Waterview Physiotherapy & Health Centre
The Way Healthcare Should Be, Healthcare You Deserve.
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Meet Our Incredible Team
Jordan Stepien
Physiotherapist
Jordan graduated with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Toronto. While growing up in St. Catharines, he competed in a variety of sports at a high-level including track and field, basketball, and soccer. It was through sports that he developed a fascination for the human body with respect to injury and performance. Jordan’s goal is to empower people in leading an active lifestyle and feeling at their best. He aims to do so by working together to create an individualized treatment plan involving a combination of education, exercise and manual therapy tailored to meet your goals. Outside the clinic, you’ll find Jordan getting outdoors, spending time with friends and family, and competing in ultimate frisbee.
Amberly Horton
Physiotherapist, Special Interest in Pelvic Health
Amberly attended McMaster University for her undergraduate degree in Health Studies, and completed her Masters of Physical Therapy at Queen’s University in 2015. As a former competitive dancer and athlete, Amberly developed a passion for human movement and physical fitness. She continually strives to provide evidence-based treatments that target individual patient needs and goals. Amberly believes continual education is an essential component of physical therapy practice. She has developed a special interest in orthopaedic and pelvic health physiotherapy, and is enthusiastic about learning new skills in these areas. Amberly is an active participant in the Physiotherapy profession. She currently resides on the executive of the Private Practice Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, and frequently mentors Physiotherapy students and new graduates. Amberly grew up in a small town and remains a country girl at heart. In her spare time she enjoys the outdoors, fishing and relaxing on the beach or by a bonfire.
Holly Edward
Physiotherapist
Holly completed her Bachelor of Science (Honours) with a specialization in kinesiology from Queen’s University and her Master’s degree in Physiotherapy from McMaster University. She has experience working with young children and enjoys working with patients of all ages. Holly utilizes a combination of evidence-based research, education, hands-on therapy, and exercise prescription within her treatments. She strives to develop meaningful and unique treatment plans based on goals created together with her patients to address each patient’s concerns. Holly also has a passion for working with patients with oncological diagnoses and is currently engaging in research to advance the field of oncology physiotherapy. She enjoys being active, reading, visiting with family and friends, and volunteering with the Oncology Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association in her spare time.
Praja Vaikuntharajan
Physiotherapist
Praja earned her Bachelor of Health Science (Honours) from Western University before completing her Master of Science in Global Health, specializing in Healthcare Management from McMaster University. Her love for patient care then led her to pursue a Master of Science in Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto. Praja holds a keen interest in orthopaedic and pelvic health physiotherapy. Her treatment approach revolves around collaborating with patients to set meaningful goals and devising personalized treatment plans to help them achieve these objectives. She thrives on problem-solving and utilizes evidence-based research, hands-on therapy, exercise, and education to empower patients in reaching their goals. When Praja is not in the clinic, she is either learning a new recipe or taking dance lessons.
Vikas Vaja
Physiotherapist
Vikas is a Registered Physiotherapist with a wealth of experience in the field of physical therapy. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Therapy in 2009 and furthered his education by obtaining a Diploma Degree in Fitness & Health Promotion. Throughout his career, Vikas has worked across a spectrum of healthcare settings, including acute care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and physiotherapy colleges as a tutor. His practice encompasses a wide range of specialties, including MSK (Musculoskeletal), Cardiorespiratory, Neurological, Neuro Pediatrics, as well as Pre-op & Post-op rehabilitation. Vikas is particularly passionate about manual therapy techniques and muscle retraining to address joint biomechanics and correct movement dysfunction. He has developed extensive experience in post-operative protocols and rehabilitation programs, aiding patients in their recovery journeys. Outside of his professional commitments, Vikas finds joy in exploring his culinary skills by cooking various dishes and unwinding to the melodies of music during his free time.
Alnawaz Babwani
Physiotherapist
Alnawaz is a highly skilled physiotherapist with extensive training from around the world, including India, the US, and Canada. His approach to treatment is eclectic, combining solid evidence from therapeutic activities, exercises, hands-on manual therapy, and various modalities. He firmly believes in the active involvement of the mind in the healing process, emphasizing that determination can significantly improve one’s quality of life. Outside of his professional life, Alnawaz cherishes spending quality time with his 4 and 8-year-old sons. He enjoys outdoor activities such as biking, evening walks, and immersing himself in nature.
