Our Team
When you connect with your physiotherapy care team, you’ll receive the best quality care. Please browse our team members below and complete our Match Me form so we can support you in finding the right therapist for you. We are committed to inclusivity. In order to provide you with appropriate care, we need to know about your anatomy—whether you have a vulva or penis, or you’ve had genital surgeries, including those accessed for gender-affirmation. This will help us pair you with the most appropriate physiotherapist from a clinical perspective. We do not consider this information as representative of your gender. Please browse the team below to find an appropriate therapist for your anatomy and treatment preferences.
Treatments
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People with vulvas
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People with penises
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People who have undergone gender affirmation surgeries
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Real time ultrasound
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Anniken Chadwick (she/her)
Anniken Chadwick (she/her)
Anniken Chadwick (she/her)
Clinic Owner & Registered Physiotherapist
I have now moved into a role where I am committed to mentorship and continually improving our clinical, professional and inclusivity standards at The Cheerful Pelvis. This unfortunately means a completely drawing away from clinical time. I have full faith in the excellent team and am happy to chat to anyone who would like a personal recommendation of who to see.
Why I love pelvic health: I find I’m attracted to the nitty gritty in life, I’ve always wanted to go deep rather than broad. Pelvic health is about as nitty gritty as it gets in healthcare.
Why I love my job: Because there is endless growth, and I find growth rejuvenating and inspiring.
Something to know about me: My first word was “tractor” in Norwegian
What’s something you’re proud of? I’m proud of accepting and owning my progressive beliefs about pelvic health practice, and creating a space where diverse beliefs and practice can flourish.
I can’t get through the day without… Continually snacking
What’s your superpower? My intuition
Training / Qualifications / Experience:
- BSc Hons Physiotherapy, University of Nottingham, 2007
- Pelvic floor training; incontinence, prolapse, sexual dysfunction, chronic pain, pre and post natal
- Integrated systems model (training with Diane Lee) for in depth clinical diagnosis skills
- Integrative Body Psychotherapy
- Movement for Trauma
- MEd Contemplative Inquiry in Educational Approaches
- McMaster’s Emerging Health Leaders Program
Trish Gipson (she/her)
Director of Clinical Services & Registered Physiotherapist
My approach as a physiotherapist: Though I may be a pelvic health physiotherapist, my experience as a general orthopedic physiotherapist has taught me about the interconnectedness of the body; rarely do I only treat within the pelvis. When working with my clients I take a step back and look at the whole person to determine all the possible contributing factors, then zero in on the areas we need to attend to in order to help you meet your goals.
Why I love pelvic health: I became smitten with pelvic health when I saw how much a person’s quality of life could improve when their pelvic health improves. Couple that with the increasing body of evidence and support for what we do; it’s a very exciting time to be working in pelvic health.
A favorite client moment: When a high-level competitive runner was able to run again symptom-free after 9 years of relying on a pessary to manage her symptoms.
Something to know about me: I love to learn, and love to move. I played varsity volleyball in my university past life, ran the Boston Marathon in my pre-kids past life, and in my current life am trying to keep up with my 2 very loud and energetic kiddos.
What is your favorite compliment you received from a client? “I feel like I can tell you things that I can’t talk about with anyone else”.
If I had one wish: I’d wish that people had more empathy.
Top tip for pelvic health: Don’t assume symptoms are something you have to put up with just because you’ve had surgery, delivered a baby, have gone through menopause, etc; see a pelvic health physio for advice!
Training / Qualifications / Experience:
- BScKin from Simon Fraser University
- Msc Physiotherapy McMaster University, 2005
- Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy (advanced training in manual and manipulative therapy)
- Trained with Diane Lee in the Integrated Systems Model
- Additional training in pelvic health across the spectrums of age and gender, including pre and post natal care, pelvic health in athletes, men’s health, gender affirming care
Marine Barret-Chabanon (she/her)
Marine Barret-Chabanon (she/her)
Lindsay Geddes (she/her)
Senior Physiotherapist
My approach as a physiotherapist:
I use a whole body, whole person approach that considers all potential influences on how a person moves and feels. I seek to find the true, underlying cause of the undesired experience, and focus treatment there- which may be a body region outside the pelvis. The body is amazingly and wonderfully interconnected and some body regions can influence other regions in unhelpful (or helpful!) ways.
