I have always had a passion for helping people discover the innate ability for the body to heal and recover through a holistic and balanced philosophy of Western and Eastern medicine.

I provide perspective to meld the worlds of Eastern and Western medicine together.

This desire to help people is what started my journey in the field of paramedicine over ten years ago. During this time, I discovered an evolving passion to move from a Paramedic providing acute care, to a practitioner of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) by treating the complexity of injury and illness through acupuncture and Chinese Medicine.

I moved to Victoria, BC from Jasper, AB, to follow my dream of studying TCM. This education opened and expanded my mind to the beautiful world of Eastern Medicine and how it can complement many aspects of Western Medicine.

Outside of work, you’ll find me in nature experiencing my love for the outdoors on our local mountain biking trails.

If you’re new to discovering the amazing healing benefits of acupuncture, book an appointment with me to learn and explore how acupuncture can treat both acute and chronic pain, as well as provide a complementary approach to total mind and body wellness.

For those who have already discovered treatment through acupuncture, I’m excited to provide the best care you’ve come to expect from one of the oldest healing practices in the world.

I have always had a passion for helping people discover the innate ability for the body to heal a... Read More

I believe that well-being depends on the harmonious interplay of our physical, emotional and spiritual selves. This is the first line of defence against illness and might be considered the highest form of medicine: prevention.

My treatments are rooted in intuitive touch and may include acupressure, Tui Na massage and fire cupping along with gentle needling. I aim to ensure each patient feels safe and supported both physically and emotionally during their treatment so they can access deep rest and begin to tap into their body’s innate ability to heal.

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from Queen’s University in 2007 and my Acupuncture Diploma from Pacific Rim College in 2014. I have additional training in Japanese Acupuncture/Hara Diagnosis, Maternity Acupuncture, Balance Method for Pain, Advanced Tui Na and Kruger Omni Healing.

When I am not at Equilibrium, you can find me instructing in the Acupuncture Student Clinic at Pacific Rim College and offering Community Acupuncture at the Victoria Native Friendship Centre.

I believe that well-being depends on the harmonious interplay of our physical, emotional and spir... Read More

Alex’s diverse clinical experience and solid medical background are in good standing throughout his practice in multidisciplinary clinics in Ontario and British Columbia.

As an RMT, Alex treats a wide range of acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions. He especially focuses on neck and back pain, “frozen shoulder”, pregnancy and post-partum, post-surgical rehabilitation and everyone in between.

https://youtube.com/shorts/Fzfje7Qimsg?si=WxNjpbi43YVTLZpR

Alex practices RMT both stationary (at the Equilibrium clinics) and mobile.(at the client’s home). https://youtube.com/shorts/Fa3PpBniWCE?si=zlWTHLM1yjcWOA-T

Alex says: ‘’I love my job! I have been a healthcare practitioner all my life, and helping people is my destiny”.

Alex’s favorite hobbies are jogging, camping, wood-crafting, and going to the gym.

Alex’s diverse clinical experience and solid medical background are in good standing throughout h... Read More

Brennan is a registered massage therapist working in Victoria, BC. Through his current clinical practice he has had the opportunity to work with a diverse population of people from all walks of life. From weekend warriors and elite level athletes to those living with advanced medical conditions, Brennan will work with any type of client to help them achieve physiological peace and improve their quality of life. In treatment, Brennan desires to build strong therapeutic relationships with his clients, joining them on their journey to wellness. His personal treatment philosophy is to work with the client instead of on the client, and he believes in applying a modern, evidence informed approach to traditional massage practices. Brennan is also a student of the internal arts of India and China, and he loves to integrate the practice of yoga, tai chi and qigong into his treatments. While areas of interest include stress reduction, injury prevention, and improved postural awareness, Brennan is confident that he can provide massage therapy to meet each client’s individual needs.

Outside of the clinic, Brennan can be found practicing tai chi in the park, contemplating a good read, or cooking up something delicious with his family and friends.

Brennan is a registered massage therapist working in Victoria, BC. Through his current clinical p... Read More

Brett is a graduate of the Georgian College Massage Therapy program and Cambrian College Physical Fitness Management program. Brett believes in using an approach tailored to individual needs and goals. He uses a combination of deep tissue massage, myofascial release, Swedish massage, trigger point therapy, joint mobilizations, and passive/active stretching to create a relaxing and effective massage experience.

