Our NEW LOCATION is 480 10TH AVE (the old cedar medical building). Click her for a map to the Mend New Location

Hello and Welcome!

Thank you so much for visiting our page. Mend Bodyworks is a physiotherapy, massage therapy, and clinical counselling centre in Campbell River, BC. We are grounded in community and quality. We are locally owned and family run. We currently have five physiotherapists, two massage therapists, and one clinical counsellor who enjoy treating people across all ages and abilities!

We offer orthopaedic (joints/bones/muscles), vestibular (balance/dizziness/inner ear), brain injury/concussion, pelvic floor, TMJ (jaw), and neurological physiotherapy services. Several physiotherapists are licensed to practice dry needling or acupuncture.

We accept WorkSafe BC, ICBC, MSP, and can direct bill your extended health benefits.

GET ON THE MEND TREND

Physiotherapy


WorkSafeBC funded Physiotherapy

WorkSafeBC claim number required.
Requires Claim Manager approval if greater than 60 days since injury.


ICBC funded Physiotherapy

Requires an ICBC claim number.
ICBC Adjuster approval is required if greater than 12 weeks since accident.


TMD (jaw) Physiotherapy

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) are a group of complex problems related to the jaw joint (TMJ). These conditions may be the result of a number of factors, including trauma (such as a car accident, a blow to the jaw, or a fall on the chin) and overuse (such as persistent clenching of the jaw).The majority of individual with TMD also suffer from neck pain, so assessment of the neck can be... Read More

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) are a group of complex problems related to the jaw joint (TMJ). These conditions may be the result of a number of factors, including trauma (such as a car accident, a blow to the jaw, or a fall on the chin) and overuse (such as persistent clenching of the jaw).The majority of individual with TMD also suffer from neck pain, so assessment of the neck can be an integral part of your treatment as well.


Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

1/3 women suffer from pelvic floor dysfunction such as urinary incontinence, organ prolapse, frequent urination, urge incontinence, painful periods and painful intercourse. There are many more things to list, however the great news is that Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy has a 97% success rate. Tanya Kessling has over 15 years experience in this field, so not only is she very experienced, but she... Read More

1/3 women suffer from pelvic floor dysfunction such as urinary incontinence, organ prolapse, frequent urination, urge incontinence, painful periods and painful intercourse. There are many more things to list, however the great news is that Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy has a 97% success rate. Tanya Kessling has over 15 years experience in this field, so not only is she very experienced, but she has lots of education and extra courses. Come see why even one session can be life altering!


Vestibular or Concussion Physiotherapy

Assessment and initial instructions/treatment for a vestibular (inner ear/nerve/dizziness) condition, brain injury/concussion.


Massage Therapy

Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are trained in the assessment, treatment, and prevention of injury and pain involving the joints and soft tissues. Massage Therapy (MT) is a hands-on manual therapy, which helps to restore muscle optimal length, strength, and balance. Treatment addresses not only the symptoms, but also the underlying cause of the pain and dysfunction. Our RMTs at Mend Bodywo... Read More

Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are trained in the assessment, treatment, and prevention of injury and pain involving the joints and soft tissues. Massage Therapy (MT) is a hands-on manual therapy, which helps to restore muscle optimal length, strength, and balance. Treatment addresses not only the symptoms, but also the underlying cause of the pain and dysfunction. Our RMTs at Mend Bodyworks treat the body as a whole, addressing all aspects of injury, and helping the body recover and heal itself faster.


Out-of-Province WCB Physiotherapy

WCB Claim Manager must contact clinic with approval prior to booking.


Kinesiology


Registered Clinical Counselling

Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) have completed masters-level education in counselling, psychology, or related disciplines and have undergone extensive clinical supervision in order to obtain registration. An RCC assists clients in improving mental health and wellbeing through various modalities: psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, emotional proce... Read More

Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) have completed masters-level education in counselling, psychology, or related disciplines and have undergone extensive clinical supervision in order to obtain registration. An RCC assists clients in improving mental health and wellbeing through various modalities: psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, emotional processing, narrative therapy, and various other evidence-based practices. An RCC will collaborate with you to identify goals for therapy and develop a gameplan for addressing areas of dysfunction and distress in your life.

