Team Expertise and Background

At Advantage Health, our team includes dedicated professionals in many areas of rehabilitative medicine.

Select one of our clinic locations to the right and learn more about the team of professionals who provide treatments.

Wendy Neidhardt -Physiotherapist -CEO of Advantage Health Wendy graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy from the University of Alberta in 1996. Preceding that, she also graduated with her Bachelors of Psychology from the University of Alberta in 1992. She is now currently the owner and manager of the five Advantage Health clinics around Calgary. Her special interests include various provincial and national committees. She is the current Chair of the Private Practice Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.

France Bouchard-Gill Physiotherapist-President of Advantage Health Castleridge Frances Bouchard-Gill graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physiotherapy from the University of New England (Maine, USA) in 1989. France has worked in a variety of clinical settings including hospitals, home care, and private practice in the United States and Canada for the last 17 years. Since 1996, she has been involved full-time in private practice in the northeast region of Calgary. She has pursue on-going education and traininig in Acupuncture and Manual Therapy. France has been the Clinic Director of Advantage Health Castleridge Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation since it's opening on September 10, 2001. She enjoys working with her team and shares a passion to provide the best service possible to the people of her community. France is also a mother of two children.

Mike Manhas- Chiropractor- Director of Advantage Health Castleridge Mike graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Cell Biology & Genetics from the University of British Columbia in 2000.  He continued on to achieve his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the Southern California University of Health Sciences in 2003.  Prior to his arrival to Royal Oak, he had been working in a multidisciplinary clinic dealing with industrial injuries and motor vehicle accidents.  Mike's special interests include dealing with sport related injuries, especially shoulder and knee problems, also treating headache sufferers.   

  Dr Tarveen Ahluwalia- DC Chiropractor Dr.  Tarveen Ahluwalia was raised in Calgary where she completed her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology.  Shortly thereafter, she relocated to San Jose, CA to study Chiropractic at the Palmer College of Chiropractic West. She has had the privilege of working and being mentored by some of the most respected names in the Chiropractic profession. She has studied techniques such as Active Release Technique, Graston Technique, Activator Methods, and Cox Flexion Distraction and Manipulation.  Dr.Tarveen is certified by the AFLCA with a specialty in Resistance Training and works with patients to design customized personal training/rehabilitation programs. At Advantage Health her areas of interest include; soft tissue injuries, repetitive/cumulative trauma injuries, Motor Vehicle Accidents and physical rehabilitation.“Dr. T” has been actively involved in the local communities she has resided by means of volunteering treatment for athletes at sporting events. She is also a free lance writer/speaker and presents to various groups, organizations, online forums, web casts and pod casts. In her spare time "Dr.T" enjoys a wide variety of activities particularly those involving physical activity and spending time with family and friends.

Dr. Joy Robinson- Psychologist   Joy has been working in the area of psychology and social work for the past 15 years. She started off working for AADAC, and continues to work as a substance abuse specialist with experience in alcohol, drug and gambling addictions. She spent approximately 6 years working in the area of Eating Disorders, specifically with adolescents and adults suffering from anorexia and bulimia. Joy has also delved into the field of family therapy and group therapy where relationships, whether they be marital, couple, sibling or intergenerational, are at the forefront of therapy. More recently, she has acted as a generalist working with all ages and cultures who are trying to manage their lives better. She is able to help those who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic pain, occupational stress, insomnia, relationship conflicts, grief/loss, coping with illness/disease, parenting issues, substance abuse, or self esteem.

Sudhir Shenoy- BPT, DAC-CAFCI  Physiotherapist    Sudhir graduated from Mangalore University, India in 1999. He has been practicing in various multi-disciplinary hospitals, private practice and rehabilitation centres. Sudhir has worked in India, Singapore and now in Canada. His primary area of interest is Orthopedics, with a special focus on craniofacial pain and chronic pain. His skills in orthopedics is supplemented by his practice of acupuncture and myofascial release. Sudhir has completed the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute certification for acupuncture treatment in physiotherapy. He also has a keen interest in manual therapy, which he has learned over his past seven years of work as a physiotherapist. Sudhir's extensive experience allows him to provide treatment for many complex and varied conditions.