Brett is a graduate of the Georgian College Massage Therapy program and Cambrian College Physical... Read More

Dr. Christopher LaRocque was born in Prince George and raised in Kitimat British Columbia in 1985. He Graduated in 2009 with a BSc. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Northern British Columbia. Prior to graduation Dr. LaRocque studied briefly in Sweden and was gifted the experience to play soccer for the cities of Sura and Töreboda, Sweden. He obtained his doctorate of Chiropractic from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in 2014.

He practices an evidence-based patient-centered model of care to help his patients resolve current pain, then address the underlying body imbalances in order to prevent and minimize recurrence. He uses various treatment options involving chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy (Functional Range Release Techniques, Graston Techniques), gentle joint mobilizations, pain and healing modalities, ergonomic advice, and personalized and progressive therapeutic exercise programs. He has a wealth of knowledge and is always eager to learn more. He has participated in continuing education to improve his skills, focusing on certified soft tissue and developmental rehabilitative techniques.

Dr. LaRocque is an outgoing and active professional that enjoys the ocean but keeps his sports on the field. His passion is playing soccer, however, it would not be rare to bump into him jogging, hiking, or kayaking in his spare time.

Dr. Christopher LaRocque was born in Prince George and raised in Kitimat British Columbia in 1985... Read More

Andy graduated from the Camosun College Massage Therapy diploma program in 2023. His main focus is to help patients achieve their goals and to further his knowledge in all forms of manual therapy.

Andy suffered from an injury that stopped his growth in powerlifting, which was how he found massage therapy. After a few visits he realized how beneficial massage therapy is and has dedicated his time to this profession and hope to help patients get past their injuries and back on their journey to success. Andy utilizes neuromuscular techniques, deep tissue, trigger point therapy, active and passive stretching during his treatments.

Andy graduated from the Camosun College Massage Therapy diploma program in 2023. His main focus i... Read More

Her approach involves targeting areas of discomfort through specific techniques and firm pressure. She uses her extensive knowledge of anatomy to guide her treatments, incorporating valuable tips for stretches and other movement-related practices. She graduated in Toronto and has been practicing since 2018.

Over the years, she specialized in treating stress-related issues, soft-tissue post-injuries, and chronic pain. She leans deeply into calming the nervous system by redirecting pain perception, addressing trauma resolution, and relaxing the mind and body.

Her desire to help others traces back to her upbringing surrounded by nurturers and caretakers, motivating her to pursue a career in Massage Therapy. Her mission is to hold space for everyone in their journey, where they feel heard, seen, and supported.

In her free time, Gwen enjoys biking and hiking. Bouldering and yoga have been her new activities to stay active, explore the body’s limitations, challenge herself, and keep the body moving. 

Her approach involves targeting areas of discomfort through specific techniques and firm pressure... Read More

Emily received her registeration with the CMTBC in March 2024, she graduated from Mount Royal University in June 2021 with a 2200 hour diploma in Massage Therapy. She has a strong belief in the importance of connecting the body and mind, and putting one’s mental and physical health first. Having just moved from Calgary, Alberta, last spring, She is very excited to now be in Victoria and cannot wait to see what the island has to offer!

With a background in both the Clinic and Spa environment, Emily makes sure to bring some aspect of relaxation into the treatment room using an array of techniques. She has experience treating shoulder and low back injuries, headaches, and working with pre- and post-natal patients.

In her spare time Emily enjoys spending time with her family, taking her children on adventures, and activities such as learning pottery, meditating, baking, and playing her ukulele.

Emily received her registeration with the CMTBC in March 2024, she graduated from Mount Royal Uni... Read More

Demi Palmer is working at our Yates and Tillicum locations.

Demi Palmer is a graduate of Pacific Rim College and a licensed acupuncturist with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of British Columbia. Her journey to find a career where her love for biology and psychology would combine began when she met an acupuncturist in one of her art classes. She became fascinated with the holistic nature of Chinese Medicine and the unique support it offers complex issues such as headaches, menstrual disorders, sleep disturbances, reduced immunity, low energy levels, digestive issues, and mental health concerns.

