NHWC Media Blog: HEALTH CARE TEAM

We are pleased to introduce to you our health care team. We are committed to treat every person with honesty and respect, to our utmost ability, and with the highest level of training available.

We proudly serve New Hamburg, Baden, Wellesley, Tavistock and all surrounding communities. Our centre always welcomes new patients. If you know of anyone who could benefit from our services, please pass on our contact information.

ü Best Chiropractic Clinic - 10x winner

ü Best Alternative Medicine Clinic - 7x winner

ü Best Massage Therapy Clinic - 5x winner

ü Best Naturopathic Clinic - 5x winner

ü Best Physiotherapy Clinic - 3x winner

ü Best Foot Care Clinic - 3x winner

ü Best Medical Acupuncture Clinic - 2x winner

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DR. JOHN A. PAPA

· Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)
· Chiropractic Rehabilitation Specialist

· Contemporary Medical Acupuncture Graduate

·       Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist - CSCS
·       Clinic Director and Founder, New Hamburg Wellness
      Centre
· Fellow of the Chiropractic College of Physical and

Occupational Rehabilitation in Canada - FCCPOR(C)
· Low Back Pain Rapid Access Clinic Advanced Practice
Provider (APP)

Dr. John A. Papa was born and raised in Kitchener-Waterloo. He attended Wilfrid Laurier University where he played varsity soccer and obtained an Honors Bachelors Degree in Physical Education. Upon graduation, he worked in the fitness industry as a manager, health consultant, and personal trainer.

Dr. Papa attended the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) and graduated in 2002 with clinical honors while receiving the prestigious Hoskins/Sommacal Clinical Proficiency Award. He is a Fellow of the Chiropractic College of Physical & Occupational Rehabilitation in Canada - FCCPOR(C), and holds a specialty designation as a Chiropractic Rehabilitation Specialist (one of only five specialties recognized by the College of Chiropractors of Ontario). He has completed post-graduate training at McMaster University in Contemporary Medical Acupuncture, specializing in the treatment and management of muscle, joint, and nerve injuries and conditions. He is also credentialed as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. In addition, he serves as an Independent Consultant for several Disability Management Companies, and is currently on the editorial board for the Journal Of The Canadian Chiropractic Association.

Dr. Papa's extensive post-graduate education allows him to offer many different treatment options for patients seeking acute and chronic pain relief, and maintenance-preventative care for their musculoskeletal health. This list of treatment options includes Activator Techniques, Medical Acupuncture, Laser Therapy, Active Release Therapy (ART), Graston Soft Tissue Therapy, Rehabilitative Exercise and Physical Therapy, and Computerized Gait and Orthotic Analysis. This multi-faceted approach has resulted in the effective treatment of neck and back pain, along with many non-spinal conditions including shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and foot injuries/complaints. He has successfully been able to treat a wide range of individuals including seniors, expectant mothers, children and highly skilled athletes.

Dr. Papa is the Clinic Director and Founder of the New Hamburg Wellness Centre. Since opening, the New Hamburg Wellness Centre has continued its award winning reputation as an evidence-based, patient centred and results orientated facility, becoming Wilmot Township's trusted and reliable choice for chiropractic, acupuncture, rehabilitative physical therapy, and soft tissue injury management.

To learn more about Chiropractic Care, click here.

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DR. R. GREG LUSK

· Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)

· Low Back Pain Rapid Access Clinic Advanced Practice
Provider (APP)

Dr. Lusk completed his undergraduate health sciences degree at the University of Western Ontario, graduating in 2001. He then pursued further study at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, completing the four year program in 2006.

Dr. Lusk has experience and enjoys treating a wide range of clientele with muscle and/or joint conditions. This includes individuals with symptoms from everyday tasks, postural strain, sports and workplace injuries, along with car accident injuries. In addition, if you are not in pain but looking to move better and start an exercise routine, he can provide you with some guidance to avoid injury as you get started.

Dr. Lusk takes an evidence-informed approach to injury and pain management. His treatment style is largely manual, involving many soft tissue therapies (including myofascial release, instrument assisted soft tissue release, trigger points), as well as joint manipulation or mobilization. Education, progressive stretches/exercises, electro-therapeutic modalities, and custom orthotics are also used when indicated.