B rennan Bonesky- Physiotherapist Brennan graduated with Bachelors of Kinesiology from the University of Calgary.  He continued on to achieve his Masters of Science in Physiotherapy from the University of Alberta.  Brennan’s special interests include dealing with sports injuries especially ankle and shoulder injuries.

Kella Glen -Physiotherapist Kella has 15 years experience  in the field of physiotherapy.Five of which were spent working at many different clinics in Calgary as a locum and gathering many “tricks and tools” of therapists from new grads to Part A therapists. Kella has returned to Castleridge for just over a year and a half now, and very much enjoys the wonderful staff. She has special interests in the areas of core stability, gym programs for functional recovery (example strengthening exercises for a specific job or task) and knees.

  Andrea Ellis- Physiotherapist   Andrea graduated as a Physiotherapist in England in 1991.She has worked in many areas of  Physiotherapy during her eighteen years of practice, including but not limited to sports,hospitals,private clinics and industry. Although Andrea enjoys all aspects of Physiotherapy, her passion is working with clients of all ages to give them the knowledge and tools they need to take charge of their healing and regain their independence and freedom to live and pursue normal  healthy lives. Andrea is a Mum of three young children and has lived in Canada for six years.

   Aneree Patel- Kinesologist  Anerre recently graduated from the York University with Honours Bachelor of Science Degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences with a minor in Biology. She as extensive knowledge in physiology,anatomy and biomechanics of the human body. She is currently a member of Alberta Kinesiology Association. In addition,she has completed Certified Personal Trainer course from Can-Fit Pro in 2008. Her pervious work experience has consist of working with people of all ages with many related injuries to postural related. In short, her role as a Kinesiologist is to bring people back to full strength and function.

Merle McGuire- Registered Massage Therapist   Merle graduated from the Okanogan Valley College of Massage Therapy in Vernon, British Columbia. She is a member of the Massage Therapy Association of Alberta. Merle has studied many different treatment modalities ranging from Craniosacral Therapy and Reiki to Trigger Point Therapy and two different types of deep tissue therapy. Merl likes to work with people who experience headaches, TMJ disfunction, neck,shoulder and back issues. She has also studied pregnancy, infant, adolescent and geriatric massage. Merle looks forward to seeing you at Castleridge Clinic.

Kim Sutherland- Registered  Massage Therapist Kim graduated from the Massage Therapy Program at Foothills  College.  In 2002, she completed the LaStone Therapy course (hot and  cold stone massage) and in 2003 she took Canine Massage training. Kim is  registered with the Association of Massage Therapy and Wholistic Practitioners  (AMTWP). Her areas of special interest include Deep Tissue Massage, Sports  Related Injuries, Pre and Perinatal Massage, Infant Massage, Relaxation and  Trigger Point Release.  Outside of work, she plays rugby, is a volunteer trainer  for a rugby team and a volunteer therapist for sports events

Michelle O'Reilly- Registered Massage Therapist Michelle O'Reilly is a Registered Massage Therapist. She graduated from CDI college and has been working as a Massage Therapist since. She is a member of the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada (NHPC) She enjoys deep tissue massage, relaxation massage and trigger point therapy. She strongly believes in the benefits of natural medicine. She takes pride in spending the time to thoroughly educate her clients. She has experience working with a variety of disciplines and at a group home for disabled individuals. Michelle also enjoys skiing, painting, crocheting, and reading.

