Rooted in a holistic, strengths-based approach, Denise believes that everyone is the expert of their own lives, and that therapy can offer practical tools and resources to help meet life challenges. Her practice is both eclectic – selectively applying techniques from a variety of approaches to best fit your needs, and integrative - combining different approaches and fusing them together. Denise uses a blend of evidence-based practices drawing on various methods from contemporary Western modalities to Eastern meditative practices of mindfulness. Denise has a Master of Social Work from Laurentian University, Bachelor of Arts from MSVU, and post-secondary certificates / diplomas in Counselling, Adult Education, Managing Workplace Conflict, Leadership Development, and Human Resources, and she is trained in various treatment modalities. For over 20 years, Denise has been working in the social care field.

Denise’s areas of practice include individual therapy, couples therapy, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions (divorce, marriage, caregiving, moving), workplace and career issues, PTSD and trauma, stress management, and others.

Denise Young, MSW, RSW

Rooted in a holistic, strengths-based approach, Denise believes that everyone is the expert of th... Read More

Henry is a registered acupuncturist, a teacher, a martial artist, a husband and a father. He has extensive training in modern and ancient styles of acupuncture. In a session, Henry may use any combination of single-use sterile filiform needles, gentle non-insertion tools, moxibustion heat therapy, and massage. He takes a patient-centred and trauma-informed approach, with treatments that are gentle, dynamic, and effective for both adults and children. Henry tries to help his patients feel more at ease in their body, more at peace in their heart and mind, and more connected to their environment.

Henry graduated with a Diploma in Acupuncture & East Asian Medicine in 2013 from the Institute of Traditional Medicine. Henry interned at the Toronto People With Aids Foundation, and with leading acupuncturists in integrative cancer care and reproductive health in Toronto. In 2014, he travelled to Beijing, China, for a year-long advanced clinical training. Henry was deeply fortunate to study with world-renowned acupuncturist Dr. Wang Ju-yi, his senior apprentice Jonathan Chang, and one of his students Dr. Yu Kan, who ran her own busy multi-bed clinic in an integrative community hospital. These teachers showed Henry an exceptional approach to acupuncture using subtle, detailed palpation to refine diagnosis and improve treatment results.

Henry returned to Canada and practiced in multidisciplinary clinics across the Greater Toronto Area. He began teaching acupuncture and herbal medicine in both classroom and clinical settings, eventually becoming Program Director of Eastern Medicine at his alma mater. After coming back from China, Henry learned (will forever be learning) to read classical Chinese, and began a lifelong study of the foundational text of East Asian medicine, the 2000-year-old Inner Classic. This project has transformed his practice and brings him a great deal of joy on quiet mornings.

In 2021, Henry moved to Nova Scotia with his wife and two kids in search of a slower life, closer to nature. In addition to clinical practice, Henry teaches acupuncture and East Asian medicine at undergraduate and post-graduate levels, and runs a small Tai Chi school in Halifax. In his downtime, Henry rolls around with his two kids, plays basketball and soccer at the local park, and chips away at 1000-piece puzzles with his partner Leanne. Henry loves a good cup of tea, daily Tai Chi in the yard, and a walk in a forest.

Henry is a registered acupuncturist, a teacher, a martial artist, a husband and a father. He has ... Read More

Dr. Emily Wiggin is a native of Dartmouth, NS and has been practicing in her hometown since August, 2013. She began her journey into chiropractic after completing her undergraduate degree in Physical Anthropology and Archaeology from Memorial University in Newfoundland, where she developed a fascination with the human body. Honing in further on this interest, she entered the Doctor of Chiropractic program at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College where she graduated in 2013 with clinic honours.

In addition to working with a diverse patient base, Dr. Wiggin has a specific passion for the world of golf fitness and swing development. She currently works for Golf Canada as the Strength and Conditioning Coach/Medical Liaison for the National NextGen Teams. Locally, she works alongside several local golf teaching professionals, to develop comprehensive training programs and treatment protocols designed to correct physical limitations to optimize swing dynamics. It is a great adjunct to the role of the teaching professional in creating break-through performance. Dr. Wiggin completed her Titleist Performance Institute Certification in California, where she trained under elite level fitness, medical and golf professionals who work with the top names in golf. Using the TPI movement screen and her knowledge of swing mechanics, she identifies mobility and strength deficits in her clients. In addition to her work with Golf Canada, she has worked Nova Scotia Golf Association since 2015 helping develop junior players. Dr. Wiggin’s clients range from the weekend golfer to the touring professional, all of which have benefited from a committed training regimen.

