What influenced your decision to become a Psychotherapist? 
Becoming a psychotherapist was an easy decision for me as I have a passion for people and being able to support individuals to live their best lives is my ultimate goal.

What are the top three most common issues you help clients address?
The three top concerns clients bring to counselling is mental health disorders (mainly anxiety and depression), children and youth struggling to manage their emotions, and difficulties in relationships (both family and intimate relationships).
 
What types of presenting concerns do you enjoy treating?
The presenting concerns I enjoy working with most is mental health. Having been passionate about this and spent majority of my career working in the field I have a great knowledge base and respect for those living with mental health challenges. Secondarily, I really like do pre-marital counselling with partners who are looking to face life together, and want to make sure they are beginning their journey in a fully open and honest way. The couples' love and passion shines in sessions and creates a light and productive session.
 
What types of treatment methods/approaches do you use?
I practice an eclectic approach to treatment and counselling. I do not believe in a one size fits all approach therefore allow the client(s) to guide me to understand their situation, and we develop a plan that works for them. For some people, they are seeking more talk therapy where they lead the sessions and have a sounding board to guide them to developing their own conclusions to things. Others are seeking a more solution-focused approach which follows a more structured approach to meeting goals.

What is your treatment philosophy?
My treatment philosophy is that everyone does the best they can in every moment with the tools they have at that time. I also believe we can all learn more effective strategies to manage various moments. Additionally, I believe that people are the experts of themselves and deserve non-judgmental support for any challenges they might be facing.

What is a common question patients ask you?
A common question is how long people generally see me. And I can never answer this question with an actual time frame. I think people generally see me until they feel they have achieved their goals. Depending on the goals and the individual circumstances of the person this time varies significantly.

What is a common misconception/myth you would like to dispel?
I would say a common misconception about counselling is that is it only for a specific demographic of people. This is not true. Counselling can be for anyone and everyone; no matter their age or personal circumstances. Counselling is something that anyone can benefit from if they are open to it. There is no issue too small to bring into the session. If it matters to you it matters to me.

If you could give everyone one piece of advice this spring what would it be?
One piece of advice I would want people to have this spring is to notice how they’re feeling and behaving and whatever it is getting in the way of living their best life as their best self, do something to break down the barriers. We often put a lot of effort in to our physical self maybe going to the gym or eating healthily but we can sometimes forget we also have to work on our mental and emotional self. Since we all have a brain we all have mental health that needs tending to.

What do you like to do for fun/or tell us something most people don't know about you?
For fun, I enjoy being outside as much as I can. This can be out with the dogs or training for my triathlon race season. With the weather heading into the warmer direction, I cannot wait to get back out on my bike, open-water swim and simply not have to bundle up!
 
 Book a counselling session with Kristen online >>>
 

By Dr. Suzanne Bartolini, Naturopathic Doctor
 
What is Candida? Candida Albicans is a yeast that naturally resides in the human body. Under healthy conditions, it lives in harmony with other microorganisms. It normally resides in the intestinal tract, throat, mouth, and genitals. BUT – it can become problematic if it has an opportunity to proliferate and upset the balance of bacteria in the body. It will then burrow holes in the intestinal tract, enter the blood steam, and make its way into any organ of the body, overwhelming the immune system, and wreaking havoc on overall health.
 
What are some symptoms of Candida?  Candida can become the insidious culprit behind many common health problems, including: excessive fatigue, headaches, anxiety, food allergies, unexplained muscle and joint pain, skin problems like acne and eczema, sinus congestion, urinary tract infections, hormonal imbalances, digestive disturbances like gas and bloating, and “brain fog” – the inability to think clearly or concentrate.
 
What causes Candida? The two main contributors to Candida overgrowth in the body are the overuse of antibiotics and a diet high in sugar and refined foods. But also, prescription drugs such as the birth control pill and corticosteroids, heavy metal toxins, stress, and vitamin deficiencies – can all play a role in creating an imbalance in the body that enables Candida to thrive.
 
What are some Naturopathic ways to treat Candida? The following are a few tips to help your immune system overcome Candida overgrowth:

• Reduce sugar and refined products in your diet - This includes carbohydrates and alcohol. Most processed and packaged foods contain sugar so check food labels carefully. 
  
  
• Eat foods with anti-microbial properties - Increase the intake of anti-fungal foods in your diet such as garlic and oregano.
  
  
• Keep your colon clean – Ensuring regular bowel movements will help prevent toxins from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream from the colon.
  
  
• Keep your home environment healthy – Toxic chemicals weaken the immune system and this allows yeast to proliferate.
  
