Meet Brenden, an impassioned physiotherapist dedicated to crafting a unique approach to your rehabilitation journey.

With a keen focus on understanding you as an individual and delving into your lifestyle, Brenden aims to pinpoint the root cause of your injury, biomechanical dysfunctions, or any lingering issues. His ultimate goal is to curate a progressive, personalized rehabilitation program that seamlessly integrates into your life. Brenden’s academic journey, starting with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from the University of Jamestown and culminating in a Master’s in Physiotherapy from Brunel University in London UK, underlines his comprehensive expertise in both exercise and rehabilitation.

Having spent the last two years in the dynamic private sector in London, Brenden has honed his skills in catering to a diverse clientele, ranging from teenagers to seniors and encompassing various fitness levels. His specialization in sports-related injuries showcases his versatility, working with individuals striving for a more active lifestyle to professional athletes. Passionate about the transformative effects of exercise and proper movement on the body, Brenden encourages a proactive approach to rehabilitation. Brace yourself for an experience that involves movement and a hint of exertion – a testament to Brenden’s commitment to your holistic well-being.

Now offering his expertise in Victoria, BC, Brenden is eager to assist you in rediscovering the activities you love, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a cherished senior member of the community.

In his downtime, Brenden finds solace in exploring the abundant trails of the island, hitting the gym, planning his next travel escapade, and cherishing moments with friends and family.

Embark on your journey to recovery with Brenden – book your appointment now and witness the fusion of a patient-centered approach with unparalleled enthusiasm for progress and results.

Meet Brenden, an impassioned physiotherapist dedicated to crafting a unique approach to your reha... Read More

Committed to tailoring personalized treatment plans, Joshua is passionate about assisting in your journey to achieve your wellness goals while delivering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Committed to tailoring personalized treatment plans, Joshua is passionate about assisting in your... 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

Sonal will be on Maternity leave for a year starting 13th October. Sarah Tam who has been working with her for last 6months will continue to work with all the physio’s in the clinic for smooth transfer of patient care.

Sonal has been practicing physiotherapy since 2012. Her key skills include diagnosing and rehabilitating various musculoskeletal pathologies like back, neck, jaw, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle pain in addition to other sports injuries. She is passionate about her patient care and believes in finding the root cause of pain. She speaks English and Hindi and understands Punjabi, Gujarati, Bengali, Kannada, etc. She is currently working with a physiotherapy assistant, Sarah Tam, who has completed her Kinesiology degree from UVIC. She is amazing.

Her treatment approach includes pain management, manual therapy, soft tissue release, neural mobilization, stretching, and strengthening exercises based on clinical diagnosis and evidence-based practice. This approach helps you to improve your quality of life, improve your ability to manage pain, achieve your functional goal like sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and participating in recreational activities without pain, and educate you about your injury.

Sonal graduated from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, India. She has a post-graduation degree in Musculoskeletal and Sports Physiotherapy and has done a certification course in nerve treatment (NDS). She was awarded two gold medals for her academic excellence in post-graduation and is the best outgoing student at her University and College.

She possesses a demonstrated history of working with all kinds of patients including kids over 5 years, teenagers, post-operative patients, geriatric and elite athletes. Everyone is welcome. If you have pain, physiotherapy can help.

During her free time, she loves to cook, spend time with her family, watch TV and go for a walk and hike around the city.

Sonal will be on Maternity leave for a year starting 13th October. Sarah Tam who has been working... 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

Izu has been practicing Physiotherapy since 2006.

His goal is to work with YOU to determine root cause of injury, associated risk factors and biomechanical dysfunctions and then plan a progressive individualized rehabilitation program that works for YOU, considering your lifestyle, environment and goals.

Izu is result/outcome driven and takes pride in patient centered approach to care and injury prevention.

He graduated from University of Nigeria (Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation), University of Michigan, USA (Doctor of Physical Therapy) and University of Manitoba ( MSc in Rehabilitation Sciences), where he studied the effects of an injury prevention program developed by FIFA among young female soccer athletes.

Izu is passionate about continuous learning/education and research and so, has undergone several post-graduate courses involving Orthopedic manual skills for back, neck and lower extremities, McKenzie Part A, Advanced shoulder Rehabilitation and management, Post-operative Rehabilitation and return to sport. He has also participated in several research projects which has produced two publications.

Izu has a wide range of experiences, from working with children to seniors, weekend warriors to elite athletes, neurological to musculoskeletal disorders (special interest drifting towards musculoskeletal disorders). These experiences stem from public, private and community settings; including tertiary hospitals in Nigeria, Health Sciences Centre, and Winnipeg and two private multi-disciplinary clinics in Manitoba.

In his free time he loves to spend time at the gym, weight lifting, playing soccer, lawn and table tennis.

Izu has been practicing Physiotherapy since 2006. His goal is to work with YOU to determine root... Read More

I practice an effective pain-free acupuncture style that will end your cycles of aches, pains, and stresses.

My focus is to get your body to circulate blood, assimilate nutrients, and eliminate toxins; as this treatment emphasis allows your body to heal itself. Throughout my experience, I have learned to listen and respond to how your body uniquely copes with your health problems.