My top skills as a physio are:
Using movement as medicine and knowledge as power to give people the tools and confidence to make changes in how they move and how they feel. Creating the opportunity for people to regain trust in themselves, and feel in control of their body.
Someone who knows me well would describe me as:
Optimistic, focused, life-long learner, unashamed car and shower singer
A favorite client moment:
Renaming all the exercises on the home program list to be Beyoncé themed to better remember and increase the fun!
What helps me relax:
Movement and nature – preferable combined! Hiking, running, cycling, SUP’ing, kayaking
Something to know about me:
I’m a mom of two very active and creative kiddos. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island. I have two ragdoll cats. I food prep for stress-relief.
Training / Qualifications / Experience:
– Master of Physical Therapy University of Sydney, Australia
– Bachelor of Human Kinetics (Exercise Science) University of British Columbia
– Certified Clinical Pilates Instructor
– Certified Dr. LJ Lee ConnectTherapy™ Practitioner, Mentor & Course Assistant
– Acupuncture/Dry Needling
– Pelvic health training: incontinence, prolapse, pre and post natal, sexual dysfunction, pelvic pain
Becky Weaver (she/her)
Senior Physiotherapist
My approach as a physiotherapist:
There are multiple factors that influence pelvic health, and our clients will do best when we address all of these factors. This requires deep listening, and an openness to meet our clients where they are at. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to pelvic health, so we must consider the whole person, in the context of their own lives and their own journey, and tailor our physical treatments and strategies to honour their individuality and uniqueness. That’s my approach!
Why I love pelvic health:
Put simply, I get to cut the small talk! I like having real conversations, offering real solutions, and seeing real progress. Being a pelvic health physiotherapist allows me to do all of these things.
Something to know about me:
I was born and raised in Vancouver! The more people I meet, the more unusual this becomes.
If I had one wish:
So many clients ask me “Why didn’t they teach us this in school??!!” My wish is that children and teens can learn about pelvic health at a young age so that they can become strong advocates for themselves and for others.
Top tip for pelvic health:
Eat the oatmeal. This means that when we do the simple things consistently, even though it may not be exciting or glamorous, our health has room to flourish.
What helps me relax:
Cooking in my kitchen with the music playing. Playing with my family outside – skiing, biking, camping, and boating.
Training / Qualifications / Experience:
– Master’s Degree in Physiotherapy from Queen’s University (2006)
– Bachelor’s of Science degree (psychology major) from McGill University (2001)
– Pelvic health training: incontinence, ano-rectal dysfunction, sexual dysfunction and pain, prolapse, pelvic girdle pain, and chronic pelvic pain.
– BET pilates
– Acupuncture
– Yoga therapy and persistent pain
Devon Chan (she/her)
Registered Physiotherapist
My top skills and approach as a physio are: I recognize the importance of making physiotherapy meaningful and I aim to empower clients to get back to the activities that they enjoy. I value the opportunities to learn about my clients’ interests to help create achievable and functional goals.
Why I love pelvic health: Pelvic health is often not talked about, but it is such an important part of our quality of life and function. I enjoy helping others gain confidence and independence in their movements- so they can get back to the things that they love doing!Someone who knows me well would describe me as: Always smiling (even under a mask).Why I love my job:I love getting to work with a wide variety of clients from soon-to-be mothers to older adults (and so much more!).What do you like best about being a physiotherapist? The learning never stops! I appreciate that my job allows me to keep learning and growing on both a personal and professional level. Each day at work presents with new questions to explore, thoughtful conversations, and moments of reflection.What helps you relax? Baking. Cookies, cakes, croissants- you name it!Training / Qualifications / Experience
- Master of Physical Therapy University of British Columbia
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Kinesiology University of Victoria
- Post graduate training in pelvic floor: urinary incontinence, bowel/bladder health, sexual health, prolapse, and pelvic pain.