  
• Take a good quality probiotic – Investing in a good probiotic - and taking it properly - will help restore a healthy intestinal flora and re-colonize the gastrointestinal tract with beneficial bacteria, which improves the immune system. 
  
  
• Address any nutritional deficiencies you may have – Load up on anti-oxidants such as vitamin C to help in the battle against Candida.

 

• Investigate other natural supplements that have anti-fungal properties – for instance, berberine, caprylic acid, Pau D’Arco, grapefruit seed extract, and colloidal silver, all have antimicrobial effects.

 
Candida overgrowth is a complex health issue and can be difficult to treat.  If you think you have this condition, it may be a good idea to contact a Naturopathic Doctor to provide the guidance for successful treatment, and to improve your overall health and well being.

>>>Click here to book an appointment with Dr Suzanne Bartolini

What influenced your decision to become a Massage Therapist?

I've always wanted to work in the healthcare industry. I find that helping individuals with their issues make me feel accomplished like no other job has. It wasn't until when my grandfather was sick that triggered my interested in massage specifically. I kneaded his hands and feet mimicking what he did back when he got sick. And to my surprise he got better. I had a realization that I was great working hands-on, so I pursued the career. It's been two and a half years now and I'm still loving every minute. 

What are the top three most common issues you help clients address?

Number one would have to be low back pain, either from disk herniation or muscle strain. Second, shoulder injuries like rotator cuff tears and third, is knee pain from degeneration. 

What types of conditions/injuries do you enjoy treating?

There is always something to treat. Even when patients only come for relaxation- stress creates tension, and tension builds knots in your muscles. A lot of people don't realize how much tension builds up throughout the week and they come in surprised at how sore their back & shoulders are. That said, I very much enjoy treating stress related tension and teaching patients proper posture and work ergonomics. 

What types of treatment methods/approaches do you use?

I start out with an assessment to see where the patient is physically, or in some cases mentally. After ruling out any red flags I then set reasonable and achievable short-term goals for them. I would then give the patient a few remedial exercises after a treatment as we work together to achieve their goal. I provide deep tissue, or Swedish massage, and am certified in cupping therapy.

What is your treatment philosophy?

Don't make things more complicated than they need to be.

What is a common question patients ask you?

Do your hands get tired?... lol

If you could give everyone one piece of advice this winter what would it be?

When walking on snow or ice , look to the experts. Walk like a penguin. Center your gravity on your whole foot instead of your heels. You'll look a bit silly but at least you'll avoid injury. 

What do you like to do for fun/or tell us something most people don't know about you?

On my free time you'll often find me playing my guitar or rocking the drums. I enjoy jammin' out with friends and occasionally singing karaoke after a few drinks. To stay healthy I try and squeeze in a workout between patients or during my lunch break. So if you see me around the gym, come say hi. I'd be glad to answer any questions or even spot you on your next heavy set. 

Here are some great tips from the Ontario Chiropractic Association!

Winter weather can pack a punch and, with the season’s heavy snowfalls, injuries often result. Improper snow shovelling is often to blame.
But shovelling out after a storm doesn’t have to leave you stiff and sore. With a little know-how, you can clear your driveway without the all-too-common back, neck and shoulder pain cramping your style. Here’s how:
Before You Start

• Drink plenty of water. Dehydration is just as big an issue in the winter months as it is in the summer.
• Dress in several layers so you can remove a layer as you get warm.
• Wear proper footwear. Shoes and boots with solid treads on the soles can help to minimize the risk of slips and falls.
• Pick the right shovel. Use a lightweight, non-stick, push-style shovel. A smaller blade will require you to lift less snow, putting less strain on your body. An ergonomically correct model (curved handle) will help prevent injury and fatigue. Also, if you spray the blade with a silicone-based lubricant, the snow will slide off more easily.
• Before beginning any snow removal, warm up for five to 10 minutes to get your joints moving and increase blood circulation. A brisk walk will do it.

All Set to GoPUSH, DON’T THROW.Push the snow to one side and avoid throwing it. If you must throw it, avoid twisting and turning — position yourself to throw straight at the snow pile.
BEND YOUR KNEES.Use your knees, leg and arm muscles to do the pushing and lifting while keeping your back straight.
WATCH FOR ICE.Be careful on icy walkways and slippery surfaces. Intermittent thaws and subsequent freezing can lead to ice building up underfoot, resulting in nasty slips and falls. Throw down some salt or sand to ensure you have a good footing.
Once you’ve mastered safe snow shovelling techniques, you’ll be free to have fun and stay fit all winter.

