Book an Appointment
To the valued clients of Brickyard Physiotherapy Masks are not required, but if you would prefer to wear a mask, the practitioner will also wear a mask. We kindly ask you to cancel your appointment and stay home if you are not feeling well.
Due to construction, please give yourself 15 minutes leeway for the traffic wait time.
Please feel confident that we are committed to providing you the safest and highest quality of care.
We wish you good health and safety,
The Brickyard Team
Angela Avender RMT
Angela Birtwistle has always been interested in learning the most about the human body and how it functions. Her goal is to help others to improve body function by seeing what areas of the body need attention and to apply the proper treatment plan. Angela works hard and loves learning as much as she can each day.
Angela graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy in Victoria in April, 2015 and received treatment training in therapeutic and sport massage, myofascial release therapy, joint mobilization, manual lymph drainage, and also relaxation massage.
Angela has always been a very active person, enjoying playing sports such as volleyball, golf, rugby, baseball, disc golf, yoga, and dance. Angela also trained in martial arts from the age of 6 and by the age of 18 she had earned her second degree black belt in the style of Goju Ryu Karate. This was a great influence in the person she is today. Angela looks forward to meeting and helping new clients and to expanding her areas of learning and practice.
Areas of special interest:
Sport massage Hip function Muscle energy
Angela Birtwistle has always been interested in learning the most about the human body and how it... Read More
Jodi Blasco RMT
A true West Coaster, Jodi’s love for the ocean and outdoors recently brought her and her family to beautiful Vancouver Island. From playing basketball, soccer, and volleyball in her youth, to competing in varsity-level volleyball, fitness and staying active has always played a big role in her life.These days she enjoys surfing, standup paddleboarding and exploring the Island with her family.
Jodi’s passion for health and movement made a career in healthcare a natural fit. Prior to joining Brickyard Physio, she graduated from the 3,000-hour program at the West Coast College of Massage Therapy in 2012 and has practiced at two multidisciplinary clinics in Vancouver. Working alongside a range of healthcare professionals helped her grow into a well-rounded and collaborative RMT.
Jodi uses a personalized approach to treatment, drawing from a wide variety of techniques including deep tissue massage, myofascial release, instrument-assisted soft tissue and trigger point therapy. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or simply maintaining an active lifestyle – Jodi looks forward to helping you reach your goals.
A true West Coaster, Jodi’s love for the ocean and outdoors recently brought her and her family t... Read More
Taylor Christensen RMT
Taylor is a Registered Massage Therapist who graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology. His background provides him with a strong understanding of the body, movement, injury recovery, and overall wellness.
Originally from Nanaimo, BC, Taylor moved to Victoria for his education before eventually settling in Port Alberni. He enjoys being part of a smaller community and raising his family in the area.
Taylor focuses on creating individualized treatment plans to help patients reduce pain, recover from injuries, improve mobility, and support overall well-being. His treatments may include techniques such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, deep tissue massage, joint mobilizations, and relaxation massage. He also provides home care recommendations including stretching, strengthening, and hydrotherapy to help patients continue their progress between treatments.
Outside of the clinic, Taylor enjoys staying active at the gym, playing soccer and hockey, spending time outdoors, and prioritizing time with his family and dog.
Taylor is a Registered Massage Therapist who graduated from the West Coast College of Massage The... Read More
James Dobby
Note: If you have not seen James before, please contact the clinic to book. Only those who have seen James before may book the “Massage 1 Hour” as this is for subsequent treatments only or your appointment will be cancelled without notice.
Note: James is not accepting ICBC or WorkSafe claims or those who have open ICBC or WorkSafe claims. Please contact the clinic to book if you have an open ICBC or WorkSafe claim.
James’ style of massage treatment does not consist of using very deep/hard pressure. If you are seeking very hard/deep pressure, please contact the clinic for a referral to an RMT who can provide such treatment.
James was born and raised in Nanaimo and graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy - Victoria. Prior to starting the massage therapy program, he completed a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Sport, Health and Physical Education from Vancouver Island University.
