Nathan Bourassa Registered Physiotherapist

BSc. Kin, MPT

Nathan was born in Saskatchewan and grew up playing high level sports; including participating in the 2005 Canada Summer Games for Baseball. He made the move to Nanaimo in 2017 and has been involved in the community coaching both hockey and baseball.

Nathan received a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (2009) prior to attaining his Masters of Physical Therapy in 2011 at the University of Saskatchewan. He enjoys continuing to grow his practice by attending post-graduate courses, which includes all body parts, populations, and types of injuries.

Although Nathan has spent a great deal of his life involved in sport (both coaching and playing). He also enjoys working with the general population and has a soft spot for the elderly.

He enjoys being a Physical Therapist because he gets to connect with individuals and help them achieve their rehabilitation goals using an individualized approach.

Techniques: -Joint Mobilizations and Manipulation (Level 3 Advanced Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy Course). -K Taping -Muscle Mobilization -Trigger Point Release -Soft Tissue Release -Exercise prescription and active rehabilitation.

Nathan Bourassa Registered Physiotherapist BSc. Kin, MPT Nathan was born in Saskatchewan and gr... Read More

Mike Armet MPT, BSc, IMS Registered Physiotherapist

Mike completed his Masters of Physical Therapy in 2014 at Western University in London, Ontario. Prior to becoming a Physiotherapist, Mike completed a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry. Mike has a keen interest in research and education and strives to perform the most evidence-informed practice with his patients.

Mike was born in Nanaimo and has made it his home base since 1998, with the exception of a few years spent in other areas of the province in his younger years. He is an avid athlete and grew up playing team sports at a high level. Mike currently competes in road and trail running races ranging from 5 to 50km.

Mike utilizes a wide range of clinical skills including intramuscular stimulation, joint manipulation, and therapeutic exercises. His philosophy is to master the basics and save the complex stuff for later, if necessary. He believes it’s important to understand all contributors to your pain and find solutions that help you manage, recover and deal with future problems.

Techniques: · Intramuscular stimulation/dry needling (IMS)

· Soft tissue release and manual therapy

· Joint mobilization and manipulation

· Trigger point release

· K-Taping

Mike Armet MPT, BSc, IMS Registered Physiotherapist Mike completed his Masters of Physical Thera... Read More

Dr Garrett Duff Doctor of Chiropractic

B.Sc. M.Sc.(Hon) D.C.

Dr. Duff uses a patient centered evidence-based approach to chiropractic care, utilizing his skills in diagnosing, soft tissue work, manual adjusting, exercise prescription and sports performance to guide his scope of practice.

A Board Certified Chiropractic Dr. Duff specializes in sports injuries and manages these conditions with a functional and sport/lifestyle specific approach to eliminate pain, improve performance and prevent re-injury.

Dr. Garrett Duff was born and raised in Northern Ontario where he spent his younger years exploring and appreciating the environment. He attributes his love for cross country skiing, biking, stand up paddleboarding (SUP) and hiking to these surroundings. Dr. Duff loves teaching others about physical activity, and has his National Coaching certification in badminton as well as stand up paddleboarding.

His journey of higher education took him to Ottawa in 2016 where he completed his Bachelor of Science Degree with a health science focus from Carleton University. Following this, he spent his next 4 years in Toronto at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. At the college, he was given the unique opportunity to bike from Tofino, BC to St. Johns NFL to promote healthy living and bike safety at presentations to youth along the way.

Dr. Duff is passionate about his relationships with patients and works relentlessly from every angle to get them to where they want to be. Utilizing various evidence-based treatments such as joint manipulation, mobilizations, soft tissue therapy, modality usage, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), and exercise prescription he will get you to where you need to be.

When not at work, you may see Dr. Duff out on paddleboard exploring the waters, biking across the Island, hiking in the bush, or getting involved with the badminton community.