What influenced your decision to become a Massage Therapist/Osteopath?
I have always been interested in studying natural ways to heal the human body. I had lots of experience growing up getting treatment from a naturopath, chiropractor, massage, physio etc to keep me healthy for playing sports.  My athletic therapist at the time was undergoing their osteopathic studies and wanted to practice techniques on me. My first treatment was something I never had experienced before it was deeply relaxing and therapeutic. I felt a deep connection to that approach to healing and wanted to learn more.

What are the top three most common issues you help clients address?
1) Back Pain 2) Neck Pain 3) Stress & Anxiety

What types of conditions/injuries do you enjoy treating?
1) Back pain 2) Headaches 3) Foot problems

What types of treatment methods/approaches do you use?
I use a lot of trigger point therapy, fascial techniques, muscles stripping.

What is your treatment philosophy?
To help patients heal themselves and work with them in a relaxed setting. Educating them or guiding them so they are more aware of their own body.

What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a hands on manual therapy aiming to remove any barriers to health by treating the causes of pain and imbalances.

Who would likely benefit from an Osteopathic appointment?
Most office workers would benefit but anyone can experience an improvement from an Osteopathic appointment. Similar to a massage it can also promote relaxation and stress relief as well as relieve muscle tension.

If you could give everyone one piece of advice this winter what would it be?
Bundle up and get some fresh air. 

What do you like to do for fun?
Hiking, reading yoga!

There are many different types of detoxification programs which cleanse the body of toxins, and each type has its own specific purpose and benefits. For instance, Heavy metal cleanses focus on removing accumulations of heavy metals from the body, such as mercury and aluminum. Organism cleanses work to eliminate specific organisms, such as parasites or candida yeast. Organ cleanses detoxify the liver and gall bladder, lungs, kidneys, and colon.

One of the main organs involved in cleansing is the liver, which filters all impurities and toxins from the blood. The liver filters these substances and reduces them into compounds that the body can then eliminate through the kidneys (as urine), the skin (as sweat), the lungs (as expelled air), and the bowels (as feces). It is important for overall health to make sure that each organ system is functioning optimally.
By improving the efficiency of these systems you will notice that you have more energy, sleep better, are more mentally alert, and have enhanced well-being that is especially visible in better skin and shiny hair. You may even notice that you suffer less from colds and flus because of an improvement in your immune system. 

Health concerns that can benefit from a personalized cleansing program include:
• Constipation and digestion problems such as bloating— poor bowel movements encourage harmful bacteria and toxins to accumulate over time.
• High cholesterol and high blood pressure— detoxification diets help to establish lifestyle changes that are important in both treatment and prevention of strokes and heart disease.
• Colds and flus – This is a clear reflection of a much weaker immune function and the body’s inability to fight bacteria and viruses well. 
• Also— headaches and migraines, allergies and sensitivities, joint pain, smokers, those with high alcohol consumption, and those who generally feel fatigue and tired.

A Naturopathic doctor can find the best cleanse program for you personally. Under guided supervision, a total health plan can be created for you that rejuvenates your energy and restores your health to an optimal level. 
​
Dr Bartolini is at Rebound Health + Wellness on Wednesdays. Interested in jump starting your health naturally? Book an Initial Assessment with Dr Bartolini  >>> Book Online

​What influenced your decision to become a physiotherapist? 
From my childhood I was more interested in health issues and my back ground also gives me more experiences with natural medicines and traditional martial arts and their use in healing various health related problems. I was also interested in a system where there are fewer side effects. After my college studies I was trying to get into the medical field, from where I ended up in Physiotherapy, which I learned to be non-invasive and with less side effects and it also involves all population from paediatrics to geriatrics. Later when I completed my course I was more clear about my path and how I can utilize my ability for many of the health-related problems which opened up for me a door in to the world of different practice.

What are the top three most common issues you help clients address?
It is very difficult to pin point 3 common issues, because there are a lot of issues that can be made better with physiotherapy. Common issues I come across is shoulder and neck pain/stiffness, low back pain, sports injuries and neurological conditions which include stroke and Parkinson’s. 

What types of conditions/injuries do you enjoy treating?
All sports injuries, neck, shoulder, back and leg pain/ injuries, Post concussion symptoms (mTBI, MVA), stroke, Parkinson’s. 

What types of treatment methods/approaches do you use?
I prefer to use more manual techniques, but I use therapeutic modalities such as IFC, ultrasound to help the initial healing process, followed with more with exercises and postural corrections. I do more hands on work with most of the conditions, which gives long lasting relief and prevention of symptoms. Exercises are one of the major compounds I insist for my patients.