James enjoys treating those with various health concerns such as strains, sprains, neck or lower back aches, tension headaches and anxiety. Depending on the persons needs, James’ style of treatment can vary from an active treatment approach to more of a relaxation focused treatment. Techniques he incorporates into his treatments include myofascial release, trigger point therapy, pin and stretch, assisted stretching and muscle energy (MET). James also has completed Level 1 Graston Technique training, which is a form of manual treatment that uses instruments to assist soft tissue mobilization.
Outside of the massage therapy profession, James enjoys being active by hiking, strength training & stretching, playing ice hockey & soccer and chasing around his two young sons.
Note: If you have not seen James before, please contact the clinic to book. Only those who have s... Read More
Dr. Garrett Duff B.Sc (Hons), DC
Dr. Garrett Duff, B.Sc., D.C. is a dedicated chiropractor passionate about helping people move better, feel stronger, and live healthier lives.
Originally from Northern Ontario, Dr. Duff’s love for the outdoors inspired his lifelong commitment to health, wellness, and physical activity. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from Carleton University and earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the renowned Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) in Toronto. During his studies, he took part in a cross-country cycling initiative from Tofino, BC to St. John’s, NL, promoting active living and bike safety to communities across Canada.
Dr. Duff delivers results-driven, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s goals. His approach combines advanced chiropractic techniques, soft tissue therapy, and personalized exercise programs to restore function and prevent future injury.
When he’s not in the clinic, you’ll find Dr. Duff on his paddleboard, biking across the Island, or coaching in the local badminton community.
Dr. Garrett Duff, B.Sc., D.C. is a dedicated chiropractor passionate about helping people move be... Read More
Bryn Edwards B.Sc.PT, CGIMS, FCAMPT
Currently Bryn is not accepting new clients. If you are an existing client, please call the office to set your return Assessment.
Bryn Edwards is a highly qualified practitioner in the field of physiotherapy. Since graduating from Queen’s University with an honours degree in Physiotherapy, Bryn has gained further post graduate qualifications including a Diploma in Advanced Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy.
Bryn is a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy. Of the 1600 members of the Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia, Bryn is one of only 197 members suitably qualified to become a Fellow.
Bryn is also a recognised Intramuscular Stimulation practitioner and is registered with the Institute for the Study and Treatment of Pain (iSTOP). His continued study ensures that his clients are receiving the most up to date expert care. Outside of the clinic Bryn is an avid mountain biker, hiker and rock climber.
Areas of special interest:
Lumbar-pelvic-hip disorders Whiplash Chronic Pain IMS
Currently Bryn is not accepting new clients. If you are an existing client, please call the offic... Read More
Mrs. Shannon Gardiner RMT
Maternity Leave
Maternity Leave Read More
Shane Gill B.Sc, MPT
Shane believes in the importance of living an active lifestyle and is passionate about helping individuals remain injury free. He is an athletic person and competed nationally at the Canada games for cycling. He currently enjoys spending his free time running, swimming, skiing, surfing, triathlon, crossfit and weight training.
His experience includes working with a varied clientele in private physiotherapy clinics in Nova Scotia. Shane has been an active advocate for the profession of physiotherapy through his volunteer work with the Nova Scotia Physiotherapy Association. As the educational representative for the Orthopaedic division he assisted in organizing continuing education courses for physiotherapists throughout Nova Scotia.
He has completed numerous post-graduate courses in manual therapy, dry needling, spinal stabilization exercise, athletic taping, mulligan training and specialty courses for the shoulder taught by instructors from around the globe.
Shane recently moved to the province of British Columbia and is excited to be able to help its residents stay active and reach their fitness and exercise goals, whatever they may be.
Areas of special interest:
Sports injuries Shoulder disorders Lower limb injuries Whiplash
Shane believes in the importance of living an active lifestyle and is passionate about helping in... Read More
Nicki Hamley
Nicki is a physiotherapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy from the University of Liverpool (UK) in 1997 and has since worked across a variety of practice settings.