Techniques:

Diversified Chiropractic Adjusting Graston (instrument assisted soft tissue massage) Soft Tissue / Myofascial Release Trigger Point Release

Dr Garrett Duff Doctor of Chiropractic B.Sc. M.Sc.(Hon) D.C. Dr. Duff uses a patient centered e... Read More

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Noah joins the team all the way from Newfoundland and Labrador. He is a registered massage therapist with the College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia. He has a Diploma in Health Sciences (Registered Massage Therapy) and is additionally certified in advanced Graston techniques, cupping massage, Functional Movement Screening and Functional Capacity Screening. Noah uses these modalities along with manual hands on assessment, manipulation and mobilization to change how the tissues within the body move and ultimately improves the way it moves, feels and heals.

Noah is a big believer in collaborative practice, having seen the benefits while working and training with other massage therapists, chiropractors, kinesiologists and physiotherapists to improve patient outcomes. Having experienced various sports injuries in the past, he also understands the importance of holistic and goal-focused rehabilitation for recovery. Noah is also a certified fitness trainer with the International Sport Science Association, and has been working in the fitness industry on the east coast all the way through college. He developed personal training programs for individual clients as well as taught group strength/conditioning classes. Noah has always enjoyed an outdoor lifestyle, competitive hockey, biking, snowboarding. He is excited to call Nanaimo his new home and is looking forward to enjoying all that the island has to offer. And of course he is extremely proud to be working with the amazing team at Prime to provide top notch health care.

Noah joins the team all the way from Newfoundland and Labrador. He is a registered massage therap... Read More

Kaitlyn Franklin

B.Sc., RD

Registered Dietitian

Kaitlyn’s education journey began in Nova Scotia where she completed her undergraduate degree and post-graduate internship with Acadia University. While working as a Registered Dietitian she is pursuing her master’s degree in counselling psychology from Yorkville University with the goal of becoming a Registered Clinical Counsellor here in B.C.

Kaitlyn grew up in Nanaimo playing on many high-level sports teams. After graduation Kaitlyn went on to play U Sport volleyball at Acadia University. Given her athletic background it is no surprise that she is wanting to continue to build that connection between nutrition and performance as a dietitian on the PRIME team.

Besides her ongoing love for athletics Kaitlyn is also specialized in disordered eating and has a passion for gut health. Kaitlyn emphases the importance that a person is never a one size fits all approach to care especially when it comes to supporting the whole person.

Key Areas of Practice:

Sports Nutrition

Optimize training and performance

Fuel at appropriate times before, during and after training

Education around supplements

Hydration needs

Gut and Digestive Health

Food Allergies and Sensitivities

Weight Management

Disordered Eating

Meal/menu Planning

Kaitlyn Franklin B.Sc., RD Registered Dietitian Kaitlyn’s education journey began in Nova Scot... Read More

Dr. Kyle Salloum grew up in Nanaimo after moving from Calgary shortly after he was born. Growing up on the island he has a love for any and all outdoor activities. He participated in many sports throughout the years including soccer - playing for Nanaimo United, rugby, and basketball. In his down time, Dr. Salloum enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, golfing, and surfing. After graduating from Dover Bay, Dr. Salloum attended Vancouver Island University working towards a Bachelor of Science with a focus on Biology. In 2014 he spent the next 4 years in Toronto at the Canadian memorial Chiropractic College. At CMCC he was a member of the students’ council, academic affairs council, dean’s council, and the joint health and safety task force. In his internship he participated in running the Canadian pilot for the GLA:D (Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark) program. From his own experiences as an athlete, Dr. Salloum has always had an interest in sports injuries; however, during his internship at CMCC he also became passionate about chronic pain and pain pathology. Dr. Salloum believes in the evidence based medicine model; combining patient values, clinical experience, and the best available evidence to make decisions about patient care. He uses his knowledge of the human body and diagnostic skills in conjunction with manual medicine including joint manipulations and mobilizations, soft tissue therapies, postural and functional alterations, as well as an extensive knowledge of exercises, nutrition, and supplementation to help reduce pain, improve function, and allow his patients to live their best quality of life and perform optimally. Techniques include; diversified Chiropractic adjustments, extremity mobilizations and manipulations, instrument assisted soft tissue therapy, soft tissue/myofascial release, and trigger point release.