Darryl Yardley
Consulting Physiotherapist, Special Interest in Spine & Hip
Darryl graduated from the University of Toronto in with a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy. He later completed a Master’s in Clinical Science at Western University and became a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physical Therapists. He is a consultant for orthopaedic and neurosurgeons and has a special interest in hip and spine. He has co-authored multiple publications, a text book and has presented at over 50 conferences and courses throughout Canada and Internationally. Darryl is the professor of the Business and Entrepreneurship in Physical Therapy course at Western University. He also lectures at McMaster University, University of Toronto and Queen’s University on business and practice management topics. He is the founder of Mentorship Bootcamp, a program offering business training and career coaching to clinicians. You can learn more about Darryl at YardleyPT.ca
Emilie Paletta
Physiotherapist
Currently on Maternity Leave. Emilie attended the University of Waterloo to complete a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, and completed her Master of Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto in 2016. Throughout her life, Emilie was drawn to sports and was fascinated by the human body which led her down the path of pursuing a career in physical therapy. Emilie’s treatment style is focused on achieving patient goals through active rehabilitation in a way that compliments the lifestyle of each individual patient. In this ever changing world, Emilie is always seeking current information in the field to provide her patients with up-to-date treatments and education. She completed the McMaster Contemporary Medical Acupuncture Program in 2017, and continues to take relevant courses in an effort to develop comprehensive treatment plans for her patients. When Emilie is not in the clinic, you can find her on the soccer field or training for a marathon.
Charlotte Czepek
Physiotherapist
Currently on maternity leave. Charlotte graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Brock University in 2015 followed by a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Toronto in 2017. Charlotte grew up in a small town and values the sense of community that brings. Her interest in physiotherapy started young when becoming a patient herself and appreciating the impactful difference it made. Throughout her educational and physiotherapy career she has pursued her special interests in neurological rehab, aquatic physiotherapy, and senior care. Charlotte incorporates patient-specific therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, mobility, and education to help her patients reach their functional and meaningful goals. Outside of the clinic, Charlotte enjoys being an aunt, spending time with family, the outdoors, and staying active with her dog.
Dr. Aleksa Cenic
Neurosurgeon
Born in Toronto, and has lived most of his life in the Hamilton Region. Dr. Cenic completed a BSc in Medical Physics at McMaster University, a MSc in Medical BioPhysics at University of Western Ontario, and his Medical School (MD) at McMaster University in 2002. He did his Neurosurgery Residency Training at McMaster University in 2009 and completed his Spine Surgery Fellowship at the University of Calgary in 2009. He also did a Peripheral Nerve Fellowship at the University of Calgary in 2010. He is currently at the Hamilton General Hospital as a Neurosurgeon/Spine Surgeon Clinical practice focuses on Spinal Disorders / Injuries / Disease in adults Surgical Procedures: Cervical, thoracic and lumbar-sacral decompression, instrumentation and fusions.
Dr. Rhianna Nicholson
Chiropractor
Dr. Rhianna Nicholson received her degree as a Doctor of Chiropractic from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto. Throughout her career, her passion for holistic health grew, and she developed an appreciation of having a team-based approach with regards to health and wellness. Dr. Rhianna believes that education is the most important tool she can share with her patients. She takes time to thoroughly investigate and explain her diagnosis and how a treatment plan is going to address your health concerns. She uses a variety of hands-on techniques, especially spinal manipulative and extremity manipulative therapies, to help you move and feel your best. This technique focuses on allowing the nervous system to work optimally, assisting with the mobility and function of your spine and adjacent joints. She also uses soft tissue therapies, such as MRT, evidence based modalities, and will always discuss home based care including stretches and exercises. Dr. Rhianna loves caring for patients of all ages, including children. She is passionate about all aspects of spinal health and believes that a healthy spine creates a solid foundation for your body to develop, grow, and explore. Her goal is to help all patients enjoy their very best life.
Dr. Cree Blakely
Chiropractor
Born in St. Catharines, Dr. Blakely embarked on his academic journey at Brock University, where he graduated with honours in Kinesiology. Driven by a profound interest in the intricate connections between the nervous system and the human body, he pursued and successfully completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree at D’Youville University in Buffalo, NY. An accomplished athlete with a background in competitive lacrosse, hockey, and baseball, Dr. Blakely brings a unique perspective to his chiropractic practice. Certified in diversified and Thompson techniques, Dr. Blakely utilizes a wide variety of evidence-based methods, ensuring comprehensive care for joint health while also addressing the specific soft tissue needs of each patient.