Nazi Farooq   Office Manager

Harsha Office Manager

Phuong Office Administrator

Kiren Receptionist

Karin Histon- Physiotherapist-  President of Royal Oak Sport Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation. Karin graduated with her Masters of Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University in 2002.  Previous to that she had attained her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Calgary in 1998. She has completed the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute certification for Acupuncture Treatment in Physiotherapy.  In addition she has completed the required academic and clinic training for Pelvic Floor rehabilitation and Urinary Incontinence treatment.  Karin is one of the clinical directors of Royal Oak Physiotherapy.  Karin is trilingual and areas of interest include women's issues, postural rehabilitation, MVA rehabilitation and sports injuries.

Sarah Fedun- Physiotherapist Sarah graduated with her Masters in Physiotherapy from the University of Western Ontario in 2004.  Prior to that, she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Victoria in 2001.  Sarah has completed level 2 of the Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy courses and is excited to continue into level 3. She has completed her courses with the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute (AFCI) and is able to use acupuncture in her physiotherapy practice. Sarah has worked in orthopedics for five years seeing clients involved in motor vehicle accidents, industrial work injuries and individuals injured in sport and during day to day activities.

Karim Meghji- Physiotherapist  

Jonathan Reimer- Physiotherapist Jonathan obtained his first bachelors degree in 1994 from the University of Alberta faculty of Physical Education with a route in Athletic Therapy.  In 1997 Jonathan completed a Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy, also obtained from the University of Alberta.  Jonathan was awarded distinction with both degrees graduating near the top of his class.  Over the past 12 years Jonathan has gained a wealth of experience & has completed numerous courses most notably including an Advanced Diploma of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, Intramuscular Simulation (IMS)  as well as training in Vestibular Rehabilitation. In addition to his work at Advantage Health, Jonathan has also been working with the national Bobsleigh, Skeleton & Luge teams.  He is expecting to be a member of the medical team participating at the 2010 Olympic games in Vancouver.  Jonathan is an experienced, well educated & hands on therapist who is confident that he can efficiently & expertly assess & treat you whether you were injured at work, in a car accident or participating in your favorite hobby or sport.

Dr. Greg Prete- Chiropractor Greg graduated with his Doctor of Chiropractic from Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, Oregon.  He has been in private practice in Calgary since 1999, both in a clinical setting as well as running a home care practice.  Greg has been an examiner for the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board for the past five years and has served as a member of the CCEB examination question writing and construct committee.  He has a special interest in treatment of headaches, golf and other sports related injuries, using traditional chiropractic spinal manipulation, myofascial release techniques, as well as life style and nutritional counseling.  Greg has been married for over twenty years and has two children.

Dr. Mike Manhas- Chiropractor Mike graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Cell Biology & Genetics from the University of British Columbia in 2000.  He continued on to achieve his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the Southern California University of Health Sciences in 2003.  Prior to his arrival to Royal Oak, he had been working in a multidisciplinary clinic dealing with industrial injuries and motor vehicle accidents.  Mike's special interests include dealing with sport related injuries, especially shoulder and knee problems, also treating headache sufferers.   

Dr. Colin Race- Naturopathic Doctor Dr. Race began his post-secondary education studying chemistry at Brock University.  He spent one year abroad at the University of Freiburg, Germany and completed his Honours BSc in 1999.  Next, he began graduate school at the University of Guelph, where he studied organic chemistry and graduated with his MSc in 2001.  He went on to study biology at Dalhousie University for one year before entering the field of Naturopathic Medicine. His studies in Naturopathic Medicine were completed at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2006.  The program is a four year, full-time medical program covering all elements of medicine including the standard medical sciences and clinical training, as well as Naturopathic modalities of treatment.

Emily Lee-  BComm. RMT, AMTWP-Registered Massage Therapist Emily graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Commerce degree majoring in Finance.  Upon graduation, Emily worked several years overseas in Accounting and Finance and traveled extensively in Asia .  Upon returning to Calgary, Emily pursued her passion in Health and Wellness and attended Mount Royal College where she completed her degree. Emily is dedicated to address health concerns of the clients and her massage interests include therapeutic and relaxation massage, pregnancy massage, trigger points therapy with a special interest in Motor Vehicle Accident related injuries. 