Nicki takes an active, education-focused approach to rehabilitation, believing that the best outcomes come from helping clients understand their condition and move with confidence. Her treatment style often combines targeted exercise with manual therapy and acupuncture/dry needling to restore joint and tissue mobility, improve movement patterns, enhance function, and reduce the risk of injury recurrence.
While Nicki enjoys treating a wide range of conditions, her primary clinical interests include hip and knee osteoarthritis, post-surgical rehabilitation, and low back pain.
Outside of the clinic, Nicki enjoys travelling, hiking, backpacking, walking her two bernedoodles, and spending time with her daughters.
Please note: Nicki does not treat pelvic floor, TMJ, vestibular or neurological conditions (e.g., post-stroke, MS, Parkinson’s disease), and does not see ICBC clients.
Nicki is a physiotherapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. She earned her Bachelor of ... Read More
Dr. A.J. (Abbas) Husain B.Sc., M.Sc. (Sport Med), D.C. (Hons)
B.Sc. Human Biology, MSc. Sports Medicine, Doctor of Chiropractic (Honours)
Dr. A.J. Husain is a board-certified, evidence-informed Chiropractor with a passion for helping people achieve their healthcare goals. Graduating from the University of Western States in Portland, he has since practiced in a variety of settings across Ontario and now returns home to beautiful BC.
He has experience with a broad range of patient presentations and has a particular interest in sports medicine and physical rehabilitation. Drawing on his extensive education, research, and clinical experience, Dr. Husain incorporates a wide variety of treatment approaches to ensure all his patients receive effective, individualized care. Dr. Husain’s approach incorporates a combination of manual therapy, spinal manipulation/adjusting, modalities, exercise prescription and lifestyle modification.
Dr. Husain also earned a Master’s degree in sports medicine through which he had the chance to treat athletes of numerous sports such as Rugby, Marathoning, Football and Soccer. He holds a certification for concussion management through Complete Concussion (CCMI) and has helped conduct research on cognitive health & aging.
Outside of the clinic Dr. Husain has a keen interest in Martial Arts, holding a 4th degree black belt and competing internationally in Karate. He has also trained in BJJ, Judo and Fencing – all of which have helped him develop a deep interest in biomechanics and sports performance.
Since Dr. Husain is more than simply a back doctor, he looks forward to treating any variety of musculoskeletal complaints from head to toe!
Book now to embark on the road to full function and get back to doing the things you love!
B.Sc. Human Biology, MSc. Sports Medicine, Doctor of Chiropractic (Honours) Dr. A.J. Husain is a... Read More
Myurie Kanniah B.Sc.PT
Myurie studied Physiotherapy at the University of Kwazulu Natal, in the sunny city of Durban, South Africa. She graduated in 2009, and has been practicing for 12 years now. She completed her post-graduate course on Orthopaedic and Neuromuscular Manipulative Techniques in 2013.
She has worked in various clinical settings and has a passion for sports related injuries with special interest in headaches, neck, back, hip, knee and foot injuries.
She is also passionate about patient education and empowerment, preventative care and healthy mobility. She strongly believes that therapeutic rehabilitation exercises play a critical role in recovery. When she isn’t working, she enjoys playing music, watching sports and cooking up a storm.
Myurie studied Physiotherapy at the University of Kwazulu Natal, in the sunny city of Durban, Sou... Read More
Jordana Kirkman RMT
Jordana has been a Registered Massage Therapist since 2004 when she graduated from a 3 year-3000 hour program. Her approach is primarily myofascial-based, often combined with other techniques that create tailored treatments ranging from gentle to deep tissue needs. Her practice is evidence-informed, integrating current research and clinical reasoning based experience to create unique treatment for each client’s needs. Her work is informed by years of professional experience as well as her own recovery from a motor vehicle accident, giving her a personal understanding of ongoing pain and active rehab. Outside the clinic, Jordana maintains an active lifestyle, enjoying trail running, mountain biking, and spending time with animals. She was also a competitive swimmer and BMX athlete, representing Canada internationally. Jordana is committed to helping clients feel their best and providing personalized, compassionate care.