Dr. Kyle Salloum grew up in Nanaimo after moving from Calgary shortly after he was born. Growing ... Read More

Kirsten Mitchell MPT, BA, IMS Registered Physiotherapist

Kirstin completed her Masters of Physical Therapy at the University of Alberta in 2011. Before becoming a fully certified Physiotherapist, Kirstin obtained her Bachelor’s degree with a major in Sport, Health and Physical Education. She continues to pursue post graduate courses to enhance her skill set in various areas of physiotherapy.

Kirstin was born and raised in Nanaimo. She grew up playing all sorts of sports and has always followed an active lifestyle. She played soccer competitively, including two seasons with the VIU Mariners. It was throughout this time she knew she wanted to find her way in becoming a physiotherapist and helping others.

Kirstin optimizes her clinical outcomes by utilizing a diverse skill set in the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. Treatment options include Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), joint mobilizations, soft tissue manual therapy, therapeutic modalities and individualized home exercise programs. Kirstin believes an active approach is key to improving function.

Kirstin is experienced in working with a wide variety of populations including athletes and geriatrics. She thrives off the effect that physiotherapy can have on one’s quality of life and is empowered by clients achieving their goals. If she’s not found at the clinic, she’s most likely climbing hills on her bike, hiking nearby mountains or soaking in the ocean breeze

Techniques: · Intramuscular stimulation/dry needling (IMS)

· Soft tissue release and manual therapy

· Joint mobilization and manipulation

· Trigger point release

· K-Taping

Kirsten Mitchell MPT, BA, IMS Registered Physiotherapist Kirstin completed her Masters of Physic... Read More

Cody graduated from the RMT program at Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in 2015 and has been working primarily in Burnaby over the past 8+ years.

Having grown up in North Vancouver Cody has had a lot of opportunities to explore nature. He regularly gets out camping and hiking as well as some longer duration backpacking when time allows it.

Cody grew up playing hockey, lacrosse, rugby and ultimate frisbee and continues to play hockey today, so he has vast knowledge of sports related injuries having had them himself. He also spent 3 years coaching lacrosse teams on the North Shore and Burnaby helping further his knowledge of common sports injuries.

During his career Cody has worked with a wide array of injuries and conditions within the body. He has worked with ICBC patients who have had motor vehicle accidents, professional athletes, postural dysfunctions, repetitive strain injuries, nervous system dysfunctions, pre/post surgery patients, relaxation treatments, and works with most major 3rd party insurance companies.

Cody has taken many different courses within his years as an RMT but tends to stick with more traditional methods including Swedish, active and passive stretching, active release, MFR, attachment release, and joint mobilisations. He tends to work into deeper tissues but also believes the patient needs to maintain some level of relaxation to be effective.

Although Cody is new to living in Nanaimo, the island has been a big part of his life for nearly 2 decades as his grandparents have lived in Qualicum Beach and Parksville and his mother lives in Nanaimo. He is eager to explore the island with his wife Megan and his new daughter Wren and even more eager to build his practice at Prime’!

Cody graduated from the RMT program at Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in 2015 and has been ... Read More

Will has been extremely passionate about self-care and ways to optimize health with the use of natural modalities throughout his entire life. From pathology specific diet modifications, nutraceutical and orthomolecular supplementation, to botanical, homeopathic, physical, Traditional Chinese and pharmaceutical medicine, Will has acquired a range of knowledge and tools to assist with his patient’s unique healthcare needs and goals.

Born and raised in and around Toronto, Ontario, Will studied Human Kinetics at the University of Guelph where he received his Honour’s Bachelor degree. During his time in Guelph, Will worked in the Human Health and Nutritional Science (HHNS) department assisting with breast cancer and HIV research and eventually completed his undergraduate research manuscript and literature review on nutrition and its impact on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. He then went on to pursue studies in Naturopathic Medicine at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM), Toronto Campus, receiving his Naturopathic Doctor degree

After graduating CCNM, will eventually moved to British Columbia where he studied for and received his registration with the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia (CNPBC), British Columbia Naturopathic Doctors (BCND) and Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND), in order to provide top quality naturopathic care that is individualized to his patient’s healthcare needs. Will also acquired his acupuncture certification, has access to primary care lab diagnostics and is currently working towards pharmaceutical prescription authority and injection/intravenous therapies. As a results-based practitioner, Will works in collaboration with your primary medical healthcare team to meet your specific needs and goals.