Doris Harvey- Registered Massage Therapist  Doris is a graduate of Mount Royal College and has been a therapist for over ten years. Her specialty is pre and post natal massage and she is  currently developing a course for other massage therapists. Doris is  also teaching massage for partners and expecting couples, among other courses, at Chinook Learning Services.  Her modalities include both therapeutic and relaxation massage as well as Reflexology, Hot Stone and Raindrop Technique.  She is  also a trained (not practicing) Doula.

 Ashley Borody- Registered Massage Therapist

Tish More- Registered Massage Therapist Tish is a graduate of Mount Royal College and has been a Massage Therapist for over seven years. She has a diverse practice and has experience working with a variety of conditions including whiplash, headaches,mid and low back pain as well as many others. Tish finds various techniques useful, such as, Swedish massage,therapeutic (deep tissue) massage and reflexology. Tish also has experience in pre and post-natal massage.

Jenn Wagar- Registered Massage Therapist

Kristin Davenport- Registered Massage Therapist

Suzanna Bayliss-Registered Massage Therapist

Nicole-Kinesologist/Physio assistant

Laura- Receptionist

Shaun Macauley- Physiotherapist- President of Advantage Health Creekside Shaun moved to Calgary in 2006 after graduating with his Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation in Physiotherapy from the University of Manitoba. Over the past several years Shaun has shown an interest in the treatment of postural related injuries and sports injuries; including working with soccer teams, helping out with several road races and volunteering his time to hold meetings at the local running room. Since graduating, Shaun has continued his education by focusing in the areas of acupuncture and manual therapy. He is currently completing his level 1 acupuncture with the Acupuncture Foundation Institute of Canada and has recently completed his level 2 of the Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy Diploma program.

Dr. Jordan Sandham- Chiropractor Dr. Sandham received his bachelor of science from the University of Lethbridge in 2003.  After taking some time to travel and attending the education program at the University of Calgary. Dr Sandham then continued his education at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto. Dr. Sandham is a recent chiropractic graduate and is very excited to be back working in Alberta.  He is dedicated to providing outstanding quality of care to all his patients.   

Dr Jessica Fujimoto-  Naturopathic Doctor Dr. Fujimoto began her post-secondary education at the University of Saskatchewan studying anatomy and cell biology.  After completing a 4-year undergrad she pursued her career in healthcare and went on to study Naturopathic Medicine. Her studies in Naturopathic Medicine were completed in May 2007 when she graduated from The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, Ontario. She has also completed additional training in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture and Regenerative Injection Therapies.

Curt Scarlett- Physiotherapist

Dr. Sharon Habermann- PhD Psychologist Dr. Habermann received her PhD in Counselling Psychology from the University of Calgary in  2004. Prior to this, she attained a Master's degree in Educational Psychology from Brandon University, and a Master's degree in Counselling at Providence Theological Seminary. Since 2001, Sharon has worked for a publicly funded chronic pain centre and as lead psychologist for the chronic headache team. She has been a registered psychologist since 2004. Sharon also sits as a Board member on the Pain Society of Alberta, and volunteers on the Credentials Evaluation Sub-Committee for the College of Alberta Psychologists. As a health and counselling psychologist, Sharon has particular interest in helping people with various health problems, such as chronic pain, headaches, and sleep difficulties as well as other problems such as depression, anxiety/stress management, post-traumatic stress and relationships.

Racquel Babyak- RMT, NHPC    Registered Massage Therapist Racquel moved to Calgary and joined the Advantage Health Creekside team in August 08.  Since completion of her diploma of Remedial Massage in Sydney, Australia in 2000, she has completed several other courses including Swedish Relaxation massage, Prenatal Massage, European Seated Massage, Reflexology, and Reiki.  She has spent the majority of her career living and working in the Caribbean, working with a wide range of clients from all over the world.  Racquel is passionate about wholistic health and the restorative, and revitalizing elements of body work.   