A former varsity athlete, Dr. Wiggin enjoys involvement in various athletic communities in the region. She volunteered as a trainer with the Whaler’s Bantam Major Hockey team for two years (2014-2016) in addition to being member of the Hockey High Performance medical staff for the 2015 try outs and challenge cup for U-14 boys with Hockey Nova Scotia. Dr. Wiggin has also served as the Chair of Medical Services for the Sidney Crosby Hockey School since its inception in 2015.

When she is not treating patients at Kinesis Health, Dr. Wiggin can be found spending time with her partner, Jeff, and two daughters, Avery and Kate. She is also committed to working on her fitness in addition to hitting the golf links in the summertime.

Dr. Wiggin has an overall passion for helping people reach their health and lifestyle goals and she is always looking for new avenues to deliver her message of health and well-being to the community. Being part of an integrated health team at Kinesis Health Associates was the next step in that journey. She loves to treat a wide array of chiropractic patient subsets and is always looking to develop and expand her knowledge base and skill to provide them with exceptional care.

Dr. Emily Wiggin is a native of Dartmouth, NS and has been practicing in her hometown since Augus... Read More

Andrew graduated from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 2012, and since graduating has developed a full body approach to therapy. Believing that where you hurt isn’t always why you hurt, while educating in practical terms that make your health goals relatable and attainable. “You can communicate with your body, it just doesn’t speak English”

Specializing in cupping, fascial techniques, and deep tissue therapy as well as creating and coordinating short or long term treatment plans between RMTs, Andrew is eager to start at his first multidisciplinary clinic and see what more can be accomplished with access to a variety of modalities.

Andrew graduated from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 2012, and since graduat... Read More

Mavis is an energetic and enthusiastic massage therapist who takes a holistic approach to wellness.

In her practice, Mavis utilizes variety of modalities during treatment including deep tissue, cupping, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, Swedish massage, joint mobilizations, active/passive stretching and therapeutic exercises. Mavis’ clinical interests reside in but are not limited to Neurological conditions, Sports injuries, chronic pain and providing treatment that is safe and effect for her patients.

Mavis is a graduate of the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy. During her studies she worked with patients with conditions such as Arthritis, Parkinson’s, Fibromyalgia, Scoliosis, Peripheral neuropathy and Sports related injuries. When Mavis is not working with patients, she enjoys going to yoga fitness classes.

Mavis is an energetic and enthusiastic massage therapist who takes a holistic approach to wellnes... Read More

Liam Graduated from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Kinesiology in 2023. Post graduation, he achieved his Athletic Therapy certification with the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association (CATA). He has extensive experience providing field coverages for a variety of events, including the East Hants Penguins of the NSJHL, the North American Indigenous Games and Rugby Atlantic Championships. As an Athletic Therapist and Kinesiologist, Liam has extensive knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics. Liam uses this knowledge to create personalized rehabilitation plans to return people to their pre-injury levels. Liam is a strong believer in preventative maintenance, helping people to build strength and increase mobility to prevent injuries before they occur.

Liam Graduated from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Kinesiology in 2023. Post graduation, he... Read More

Tara graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Kinesiology in 2009 and Master of Science in Physiotherapy in 2011, both from Dalhousie University. She has taken specialty courses in orthopaedic manual therapy, exercise prescription, acupuncture, K-taping, and spinal decompression, and has completed her post-graduate Certificate in Sports Physiotherapy. She currently volunteers her time as a therapist at local and regional sporting events, and as secretary and treasurer for the Nova Scotia branch of Sport Physiotherapy Canada. When she is not in the clinic, Tara can be found staying active on the trails and lakes of Cole Harbour or working on her home!

Tara graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Kinesiology in 2009 and Master of Science ... Read More

Christene graduated from the University of Kings College with a Bachelor of Science in 1986 and from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy in 1989 with distinction (Cum Laude). Her initial experience comes from Adult Neurology, Respiratory care and Geriatric Medicine. Christene earned her Diploma in Advanced Manual and Manipulative Therapy (FCAMPT) in 1999 and uses it in conjunction with an active approach in correcting orthopedic and neurologically based movement dysfunctions.