Jordana has been a Registered Massage Therapist since 2004 when she graduated from a 3 year-3000 ... Read More
Ruth Norgaard
Ruth Norgaard graduated with her BScPT from the University of British Columbia in 2004. For the last 20 years she has practiced as a manual physiotherapist. Her post-graduate studies include the completion of levels 1-3 upper and lower quadrants through the Canadian Physiotherapy Association Orthopaedic Division, Levels 1-4 Connect Therapy-Thoracic Ring (LjLee), an Integrated systems approach to Lumbopelvic Hip complex (D. Lee, LjLee), Rectus Diastases-post Partum Health (D. Lee), Level 1 Cranial Dysfunctions (D. Killens), Musculoskeletal Integration of Neurodynamics (M. Schaklock), Part A Lumbar Spine Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (C. Davies), Lower Quadrant Mulligan Concept, Various other courses in TMJ, headache, Vertigo, Kinesio Taping, and a mentorship with John Oldham a specialist in chronic pain.
Prior to being a physical therapist Ruth enjoyed a successful professional dance career. In Canada, she danced predominantly with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in Montreal with whom she toured internationally. Her career included extensive training in various forms of dance and allowed her to perform many demanding roles on stage and film. Since then dance remains a joyous part of her life continuing with West Coast Swing and other social dances.
Ruth’s expert knowledge of dance and the technique required of most dance forms directly translates into assessment and treatment of movement disorders in life and in sport.
Special areas of interest;
Treatment of the Neck/Jaw/Head, Back/pelvis/hip complex complaints, Pre and Post Operative concerns - Abdominal, Hip, Knee, pregnancy, Breast (AWS).
Currently Ruth is not accepting ICBC patients.
Ruth Norgaard graduated with her BScPT from the University of British Columbia in 2004. For the l... Read More
Tiffany Parker RMT
Currently Tiffany is not accepting new clients.
Tiffany is a 2019 graduate of the West Coast College of Massage Therapy. Tiffany has a deep appreciation for health and wellness combined with a keen interest in human anatomy. Her priority is to ensure that everyone she works with is able to receive the attention and care they need in order to facilitate their own wellness goals. She understands that everyone has unique needs and ensures that each client receives a personalized and adaptable treatment plan.
Tiffany grew up on Cortes Island before attending massage college in Victoria. She developed a great appreciation for the great outdoors and the values of community. In her free time she enjoys volleyball, soccer, jogging and creative arts.
Currently Tiffany is not accepting new clients. Tiffany is a 2019 graduate of the West Coast Col... Read More
Gloria Pidor
Gloria is a physiotherapist with over 13 years of experience. She has a background in orthopedics, neurological rehab and pelvic health physiotherapy and a strong interest in movement-based rehabilitation. She completed her Master of Physical Therapy at the University of Sydney in 2013 after obtaining her Bachelor of Kinesiology at SFU. With a whole body approach to assessment, she strives to empower each person to understand their bodies and utilizes hands on treatment, IMS/ dry needling and movement based therapy to achieve their goals. Gloria is devoted to creating a safe healing space for your mind and body. She takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to care, with a focus on helping people better understand their bodies, build capacity, and move with more confidence and ease. Gloria and her family moved to Nanaimo recently in order to be closer to nature and to explore beautiful Vancouver Island. She has 2 young kids that teach her something new everyday. For her own health and wellness, Gloria loves to get outdoors: trail running and hiking, weight lifting, pilates and spending time with family and friends. Advanced Certifications: ● Urosante and Pelvic Health Solutions: Levels 1, 2, & 3 ● Real-Time Ultrasound Imaging: Advanced training for Lumbo-Pelvic Rehabilitation. ● Kinectacore IMS/ Dry needling ● Acupuncture Canada (CAFCI) ● Clinical Pilates certification from Calibrate Pilates Training ● Rost Therapy: Evidence-based treatment for Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain ● Female Pelvis Level 1 & 2: Bodhi Tree Teaching Centre, fascial and visceral mobilizations ● Craniosacral Therapy 1: Upledger Institute ● Connect Therapy Linda Joy Lee: Whole person integrated assessment and treatment to find the root cause Areas of Special Interest ● Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy ● Pregnancy & Postpartum Rehabilitation ● Chronic & Complex Pain Management ● Hypermobility Spectrum Conditions ● Women’s Health
Gloria is a physiotherapist with over 13 years of experience. She has a background in orthopedics... Read More
Thalia Pisaric
Thalia completed her Master’s of Physical Therapy degree at McGill University, and previously completed a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from McMaster University.