Dr. Lusk has worked with local minor hockey players, as well as university athletes, employing functional exercise to improve athletic performance. He is currently the team chiropractor for the Waterloo Siskins Jr. B Hockey Club. Dr. Lusk has a diverse athletic background and is passionate about active living.

To learn more about Chiropractic Care, click here.

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DR. MELISSA HAMILTON

· Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)

· Master of Science (MSc) in Human Health and Nutritional Science

· Contemporary Medical Acupuncture Candidate

· Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist - CSCS

· Resident of the Royal College of Chiropractic Sports Sciences (Canada)

Dr. Hamilton completed her undergraduate Human Kinetics degree at the University of Guelph with Honours before continuing to pursue her Master of Science degree in Human Health and Nutritional Sciences. She successfully defended her thesis at the University of Guelph in 2015. While completing these two degrees, she worked in the fitness industry as a weight room supervisor, personal trainer and health coach. She continued to work full time in the fitness industry for two years following her studies before she made the decision to pursue Chiropractic as her final career choice.

Dr. Hamilton attended the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) and graduated in 2021 with clinical honours. Upon graduation she was accepted into the Sports Residency program of the Royal College of Chiropractic Sports Sciences where she will continue to learn about fitness and sport, conduct research, and work with athletes. She has also completed post-graduate training in Contemporary Medical Acupuncture from McMaster University and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. She is a certified Functional Range and Conditioning Mobility Specialist (FRCms), and Graston Soft Tissue Therapy provider. She also holds certifications in muscle activation and palpation techniques, postpartum rehabilitation and Sportside Medical EFR.

Dr. Hamilton’s extensive education has given her the tools to provide exceptional patient centred care. She uses an evidence-informed approach in diagnosing muscle and joint conditions, along with developing a plan of management and treatment plan. Her clinical experiences have ranged from injury prevention, to working with chronic pain patients at St. Michaels Hospital in Toronto. She is well equipped to deal with a wide range of conditions such as back pain, neck pain, hip and shoulder pain, ankle sprains, carpal tunnel and more. She also has a special interest in female health and treating Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (jaw pain). Her treatment style includes a combination of manual therapy involving chiropractic joint manipulation, joint mobilizations, and a variety of soft tissue therapy techniques. She puts a large emphasis on patient empowerment through self management techniques such as progressive stretches and strengthening exercises. She is also capable of utilizing acupuncture, electro-therapeutic modalities, and custom orthotics when indicated.

To learn more about Chiropractic Care, click here.

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JERE BUKICH

· Physiotherapist (B.A., B.Sc.(P.T.)

Jere graduated from the University of Western Ontario in 1987 with a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education, with a concentration in Athletic Injuries. Upon graduating he pursued a career in home building/renovating. Following a few work injuries, he returned to Queens University to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Therapy (Physiotherapy), graduating in 1993.

After a short period of time in the hospital setting, Jere moved to the outpatient clinical setting. Working in Parry Sound, Simcoe and Stratford, Jere continued his career focusing on orthopaedic injuries from sports, workplace injuries, and motor vehicle accidents. An interest in motor control lead him to working with adult CVA (stroke) and geriatric patients.

For the past 16 years Jere has been working in Wilmot Township providing homecare physiotherapy. Jere has developed an expertise with post surgical candidates, primarily joint replacements. He sees patients with multiple neurological conditions (CVA, multiple sclerosis, ALS) as well, he treats numerous respiratory conditions (COPD, asthma, pneumonia). Jere is also an ADP (Assistive Devices Program) authorizer for mobility devices (rollator walkers only). Personally, Jere lives with his wife in St. Marys, Ontario. He has two adult children.

To learn more about Physiotherapy, click here.

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CHRISTINE ECCLESTONE

· Physiotherapist (PT, MPT, BSc Kin)

· Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist (B.A., B.Sc.(P.T.)

Christine completed her Bachelor of Science Co-op degree in Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo. She then went on to complete her Masters of Physical Therapy at the University of Western Ontario. Christine has a special interest in women's health and decided to pursue becoming a pelvic floor physiotherapist. She has completed additional course work focusing on pelvic pain, incontinence, pre-natal and post-partum care as well as diastasis recti.