Read more about Christine » She has also completed all of Shirley Sarhmann muscle balance dysfunction courses as well as all local and global levels of Kinetic Control, a muscle activation/stabilization and rebalancing program. She has been practicing acupuncture since 1994 and achieved her Acupuncture Certification (CAFCI) with the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute (AFCI) in 1997, and has been a certified instructor with AFCI since 2001. She has also taken both levels of the Kinetacore Functional Dry Needling courses in 2014 for myofascial and trigger point pain relief. Christene was an instructor with the Orthopedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association and taught post-graduate courses to physiotherapists. She has demonstrated clinical orthopedics at the School of Physiotherapy at Dalhousie University. She is also a registered Mentor for physiotherapists working toward their Advanced Manual Therapy skills. She is a Fellow and member of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Therapists, a group of skilled physiotherapists with extensive post-graduate education in manual therapy and clinical reasoning, who have passed an internationally recognized accreditation process. Christene has worked in multidisciplinary work conditioning settings since 1995. She has developed skills in the assessment and treatment of injured workers, worksite visits and coordinated return to work plans with employers. Christene has been an active volunteer in the community and has volunteered locally at the World Figure Skating and World Junior Hockey Championships. She has completed courses in St. John Ambulance First Aid and is CPR certified. She has been a member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, Neurology and Orthopedic Divisions, since graduating in 1989. She is also a member in good standing with the Nova Scotia College of Physiotherapists. She has volunteered provincially in the Nova Scotia Orthopedic Division Executive Membership, as well as nationally on the Executive of the Orthopedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. “I feel that you do not treat conditions, you treat people. Listening and understanding to what a patient wants and needs is the key to a successful outcome. I try to provide a positive change at every treatment session. I am very goal oriented. Success also comes from the patient participating in their own outcome and this in turn depends on me sparking their passion for getting better.” Christene’s hobbies include travelling around the world, camping, kayaking, canoeing, reading, baking and cooking. She regularly does advanced Pilates and can be seen in the local parks walking her dogs.

Christene graduated from the University of Kings College with a Bachelor of Science in 1986 and f... Read More

“It was like a flash bulb went off in my head,” continues Dr. Ellefsen. “I was in my second year of university on my way to becoming an engineer. That’s when I took a biochemistry elective and the whole concept of the amazing human body and how it works began to enthrall me. I knew I wanted to be involved in the health profession but from an approach that treated the underlying causes of pain and illness and not just the symptoms.” The next two years for Dr. Ellefsen were not only a quest for knowledge, as he completed his science degree, but also to find a health related career that complimented his health care philosophy. “I had streamlined my program towards a career as a medical doctor focusing on preventative medicine. It was then that a friend introduced me to chiropractic and his chiropractor… I was hooked,” smiles Dr. Ellefsen. “I’ve never looked back!”

Dr. Ellefsen completed his science degree at Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) in 1995 with a major in biochemistry and a minor in nutrition. After completing his studies there he was accepted at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto. After completing his four year program and accompanying internship Dr. Ellefsen explains how eager he was to return home and establish a practice. “I always knew I wanted to return to Nova Scotia raise a family and establish a practice.”

Since graduating Dr. Ellefsen has continued his passion for learning and education through regular attendance at seminars and training conferences. He is certified in ART® (Active Release Technique) and has a passion for helping performance athletes achieve their goals and has demonstrated his commitment to this field as the president of the Sports Medicine Council of Nova Scotia (SMCNS).

Dr. Ellefsen spends his time away from the clinic with his lovely wife, two daughters, and two dogs. He and his family are avid skiers. Dr. Ellefsen and his daughters are members of the Martock Ski Race Club and enjoy the competitive edge. Dr. Ellefsen’s other hobbies include sailing, mountain biking, and triathlons. You’ll also find him swinging a hammer or digging up the garden in his back yard.

Dr. Ellefsen believes in maintaining his health through a balanced lifestyle which includes a healthy diet, regular chiropractic and massage care, exercise, lots of water, and plenty of family time.

“It was like a flash bulb went off in my head,” continues Dr. Ellefsen. “I was in my second year ... Read More

Growing up in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Dr. Brinkhurst-Bauer spent most of her time outdoors and has always felt most comfortable in nature. After high school, she pursued snowboarding competitively, eventually bringing her to Whistler, BC. After a decade of mountain living, she turned her focus to something more knee-friendly - academia.

