Massage Therapy
A registered massage therapist (RMT) in British Columbia is a health professional regulated by CMTBC under BC’s Health Professions Act.
Applicants for registration with CMTBC have completed post-secondary education in clinical applications of health sciences in massage therapy settings, and must meet CMTBC’s rigorous entry-level requirements.
RMTs are subject to:
> CMTBC’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
> The requirements of the Health Professions Act and regulations made under the Act.
> Standards of professional conduct.
> CMTBC’s quality assurance program, which ensures ongoing professional currency and development.
Like all regulated health professionals, RMTs must practice within their professional scope of practice. For RMTs, this means providing primarily manual, hands-on treatment and assessment in accordance with the definition of “massage therapy” in the Massage Therapists Regulation. Many modalities and treatments that may be considered acceptable in other jurisdictions are outside the scope of practice of massage therapy in British Columbia.
Dianne Jamellarin
Dianne is a graduate of Vancouver College of Massage Therapy. This is not her first time working at City Sports & Physiotherapy. Dianne left an Admin position with us to pursue her education as a Massage Therapist. She is thrilled to be back at CSPC as she follows her true passion in the world of health care. When Dianne was growing up, she always knew she wanted to be in a field where she could care for people and help to improve their quality of life. Her life’s journey, including her early years of exposure at CSPC, helped her discover massage therapy as a career. Dianne incorporates a variety of massage techniques during each treatment session based on the patients needs. Her goals are to work with her clients to create a treatment plan that helps them achieve relief from their aches and pains. During her free time, Dianne enjoys kickboxing classes, skate boarding around the neighbourhood, and loves spending time with her family.
Ryan Thorne
Ryan uses massage therapy to promote an efficient and unrestricted human body. This prepares the body for optimal movement and performance at all levels of sport, as well as everyday life. He accomplishes this by encouraging tissue movement through myofascial release, subtle joint mobilizations, and various techniques that involve lifting and moving of body’s tissues. Ryan has a particular interest in therapeutic exercise and it’s implications for preventing injury as well as rehabbing and returning to play or work after an injury. With a rugby background, Ryan likes to keep active through weight lifting and martial arts. He has also competed in both weightlifting and martial arts making him no stranger to the rigors of preparing for competition and the strain that can be placed on the body during this time. Ryan has also had experience working with elite level athletes as an RMT at the infamous, 7 day long, BC Bike Race. Ryan’s interest in the human body, and its ability to obtain optimal performance, are what led him to pursue massage therapy as a career. In 2016, he obtained his Massage Therapy Diploma from Langara College. Ryan looks forward to expanding his skill set and becoming an active member of the team at City Sports and Physiotherapy.
Andy Dobbs
Andy is a graduate of the massage therapy program at Vancouver Career College. He helps competitive athletes and weekend warriors relieve their muscular and joint pain while providing education on injury prevention and improved performance. His massage therapy techniques utilize a smooth and controlled manner of deep Swedish techniques. Andy also employs a variety of myofascial releases and range of motion exercises to facilitate his massage. Andy carries a passion in sports medicine and the biomechanics of athletic performance. A passion that developed while earning his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at the University of Lethbridge. Andy’s diverse background in sports includes hockey, soccer, football, baseball, and golf. Outside from work, Andy prides himself on his in-depth knowledge of fantasy baseball, video games, and the golden age of early 90s hip-hop.