                                                    
 Michelle Vanderhaeghe- CRMT Michelle has been a massage therapist for 10 years and is registered with the Massage Therapy Association of Alberta. She is trained in pre and postnatal massage, MVA, hot stones, therapeutic and relaxation massage.Michelle has been married for five years with two children.

Sarah Bischke-  Registered Massage Therapist Sarah is a registered massage therapist at Advantage Health Corporate Sport Physiotherapy. In her years as a massage therapist she has treated various sports related injuries from all levels of runners (marathon runner,recreation runners and first time runners),bikers,triathletes as well as other injuries from motor vehicle accidents, postural dysfunction and pre/post natal massage.Sarah is a recreational runner and also enjoys hiking,camping and mountain biking.

Angela Yablonski- Registered Massage Therapist Angela is a graduate of the massage therapy program at Mount Royal College. Along with her degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Calgary, Angela has developed a stong background in both human anatomy and physiology. She is trained in relaxtion and therapeutic massage including treating injuries/chronic pain related to motor vehicle accidents, repetitive strain and postural dysfunctions. Angela has also taken a course in pre and postnatal massage and pregnancy support skills. Angela's main goal with massage is to restore function and well being to all her clients. She also enjoys running and yoga as well a spendnig  time with with her family and friends.

Tracey Huddy- Registered Massage Therapist

Krista Regehr- Kinesiologist/Physio Assistant Krista graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. As part of her schooling, she completed a professional practicum with Advantage Health in which she advanced her skills in the area of exercise rehabilitation. In her time at Advantage Health, she has worked with people of all ages with many different injuries from sports-related injuries, to motor vehicle accidents to postural related injuries. During her undergrad, Krista also had the opportunity to work with people with severe physical and mental disabilities. In her spare time, she enjoys running, cycling and hiking.

 Neeru Arora-office Manager

Dr. Denis Simons- Chiropractor- President of Corporate Sport Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation    Dr. Denis Simons obtained a bachelor degress in biology from the University of Lethbridge in 1996. From there, Dr. Simons attended Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, Oregon where he was the recipient of the Clinical Excellence award in 1998, and was chosen by his peers to receive the Class Speaker award upon graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2000. Dr. Simons has since been in private practice in Calgary and regularly attends seminars and courses to ensure his knowledge and techniques are state of the art and to acquire new specialized skills to better serve each patient's individual needs. Dr. Simons has treated some of Canada's top amateur athletes, has traveled with the Canadian national snowboarding team and is a member of the Lake Louise Ski Patrol.

Dr Brad Fujimoto- Chiropractor Dr. Brad Fujimoto graduated from the University of Lethbridge in 2001 and then proceeded to finish his schooling at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College.  Dr. Fujimoto has a special interest in preventative nutrition to enhance the overall health of his patients. He performs Medical Acupuncture in which he received a certificate from McMaster University. 

Jeff Habberfield- Physiotherapist Jeff competed his Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology in 2005 at the University of Calgary.He then attended the University of Alberta,receiving his Masters of Science degree in Physiotherapy in 2008. He has been practicing in Calgary since January of 2008. Jeff has taken post graduate courses focusing on the nervous system,sport injuries and manual therapy. He is also the chair of the Southern Alberta Orthopedic Unit. Outside of work, Jeff enjoys running,tennis and wakeboarding.

Sarah Pearce Gieck- Physiotherapist Sarah graduated from the University of Alberta in 2005 with her Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy. Her experience thus far has been primarily in private practice along with a period of time at the Worker's Compensation Board working on a back pilot program. Over the year's, Sarah has developed a keen interest in the treatment of sports related injuries of both your avid athlete and weekend warrior. Her treatments are individualized and take an active rehabilitation approach. As an Ironman athlete, she feels she is able to relate well to the challenges that other athletes face during the training and race season. Since graduating, Sarah has continued her education by completing the acupuncture course through the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada, has become a certified GunnIMS practitioner and has completed the Level 2 upper course of the Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy Program.