Nicole Novokowsky
Registered Massage Therapist
Nicole attended the University of Waterloo to complete a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. She then went on to graduate from the Ontario College of Health and Technology’s accelerated Massage Therapy program. She is registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario. Nicole has always been drawn to the needs of others and her compassionate energy led her into the field of health care. As a former competitive figure skater, her passion for many sports has fueled and supported her active lifestyle and provided the background she needed for the importance of self care. Nicole works closely with every patient to customize treatments to reduce and prevent any pain or physical dysfunction to improve your own optimal quality of life, whatever that may look like. Outside of the clinic you can find her attempting a new recipe, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.
Amal Ravi
Registered Massage Therapist
Amal became a Registered Massage Therapist after graduating from the Massage therapy program at Medix College Brampton. Amal has a strong knowledge of human Anatomy and the benefits of massage Therapy. He enjoys helping clients through rehabilitation after an injury and uses different orthopedic assessments to determine the best treatment plan. He combines techniques and modalities such as Swedish massage, Joint mobilizations, Trigger point therapy, proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation, Myofascial release, and deep tissue massage to achieve the best outcomes. Amal is looking forward to helping you achieve your healthcare goals.
William Lockwood
Kinesiologist
Will is an excitable, easy-going, and professional Kinesiologist. Will is a recent graduate from Brock University of both a Master of Professional Kinesiology, and Bachelors of Science in the same discipline. Prior to working at Waterview Will has worked with populations including geriatrics, varsity athletes, along with other conditions such as MS, and Parkinsons in an exercise and rehabilitation setting. He is passionate at improving his craft and helping patients improve beyond their perceived limits.
Victoria Wass
Physiotherapy Assistant
Victoria attended Niagara College in 2020 for a course in Fitness and Health Promotion. After graduating with her diploma in 2022 she went on to complete her Bachelors of Science (Honours) specializing in Sports Performance at Hartpury University in the United Kingdom graduating in 2023. While attending school abroad, Victoria was employed at the Hartpury Sports Academy and worked alongside athletes. She has always been drawn to an active lifestyle and is very passionate about strength and conditioning. She has competed in horse riding competitions in the past, as well as competing on a wrestling team that traveled to Ottawa in 2019 to compete before she attended college. Victoria loves the outdoors and in her spare time she can be found at the farm with the horses, hanging out with friends and family, or in the gym lifting weights.
Chris Chivalan
Kinesiologist
Chris graduated with a Bachelor of Kinesiology from Brock University. Chris discovered his interest in the field of rehabilitation through his involvement within the community and extracurriculars. These experiences motivated him to pursue his background in human kinetics. Chris brings experiences with geriatrics, neurological conditions, varsity athletes, and the general population. Chris’s long term goal is to eventually pursue a career as a Physiotherapist. During his free time you can find Chris engaging in physical activity (hiking, exercising), travelling (camping, kayaking), or spending time with friends and family.
Spine Surgical Screening Assessment Program
More than 90% of physicians and 95% of patients are frustrated with the wait times to see a Spine Surgeon. Currently, wait times are greater than 18-24 months in the Hamilton and Niagara regions. Are you wondering if surgery will relieve your symptoms? Based on a published physician survey and patient feedback, we at Waterview Physiotherapy & Health Centre developed a Spine Surgical Screening Assessment (SSSA) program affiliated with Dr. Aleksa Cenic (Neurosurgeon / Spine Surgeon). Our physiotherapists and chiropractors have been trained directly by Dr. Cenic in advanced spine screening and assessment. If you are a Physician, Physiotherapist or other health professional that wishes to refer a patient to Waterview Physiotherapy & Health Centre for a Surgical Spine Assessment, click link below to find out more.
We Have A Solution For all Your Aches, Pains & Rehab Needs
Physiotherapy
Whether you have been injured working around your house, in a car accident, at work or simply want to improve your overall well-being we cater to all your needs. Our service focus is on you: that means we design our treatment plans around your unique needs and goals, adhere to best practices and consistently deliver the highest standards of quality care to attain best possible outcomes. We want to help you regain the strength, function and movement so you can enjoy an overall better quality of life.