Physiotherapy
Justin Wilson
Justin’s exposure to sports injuries and physiotherapy began in his early years growing up and being active in Nelson BC. His passion for rehabilitation and active living led him to the career of physiotherapy. Justin began his training in Kinesiology at the University of Victoria and shortly after pursued his Master of Physical Therapy at the University of British Columbia. Justin’s focus is to help people reach their goals by integrating the latest physiotherapy research with individualized treatment programs. Justin has completed his certification in acupuncture and uses this to decrease pain and restore normal movement patterns of the body. Justin enjoys working with a wide range of individuals from the competitive athlete returning from injury to the office worker training for their next marathon. His personal interest in yoga has helped gain an appreciation of body awareness, balance and breathing into his treatment programs. Outside the clinic, Justin enjoys cycling, yoga and exploring the outdoors while camping and hiking. If you would like a Telehealth appointment with Justin, please contact him directly. justin@citysportsphysio.com
Meredith Murdoch
Meredith’s love of physiotherapy began at a young age after she sustained a rare leg fracture exposing her to the world of physical rehabilitation. This led to the pursuit of her Masters degree in Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto after completing her Bachelors degree in Human Kinetics at the University of Ottawa. Other sports related injuries allowed Meredith to personally benefit from Acupuncture being incorporated into the rehab process – with excellent results. This prompted her to pursue her certification from the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute (AFCI). Always striving to provide the best outcome for her clients, Meredith is committed to constant development of her skills through continuing education. In 2013 she successfully completed the Intermediate Practical Exam through the Orthopaedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Meredith has a keen interest in sports injuries, including pre- and post-surgical rehab, and has treated a full spectrum of orthopaedic injuries from sports, motor-vehicle and work place related accidents. She likes to incorporate a hands-on approach with specific exercise therapy to help her clients achieve their goals. Meredith’s love of the outdoors and the West Coast lifestyle prompted her to move to BC in 2009; she has been enjoying sea to sky recreational pursuits since then, as well as an avid beginners interest in golf.
Gareth Adams
Gareth joined CSPC immediately after receiving his Master of Physiotherapy from the Curtin University of Technology in Perth, Australia in 2008. He brings a wealth of exercise-based experience to his physiotherapy practice. For six years prior to attending physiotherapy school, Gareth worked as a Kinesiologist and Strength and Conditioning coach designing exercise rehab programs for clients and elite level hockey players. His time in Australia solidified his interests in manual therapy and sports injury and he has since completed the Intermediate Orthopaedic Manual Therapy Practical Exam. An avid hockey player and golfer, Gareth also provides his clients with injury screening as well as specific hockey and golf exercise prescription. After a long career playing rugby, which included selection to the National Senior Men’s Sevens Team, Gareth continues to be involved in the rugby community as Physiotherapist for the BC Elite Youth Sevens Program. Gareth is also certified in Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS). If you would like to book a telehealth appointment with Gareth - please contact him directly: gareth@citysportsphysio.com Or contact the clinic directly.
Shaana Burgess
Shaana is dedicated to helping people achieve their maximum potential, whether it is related to sports, occupation, lifestyle or functional performance. Although she loves the challenge of treating both acute and chronic conditions, her clinical practice remains focused on educating her clients and injury prevention. In 1998, Shaana graduated from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physiotherapy. She completed a certification in acupuncture in 2003 with the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute (AFCI) and obtained her Certificate of Intermediate Manual and Manipulative Therapy in 2006. Her training and experience has given her the ability to treat a variety of clients including the gardener with a sore back, the teenager with a sprained ankle, the office worker suffering from neck and back pain from a motor-vehicle accident, and the marathon runner struggling with knee pain. Over the years she has treated cyclists, runners, swimmers and golfers, which has led to a special interest in treating knee and shoulder injuries Outside the professional realm, Shaana enjoys family life and activities in the outdoors. More recently she has embraced the “sport” of parenting and is excited to introduce her little one to all the recreational activities that Vancouver has to offer. What other city can you ski a local mountain, ocean kayak, run a sea wall and golf all in the same day? If you would like to book a telehealth session with Shaana, please contact her directly: shaana@citysportsphysio.com Or call the clinic directly.
Joanne Tishenko
From a young age, Joanne knew that she wanted to be a physiotherapist. While competing in field hockey, basketball and swimming in high school, and in varsity-level basketball at Trinity Western University (TWU), she gained first-hand knowledge of the benefits of physiotherapy. After completing a Bachelor of Human Kinetics degree at TWU, she fulfilled her dream of becoming a physiotherapist and graduated from UBC in 2004 with her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (BScPT). Since obtaining her physiotherapy degree in 2004, Joanne has gained significant experience treating a wide range of orthopaedic injuries for all ages and fitness levels, including sport-related sprains and strains, workplace injuries, motor vehicle accidents, postural issues and general aches and pains. She is a Level 3 trained Manual Therapist with the Orthopaedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association and a Gunn certified IMS (intramuscular stimulation) practitioner. Joanne also has a keen interest in pre- and post-natal care, especially as a mother of two herself. Through her years of treating pelvic girdle pain/dysfunction during and after pregnancy, she has also pursued further education in pelvic health physiotherapy. This knowledge enables her to assess and treat pelvic health issues such as pelvic pain and urinary incontinence. Additionally, she is a certified Fit to Deliver instructor and certified in the Rost Therapy program. She can help resolve your pregnancy-related aches and pains, and work with you to get your body back into shape after delivery. When away from the office, Joanne can be found running after her two active and fun-loving young girls, while sneaking in time to read a good book and dream about her family’s next travel adventure.