As a registered acupuncturist, Demi’s approach aims to treat underlying root causes rather than masking symptoms. Each person has their own unique blueprint for health which involves a complex interplay of physiology, lifestyle, and their environment. Demi’s treatments include a personalized combination of acupuncture, acupressure, cupping, electrical stimulation, gua sha, tui na massage, infrared heat, and moxibustion. To provide a comprehensive and tailored treatment plan, Demi may include specific exercise and movement recommendations, diet modifications, and stress reduction tactics.

Her areas of interest include reproductive and sexual health, depression, anxiety, stress management, musculoskeletal injuries, along with acute and chronic pain. Her goal is to help people connect to their bodies, restore tranquility, and facilitate healing and well-being.

When not in the clinic Demi enjoys oil painting, cycling, swimming, and doting on her house plants. Demi fell in love with Vancouver Island when she moved from a small town in Alberta to study Traditional Chinese Medicine, and she takes every opportunity she can to hike and explore.

Demi Palmer is working at our Yates and Tillicum locations. Demi Palmer is a graduate of Pacific... Read More

Tianna is a 2021 graduate of the West Coast College of Massage Therapy (WCCMT). Previous to becoming an RMT, Tianna spent several years in administrative positions for various clinics in British Columbia. Through these experiences, she witnessed the profound impact that a caring, comprehensive treatment approach had on each patient she assisted at the front desk. The goal of providing the same quality of care to her own patients is what inspired Tianna to pursue a career in Massage Therapy.

At the heart of her treatment philosophy, Tianna believes in treating patients where they’re at, while also enabling patients to take control of their own health & wellness journey via education and proper support in development of self-care strategies. During her treatments, Tianna employs a unique blend of techniques tailored to the needs of each patient; and strives to provide a safe, comfortable space to indulge in genuine relaxation of mind & body.

Outside of her RMT shoes, Tianna enjoys making cool shapes in contortion classes, obsessing over cats, and living her best live(s) vicariously through books and video games. You can find her at Equilibrium’s Eagle Creek Location on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays!

Tianna is a 2021 graduate of the West Coast College of Massage Therapy (WCCMT). Previous to becom... Read More

Alexander graduated from Camosun’s Massage Therapy program in 2022. He specializes in deep tissue treatments, as well as trigger point therapy, and general neuromuscular techniques. He strives to provide the best care possible to achieve your goals.

In his spare time, Alexander enjoys cooking, baking, playing the bass and guitar, exercising, and playing Dungeons & Dragons with his friends.

He is excited to meeting and working with you!

Alexander graduated from Camosun’s Massage Therapy program in 2022. He specializes in deep tissue... Read More

Eryn is joining us in March 2023 as Hayley Staub’s maternity leave locum. From the ages 4-5, she has memories of going to Parksville for an annual family trip. She would pick out some 5 cent candies which she paid for by giving her family hand, foot and back massages! Her RN mother was very familiar with bi-weekly massages and told her she had a naturally good touch. You could she was an aspiring MT her whole life! Eryn started receiving massage therapyat 17 following a neck injury from soccer. Around the same time, she applied to the WCCMT program! Eryn spends the majority of her time outside of work walking her dog, going on hikes and weight training. She strives to help other get back to a lifestyle they find best suits them. Eryn incorporates specific techniques such as trigger point release, passive modalities and deep fascial work.

Eryn is joining us in March 2023 as Hayley Staub’s maternity leave locum. From the ages 4-5, she ... Read More

Dr. Brandon Somlo is a chiropractor who is passionate about helping families and athletes. He believes that a healthy spine leads to less pain and better movements, whether it is being able to walk to the mail box or to perform at the next level in sports.

Dr. Somlo earned his Bachelor of Science from University of Guelph in 2013 and his Doctor of Chiropractic from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in 2018. Dr.Somlo can provide patients with spinal/extremity manipulative therapy by hand or by tools and myofascial release therapy. He is certified in Smart Tools, which is regarded as an effective treatment technique for soft-tissue injuries. ​ Dr. Somlo has extensive experience with sports and sports injuries. He has been playing ice hockey for 22 years. Dr. Somlo can provide rehabilitation exercises that he learned from years of being a personal trainer. ​ Dr. Somlo has experience in rehabilitation of the body to get it to its natural self. He strives to help each patient reach their goal whether it be returning to work, to sports or any movement that is limited. He also cares about prevention measures to keep your family healthy. He does ergonomic assessments and concussion prevention treatment and rehabilitation. His diverse experience with sports and sports injuries gives him first-hand knowledge of what specific treatment is required to return to sports, along with techniques for minimising the likelihood of re-injury.