Thalia’s treatments focus on education, exercise, manual therapy, and empowering the patient. Thalia is passionate with her treatments and wants to help you be able to participate in the activities that are most meaningful to you, with the goal of providing you with tools to live a healthy lifestyle. Thalia is eager to help the community get back to the activities they love most.
As a runner herself, Thalia takes a particular interest in working with runners of various levels (learning to run, short vs long distance, ultra).
Thalia has completed her training for IMS dry needling and GLA:D osteoarthritis certifications, and is always learning new skills to incorporate into her treatment sessions.
Having grown up in Northern Ontario, Thalia loves spending time outdoors. She lives an active lifestyle and can be found outside the clinic running, hiking, camping, and doing yoga.
Areas of special interest: - Running-related injuries - Osteoarthritis - Post-surgical rehabilitation - Whiplash rehabilitation
Thalia completed her Master’s of Physical Therapy degree at McGill University, and previously com... Read More
Michael Quach
I am a dedicated Kinesiologist with nearly two years of experience helping individuals recover from injury, improve movement, and return to meaningful daily and work-related activities. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology from Vancouver Island University in 2024. My career has been driven by a passion for helping people meet and exceed their physical goals through a combination of evidence-based practice and practical experience. I began my career in Port Alberni, BC where I was working in Long Term Care facilities. I supported clients managing chronic conditions and using guided exercise and lifestyle strategies to promote long-term health, improved function, and increasing quality of life. I have had the privilege of helping many individuals regain the ability to walk and increase their own independence, and I take great pride in supporting my clients’ hard work and determination throughout their recovery. In March 2026, I relocated to Nanaimo, BC, to take on the Kinesiologist role here at Brickyard Physiotherapy Clinic. My approach is rooted in improving strength, function, balance, and overall quality of life—helping clients get back to doing what they love. I am committed to designing individualized, goal-oriented programs that promote safe, sustainable progress, and long-term success. Outside of the clinic, I enjoy staying active in the gym, hiking, backpacking, and camping outdoors, along with training for the Victoria Marathon in October. I believe movement should be both effective and enjoyable, and I strive to bring that same philosophy into my work with every client.
I am a dedicated Kinesiologist with nearly two years of experience helping individuals recover fr... Read More
Dustin Richter M.Sc.PT
Dustin completed his Masters of Physical Therapy in 2014 at the University of Manitoba. He is an active outdoor enthusiast with a passion for mountain biking, kayaking, hiking, snowboarding and snow-shoeing. He is dedicated to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle and aims to deliver compassionate quality physiotherapy services. Dustin has had the opportunity to work in the hospital with orthopaedic patients immediately post-operatively. He has also worked in a private clinic setting treating patients with a variety of orthopaedic and sport-related injuries. He enjoys working with individuals of all ages and physical abilities and recognizes the importance of establishing individualized goals when developing a treatment plan. Since graduating Dustin has successfully completed training in acupuncture, fascial movement taping, gait analysis and manual therapy. He has achieved his Level 2 in The Diploma of Advanced Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Therapy. He is very excited to facilitate your recovery and to ensure a timely return to the activities you enjoy most.
Areas of special interest:
Shoulder and knee injuries/disorders Post-operative rehabilitation Physical literacy and injury prevention
Dustin completed his Masters of Physical Therapy in 2014 at the University of Manitoba. He is an ... Read More
Jennifer Richter B.Sc, M.Sc.PT
Jenn Schroeder B.Sc, M.Sc.PT
Jenn relocated from the prairies to Vancouver Island in 2016. She graduated with her Masters of Physical Therapy from the University of Manitoba in 2015 and prior to that, completed her Bachelor of Science with distinction from the University of Manitoba in 2013.
