... 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

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.

Nadine will be graduating from the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy, located in Hamilton October 2024.

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

Nadine has enjoyed being part of the Coastal Sports and Wellness team for the last five years, as she believes it is the expert 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

Jennifer Lawton, a dedicated Nurse Practitioner registered with the Nova Scotia College of Nurses. With over 20 years of experience, she has served in critical care with the Canadian Armed Forces before transitioning to pursue advanced education. Jennifer holds an MSCN from the University of Ottawa and an MN with a primary care NP certificate from Dalhousie University.

For the past five years, Jennifer has been making a difference in the communities of Kentville, Canning, and Halifax. Her primary focus is on women’s, transgender, and gender diverse health. She has completed specialized courses in treating stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

Compassionate and committed, Jennifer strives to provide exceptional care to her patients, fostering inclusivity and health awareness. Beyond her profession, she enjoys exploring Nova Scotia’s beauty and engaging in community outreach programs.

Jennifer Lawton, a dedicated Nurse Practitioner registered with the Nova Scotia College of Nurses... Read More

Gillian Lirette (BSc. PT) graduated from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Physical Education with a specialization in Athletic Therapy in 1998 and continued on to complete a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Toronto in 2001.

Gillian joins us with over 20 years of experience working in a variety of clinical settings from owning her own clinic to working for a large corporation. After having her own 3 children, Gillian developed a special interest in the area of pelvic health. She is passionate about helping those with any incontinence issues, both women and men, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, constipation issues and pre & postnatal care. She strives to inspire her clients to develop individual goals through a whole-body approach to live well again.

She is a life-long learner and is consistently pursuing courses related to pelvic health to keep up with the current research.

Gillian believes in leading by example and therefore, keeping her own body physically active throughout the lifespan is important to her. Having represented team Nova Scotia at the Canada Games at a young age, she has continued to live an active lifestyle and now enjoys walking, going to the gym and playing golf. The other great passion in Gillian’s life is her family. She enjoys spending her spare time with her husband and their 3 extremely active, athletic children. We are very confident that you will find Gillian’s expertise and enthusiasm a valuable asset towards accomplishing your rehabilitation goals.

Gillian Lirette (BSc. PT) graduated from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Physical Education ... 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

Leanne Marriott, RMT, BSc. Kin, graduated with honours from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in May 2022 and is Sport Candidate Member with the CSMTA. Leanne also graduated from Dalhousie with a Bachelor of Kinesiology in 2019.  While at Dalhousie, Leanne was an athletic trainer for the varsity Men’s Basketball and Women’s Rugby teams, providing sideline care, assessment, taping, and load management.  Prior to completing her massage diploma, Leanne worked as a Kinesiologist in a multi-disciplinary clinic, assisting clients on their journey to wellness for three years.



Leanne is passionate about helping clients achieve optimal tissue health and mobility to allow them to continue the activities they love, pain free.
She utilizes General Swedish Massage techniques, focusing on deep tissue massage, and also provides myofascial release, sports massage, and Graston Technique Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization.

When not in the clinic, Leanne is an avid volleyball coach, having coached for 20 years, and enjoys riding her motorcycle in the summer.

Qualifications/Certifications:

2023 - Anatomy Trains - Body Reading and Resilience - Graston Technique- Level 1

2022 - Sports First Responder Re-Certification

2019 - Advanced Sport Massage - Mental Health First Aid - Sports First Responder

2016 - Kinesiotaping

Leanne Marriott, RMT, BSc. Kin, graduated with honours from the Canadian College of Massage and H... Read More

My Bio on Main Coastal Website

Suzanne is a registered massage therapist with 17 years of experience in the industry. She holds certification as a Sport Massage Therapist through the Canadian Sport Massage Therapy Association.

Suzanne founded Coastal Sports & Wellness in 2013 and is the sole owner of the facility.

Clinic Owner since 2007: - Established and operated a private practice immediately after graduating college until 2011 - In 2011, expanded operations to create “Coastal Massage,” overseeing a team of 4 additional massage therapists - The success of this expansion prompted further growth in June 2013, resulting in the transition to “Coastal Sports & Wellness Inc.” This multidisciplinary clinic now offers services including Physiotherapy, Chiropractic Care, Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, Dietary services, Naturopathic Medicine, Counselling, Occupational Therapy, Reflexology, and Personal Training. - Successfully expanded Coastal Sports & Wellness Inc. to include a second location within Mount St. Vincent University from 2017 to 2021. - New multidisciplinary clinic expansion opening September 2024 in Halifax, NS

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.

Clinical Focus:

• Sports related injuries

• 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.