Dr. Brandon Somlo is a chiropractor who is passionate about helping families and athletes. He bel... Read More

Mary Langer RMT graduated from WCCMT located in Victoria in 2008. Her interest in strength, health and optimal mobility grew from her background as a figure skater and the conditioning that accompanied her training. She enjoys using many modalities in her treatments to help patients obtain overall wellness and body awareness. By setting clear, realistic goals in treatment planning Mary hopes to help each individual with their unique needs. Mary is passionate about the powerful ability for the body to heal when given the ideal tools. She looks forward to exploring and learning with each patient.

Mary Langer RMT graduated from WCCMT located in Victoria in 2008. Her interest in strength, heal... Read More

Hailey is a recent graduate of the RMT program and is born and raised on Vancouver island. She is passionate about helping clients reach their goal by utilizing techniques such as myofascial, neuromuscular, and deep tissue; ensuring to provide a personalized, effective treatment.

Hailey is a recent graduate of the RMT program and is born and raised on Vancouver island. She is... Read More

Erick has been a Massage Therapist since 2014. He enjoys working on a wide range of people from office workers to professional athletes

He believes everyone can achieve healthy body movements and does functional assessments to choose which techniques you will benefit from.

Working with your goals, he will tailor each massage according to your needs, with a focus on connecting the mind and body. He often uses a combination of deep tissue massage. myofascial trigger points, myofascial release and myofascial stretch in his treatments.

Come and meet him and take the journey towards freedom in movement together.

Erick habla español también.

Erick has been a Massage Therapist since 2014. He enjoys working on a wide range of people from ... Read More

Ainsley is a 2023 graduate of West Coast College of Massage Therapy. After dancing for over ten years, her love of dance fuelled her passion for an active and physical wellness-centred career. Through her time at WCCMT, she developed a fascination with the nervous system and the physiological effects of stress on the body which inspired her to complete a case study on the effects of massage therapy in treating chronic stress and anxiety, and utilizes her knowledge to create a welcoming and safe environment in her treatment room. She uses a blend of myofascial release, Swedish massage, and yoga influenced homecare to create a treatment plan that is tailored to fit into the lifestyle of each patient.

When she’s not in the treatment room, she loves dancing, taking her big black lab on walks, and telling stories about her dogs and their adventures.

Ainsley is a 2023 graduate of West Coast College of Massage Therapy. After dancing for over ten y... Read More

Tina Vandevalk graduated with honours from the International Academy of Health Sciences in 2019. She is committed to continually adding to her education and providing an evidence based practice.

Tina began her practice in Ontario where she worked for a clinic primarily focused on prenatal and postnatal massage. She also enjoys working on musculoskeletal injuries and nervous system conditions, as well relaxation treatments.

When not working, Tina enjoys spending her time crafting, reading and hiking.

Tina looks forward to meeting you and helping you feel better.

Tina Vandevalk graduated with honours from the International Academy of Health Sciences in 2019. ... Read More

Xian is a registered massage therapist who graduated from Mount Royal University in 2022. If you need help with pain and discomfort, numbness and tingling, or optimizing movement, I’m here to assist you. My study of the art of bodywork initially started with practicing RAPID NeuroFascial Reset and then exploring the Graston Technique® and Fascial Stretch Therapy™ (FST). Recently, I have been deeply influenced by myofascial release techniques with the concept of structural balance.

I have worked with a diverse clientele, including pro athletes, and individuals with frozen shoulder, sciatica, car accident rehabilitation, sports-related pain and injuries, and chronic pain. I believe that a balanced structural body generates high-quality movement, harmonious inner peace, and minimizes pain and discomfort.

During the treatment, I might recommend that patients actively move a bit to assist in the extension and gliding of the fascia layers and enhance the mind-muscle connection. You might be sitting, bending, standing, or lying on the treatment table. Please bring the same clothes you would wear to the gym or on a trail hike, including shorts and a tank top or loose t-shirt. The treatment involves minimal lotion and requires zero to minimal undressing.

Although the treatment may produce strong sensations, we will work together to adjust the pressure according to your preferences to ensure your comfort.