Julie completed her Bachelor of Sport and Fitness Leadership at Camosun College in Victoria in 2018. She is registered with BCAK as a Practicing Kinesiologist. After graduating she worked at two non-profits for clients with a cancer diagnosis, providing education, exercise guidance, group classes and personalized exercise programs. In the last few years she has worked in general private practice at two physio clinics and at a gym as a personal trainer. She has experience with injury rehab, and various health concerns and conditions.

Julie is a big believer in encouraging sustainable behaviour change and making exercise a key component of a healthy lifestyle. She approaches client care with kind, empathetic understanding, meeting individuals where they are at and encouraging them forwards. 
 Julie was born and raised in the Comox Valley. She loves nature and enjoys hiking, camping, snowboarding, paddle boarding, running, and driving her Dad’s boat as fast as it goes.

Julie completed her Bachelor of Sport and Fitness Leadership at Camosun College in Victoria in 20... Read More

Reader’s choice nominations for Best Physiotherapist in Campbell River 3 years in a row.

In the last 20 years I have studied and specialized in: -Sports injuries especially several courses in running assessments and rehab -Physiotherapy for Dancers -the highest level of Orthopedic training for Physiotherapists in Canada, including spinal and joint manipulations -Women’s pelvic health -Prenatal and postnatal care -Headache and migraine training

Graduated from University of Manitoba in 2002 and worked with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. That experience has continued to guide me in my quest to treat dancers in Campbell River. Then I worked in a Rheumatology department which was essential in progressing my abilities to treat arthritis. I did research in the summers on gait analysis which led me down the path of furthering my orthopedic training and running assessments. Once we moved to Campbell River (please ask me about that story) then I took a further 5-6 years of orthopedic manual and manipulative therapy.

I’ve rehabilitated my own ACL repair and have a thirst for knowledge. My patients recognize my laugh everywhere!

Reader’s choice nominations for Best Physiotherapist in Campbell River 3 years in a row. In the ... Read More

Mark is a wonderful listener and a fierce advocate, precisely the qualities that encompass a great physiotherapist. Mark has an innate ability to determine what sorts of treatment would best suit each person, and their condition, to reach their individual goals as efficiently as possible. Mark is compassionate, cheerful, and a resoundingly positive presence. He most enjoys treating orthopaedic issues (joints, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, etc).

Mark grew up in Victoria, passionate about soccer, and played in the Vancouver Island Soccer League into adulthood. He earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology at the University of Victoria, and worked for three years as a kinesiologist. Mark obtained his Master’s of Physiotherapy at Queen’s University, before moving to Campbell River.

Mark has taken a broad range of continuing education courses, including courses in biomedical and functional dry needling, chronic pain disorder management, Kinetic Link Training, and occupational rehabilitation.

Mark loves the outdoors, and especially the mountains. He loves to downhill ski, ski tour, go on bike rides, hike multi-day traverses, and shorter day hikes.

Mark is a wonderful listener and a fierce advocate, precisely the qualities that encompass a grea... Read More

With 20 years of experience, Jason Kowalchuk offers clinical excellence and mature professionalism to his patients. He has an uncanny ability to understand complex cases, and explain them accurately and clearly to his patients. His warm smile, and prairie upbringing, will quickly make you feel comfortable. He moved to Campbell River in 2005 with a passion for the great outdoors. During his free time, he can be found mountain biking, skiing, gardening, fishing, and playing soccer with his 3 boys!

Jason is a Physiotherapist with a Fellowship in Orthopaedic Manual Therapy (FCAMPT), which provides him with the knowledge and skills needed to perform spinal and joint manipulation (only 5% of Physiotherapist’s in Canada have completed this advanced training). He is also certified in acupuncture, and has a special interest in jaw pain (TMJ disorders). Dentists and Orthodontists regularly refer to him to treat jaw noise and pain, with most patients reporting excellent results within a few weeks of treatment!

With his experience at university level football at UBC, and a Physical Education degree, Jason knew he wanted to be a Physiotherapist. He is a graduate of the University of Manitoba in Physiotherapy (2002 - BMR PT - Honour Role).

He is a strong proponent that “Exercise is Medicine”. His experience and expertise can help anybody experiencing pain or reduced mobility, to safely and effectively resume moving their body again. A science-based approach to rehabilitation, mixed with humour, compassion, and individualized treatment, is what makes Jason a popular Physiotherapist!