Suzanne is part of the IST (Integrated Support Team) for Swimming Canada & Athletics Canada (Track & Field) as well as part of the Canadian Mission Staff Therapy Team for Major Multisport Games and has attended many sporting events around the world: - IST Sport Massage Therapist for Swimming Canada- Summer Olympic Games, Paris 2024 - IST Sport Massage Therapist for Swimming Canada- Olympic Trials, Toronto 2024 - IST Sport Massage Therapist Athletics Canada- Florida Relays 2024 - IST Sport Massage Therapist Swimming Canada FINA World Championships (50M)- Doha, Qatar, 2024 - Mission Staff, Sport Massage Therapist- Pan-American Games, Santiago, Chile, 2023 - IST Sport Massage Therapist Swimming Canada FINA World Championships (50M)- Fukuoka, Japan, 2023 - IST Sport Massage Therapist Swimming Canada Mare Nostrum- Spain & Monaco, 2023 - IST Sport Massage Therapist Swimming Canada FINA World Short Course Championships (25M)- Melbourne, Australia, 2022 - Mission Staff, Sport Massage Therapist- Commonwealth Games, Birmingham UK, 2022 - IST Sport Massage Therapist Swimming Canada FINA World Championships (50M)- Budapest, Hungary, 2022 - IST Sport Massage Therapist Athletics Canada- Chula Vista Warm Weather Training Camp- San Diego, California, 2022 - Mission Staff, Sport Massage Therapist FISU Games, selected as Alternate Massage Therapist- Naples, Italy, 2019 - IST Sport Massage Therapist support for Female National Women’s Hockey Fall Festival Camp- Liverpool NS, 2019 - IST Sport Massage Therapist for Athletics Canada NACAC U23- Querétaro, Mexico, 2019 - IST Sport Massage Therapist support for Swimming Canada 2019/2020 season - Sport Massage Therapist 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 17 years of experi... Read More

Dr. Abrar Negahban is a Naturopathic Doctor and women’s health advocate. She is passionate about empowering and educating her patients about their bodies and their health. She helps them achieve their health goals by finding the root cause of their illness and creating individualized treatment protocols for each patient taking into account their mental, spiritual and physical health.

She runs treats all health concerns using an integrative approach and evidence-based medicine but has a special interest in women’s health, stress management and preventative medicine. She uses a combination of the following therapeutic modalities in her treatment plans:

• Prevention and Lifestyle Counseling
• Botanical Medicine
• Clinical Nutrition
• Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture
• Hydrotherapy
• Injection therapies (i.e. Perineural therapy, B12 injections, etc)

Common concerns managed by Dr. Abrar include and are not limited to PMS, painful periods, Menopause, - Prenatal and Perinatal care, Postpartum support, Fertility support, IBS, Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes, High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, Fatigue, Chronic pain, etc.

In 2012, Dr. Abrar volunteered on a medical brigade to Guatemala where she provided naturopathic care to the less fortunate mostly men and women with challenging cases with the majority including digestive and mental health concerns.

She has strong communication skills and is fluent in both English and Farsi (Persian) and knows basic comprehension in Arabic. She strives to educate herself on cultural diversity and welcomes all backgrounds in her practice.

Dr. Abrar completed her double major bachelor degree in Microbiology and Immunology, and Religious Studies at Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia in 2010. She then moved to Toronto, Ontario and attended the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine and obtained a four-year Doctor of Naturopathy degree in 2014.

She is a member in good standing of the Nova Scotia Association of Naturopathic Doctors, College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.

Book a complimentary 15 minute meet and greet appointment to find out how she can help you improve your quality of life, balance your hormones, have a healthy pregnancy and postpartum, manage your stress or have more energy. Call, email or book online!

Dr. Abrar Negahban is a Naturopathic Doctor and women’s health advocate. She is passionate about ... Read More

Michelle has over 17 years experience treating as a Registered Massage Therapist in Nova Scotia and has joined the Coastal team in October 2021. Graduating with honours 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 17 years experience treating as a Registered Massage Therapist in Nova Scotia a... Read More

Jamison Sampson BScHK, MScPT

Jamison has long been involved in sports, having first found an interest in physiotherapy as a high school athlete dealing with hockey and weightlifting injuries. While completing a Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics at StFX University, Jamison acted as captain of the StFX Baseball Team for three seasons. He then moved to Scotland to complete a Master of Science in Physiotherapy at Glasgow Caledonian University, where he also developed a passion for golf.

After completing his education, he initiated his career as a physiotherapist within the UK’s National Health Service, where he focused on medical rehabilitation in a COVID-19 ward and later transitioned to the geriatric frailty service. In 2023, he returned to Cape Breton to further his career at a general private practice clinic. Now, he eagerly anticipates embarking on a new chapter with Coastal Sports & Wellness. His enthusiasm lies in working with new clients and aiding athletes in reaching peak condition for upcoming seasons. He particularly enjoys the challenge of helping winter-stiffened golfers regain mobility and thrive. When Jamison isn’t at work, you can find him at the golf course, the gym, or walking his dog Murphy.

Jamison enjoys working with all patients, regardless of their condition. He has experience with musculoskeletal injuries, pediatrics, geriatrics, neurology, respiratory medicine, and learning disabilities, among others. He has a keen interest for working with athletes of all levels, particularly golfers, hockey & baseball players.