Xian is a registered massage therapist who graduated from Mount Royal University in 2022. If you ... Read More

Kalina is an April 2024 graduate from West Coast College of Massage Therapy and is from Victoria.

Throughout her two years at the college, Kalina developed a variety of techniques tailored to address the needs of each individual client. Kalina enjoys performing various myofascial release techniques, deep tissue treatments, trigger point release, and active and passive stretching techniques.

Her main focus surrounds improving client goals and encouraging client rehabilitation through consistent and accurate treatments, as well as providing beneficial home care at the end of each treatment.

On her days off, Kalina enjoys hiking with her dog, beach adventures with her friends, and any event that has some good tunes. She is excited to meet you and work with you!

Kalina is an April 2024 graduate from West Coast College of Massage Therapy and is from Victoria.... Read More

Glen has been in private practice as a Registered Massage Therapist for over 30 years. He has been an Instructor at the West Coast College of Massage Therapy and the Sutherland Chan College of Massage Therapy as well as serving as the Vice-President of the Association of Physiotherapists and Massage Practitioners of BC. He is a member of the Registered Massage Therapy Association of BC and the College of Massage Therapists of BC.

In addition to his Massage Therapy practice, Glen is also certified as a Hakomi Therapist and Teacher.

Having traveled extensively around the world, Glen is working on writing a series of short travel stories. Glen performs with the group Mystic Journey which showcases the Middle Eastern Sufi poetry of Rumi and Hafiz in Victoria, BC.

Glen has been in private practice as a Registered Massage Therapist for over 30 years. He has be... Read More

Dirce graduated from Everest College Toronto in 2011. She is proud to be an RMT who is passionate about the wellbeing of her patients. She has lots of experience treating many different conditions, including frozen shoulder, headaches and migraines, pregnancy and postpartum, back pain, plantar fasciitis, and piriformis syndrome.

She is a skilled therapist that incorporates multiple techniques such as Trigger Point release, Myofascial release, deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, and pre- and post-event sports massage.

Dirce has volunteer experience at many different events such as the Terry Fox Run and Queen Park Marathons, and most recently at the Para/Pan Am Games Toronto in 2015 where she was part of the Medical Team for the Polyclinic and the Wheelchair Basketball Events.

Dirce continues to work hard on improving her techniques to provide the best therapy to her patients.

Dirce graduated from Everest College Toronto in 2011. She is proud to be an RMT who is passionate... Read More

Richelle Buecking, RMT has always had a passion for health and wellness.

Richelle believes that each person is unique and enjoys helping her clients discover root causes for their discomfort and assisting in finding a solution through a variety of techniques and home care exercises. Richelle encourages her clients to be active in participating in their rehabilitation. Techniques she commonly uses include Swedish massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy and joint mobilization.

Massage Therapy is a passion for Richelle as it allows her to administer her new skills and techniques for the well-being of others. She is looking forward to working with new clients and helping them achieve their health care goals through use of assessment, and customized treatment plans.

Richelle Buecking, RMT has always had a passion for health and wellness. Richelle believes that ... Read More

Dr. Stevie holds a firm belief that everyone is an ‘athlete’ whether they are competitive, want to move more, move better or keep moving. If you are looking to improve performance, take that hike, or play with your grandkids, Dr. Stevie wants to help you get back to what you love most!

Since childhood, athletics has been an important part of Dr. Stevie’s everyday life, which has included competitive gymnastics, soccer, dance and cheerleading. She understands the demands of sport, the will to return to training and the importance of supporting your team. Chiropractic kept her competing and moving in her developing years while her teammates sat out with injury after injury.

Dr. Stevie’s unique background allows her to focus on the needs of her ‘athletes’ to provide individualized care consisting of manual therapy, functional exercises, and kinesiology taping. Specialized care provides not only immediate results and control over your pain but education regarding your symptoms and your body to help provide long term relief and confidence.

Dr. Stevie Newman Szeps is a graduate of New York Chiropractic College completing her Doctorate of Chiropractic with Honours in 2016. Her fascination with human movement has led her to the realization of just how central and important it is to life itself. As such, she continues to learn new ways to incorporate movement into each and every day to maintain and improve quality of life.

Let Dr. Stevie help get movement back in your life!

Dr. Stevie holds a firm belief that everyone is an ‘athlete’ whether they are competitive, want t... Read More