Come see us and get the healthcare you deserve!
Massage
All of our therapists are Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs), and are subject to the training and competency requirements of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario. Our RMTs do what they love most: helping you work through any pain, injury, stress or other condition to help you relax, release tension, and achieve your rehab and wellness goals. Our therapists always go above and beyond to give you a tailor-made treatment to best suit your needs.
You deserve the gift of relaxation, relief, and improved well-being!
Chiropractic
Suffering from aches, pains or strains? Our Chiropractors have specialized training to get to the root of your problem. They will provide an individualized treatment plan to relieve pain and restore normal function. This could take the form of soft tissue therapy, mobilizations, manipulations, or exercises.
Get to the root of your problem and start the road to recovery!
Pelvic Health
A Physiotherapist with specialized training in pelvic health can be successful treating individuals with incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic girdle pain, as well as pre and post natal symptoms. Pelvic health applies to women, men, and children. A thorough examination often includes both an external and internal assessment. This allows the Physiotherapist to properly evaluate all potential factors contributing to the dysfunction, and develop an appropriate plan of care to address your individualize goals effectively.
Transitioning to a healthier you is only a few steps away!
We Offer Even More To Serve You
Prehabilitation
Prescribing exercise and activities to improve your functional abilities before surgery. The goal is to decrease your hospital length of stay, speed up your recovery and return to “normal” activities, and reduce surgical complications.
Post-Surgery Care
Recovering from surgery? Everyone can benefit from physio and a rehab program. Our therapists work collaboratively with your surgeon to decrease your pain, improve your mobility, restore your function and quality of life.
Virtual Care
Can’t make it into the clinic? Our Practitioners offer their services virtually. We will send you a link for your scheduled appointment. You can log on with your own personal device and be seen by one of our practitioners. Have your problem diagnosed or your progress monitored from the comfort of your own home.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an evidence based treatment that uses sterile, thin needles to attract blood flow to an injury site. Acupuncture decreases pain and inflammation, promotes healing, and improves nerve health. Performed correctly, it is a safe and effective treatment.
Orthotics
Customized medical devices that are designed to align your foot and ankle in the optimal position. Orthotics work much like glasses do on your eyes – they reduce stress and strain on your body, decrease pain and improve tolerance to activities.
Custom Bracing
A brace specifically designed to suit your unique needs – a better fit, more comfort. Adding external support to your injury can decrease your pain during daily tasks and recreational activities. With a good assessment a brace can be highly effective.
Concussion Rehab
Concussions and their longterm effects are one of the biggest challenges individuals face. Recovering from a concussion can be a difficult and frustrating time. Everyone is impacted differently and as such, requires an individualized care plan.
Dizziness (Vertigo)
Our therapists have completed extra training and understand dizziness. Treatment depends on your assessment findings, but often involves hands-on techniques, head manoeuvres, an exercise program, or a combo of those strategies.
Jaw Pain
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is commonly known as jaw pain. Trained therapists can help your pain and clicking by teaching you relaxation, stretching and strengthening exercises for the face, head, neck and postural muscles.
Recent Posts
HHS surgeon’s award-winning technology teaches surgical skills, worldwide
Our very own HHS neurosurgeon Dr. Aleksa Cenic (left) wears a head camera above his headlight to livestream a spinal surgery to students and program directors viewing remotely from universities including McMaster. This leading-edge, award-winning technology, called Vivo Surgery, was developed by Cenic to give learners and innovators worldwide, opportunities to view and learn from […]Read More »
Working from Home?
Working from home? These days, many people are! Here are a few tips to maximize your productivity and minimize aches and pains as you get used to working in a new environment. 1) Maintain a schedule – try to keep a similar schedule as what you had when you went into the office. This will […]Read More »
What to expect during In-Person Treatments?
Check out our patient navigation video.Read More »
Virtual Treatments
Are you wondering how to manage your pain at home? Is your schedule too busy for more appointments? Are you unable to drive yourself? Check out this video to see how easily Waterview Physiotherapy can help!! Virtual physiotherapy, also known as online tele-health Physiotherapy, is a great way to have your pain assessed and treated […]Read More »