Jamison uses a blend of hands-on manual therapy and functional rehabilitation to help his clients move better, feel better, and perform better. He utilizes a one-on-one, person-centred approach to offer evidence-based care and help people achieve their goals. Jamison loves his job, and it is evident with every treatment. The premium quality of therapy Jamison provides quickly created a high demand for his services, and we would love for you to see why firsthand.

Qualifications: - 2021- Stroke Core Competencies for Chest, Heart & Stroke.

Jamison Sampson BScHK, MScPT Jamison has long been involved in sports, having first found an int... 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 20 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 Treasurer of the Nova Scotia Association of Osteopaths (NSAO). As well as a member of 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 and trying new restaurants.

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

Ally Simmons RMT, BSc.Kin

Ally is a Registered Massage Therapist who graduated from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 2024. Her journey into the world of physical health began with her passion for playing basketball while growing up, which eventually transformed into a love for weightlifting.

With a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from UNB, she is dedicated to helping her clients achieve their optimal health and performance through personalized massage therapy. When she’s not working with clients, you’ll likely find her in the gym or exploring new ways to stay active.

She looks forward to working with you to enhance your well-being and support your physical goals.

Qualifications:

2024 - Cupping Therapy

Ally Simmons RMT, BSc.Kin Ally is a Registered Massage Therapist who graduated from the Canadian... 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

Originally from Moncton, New Brunswick Emma travelled to St. Johns, Newfoundland to complete her Bachelor of Kinesiology at Memorial University. During her studies, Emma worked at a local physiotherapy clinic and soon discovered her passion for helping people feel better holistically – this revelation along with personal experience led her to discover acupuncture’s full potential.  

Emma obtained her D. Ac. from Canadian College of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (CCATCM) in Bedford, Nova Scotia. Through this program, she excelled in academics and received comprehensive training in Acupuncture, Gua Sha, Cupping, Tui Na and more. Emma is also a member in good standing with the Canadian Medicine and Acupuncture Association of Canada (CMAAC). 

During her schooling, Emma accumulated 2220 clinic hours. She has treated a variety of conditions such as Bell’s Palsy, Sciatica Pain, Headaches / Migraines and many more. While Emma thoroughly enjoys treating a wide range of both chronic and acute pain conditions, she has a strong personal interest in women’s health and her patient’s overall wellbeing. 

Emma is eager to meet you and take the first step on your path to holistic healing.

Qualifications:

2023- Sport Acupuncture

2023- Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture

Originally from Moncton, New Brunswick Emma travelled to St. Johns, Newfoundland to complete her ... Read More

Dr. Amanda Volcko completed her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry at Mount Allison University in 2016. During her time at Mount Allison, she was a member of the Mountie’s varsity women’s soccer and hockey teams. Upon graduating from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College summa cum laude in 2022, she received the Robert Kilgannon Memorial Award for academic achievement and commitment to patient care.

Amanda uses techniques including joint mobilization and manipulation, soft tissue therapy, neurofunctional acupuncture, laser therapy, electrotherapies, and exercises. She is certified in Contemporary Medical Acupuncture and instrument-assisted soft tissue techniques. Amanda has been involved with several teams providing sport-side coverage. She is passionate about helping people achieve their health goals.

In her spare time, Amanda enjoys playing soccer, golfing, and hiking.

Dr. Amanda Volcko completed her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry at Mount Allison University ... Read More

Meredith Waisman MScPT, BKin and Nutr Diploma in Sport Physiotherapy Registered International Sport Physical Therapist (RISPT)

Meredith is a graduate of the Dalhousie University School of Physiotherapy program, earning her degree in 2012. Prior to that, she completed a double major in Kinesiology and Nutrition at Acadia University in 2010.

With an extensive background in sports, Meredith obtained her Diploma in Sport Physiotherapy in 2018. She has also pursued additional training in Acupuncture, Dry Needling, and the Complete Concussion Management program. Furthermore, she serves on the executive council of the Sport Physiotherapy Canada Nova Scotia Division.

Meredith’s professional experience includes working with Hockey Nova Scotia’s high-performance provincial teams, Hockey Canada national training camps, IIHF World Juniors, the Halifax Rainmen, Major U15 Hockey teams, Major U18 Hockey teams, and the soccer teams at Acadia and Dalhousie Universities. She has also served as a sponsored physiotherapist at the 2017, 2019, and 2023 Canada Games. Currently, Meredith holds the position of physiotherapist with one of the National Men’s Indoor Volleyball teams.

Additional Courses and Education 2021 - Sport First Responder, Recertification - 2019 - Complete Concussion Management, Recertification

2018 - Functional Dry Needling Level 1, Kinetacore - Sport Physiotherapy Canada Diploma - Sport First Responder

2016 - Complete Concussion Management

2015 - Sport Physiotherapy Canada Certificate - Acupuncture Level 1

2013 - Orthopaedic Level 2, Upper Extremity, NS Orthopaedic Division

2010 - Sports Injury Assessment and Management program, Acadia University; 2008-2010

Meredith Waisman MScPT, BKin and Nutr Diploma in Sport Physiotherapy Registered International Sp... 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