What is your treatment philosophy?
Understanding the condition is the first priority, because I believe that if your diagnosis is right, 90% of your treatment is done. Experience counts- with more than 15 years in this field, I have been exposed to almost all types of clinical conditions and their physiotherapy management. Understanding the root cause and eliminating it rather than beating around the bush is important. I use modalities wisely to help overcome the present situation not solely relying only on them. I rely on active approach rather than to a passive one.

What might a typical appointment with you look like?
I listen to what the client wants to say, asking questions relating to the condition, physical assessment, various orthopaedic and neurological physical testing. I then discuss the findings with the client, explain the condition- from an anatomical perspective, then I use various treatment approaches.

If you could give everyone one piece of advice this winter what would it be?
Winter is the worst time for people with arthritis, those more susceptible to fall injuries and MVAs (Motor Vehicle Accidents). Those with arthritis should not expose their joints to cold, always cover up and keep warm. If you have a fall do not hesitate to see health care provider to check that nothing is wrong, because from a small fall you may later end up with some major issues.

What can someone expect an initial appointment with you to look like?
During an initial appointment we discuss the present situation, history of the complaint, work on finding out the cause, explain the condition- making you understand how and why it happened with anatomical explanation, possible treatments and a small treatment session depending on the available time and of course a home exercises programme for you to continue the exercises at home.

What do you like to do for fun?
I love gardening in summer (grow your own) fishing, biking, GYM, cooking, spend time with my kids, watching movies with my family.

By Norine Khalil, RD
Once again, another year has come and gone faster than the one before it, and the holidays are around the corner. Time to look back at your 2018 New Year’s Resolutions and either spend the remainder of the year either celebrating or self-loathing. But wait – before you shove your health and wellness goals deep into the depths of your closet right down there with your summer wardrobe, hold that thought. Many of my clients have already begun to give up on their goals in anticipation of the Christmas craze, but I’m suggesting a different strategy. No, I’m not saying you have to swap the stuffing out for a quinoa salad necessarily (although that is music to my ears) – I am suggesting a slight shift in mindset for these remaining weeks of December to help transition into the new year on a healthy and happy note.

Ditch the New Year’s Resolutions – The “my diet starts tomorrow” mentality is so 2016, you guys. Beginning this holiday season with the mentality that your wellness goals will be put on hold until the new year is setting you up for failure before you even begin. Start today. Not tomorrow. Choose one goal, as simple as it needs to be, and stick with it starting today. If it’s aiming to get an extra 1,000 steps in each day, grab that FitBit and get to steppin’. Skipping breakfast lately? Set a goal to prepare a simple breakfast each morning until January 1st. There is no reason to hold off on making healthy changes until January 1st 2019 when you have 29 perfect days ahead of you today.

Give the Gift of Health – As much as we say that the holidays are about family and friends…let’s be honest, we all love the gifts. Whether it’s a Secret Santa at work or a family gift exchange, plant the seed of health with friends, family and co-workers by gifting them with something they can use to get their wellness on! New workout gear, a heartrate monitor, or a new cookbook are all great gifts that can help your loved ones stay motivated.

Eat Joyfully (and Mindfully) – instead of focusing on the big feasts, the bottomless bottles of wine, and the endless plates of dessert – focus on the people with whom you’re eating, the meaningful conversations, and the one plate you’ve fixed for yourself at the table. Take a moment to give thanks for the meal you’re about to eat and the people you’re eating it with – and enjoy it. Take notice of the festive flavors and spices, the sweet and the savory, the tender and crunchy textures, and really try to be present with each bite and each sip.

Take time to RELAX – It’s safe to say that we haven’t quite grasped the concept of work-life balance here in North America, so the idea of relaxing is somewhat foreign. The body and the mind need rest, and we tend to find every reason under the sun to not give the body what it needs. Make yourself a promise in the next two weeks and find at least one day to unplug, make no plans, and really rest. Sleep all day, spend the day in your PJ’s reading a book by the fire, or spend an afternoon at a cozy coffee shop with a warm cuppa tea and a journal. Whatever your idea of relaxation is – promise yourself one day of that. Your mind and body will thank you.

Perspective Goes a Long Way – It’s easy to lose sight of what the holidays are all about when you’re trying to navigate the chaos of Christmas shopping during your lunch hour, and getting all caught up at work before you have the in-laws staying over for a week of “fun”. Take a moment and do something nice for someone in need this time around. Get together with friends or family and volunteer at a soup kitchen, or even keep it simple and donate some canned food items, games and toys, or clothing to a shelter. Helping others is always a win. It’s amazing how a little bit of perspective can help give you a sense of clarity for what matters most…and more often than not, that’s not a number on a scale, or how many calories you overate. At the end of the day, what matters most is our health and happiness, and the health and happiness of our loved ones.