Therapies:

• TCM Diagnostics

• Herbal Medicine (Internal or Topical)

• Orthomolecular/Nutraceutical Supplementation

• Homeopathic Medicine

• Acupuncture (with or without TENS or TrP)

• Cupping

• Clinical Nutrition

• Primary Care Clinical and Laboratory Diagnostics

• Coming soon: Prescriptive Authority with Injection and Intravenous Therapies

Will has been extremely passionate about self-care and ways to optimize health with the use of na... Read More

Sarah would like to acknowledge that she is a visitor on the traditional unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation.

Sarah graduated in 2019 from the Massage Therapy program at WCCMT and has since gone on to register and build her practice on Vancouver Island.

Sarah provides treatments that involve manual techniques along with appropriate assessment and homecare. She believes in practicing a bio-psycho-social model of care that is patient centered and focused on addressing patient goals.

Sarah would like to acknowledge that she is a visitor on the traditional unceded territory of the... Read More

Our Group Training Programs are a great way to get in shape for all your activities. ​Take action and experience THE PRIME’ DIFFERENCE!

Our Group Training Programs are a great way to get in shape for all your activities. ​Take action... Read More

Dr. Jordan Herbison Doctor of Philosophy (Sport Psychology) B.Kin, M.Sc., Ph.D., CMPC (in Training)

Dr. Jordan Herbison is an accomplished practitioner and researcher in the field of sport psychology, with more than 8 years of experience as a mental performance consultant (MPC). He earned his M.Sc. and Ph.D. from Queen’s University (Kingston, Ontario) specializing in sports psychology and group dynamics. Following the completion of his doctorate, Jordan held the McGill Sports Science Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship in the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education at McGill University (Montréal, Quebéc). Dr. Herbison has worked with athletes in a variety of sports and of all levels, from amateur to professional, helping them to develop their mental skills and enhance their performance. His approach combines evidence-based, person-centered practices with a deep understanding of the unique psychological and physical demands of sports.

Dr. Herbison has published numerous research articles on topics such overcoming adversity, team dynamics, motivation, talent identification and positive youth development. In addition to community-based research with local youth sport and parasport organizations, Jordan’s research has examined psycho-social concepts with professional athletes (e.g., National Hockey League, English Premier League Rugby and Soccer) and international sport organizations (e.g., Hockey Canada).

In addition to his work with atheltes and teams, Dr. Herbison is passionate about education and has taught courses in sport psychology and the social sciences at several universities (Vancouver Island University, Queen’s University, McGill University). He is committed to support athletes’ mental performance and well-being.

Dr. Jordan Herbison Doctor of Philosophy (Sport Psychology) B.Kin, M.Sc., Ph.D., CMPC (in Trainin... Read More

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After graduating the Registered Massage therapy program, with honours from Eastern Academy in St. John’s Newfoundland in 2021, Gina is back to her roots on Vancouver island and so excited to be joining the team.

Gina has had a passion for health and physical wellness for as long as she can remember as well as a huge interest in biology and the function and development of musculature. In her appointments she includes you in understanding assessments and creating a tailored treatment plan.

She has had experience treating various conditions and a wide variety of patients which include but are not limited to:

Frozen shoulder, TOS, tendonitis, chronic pain, bodybuilders prepping for shows - as well as general maintenance and relaxation.

After graduating the Registered Massage therapy program, with honours from Eastern Academy in St.... Read More

Red light Therapy: Red light therapy also supports discomfort and inflammation management by improving blood flow to damaged tissues. When cells receive the healthy light they need, the whole body has the potential to work more efficiently, with improved circulation and reduced inflammation.

NormaTech Recovery Boots Helps to reduce pain and soreness The NormaTec recovery massage combats soreness and gets you back on top of your game, recovered and ready to go again. Optimize your training with the recovery system built to the standards of the world’s best.

Red light Therapy: Red light therapy also supports discomfort and inflammation management by imp... Read More