Dr. Brinkhurst-Bauer attended the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, completing a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. During that time, she was one of four students selected to represent UBC at the Universitas 21 conference, “Cities and Citizens in the Digital Age,” in Glasgow, Scotland. After graduating from UBC, Dr. Brinkhutst-Bauer was accepted into a four-year doctoral program at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in New Westminster, where she graduated as a naturopathic doctor.

Dr. Brinkhurst-Bauer’s approach to medicine is holistic and personalized, emphasizing the foundations of health (sleep, stress, nutrition, hydration, and movement). Dr. Brinkhurst-Bauer recognizes that every patient who walks through her door has a unique health history, and it’s her job to address individual concerns and bring about healing. Her practice is general, meaning she sees patients with a range of health concerns and enjoys supporting them throughout their adult lifespan. Dr Brinkhurst-Bauer is particularly interested in digestive health, autoimmunity and preventative medicine, which includes routine physical exams and lab assessments.

After 14 years on the West Coast, Dr. Brinkhurst-Bauer, with her husband and dog, made the move to Atlantic Canada, and they are quickly feeling at home here in Nova Scotia.

Dr. Brinkhurst-Bauer is looking forward to welcoming you to her practice.

Thanks!

Alex

Growing up in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Dr. Brinkhurst-Bauer spent most of her time o... Read More

Erin is from Dartmouth, she completed a Bachelor of Arts (2015) at St. Thomas University in Fredericton where she was fortunate to have the opportunity to play university hockey and golf. She completed her Master of Science in Physiotherapy (2017) at Dalhousie University. Erin has always had an interest in sports physiotherapy and has been a therapist for several sports teams; including Dalhousie Football, hockey Nova Scotia, and the Amherst Jr. A Ramblers. Erin believes in taking a global holistic approach to treatment. She understands that education is the key to empowering her patients, as well as the importance of exercise in allowing people to take an active role in their recovery. She uses various techniques to help get clients moving, including dry needling, cupping, k-taping, manual therapy and exercise prescription. She also has experience working in long term care. Outside of the clinic, Erin leads an active lifestyle, and enjoys participating in several activities including skiing, golfing, hiking, surfing and yoga. Erin is also an avid traveller.

Erin is from Dartmouth, she completed a Bachelor of Arts (2015) at St. Thomas University in Frede... Read More

Dr. Lauren MacIntosh obtained her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. During her clinical rotation, she was one of six interns selected for the Pediatric focus shift, giving her additional training in this area. Prior to studying Naturopathic Medicine, she received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Acadia University. Dr. MacIntosh is a member of the Nova Scotia Association of Naturopathic Doctors (NSAND), the College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta (CNDA) and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND). She also holds additional training in Intravenous Nutrient Therapy (IVIT).

Lauren likes to spend her free time cooking, knitting, running, hiking and going to the farmer’s market. She is thrilled to be back in her home province of Nova Scotia after a brief move to Saskatchewan.

Dr. Lauren MacIntosh obtained her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine at the Canadian College of N... Read More

Reid holds a Master of Science in Physiotherapy from Dalhousie University, earned in 2014, following his Bachelor of Kinesiology from Acadia University. During his time at Acadia, Reid worked with the varsity football team and provided sports therapy at local soccer tournaments.

Continuing his education, Reid has pursued post-graduate courses in Acupuncture (2014) and Dry Needling (2015). Over the past decade he has been enhancing his manual therapy skills taking numerous courses through the Advanced Integrated Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Program (AIM) with the Orthopaedic Division.

Reid’s teaching extends beyond his practice—he is an instructor for Acupuncture Canada teaching Dry Needling to healthcare professionals across Canada.

With a focus on patient-centered care, Reid has successfully treated a diverse range of conditions, including sports related injuries, arthritis, chronic pain, and motor vehicle/work-related injuries. He customizes treatment and exercise plans to fit each patient’s lifestyle and hobbies, emphasizing patient education for long-term health maintenance.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Reid’s active lifestyle, fostered through martial arts and hobbies like mountain biking, skiing, hiking, tennis, and gym workouts, enriches his approach to physiotherapy, aiming to make each session enjoyable for his patients.

Reid holds a Master of Science in Physiotherapy from Dalhousie University, earned in 2014, follow... Read More

Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Liam Walker graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology in 2018. He continued on to complete a Master of Science in Physiotherapy at Dalhousie University, graduating in 2021. Liam is pursuing his career in Nova Scotia and has been working in private practice since graduating.