Your holidays can be healthy if you choose to make them that way. Start today, stay consistent, and continue to focus on the wins each and every day. I wish you all a very happy holiday, and a wonderful start to 2019!

This month we sat down to chat with our newest physio Steven. He is in clinic Tues/Thurs, and every other Sunday!

What influenced your decision to become a physiotherapist? 
I had many sports injuries growing up and have always tried to find ways to help myself rehab from those injuries. My interest in learning about the human body grew stronger when I enrolled in the Kinesiology program at York University and took courses in athletic injuries. However I soon realized that there was more to rehab than just helping athletes, I wanted to treat all kinds of injuries and that’s why I decided to go into physiotherapy. In this field, I can combine my passion for helping athletes return to their sports and also help treat pain and injuries that are affecting the lives of the general population.

What is your treatment philosophy?
I believe TENS and electrical modalities has its place in physiotherapy but I do not believe it should be used as the ONLY treatment option. I also believe that patients will have better results in their rehab if they spend more time with the physiotherapist instead of assistants. I believe that these two things are what separates Rebound Health and Wellness from other clinics, I do not use any assistants during my treatment sessions and so you will spend one on one times with me for your entire visit. Our treatment sessions will include more than just a heat pack on your back as well!

What can someone expect an initial appointment with you to look like?
We will first try to figure out the cause of your pain by taking a detailed history of your pain to narrow down the cause. Next, we will go through specific movements and special tests to pinpoint which exact treatment you will need. The rest of the initial appointment will be treatment of your problem areas using specific strengthening and stretching exercises, joint mobilizations, soft tissue massage, athletic taping, and electrical modalities.


What types of treatment methods/approaches do you use?
Once I find out what issues my patients have, I like to use a variety of techniques to treat those issues.

-Cervical, thoracic and lumbar mobilizations using various Maitland, Kaltenborn, Mulligan, traction, and Snag Techniques
-Mobilization of SI joint, knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, wrist and phalanges
-McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy for neck and low back pain
-Soft Tissue release techniques including Petrissage and Kneading Massage, Percussion Massage, Deep Friction Massage, Trigger Point Release Technique, GTO release
-Myofascial release techniques for commonly tight muscle groups including: trapezius, suboccipital, scalene, lats, hip flexors, piriformis, hamstring, gastrocs, quadriceps, supraspinatus, plantar fascia
-Therapeutic taping techniques using Leukotape and KT Tape

What are the top three most common issues you help clients address?
1. Shoulder pain (either from a rotator cuff issue or shoulder impingement) - don’t know if I should be specific or general
2. Neck pain (from pinched nerves in the that causes pain to radiate down the arm)
3. Low back pain

If you could give everyone one piece of advice this winter what would it be?
Hmmm, I would advise everyone to watch their steps and be careful of the slippery ice! It is much easier to prevent a fall than to deal with all of the pain and complications that come from a nasty slip and fall!

What do you like to do for fun?
 I like to play basketball, volleyball, badminton and basically any sport for fun. If I’m not being physically active, I like to relax by reading up on the news while listening to music or watching TV shows.

Book Online with Steven>>

By Dr Sonya Hamilton, BSc MSc DC

Believe it or not, your feet can be a factor in the development of chronic low back pain. Your feet act as a very important foundation for your body, and can dictate how you adapt to stresses and changes in activity. Your feet strike the ground and propel you forwards, and faulty foot biomechanics can result in pain and dysfunction in other joints and structures in the body. If you think of your body as a kinetic chain from the ground up, your weight-bearing feet and ankles function as shock-absorbers for the whole body. If your feet are not working effectively at this job, the shock and stress makes its way up the biomechanical chain in your body. This concept often gets lost in translation, and people do not always understand the missing link between the feet and the back. 


The most common offending foot dysfunction leading to back pain and other issues is over-pronation, or the inward rolling/dropping of the arches. As the foot over-pronates, the feet become flat and therefore absorb less shock when you walk or run. The rest of your body is then forced to compensate for faulty foot mechanics; your pelvis may slightly drop, your knees may rotate, and you may develop a slight lean. Over time, this adaptation may lead to the development of pain in other areas of the body such as in the back, neck, knees, hips, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia. In one study, it was found that women with flat feet are almost 50% more likely to develop low back pain.