Christine is passionate about functional movement patterns and their impact on pain. She will work with her patients as a team to develop an individualized treatment plan to help them achieve their rehabilitation goals. She has an extensive sports background having grown up as a competitive gymnast, and transitioned into coaching gymnastics for 5 years. Outside of work, Christine is an avid Cross-fitter with a personal interest in health, fitness, nutrition and travel.

To learn more about Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy, click here.

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ALICIA (ALI) DINGS

· Registered Physiotherapist (BSc (Kin), MSc, (PT)

Ali graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Science Honours Kinesiology Degree. She subsequently completed her Master's Degree in Physical Therapy at the University of Western Ontario. She is certified in Acupuncture and Dry Needling techniques and has multiple Advanced Manual Therapy certifications.

To provide the best care, Ali uses a combination of manual therapy, exercise, education and acupuncture/modalities, ensuring she identifies the root of the problem to better treat the condition at hand as well as prevent future issues. She takes a client-centered approach to create individualized treatment plans and takes the time to make sure her clients fully understand their diagnosis and how they can work with her to find a solution. She has an excellent understanding of musculoskeletal and anatomy and biomechanics, which allows her to address a wide range of orthopaedic conditions including spinal pain, joint pain, sports injuries, arthritis conditions, pre and post surgical rehab and preventative care. She also has extensive experience treating pre/post surgical knee and hip replacements.

While growing up in Belleville Ali was a National level Power Tumbling athlete, competing for Team Canada for 6 years. Naturally she gravitated towards the coaching role where she worked as a Gymnastics and Power Tumbling coach for 15 years. At the University of Waterloo she was a Varsity Track athlete, and now stays active through challenging herself in Triathlons and Half Marathons in the summertime.

To learn more about Physiotherapy, click here.

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SHEILA REINHART

· Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

Sheila was born and raised in the New Hamburg area. She graduated from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 1999 and is a member in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). Since graduation, Sheila has continued with her learning through continuing education courses in Pregnancy and Labor Massage, and Infant Massage. She utilizes a broad range of massage techniques in her practice including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, trigger point release, hydrotherapy, and myofascial release. Whenever possible, she also incorporates home care exercises into her treatment plans.

Sheila enjoys working in a setting that promotes health and wellness, and she is dedicated in educating her clients in improving and maintaining their health.

To learn more about Massage Therapy, click here.

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JODI WILDFONG

· Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

Jodi graduated with honours from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 1997 and is a member in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). She has completed certified courses in Pregnancy Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, MVAs, Fibromyalgia and Chronic Headache treatments.

She has two sons who play competitive hockey and golf and is comfortable treating children of all ages. She also has experience with post stroke patients and patients with multiple sclerosis.

Jodi has 22 years experience in a clinical setting and provides a balance of therapeutic and relaxation for optimal health and well being for patients.

To learn more about Massage Therapy, click here.

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SHANNON ROBERTSON

· Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

Shannon graduated from University of Guelph in 2018 with a Bachelor's degree in Human Kinetics. She wanted to further her education in the health care field with the goal of helping people. In 2021, she graduated, with distinction, from the Massage Therapy program at TriOS College in London, Ontario, and is a member in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). Shannon is dedicated and eager to continue her education and develop new skills to provide the best possible patient care.

Shannon's warm, kind and empathetic nature makes her an ideal with as a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT). She is able to provide treatments that incorporate a variety of techniques that are both thorough and specific, to meet each patient's individual needs and goals. Shannon enjoys providing therapeutic massage, as well as deep tissue and fascial work. She has a particular interest and experience in treating conditions such as tension headaches, back and shoulder pain, and sciatic pain.
To learn more about Massage Therapy, click here.
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EMILY ULLMAN

· Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

Emily is a graduate of the Massage Therapy program at Anderson College, and is a member in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO).

In addition to her clinical experience and education, she obtained her 200 hr. Yoga Teacher Certificate in 2021 and taught weekly classes online with the Kundalini Foundation. She has also enjoyed volunteering with the CNIB and the Wilmot Soccer Club.

Emily is a student of life and is excited to work alongside her clients in developing personalized treatment plans that are tailored to each client's specific goals. She utilizes her broad range of Swedish and non-swedish techniques along with joint mobilizations, neurodynamics, PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation), remedial and breathing exercises to support her clients on their recovery journey and aid in their relaxation.

In her free time, Emily loves to spend time in the forest with her two Huskies and her family.