I have been practicing acupuncture since 2010 and I consistently see great results using gentle and precise techniques based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and Japanese Meridian Therapy.

My clients have been through it all and want to return to a healthy, active life. I help them get there. And stay there.

I am currently working at Equilibrium’s Yates Street and Tillicum Road locations

I practice an effective pain-free acupuncture style that will end your cycles of aches, pains, an... Read More

Travis was born and raised in the West Kootenays and studied massage therapy in Victoria. He has a keen interest in biology and physiology. He has been an RMT since 2016.

He uses a combination of myofascial, Swedish massage and deep tissue techniques with focus on looking at the body as whole to address the root causes of health concerns.

Travis is looking forward to working with you to achieve your health goals.

Travis was born and raised in the West Kootenays and studied massage therapy in Victoria. He has ... Read More

Alex was born and raised on Vancouver Island. He has practiced Physiotherapy since 2000. He graduated from the University of Victoria with a BSc in Biology, and from McMaster University with a BHSc in Physiotherapy.

Prior to working at Equilibrium he was the owner of Town & Country Physiotherapy.

As a physiotherapist, he has participated in an Arthritis Society research project on community education and awareness. He was a sessional instructor at the West Coast College of Massage Therapy. He has provided physiotherapy services for the Times Colonist 10km Run, National Swim Competitions, and the Victoria Open Golf tournament.

In Dec 2022, Alex Bagley volunteered in Nepal with NepalAbility.org, working in hospitals with patients who have have traumatic injuries.

He has successfully completed post-graduate courses in Level 3 Orthopaedic Manual Therapy, McKenzie Part A and Part B Mechanical Low Back Pain and Neck Pain, Mulligan Lower Quadrant, Mulligan Upper Quadrant and advanced spinal and peripheral mobilizations/manipulations courses for the shoulder and cervical spine.

He is a designated service provider for the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) neurological rehabilitation.

Alex was born and raised on Vancouver Island. He has practiced Physiotherapy since 2000. He gra... Read More

Roger graduated from Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in 2015. Previously practicing in a massage therapy clinic in Port Coquitlam, he now calls Victoria home and is proud to join the Equilibrium team. Roger has a passion for helping people and has experience treating a wide range of patients from kids to seniors and people living with various conditions. He has had the opportunity to treat patients in a variety of facilities such as Ronald McDonald House, George Pearson Centre, Onsite drug detox facility, Royal Columbian Hospital, Positive Living Society, and at events like the BMO Marathon.

His expertise includes Trigger Point Therapy, Lymph Drainage, Joint Mobilizations, Myofascial Release, Sports Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Swedish Massage, in addition to muscle strengthening and stretching techniques. With these tools, he hopes to not only eliminate discomfort but also provide a relaxing and healing experience.

Roger believes that in order to be an effective therapist for his patients, he must set a good example and take care of himself mentally and physically. Outside of the clinic, he enjoys hiking, travelling, watching films (he also has a diploma in Film Studies!), listening to music, eating vegetarian cuisine and spending quality time with his wife.

Roger graduated from Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in 2015. Previously practicing in a mas... Read More

Emma grew up in Victoria and attended West Coast College of Massage Therapy. She loves helping people improve and maintain their physical health. She grew up playing competitive sports so she understands the importance of preventing as well as rehabilitating after injury. Using massage therapy to help with her own injuries she understands the impact it can have. Emma likes to use a variety of therapeutic massage techniques such as Trigger Point Therapy, Joint Mobilizations, Active and Passive Stretching and Isolytic Release of soft tissues while integrating General Swedish Massage to provide relief and relaxation.

Emma grew up in Victoria and attended West Coast College of Massage Therapy. She loves helping pe... Read More

Karl is a graduate of the Victoria WCCMT campus and has been practicing since 2011.

Karl’s treatment methodology is quite varied. Tear you apart and rebuild, or a gentle full body ahhhhhhh. A main component of Karl’s treatments is hot ocean stones and he uses them in the majority of his sessions. (Stone work currently available at the Tillicum location, the Yates location will be setup before the end of May)

Karl grew up homesteading and was on a path to become a conservation officer and take over his Mentor’s trap line when he moved to Victoria for university, fell in love with the city, and never left. He earned BA’s in Psychology and Sociology before moving on to the School of Social Work and then receiving a diploma in mediation/negotiation. Of course he then spent the next 10 years running chainsaw and jumping out of helicopters into remote forest fires….

Karl was a Varsity athlete, earning most valuable male athlete. This was when he became introduced to massage therapy. 10 years later when deciding on a new career, massage seemed a natural fit and he hasn’t looked back.

Karl is a graduate of the Victoria WCCMT campus and has been practicing since 2011. Karl’s trea... 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

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

Brody has been an RMT since 2022 and continues to seek education through relevant research articles and courses. He uses a combination of manual therapy techniques and active therapy tools to help you achieve your goals. Whatever your reason may be for seeking massage therapy, Brody is here to help!

Brody has been an RMT since 2022 and continues to seek education through relevant research articl... Read More

Cupping & Acupuncture Appointments Available Now!