With 20 years of experience, Jason Kowalchuk offers clinical excellence and mature professionalis... Read More

Catherine is currently on maternity leave

Catherine is driven to facilitate each individual’s achievement of his or her own best possible physical outcome. She works with each client to set and achieve meaningful personal goals. Catherine believes that teaching the client about their condition and the best management strategies from the research evidence empowers them to take ownership of their success in physiotherapy treatment.

Catherine focuses on orthopaedic, concussion/brain injury, vestibular, and neurological physiotherapy. Catherine holds a post-graduate Certificate in Vestibular (dizziness/balance) Rehabilitation from Duke University. She has clinical practice experience in this area, as well as teaching related workshops for physiotherapists and physicians. Catherine has taken a broad range of continuing education courses, including courses in biomedical and functional dry needling, head injury rehabilitation, orthopaedic manual therapy, virtual care, chronic pain disorder management, and occupational rehabilitation.

From her experience as an athlete in a wide range of sports, Catherine understands the physical and psychological aspects of having an injury and the importance of an optimal recovery. Her personal experience includes hiking traverses, ski touring, sailing, rugby, soccer, running, alpine ski racing, surfing, rock climbing, gymnastics, and dance. When not at work, she can usually be found somewhere in Strathcona Park.

Catherine completed her Master’s degree in Physiotherapy at the University of Toronto in 2016, and has been practicing in Campbell River, BC, Victoria, BC and Kingston, ON. She speaks English and French.

Catherine is currently on maternity leave Catherine is driven to facilitate each individual’s ac... Read More

Rob graduated from UBC with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology and then traveled abroad to Scotland to obtain his Masters in Physiotherapy from Glasgow Caledonian University. He comes from a background of athletics and aquatics, and worked as a lifeguard and swimming coach for many years. Using his experience working in the community with people from all walks of life, Rob enjoys collaborating with his patients to find a treatment plan that is best suited to each person’s individual goals and lifestyle. Rob enjoys working with patients of all types and has worked with performance athletes, post-surgery patients, job-related injuries, and people with chronic conditions. Rob uses a mix of manual therapy, modalities, and exercises to help his patients heal and regain strength and function. Outside of the clinic, Rob enjoys freediving, surfing, and exploring the island with his dog and family.

Rob graduated from UBC with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology and then traveled abroad to Scotland to o... Read More

I have been practicing massage therapy as an RMT since 2017 and graduated from MH Vicars in Edmonton, AB. After having lived in different communities, with the last being 7 years in Edmonton Alberta, I decided to return to my home town of Campbell River in 2019.

My interest in massage therapy started when I was 13. As a teen, I participated in competitive sports and received treatment for muscle strain due to repetitive motions and overuse. This new awareness of the benefits of massage therapy started a deep routed interest in the trade.

I prefer to take a more therapeutic approach to helping individuals, and have a varied and ever-growing interest in conditions that I enjoy working with, of which I will list and then explain below.

The conditions that I currently am very interested in working with are: Post surgical scar tissue reduction, myofascial release, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, functional scoliosis correction, TMJ (jaw discomfort including grinding, tension and discomfort), post-mastectomy and breast augmentations, MLD (manual lymphatic drainage), infant massage, whiplash rehabilitation, postural realignment, headaches, dizziness, prenatal and postnatal massage, youth massage (all ages are welcome), and PTSD.

In my free time I can be found spending time with my son, taking my dog for runs, kayaking, free diving, or gardening, among other things of which usually involve being outside.

Things to know about the therapeutic treatments that I provide:

