Russell Lake Physiotherapy Dartmouth - pt Health

Our Clinic Team

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  Hollie MacDonald
  Occupational Therapist

  Speaks: English

  Hollie graduated from Dalhousie University where she received a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy after completing a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. Hollie is a member of the College of Occupational Therapists of Nova Scotia, Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists and the Canadian Society of Hand Therapists.

  She has a passion for supporting others who are experiencing physical, cognitive or mental health challenges within their daily activities through the means of occupation. She enjoys the creativity occupational therapy has within its field. Hollie has previous experience in mental health, hand therapy, and long term care.

  When not at Lifemark, Hollie can be found spending time with family and friends, and with her dog, Waylon.

  
  
  
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  Fola Akpan
  Physiotherapist

  Speaks: English

  Born and raised in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, Fola is a dedicated healthcare provider with a commitment to advancing healthcare through evidence-based practice. Fola's educational journey began with a degree in Kinesiology, laying the foundation for her healthcare journey.

  Fola earned her Master’s in Physiotherapy from Dalhousie University, where she further distinguished herself by completing a concurrent Master’s in Rehabilitation Research with a specialized focus on stroke rehabilitation. This dual expertise highlights Fola's unwavering dedication to incorporating the latest advancements in evidence-based healthcare into her practice.

  Her passion for client-centered care is evident in her approach to helping individuals with orthopedic and neurological conditions. Fola believes in tailoring treatment plans to meet the unique needs and goals of each client, fostering a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship.

  Beyond her professional pursuits, Fola leads a dynamic life outside of work. Whether exploring local coffee shops, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, tackling hidden hiking trails, or picking up a new musical instrument, Fola thrives on a diverse range of interests that contribute to her well-rounded approach to life.

  Fola's multifaceted background, from academic achievements to a genuine enthusiasm for a variety of activities, embodies her holistic approach to healthcare. She looks forward to bringing this passion and expertise to her practice, contributing to the well-being of her clients and the community at large.

  
  
  
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  Christina Connolly
  Physiotherapist

  Speaks: English

  Christina Connolly is a Physiotherapist from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Christina graduated from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Kinesiology in 2004, and a Master of Physiotherapy in 2008. Christina’s focus is on Orthopaedics, Workplace Injury, and Motor Vehicle Accident rehab.

  She has taken many courses over the years such as level 2 Upper and Lower Quadrant Manual Therapy, Baraham Jam, Thorasic Spine Part I, and II, Shirley Sahrmann Level 1, 2 Diagnosis and Treatment of Movement Impairment Syndromes, Post Concussion Management, and Mobilization of the Nervous System. Christina has most recently completed both the Arthritis Society's Getting a Grip on Arthritis® osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis education program. Christina believes in health promotion through living an active healthy lifestyle.

  In her spare time, you can often find Christina being active through weight lifting, running, hiking, and gardening.

  
  
  
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  Sarah Fox
  Social Worker

  Speaks: English

  Sarah (she/her) has worked in the field of education and social work since 2012 and completed her Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2020. She’s worked in a range of settings including community services, public health, non-profits, and interdisciplinary clinics similar to Lifemark.

  Sarah has worked with adults across the lifespan, and has experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. Sarah strives to create a safe space for clients to explore their experiences and emotions, using strength based and healing-centred approaches. Sarah has additional trainings in trauma-informed care, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy.

  Sarah is very excited to be joining the team at Lifemark, and will be offering services at Russel Lake, Halifax North, and Purdy’s Landing. When she’s not working, she can be found spending time in nature, cooking elaborate meals, and cheering on the Jays. 

  
  
  
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  Amber Giesbrecht
  Massage Therapist

  Speaks: English

  Amber Geisbrecht is a Registered Massage Therapist at pt Health. She grew up in Winnipeg, and completed her 2200 hour course from The Massage Therapy College of Manitoba in January of 2009. Amber enjoys working with sports injuries, among many other things, but a special highlight in her career was working with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. She was able to gain significant experience working with sports-related injuries during this time and met some fabulous football players too!

  Amber has taken several continuing education classes, and treats all areas of the body for injury, maintenance, or to simply just feel great! On her spare time, she enjoys snowboarding, playing soccer, and traveling.

  
  
  
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  Rebecca Shaw
  Social Worker

  Speaks: English

  Rebecca began working with pt Health after completing her Master of Social Work degree in 2021 through Waterloo University, with a focus on the connection between physical and mental health. Rebecca previously completed her Bachelor of Arts, then her Bachelor of Social Work through St. Thomas University.

  Prior to joining the pt Health team, Rebecca worked with Department of Community Services (Nova Scotia) and completed practicums with Prison Fellowship Canada, SchoolsPlus, and Community Services (PEI). She has also completed training in self-regulation, trauma-informed care, and conflict management. Her focuses for counselling include loss and grief, anxiety, trauma, and change adaptation through a strengths-based and solution focused approach.

  
  
  
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  Holly Snow
  Chiropractor

  Speaks: English

  Dr. Holly Snow was born and raised in Wellington, Nova Scotia. She grew up within the competitive gymnastics community where she learned the importance of health and wellness. This influenced her choice to attend Memorial University of Newfoundland graduating in 2012 with a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, and eventually the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) in Toronto graduating in 2018.

  Throughout her time at CMCC and in practice, Dr. Holly honed her skills in diagnosing musculoskeletal complaints and manual chiropractic techniques. Dr. Holly includes manual and instrument assisted chiropractic manipulations and mobilizations, soft tissue therapy techniques, functional integrated needling, therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle modifications in treating a person’s complaint. If you have any questions regarding chiropractic treatment and how it can help you, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Holly.

  
  
  
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  Kelly Walters
  Massage Therapist

  Speaks: English

  Kelly graduated from the Canadian College of Natural Medicine in 2002. She has worked extensively in a clinical setting. Kelly has taken courses in myofascial work level one, decompaction (osteopathic technique), cupping and MIPA (myofascial integrated postural alignment). 

  Kelly has completed upper and lower body Rapid NeuroFascial reset and Rapid4. She enjoys Rapid NFR for its quick approach to pain.   

  When not working and taking courses she is kept busy with her family, usually enjoying the great outdoors.

  
  
  
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  Danielle Handspiker
  Massage Therapist

  Speaks: English

  Originally from Cape Breton, Danielle grew up in Dartmouth and completed her 2200-hour course from the Canadian College of Massage & Hydrotherapy in Halifax. She has worked in the spa and arthritis clinics at the college and is excited to begin her career with pt Health.

  Previous to massage, Danielle was a child and youth worker after graduating with a degree from the University College of Cape Breton. She worked at the Cape Breton Wellness Center as a certified personal trainer and has always had a passion for health and wellness. As a life coach and certified yoga instructor, Danielle incorporates breath work into her practice to relax the nervous system while using a variety of myofascial and deep tissue techniques. Her approach is patient-focused and she’s excited to support others in their healing journeys back to optimal health and mobility.

  
  
  
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  Emily Daley
  Physiotherapist

  Speaks: English

  Emily grew up in the small town of Digby, Nova Scotia. She is a double Dalhousie University alumna by completing her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology in 2017 and continuing her education to obtain her Master of Science in Physiotherapy in 2022.

  Emily has taken a special interest in the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries in obtaining her Level 1 & Level 2 lower examination certificate from the Orthopaedic division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association and has plans to continue on with future post-graduate courses. Emily enjoys employing a patient-centered approach to get her patients excited about their care in order to best help them achieve their goals.

  Outside of the clinic Emily enjoys hiking, camping, and spending time with her family, friends, and her cat Hammy.