Adam Chin
Adam is passionate about helping people reach their full potential and giving them the tools to live healthy, happy and active lives. His treatment approach focuses on the individual, using multifactorial approach focusing on exercise and education, tailoring a treatment plan specifically to help his patients reach their goals. He believes in looking at the bigger picture, helping his patients understand their injury and address the underlying cause in order to help them come back better than before. Adam completed his Master of Physical Therapy at the University of British Columbia. Prior to this he completed his Bachelor of Science in Kinesology at Simon Fraser University, working as a kinesiologist and personal trainer for several years. His personal interest in Olympic Weightlifting led him to managing various injuries of his own as he competed at the national level. Through this process Adam has developed a commitment to lifelong improvement, completing his Level 1 Orthopedic Division and Functional Movement Screen level 1 & 2, with plans to continue furthering his education to better serve his patients. Adam enjoys working with clients of all activity levels and has experience working with a variety of injuries, from office workers, workplace and motor vehicle accidents and high level athletes. Whether from sports, surgery, a car accident or sitting at a desk, Adam appreciates the challenges that an injury can impose on your life and strives to support you in your journey getting you back to whatever is it you love to do. Outside of the clinic Adam lives an active lifestyle, spending time in the gym in order to take advantage of the beautiful playground Vancouver has to offer. Whether it’s hiking, camping, snowboarding in the mountains, golfing with friends or walking miles in a day on a worldwide adventure, Adam loves to find new ways to stay active.
Mark McNeill
Mark completed his Masters in Physiotherapy from the University of British Columbia. Mark’s focus and passion is to work with the client to achieve their goals and allow them to return to sport, work, or daily life. Sports have always played an important part in Mark’s life. He grew up in Victoria with an active lifestyle, playing a variety of sports. Mark worked as a tennis coach for 6 years teaching junior development camps and adult lessons. He also played volleyball at a high level and competed at a national level with track and field. Through athletics and coaching, Mark developed a passion for human movement. A bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology at the University of Victoria was Mark’s entrance into the musculoskeletal rehab world. During his bachelor’s degree Mark worked with the Velox Rugby Club where he was responsible for the on-field management and rehabilitation of injuries. He also developed experience working with individuals with disabilities as he worked as a support worker for children with disabilities at summer camps. With these experiences, Mark discovered his interest in the rehabilitation healthcare field. This passion and a motivation for continuous learning inspired his pursuit to complete his Master’s in Physical Therapy. Throughout the Master’s program, Mark has enjoyed a variety of clinical experiences with exposure to the full spectrum of health care. Mark utilizes an active approach to rehabilitation with focus on exercise, hands-on manual therapy, and education. Mark enjoys working with a variety of ages and injuries. From athletes looking to return to sport, to individuals with chronic pain from a motor vehicle accident, to seniors looking to increase their function, Mark has the skills to help you towards your rehabilitation goals. Hours: Mon - Fri 1pm - 7pm.
Rachel Worsley
Rachel first began to think about a career in physiotherapy after growing up in an athletic family that was often in and out of physiotherapy. She herself rowed through high school and saw the value of physiotherapy first hand after dealing with a persistent shoulder injury. As a physiotherapist, Rachel employs a variety of treatment techniques to help her patients recover, understand their injuries, address the underlying causes, and prevent future injuries. Rachel graduated from UBC with a Bachelors degree in Biology, where she found a passion for anatomy and exercise that motivated her to pursue a career in physiotherapy. She graduated with her Masters of Physical Therapy from UBC in 2011. Rachel is dedicated to continuing her postgraduate education. She is certified in acupuncture from CAFCI, and is working towards completing a Diploma of Advanced Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Therapy. Rachel enjoys working with clientele of all ages and fitness levels and has experience working with a wide variety of injuries. Since joining the CSPC team in 2012, she has worked with both elite and recreational athletes in nearly every sport Vancouver has to offer. Rachel treats all issues from sports based injuries to postural problems to issues arising from simply sitting at a desk all day, as well as postsurgical, motor vehicle accident and work related injuries. Rachel herself is a runner and an avid hiker and likes nothing better than getting outdoors and enjoying everything beautiful Vancouver has to offer.