Continuing education is important to provide evidence-based treatment. Since graduating, Jenn has completed the following courses:
- Level 1 in The Diploma of Advanced Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Therapy
- Level 2 in The Diploma of Advanced Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Therapy – Upper
- Level 2 in The Diploma of Advanced Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Therapy - Lower
- Bobath Concept: Study of Human Movement, Balance, and Functional Movement
- McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy Part A: Lumbar Spine
- Red Cross Sport First Responder
- Activator Pole Walking Course
- Lyn Watson Shoulder Course
- Dry Needling Canada Level 1: Extremities
- Dry Needling Canada Level 2: Spine
- Pelvic Health Solutions Level 1
- Pelvic Health Solutions Cesarean Birth
Outside of the clinic, Jenn is an active outdoor enthusiast, usually found mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, trail running, or snowboarding. In addition, she enjoys her time practicing yoga, canoeing, playing volleyball, and playing piano. Although most of her time is now spent chasing after her twin boys!
Jenn is dedicated to facilitating your safe and timely recovery so you can return to the activities that you enjoy most!
Areas of special interest:
Women’s Health
Jenn Schroeder B.Sc, M.Sc.PT Jenn relocated from the prairies to Vancouver Island in 2016. She ... Read More
Dana Stanbrook
Jennifer Van Bergen B.Sc.PT, CGIMS, FCAMPT
DOES NOT TREAT ICBC CLIENTS. Jennifer Van Bergen graduated from the University of British Columbia in 2004 where she received her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. Since then, she has worked exclusively in private practice, treating a wide range of orthopaedic conditions.
Jennifer enjoys the variety and challenge of treating clients from all age ranges and activity levels.
Jennifer has taken several post graduate courses including her Diploma of Advanced Manual and Manipulative Therapy (2008) and is now a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Therapists and and GUNN IMS certification (2015) for dry needling. Jennifer is also certifited in the “Fit to Deliver” program (2010) and has a keen interest in Pre and Post Partum Health.
Jennifer’s pursuit of further education has enabled her to approach a physical problem from many different angles and to treat using several different “tools.” She believes that individualized care, hands on treatment, and exercise and education are key to a full recovery.
In her spare time Jennifer is busy with her two boys running around the back yard Jennifer has a love for the outdoors and outside of the clinic also enjoys hiking, cycling, running and camping.
Areas of special interest:
Pre and post natal care Knee and Shoulder pain Chronic pain Post surgical rehabilitation
DOES NOT TREAT ICBC CLIENTS. Jennifer Van Bergen graduated from the University of British Columbi... Read More
Colby Zuback Physiotherapist
Colby Zuback completed his degree in Physiotherapy in 2019, at the European University of Madrid. Before studying abroad he studied locally at Vancouver Island University, graduating with a degree in Physical Education. He has a passion for sports and is an enthusiast of Soccer, the gym, and Martial Arts. Colby combines his love of helping people with his passion for physiotherapy and exercise.
Colby completed his practicum in Spain, in one of the most renowned Children’s Hospitals in Europe – Hospital Del Niño Jesús. Colby has worked as a Physiotherapist in a private clinic, and pilates centre in Guayaquil, Ecuador. He was fortunate enough to work with some pro athletes, many marathon runners, and other populations from children to the elderly.
Colby started with us as a Kinesiologist, and is now licensed to practice Physiotherapy in British Columbia.
Colby is eager to help and guide clients down the road to recovery.
Colby joined the Brickyard Physiotherapy team October 19th, 2022, and has been practicing as a physiotherapist, focusing on active rehabilitation.
Colby Zuback completed his degree in Physiotherapy in 2019, at the European University of Madrid.... Read More
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Need Help? (250) 729-7956 info@brickyardphysio.com