To learn more about Massage Therapy, click here.

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SAMANTHA ECKERT

· Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

Samantha graduated from the Massage Therapy program at Westervelt College, Kitchener campus, in 2021, and is a member in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO).

Samantha is knowledgeable and experienced in a wide range of techniques including: Swedish massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, deep tissue therapy, and lymphatic drainage. She has a special interest in treating back, neck, and gluteal pain, as well as providing prenatal and postpartum massage.

Samantha’s welcoming, supportive and empathetic personality makes her a great fit as an RMT. She understands the connection between physical and mental health, and enjoys providing a calm, healing environment where her clients can decompress while receiving a therapeutic treatment. She is particularly skilled at crafting treatments that are specifically tailored for the unique needs of each individual, while ensuring that they are relaxed and comfortable.

To learn more about Massage Therapy, click here.

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KAYLA PFEFFER

· Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

Kayla holds an advanced diploma in Massage Therapy from Fanshawe College, and is a member in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO).

Kayla's approach to massage involves a mix of relaxation and therapeutic techniques, including Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial Release, and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching. She is also trained in deep tissue massage, targeting more specific areas of concern. Kayla has experience treating a variety of conditions such as tension headaches, TMJ dysfunction, back pain/tension, carpal tunnel, sciatica, piriformis syndrome, and plantar fasciitis. She has a particular interest in treating neck, shoulder and jaw pain and is skilled in facial and intra-oral massage of the muscles of mastication (chewing).

Kayla is able to deliver personalized sessions tailored to help individuals achieve relaxation and alleviate pain. She is committed to ongoing learning and professional growth, with her client's well-being as her top priority.

To learn more about Massage Therapy, click here.

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ROBYN MACINNIS

· Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

Robyn graduated from Trios Kitchener's massage therapy program, and is a member in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). She has always had an interest in the human body and understanding how all its unique components connect and work together. With that came a love for therapeutic massage and how it is beneficial for many common conditions we see everyday such as neck and back pain, chronic headaches, shoulder and leg pain.
Robyn uses mainly deep pressure, general Swedish massage techniques, trigger point release, fascial work, and joint mobilizations. These techniques can be very effective for relieving pain and tension in the muscles. She enjoys working in a team-based setting with other health care practitioners, and is excited to work with patients to help them feel their best in their everyday lives.

To learn more about Massage Therapy, click here.

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MARTINA HUNGERBUEHLER

· Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)

Martina was born and raised in Wilmot, Ontario. She graduated from Fanshawe College with an advanced diploma in Massage Therapy, and is currently in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). She enjoys working in a professional clinical setting with affords her the opportunity of collaborating with other health care providers to offer a high standard of client care.
Martina utilizes a variety of techniques to treat sports and repetitive strain injuries, stress related injuries, acute and chronic conditions, along with everyday aches and pains. She utilizes multiple techniques with her treatment style which include deep tissue massage, general swedish massage, myofascial release, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), trigger point therapy, and cupping therapy.
Martina strives to continually expand her knowledge and contribute to the well-being of her clients. She is dedicated to understanding the unique needs of clients and tailoring each treatment session to their specific goals.
To learn more about Massage Therapy, click here.

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PETER KLASSEN

· Naturopathic Doctor (ND)

Peter Klassen, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies. He then pursued a Masters Degree in Theology at the University of Toronto before turning his attention to the health care field. In 1993 Peter began the four year Doctor of Naturopathy program at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto. Upon graduation in 1997 he was fortunate enough to work with a Naturopathic Doctor who practiced Functional Medicine, a field of complimentary medicine which combines the science of western medicine with the wisdom of traditional medicine. This valuable experience helped shape his understanding of health and disease and emphasized the importance of treating the "regulatory disharmony" which causes disease.

Peter uses a wide variety of modalities to support the health of his clients including botanical medicine, homeopathic medicine, clinical nutrition, exercise and stress management techniques. These clinical tools allow Peter to address a wide variety of health concerns in men, women and children.

To learn more about Naturopathic Medicine, click here.

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LAURA HOFFMANN

· Naturopathic Doctor (ND)

As a naturopath, Dr. Laura Hoffmann uses an evidence-based approach in her practice by looking at lab work to understand and create unique and personalized treatment plans. She utilizes treatments such as nutritional counselling, supplements, lifestyle counselling, hormone replacement therapy, vitamin B12 injections, acupuncture and more to help her patients live their best and healthiest lives.