I moved from Central Alberta to Victoria, BC to pursue my education in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine in 2016. I studied for 3.5 years at Pacific Rim College in Victoria, BC and graduated in June 2019. Prior to studying Acupuncture I was never sure what I wanted to do for a career. I spent a lot of time doing Administrative and Management work until I (luckily) found my way to Chinese Medicine. I grew up on a rural acreage south of Edmonton, Alberta and made my way out here to the island to attend Pacific Rim College.

In my spare time, I love expanding my knowledge and understanding of Chinese Medicine, indoor rock climbing, and exploring my way around the island, taking photos of plants and the natural beauty of this territory.

People always ask me what Acupuncture is best for, and I have this to say – the Acupuncture needle is like a direction we give to the body. It says to the body, ‘move this here’ or ‘build this here’ or, ‘hey, you’re going the wrong way, let’s fix that’. When the body is confused, weighed down or weak, it needs a little assistance, motivation and direction to perform its regular functions. This is a very simple way of looking at how Acupuncture works and why it works, although the medicine and pathophysiology in Chinese Medicine is, in actuality, quite complex.

A needle is a tool in the hands of an Acupuncturist. This tool can help us connect with dysfunction as well as touch significant sources of strength in a patient. A needle can reduce tension in tight muscles, direct energy to areas of emptiness, subdue overactivity and move stagnation.

When body functions aren’t working, when there is pain, or when there are irregular symptoms, we know there is something blocking the natural ability of the body, or that the body is merely not strong enough due to more chronic depletion. With Acupuncture, we can regulate body substances if they are overactive or deficient; we can encourage the removal of pathogenic substances that are causing congestion or stagnation; and we can nourish and tonify diminished substances to rebuild the body’s foundation.

Come in for a treatment, if you’re curious, or if you’ve had difficulty in the past determining what is causing you discomfort or weakness. I so look forward to meeting and working with you! See my list below for common (but not all!) disorders that can be helped with Acupuncture:

• Acute & Chronic Pain
• Menstrual Disorders
• Digestive Dysfunction
• Skin / Itching Disorders
• Pregnancy Support
• Infertility
• Metabolic Conditions
• Hormonal Imbalance
• Mental Health Support
• Headaches & Migraines
• Chest & Lung Conditions
• Brain Health
• Energy & Vitality
• Much more!

Cupping & Acupuncture Appointments Available Now! I moved from Central Alberta to Victoria, ... 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

Carolina has been practicing physiotherapy since 2005. She is a passionate professional with the main goal of enhancing her patients quality of life. During her years of practicing, Carol has had the opportunity to work in different patients and to treat a variety of pathologies, mainly those related with the spine. As a physiotherapist, she believes that every patient should be offered a unique approach to therapy, considering all components of their well-being.

Carolina graduated and completed her Masters degree at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte-Brasil. She advanced her skills with a postgraduate degree in Traumatology, Orthopedics and Sports Physiotherapy, Global Postural Reeducation (RPG) & Sensoperceptive Postural Restructuring and a training course in Pilates Rehabilitation, in addition to several other courses. She has an extensive experience in Manual Therapy techniques as well as Clinical Pilates and has treated a broad range of patient demographics. She believes that finding and treating the root cause of injury and moving properly is the key to treatment.

In her free time, she loves to spend time at the gym, to travel, to visit new places, to read and to spend time with her loved ones.

Carolina has been practicing physiotherapy since 2005. She is a passionate professional with the ... Read More

Rachel Knowles is a registered massage therapist with over four years of clinical experience in therapeutic massage and in treating a variety of conditions including nerve pain, scar tissue restrictions, headaches, sports injuries, chronic pain, and more. She graduated from Algonquin College in Ottawa with an advanced diploma of massage therapy and has worked in various treatment settings since, including clinics and mobile services in business, home, and gym locations.

Rachel takes an objective approach to care and will work with you to achieve your goals. Her treatments focus on discovering and addressing the root cause of client’s pain through interview, assessment, and hands on treatment. Her preferred treatment style is deep tissue; using slow pace and specific techniques to engage with the deep muscle layers to achieve the desired outcome: decreased trigger point activity, increased range of motion, decreased pain, etc. She focuses her practice on partnering with clients who are seeking relief from soft tissue orthopedic conditions affecting their active lifestyle.

As an athlete and outdoor enthusiast, Rachel is passionate about strength, movement, and mobility, and is motivated to support her clients in their physical pursuits or their return to activity using her technical skills and experience. She is thrilled to bring her practice to Victoria and is looking forward to exploring the natural beauty of the Island.

Rachel Knowles is a registered massage therapist with over four years of clinical experience in t... Read More

Adam is in his last semester as a massage therapy student and eagerly anticipates starting his career as a Registered Massage Therapist this winter.

He is dedicated to creating personalized treatment plans that empower his clients to get back to being the best versions of themselves. Adam specializes in Swedish massage, deep tissue techniques, trigger point therapy, and active/passive movement therapies.

A lifelong resident of Vancouver Island, Adam enjoys spending time outdoors, taking walks, playing basketball, and paddle boarding.

Adam is in his last semester as a massage therapy student and eagerly anticipates starting his ca... 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