Sarah Paterson
Sarah’s physiotherapy philosophy recognizes the importance of individualized treatment plans which incorporate evidence-based practices to achieve each client’s personal goals. She uses a multifaceted approach, with a focus on strengthening and active recovery. Sarah grew up in the small town of Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast of BC. During this time, Sarah’s activity of choice was dance, practicing in both recreational and competitive settings. After 15 years of practice, Sarah received her Dance Teacher certification and taught a variety of classes for children. Sarah completed her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at the University of Victoria. During this time she began working in the field of sports therapy, volunteering as an athletic trainer at the Velox Valhalians Rugby Football Club for over 2 years. After graduating, Sarah worked as a Registered Kinesiologist for a multidisciplinary clinic in Victoria, independently running an occupational rehabilitation program. Sarah received her Masters of Physical Therapy at the University of British Columbia. Upon graduating, she began working at City Sports and Physiotherapy Clinic. Sarah has completed additional training for the management of lumbopelvic disorders, post-concussion syndrome, and first aid in sport. Additionally, Sarah has received her certification through GLA:D Canada, which focuses on education and exercises for the management of hip and knee osteoarthritis. Outside of the clinic, Sarah provides physiotherapy coverage for a number of sporting events, including the World Rugby Sevens tournament at BC Place. Sarah’s background in dance, occupational rehabilitation, and sports therapy allows her to effectively address a wide variety of client presentations. With these assets, Sarah is confident that she can meet your physiotherapy needs.
Timberly Ambler
Timberly has been with CSPC since 2004. She is passionate about working with active individuals to help them achieve their goals. Timberly is fascinated with human movement and injury prevention. Her treatment philosophy is to find the root cause of injury beginning with a comprehensive assessment of the whole body and takes a hands-on and exercise based approach to treatment. Her primary clinical areas of interest are in sport related injuries, pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation particularly for shoulders, knees, and the foot and ankle. Timberly keeps up to date with the most recent advances in clinical sports medicine by regularly attending conferences and educational courses. An alumna and clinical faculty member of the UBC Department of Physical Therapy, Timberly has also taken on a teaching role in the school and enjoys educating the physiotherapists of the future. Timberly is very active in the sport physiotherapy community at the regional, national and international levels. Most recently, she is the Therapy Lead for the ever exciting Canada 7s World Rugby tournament in Vancouver. She was the Venue Medical Manager at the Richmond Olympic Oval during the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and has travelled the world as a team therapist for both Rugby Canada and Field Hockey Canada. As an avid runner and cyclist, Timberly has developed strong ties to both the running and cycling communities in Vancouver. Timberly obtained her Diploma from Sport Physiotherapy Canada (SPC) in 2007 and in 2012 was awarded the prestigious David Magee award for her outstanding contribution to Sport Physiotherapy in Canada. She recently joined the Lions Bay Search and Rescue team as a volunteer member in training. Timberly became a partner at CSPC in 2013.
Daniel Haggart
Daniel graduated from UBC in 2003 with joint degrees in Physiotherapy and Human Kinetics. His primary areas of expertise are manual therapy and sports injuries. He enjoys helping patients develop sport-specific exercise and training routines to help them heal, prevent re-injury and to improve performance. Dan is an intermediate level manipulative therapist, having completed his Part A certificate in Manual Therapy in 2008, and is a Gunn certified IMS (intramuscular stimulation) practitioner. He has also completed courses in Mulligan’s mobilization with movement, Diane Lee’s Thoracic spine, Shirley Sarhmann’s lower back and hip retraining and both LJ Lee’s “Sports thorax” and “Sports Pelvis”. Dan is passionate about soccer. He has worked with the BC Soccer Association, UBC Soccer program and spent two years as the physiotherapist for Capilano College/University Athletics. In the past 10 years, Dan has been working with the Canadian Soccer Association as a team physiotherapist and most recently with the Men’s National Beach soccer team in the Bahamas. In 2008 he worked with the National Men’s team in their attempts to qualify for the 2008 Summer Olympic Games and during the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics he was a member of the Host Medical Team. While at UBC, Dan captained the varsity soccer team and today continues to compete in the Over 30 category. He also enjoys running, skiing, tennis, basketball, outdoor sports as well as his young family. Dan became a partner at CSPC in 2013.