Post surgical scar tissue reduction: I area of the incision can be worked on directly as soon as the scab has healed. This can be 6 weeks after surgery, or earlier depending on healing. Treatments to compensatory muscles and general areas that don’t pull on the incision can be worked on much sooner. Myofascial release: I have extensive experience releasing the myofascial trains, from the hips out, which can unwind functional scoliosis, and relieve pain that is associated with myofascial restrictions and adhesions. This is a deep and firm pressure treatment. Plantar fasciitis: This is a very effective treatment, but does come with a warning that about 5-10 minutes of the treatment can be quite uncomfortable. One foot is treated at a time to allow for post-treatment discomfort, which can last for a couple of days. It is recommended to have an ice pack ready to apply to the treated area afterwards. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is treatable with manual therapies. Often surgery can be avoided with a combination of myofascial release and stretching. Symptoms that appear to be carpal tunnel syndrome can also be caused by compression around the neck and shoulders, called thoracic outlet syndrome, and is treated similarly. Functional scoliosis correction: This is where joints are pulled out of alignment due to myofascial and muscle tension. By releasing the pull, the bones can slide back into position without force to the joints. Not all scoliosis is permanent. TMJ: I offer intraoral massage (with gloves), for grinding, clicking, and headaches. This is not an intense or uncomfortable massage and can provide a lot of relief. It is also great for reducing tension before dentist appointments, if it is uncomfortable to have you jaw held open for periods of time. Post Mastectomy and Breast Augmentations: Timing for these treatments follows the post-surgical advisements. Treating scar tissue as it is developing reduces tension, the feeling of capsular contracture, and reduces pulling of the shoulders forward, which causes upper back pain. MLD (Manual lymphatic drainage): I take a non-traditional approach to this by initially removing large and deep blockages within the lymphatic system, instead of only using gentle and superficial release. Infant massage: This can be done with babies up to 6 months old. It is a 30-minute session teaching parents to massage their babies through demonstration with a doll. Benefits include: bonding with the baby, reducing colic, and encouraging babies to learn to self sooth through body awareness.

I have been practicing massage therapy as an RMT since 2017 and graduated from MH Vicars in Edmon... Read More

Steven is a graduate of the West Coast College of Massage Therapy 3000-hour program in Victoria, BC in 2008.

Steven has enthusiasm and a proven track record for success in helping to relieve pain and restoring proper function and mobility to all areas of the body.

He has 15 years experience working in multidisciplinary settings, he enjoys working with other healthcare professionals to meet your healthcare needs.

Steven provides massage therapy treatments that empowers patients to achieve their unique health and wellness goals, and sees massage therapy as part of achieving better health along with maintaining good daily habits to support overall wellbeing. He treats areas of concern, as well as areas that maybe leading to pain, discomfort, or dysfunction.

Steven has a passion for learning, he has participated in a variety of courses and seminars throughout his career. Keeping his knowledge up to date enables him to provide effective treatment with the most current information.

Investing in massage therapy is an investment in your health. It is recommended for body maintenance that clients receive massage at least once a month

There are a variety of techniques used in massage therapy treatments, including trigger point therapy, myofascial release , deep tissue massage, muscle energy techniques, craniosacral therapy, and passive/active stretching. Lymphatic massage may be used to reduce swelling.

Steven is excited to be working with the experts at Mend Bodyworks to care for your health.

Steven is a graduate of the West Coast College of Massage Therapy 3000-hour program in Victoria, ... Read More

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and graduate of the M.A. Counselling Psychology program through Yorkville University. My personal and professional experiences have proven to me that counselling can effectively assist individuals in shifting from a place of pain and hopelessness to one of joy and empowerment. Harmful and self-destructive thoughts can be so unconscious and normalized that we lack the ability to recognize the true root of our problems. I strive to support my clients in developing self-awareness and gaining insight into the behaviours and thought-patterns that are unconsciously impacting their quality of life.

What I can offer you as my client:

– Coping strategies and skills for managing stress, powerful emotions, or flashbacks.

– Coaching and guidance on implementing self-care, healthy routine, setting goals and envisioning a hopeful future for yourself.

– Support with identifying, setting, and maintaining boundaries in your personal and professional relationships.

– Insight into how childhood trauma and early experiences have influenced your present-day behaviours, beliefs, and relationships with others.

– Support with the emotional processing of grief and loss.

– Coaching and support with goal-setting for a higher quality of life.

– Support with adjustment to life changes, such as recovery after a motor vehicle accident or workplace accident.

If you are feeling dis-empowered, anxious, lost, or navigating grief, counselling can be an incredibly helpful tool for processing and making sense of your experience. It can also be helpful for those simply wishing to understand themselves better, adjust to changing life circumstances, or gain helpful tools and skills for maximizing their quality of life. I look forward to assisting you on this important journey toward a happy, healthy, and hopeful life.

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and graduate of the M.A. Counselling Psychology progr... Read More

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Located at: 480 10 Ave, Campbell River
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