Dr. Hoffmann takes a comprehensive approach in hormone management and treating perimenopause, PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum. She has a special interest in menopause hormone therapy and has completed advanced training in safety and prescribing. She is licensed to prescribe bio-identical hormone therapy, including estrogen, progesterone, and desiccated thyroid.

Healthy aging and awareness of health risks is important to Dr. Hoffmann. Metabolic health assessments with Dr. Hoffmann may include screening for insulin resistance, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, chronic inflammation, liver disease, thyroid disease, and more. She will create personalized plans that focus on both prevention and treatment, and any treatments given are safe to take with any medications you may be on.

Dr. Hoffmann is licensed to offer vitamin injections done intramuscularly. She offers vitamin B12 and vitamin D injections for clients that have deficiencies, and may require this type of support. It is a great option to correct deficiencies with those who have poor absorption, or who are on medications that deplete vitamin B12 (such as metformin, and acid reflux medications).

Born and raised in Stratford, she now lives in Kitchener with her husband and 2 young boys. It is truly an honour for her to support patients on their path to wellness and serve New Hamburg and the Region of Waterloo community.

To learn more about Naturopathic Medicine, click here.

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JENNYLYN TAGHOY

· Registered Practical Nurse (RPN)

· Advanced Foot Care Nurse (AFCN)

Jennylyn is a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) in good standing with the College of Nurses of Ontario. She graduated from Conestoga College with high distinction in 2013. In 2019 she decided to broaden her education and specialize in Advanced Foot Care Nursing. She graduated at the top of her class at the North American School of Podology/Comfort Your Soles School.

Being in the health care field for the last 14 years, she has extensive experience in providing care for patients with multiple conditions, and has covered a wide range of populations needing foot care. Jennylyn has treated many common and uncommon foot and nail conditions such as ingrown toenails, fungal infections, corns, calluses and warts to mention a few. She is able to perform basic neurosensory testing and excels at identifying high risk foot conditions. She has excellent knowledge of infection control standards and procedures.

In addition to foot care, Jennylyn ensures that education is provided to patients regarding proper foot care and how it affects that person's overall health and well being. She looks forward to treating, maintaining, and caring for her patient's feet.

To learn more about Nursing Foot Care, click here.

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SANDRA TOCITU

· Master of Social Work (MSW)
· Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

· Registered Clinical Social Worker (RSW)

Sandra completed her Bachelor Degree in Science in 2006 at the University of Waterloo, and began working with individuals of dual diagnoses, mental health and addictions. She continued her professional and educational development when she completed her Bachelor Degree in Social Work at the University of Waterloo, graduating with Honours in 2013. In July 2018, Sandra completed her Master Degree in Social Work. She is a registered member in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers.

In the domain of Clinical Social Work and Counselling, Sandra has extensive experience working as a clinician in the field of child and adult mental health, focusing her therapeutic practice in areas of depression, anxiety, addictions, domestic violence, child abuse, custody and access disputes, Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) rehabilitation and chronic pain just to name a few. Her work is trauma informed as well as attachment based and she practices from the cognitive model of psychotherapy. In addition, Sandra uses a large variety of techniques stemming from clinical frameworks of Signs of Safety, and Circle of Security, which are client focused as well as strength based approaches. What’s unique about Sandra’s work is that she recognizes everyone’s journey to recovery as a subjective experience, and depending on the circumstance, she utilizes a combination of interventions and modalities that best suit the specific needs of this person. Continuing her passion to grow and expand her knowledge and ability to help clients, Sandra is hoping to become a certified Clinical Traumatologist through the Traumatology Institute of Canada.

In addition to offering clinical counselling and therapy, Sandra also provides general social work supports that may include but are not limited to connecting individuals and their families to the most appropriate resources in the community, making referrals for their family members to different/other service providers, as well as general navigation of the social system (for example Ontario Housing, Ontario Works, Ontario Disability, court services just to name a few). Many Extended Health Care (EHC) insurance policies fully or partially cover individuals for Clinical Social Work and Counselling. Please check your policy for details.

To learn more about Clinical Social Work and Counselling, click here.

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