Treating a wide variety of conditions and injuries, Liam believes in a multi-faceted treatment approach, incorporating manual therapy, dry-needling, acupuncture, tailored exercise, modalities, mindfulness and education to control pain and increase function, helping patients reach their rehabilitation goals. He promotes an active approach to rehabilitation, encouraging ongoing self management and prevention.

Presently, Liam has special interest, experience, and continuing education in the rehabilitation of Orthopaedic injuries, Dry needling, and Acupuncture. Other interests and plans for further training include Manual therapy, Concussion-Vestibular Care, Sport-injury/Sport-First-Responder, and Animal Rehabilitation.

With a background in competitive hockey and soccer, and as a hockey skills coach, Liam has developed a strong interest in sports medicine and healthy active living for all ages and abilities. During his free time, Liam enjoys movies, cooking, walking/hiking around Halifax, exploring Nova Scotia, spending time with friends (both human and canine) and keeping in touch with his family in Ontario as often as possible.

Liam is committed to his own health and physical fitness, is an avid golfer and is also making recreational hockey part of his regular lifestyle.

Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Liam Walker graduated from the University of Western Ontario wi... Read More

Nikki graduated from ICT Northumberland College in 2009 and is in good standing with MTANS. She recently returned home to Nova Scotia from Calgary. While in Calgary, Nikki worked with a very diverse clientele including Olympic athletes. Nikki has experience in many different areas from working in clinical settings to volunteering at marathons and sporting events. She has extensive knowledge in both acute and chronic injuries and has a passion in helping people. Nikki offers a variety of techniques and incorporates general Swedish massage, myofascial release, deep tissue, sports massage and strengthening/stretching into her treatment. Nikki feels she can help you to reduce stress while helping you to maintain a healthy mind and body. Depending on whether the client has symptoms related to stress, tension, postural imbalances, neuromuscular symptoms, trigger point release, injury or MVA, you can rest assured that Nikki’s technique is very thorough and can be adapted to each client’s needs. When Nikki isn’t in the clinic you can find her enjoying time with family, friends and staying active.

Nikki graduated from ICT Northumberland College in 2009 and is in good standing with MTANS. She r... Read More

Leah has been practicing therapeutic massage and whole-istic bodywork for nearly 30 years, combining a deep passion for natural health with a commitment to empowering her clients toward a greater understanding for their bodies and their over all well-being and quality of life. Leah specializes in Trigger Point Therapy, a powerful technique that targets and releases painful patterns in the muscles and connective tissues. Known for her precision and expertise, Leah helps clients find relief from chronic pain, repetitive injuries, and stress-induced tension. She is especially appreciated for her ability to offer longer sessions (she invites you to try a 90 minutes session) allowing for deeper work that brings lasting results. When indicated, your session with Leah might include treatment to your head, face, hands and feet - using tools that include moist hot towels, cupping and Thumper percussion. You’ll feel like you had a spa experience within the therapeutic walls of the clinic. Every session with Leah begins with a collaborative conversation, where she works closely with each client to identify the root causes of their discomfort. Whether stemming from chronic injuries, repetitive movement patterns, or everyday stress, Leah helps clients understand how lifestyle factors might be contributing to their pain. By pinpointing these “holding patterns” in the body, she empowers clients to explore ways to unwind both the body and the mind, while also teaching them simple, effective habits to prevent future strain and promote long-term wellness. Leah believes deeply in the power of nature and often draws analogies between the body’s systems and the natural world. She explains the complex yet beautiful function of muscles and connective tissues in a way that is easy to understand, helping clients connect more meaningfully with their bodies. Whether it’s work, hobbies, or daily routine, Leah helps clients identify and shift physical patterns that no longer serve them, guiding them toward a more balanced and pain-free life. In addition to her extensive experience, Leah is excited to collaborate with the talented team of practitioners at Kinesis, where the focus is on providing holistic, integrative care. By working alongside other complementary health professionals, Leah ensures that every client receives well-rounded, personalized support on their path to wellness. Whether you’re seeking relief from tension, injury recovery, or simply looking to improve your overall health, Leah is dedicated to guiding you toward your best self.

Leah has been practicing therapeutic massage and whole-istic bodywork for nearly 30 years, combin... Read More