Sarah Bischke- Registered  Massage Therapist   Sarah is a registered massage therapist at Advantage Health Corporate Sport Physiotherapy. In her years as a massage therapist she has treated various sports related injuries from all levels of runners (marathon runner, recreation runners and first time runners), bikers, triathletes as well as other injuries from motor vehicle accidents, postural dysfunction and pre/post natal massage. Sarah is a recreational runner and also enjoys hiking, camping and mountain biking.

 Lynn Maerz-  Registered Massage Therapist  Since graduating from the Mount Royal College massage program, Lynn has established a loyal clientele by concentrating on RSI and chronic pain stemming from postural tendencies and ambitious weekend warrior syndrome. She also has experience providing palliative massage for terminal clients. Lynn enjoys sushi as long as it doesn’t look like sushi.                                                                               

Kelly Schilling-  Office Manager Kelly graduated from the University of Calgary in 2006 with her Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology.She has been working for Advantage Health since the fall of 2006 and may someday return to school for either physiotherapy or massage,but remains undecided. Kelly enjoys golfing,wakeboarding,snowboarding and is a huge hockey fan.

Michelle Acorn- Michelle works as a office manager assistant, receptionist and rehabilitation assistant. She does it all....and always with a smile. She has taken her Medical Reception and Office Manager Assistant course at Bow Valley College in Auguest 2008. She is an easterner from PEI and if you listen carefully you can hear the accent!

Dr. Denis Simons-  Chiropractor-  President of Advantage Health Eaton Centre  Dr. Simons obtained a bachelors degree in biology from the University of Lethbridge in 1996. From there Dr. Simons attended Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, Oregon where he was the recipient of the Clinical Excellence award in 1998, and was chosen by his peers to receive the Class Speaker award upon graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2000. Dr. Simons has since been in private practice in Calgary and regularly attends seminars and courses to ensure his knowledge and techniques are state of the art and to acquire new specialized skills to better serve each patient's individual needs. Dr. Simons has treated some of Canada's top amateur athletes, has travelled with the Canadian national snowboarding team and is a member of the Lake Louise Ski Patrol. 
 
Dr Toni Reid- Naturopathic Doctor  Dr. Reid graduated as a Naturopathic Doctor from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine and is registered with the Alberta Association of Naturopathic Practitioners and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors. While at CCNM, Dr. Reid completed internships at the Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic, with special rotations in Sports Medicine, Pain Management and Homeopathy. She also completed an internship at Anishnawbe Health Toronto, with a special focus on the aboriginal inner city population. In addition, she has had the opportunity to travel to Nicaragua on a volunteer medical brigade with Natural Doctors International and completed additional training in facial rejuvenation acupuncture and homeopathy.

Hala Ghobrial- Physiotherapist Physiotherapy consultant, obtained her Bachelor degree in physiotherapy in  1990, from Cairo University, EGYPT. Hala immigrated to Canada in 1997, and successfully passed the National Physiotherapy Competency exam in 1999, has been practicing physiotherapy with special interest in lower back pain, and neck pain . Hala continued her education by focusing in the areas of manual therapy, acupuncture and soft tissue injuries. Hala Ghobrial, obtained her 4th level of training in McKenzie Method, for treating neck and lower back pain, and she is pursuing her Diploma in the McKenzie technique, and Acupuncture. Hala is also a Certified in Active Release Technique ( ART) , and Myofascial release Provider.

Regan Gray-  Registered  Massage Therapist Regan Gray graduated from Mount Royal College's continuing education program in 2006. With a combination of relaxation and therapeutic techniques, Regan takes pride in assisting her clients needs, and educates the importance of body awareness.

Lauren-  Receptionist