Sam Dickinson (she/her)
Registered Physiotherapist
My approach as a physiotherapist: I love hearing people’s stories. I believe that so much valuable information can be gathered by listening. My approach to physio is movement-based. I want to help you get stronger and move more freely. But first, I want to get to know you!
Why I love pelvic health: Because it changes lives! Helping people find connection with a part of their body that is often a mystery to them is so rewarding.
Why I love my job: I get to be with people all day. And I’m constantly learning!
Something to know about me: I speak Brazilian Portuguese!
What gives me vitality: Being outdoors. I love running, playing soccer, cycling, open water swimming and snowboarding… pretty much any activity that can be done in the fresh air.
Top tip for pelvic health: Learn to breathe! The synergy between breath and pelvic floor function is so important.
Training / Qualifications / Experience:
- MSc Physiotherapy, King’s College London, UK (2015)
- MSc Globalisation and Latin American Development, University of London, UK (2011)
- BA Social and Cultural Anthropology, University of Calgary (2010)
- Additional training in pelvic health: bladder and bowel dysfunction, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, pre- and post-natal care, pre- and post-op care, diastasis rectus abdominis, menopause management, manual therapy for the pelvic floor, pelvic health for runners and athletes
Nava Naseri (she/her)
Registered Physiotherapist
My top skills and approach as a physio: I understand the importance of addressing both the mind & body as a whole – I prioritize taking the time to learn about my clients needs, understand their concerns and recognize their perspectives in order to discover new ways to deliver therapy. Growing up as a competitive figure skater and coming from a strength & conditioning background, I am also able to leverage my knowledge of movement principles to support my clients return to the activities that they love!Why I love pelvic health: Because I get to see the surprised look on peoples faces when I tell them rehab is not just breathing & kegel exercises! Being a pelvic health therapist allows me to empower & educate individuals on an under-looked area of the body that is often misunderstood.Something to know about me: I have an identical twin sister (who is a paediatric physio!)… and I have an unhealthy obsession with donutsWhat do you like best about being a PT: Building connections! I love learning more about my clients, and figuring out what resonates with them. By having a better understanding of each individuals’ experience, I can cater their treatment plan in alignment with their unique qualities.What gives you vitality: My morning coffee & reads, puppy snuggles, and being around the ocean & mountains.Training/qualifications/experience: Bachelor of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia (2017)Masters of Science in Physical Therapy, University of Toronto (2020)Pelvic health training: bladder and bowel dysfunction, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, pre- and post-natal care, sexual dysfunctionACE personal trainer (2017)
Lily Xiong (she/her)
Registered Physiotherapist
Why I love pelvic health: I think pelvic health is one of those specialty fields that requires a holistic approach to care, considering the mind, body and soul. Which is the way I enjoy connecting with others around me, understanding my clients as a whole person and not as a condition – like how I make friends in life!
My top skills and approach as a physio are: reflexively listening to my clients about their stories, being creative in my treatment philosophy, then combining movement and conversations when working with my clients to optimize their mind and body.
What do you like best about being a physiotherapist? Two of my favorite things to do in life are interacting with people and being active, so being a physio is like a dream career for me!
Something to know about me: I enjoy the art of fermenting foods, kombucha, sourdough, kefir, kimchi, sourcrout, you name it!
What helps you relax? Trying new recipes and delivering fresh baked goods to the people I love!
I can’t get through the day without… laughing about something
Training / Qualifications / Experience:
- Master of Physical Therapy from the University of Western Ontario
- Honours Bachelor of Science in Physiology and Nutritional Sciences from the University of Toronto
- Post graduate training in pelvic health: Pre- and post-natal care, diastasis rectus abdominis, Bladder and bowel health/dysfunction, Pelvic organ prolapse, Pelvic pain with trauma informed lens, Utilization of biopsychosocial model of care, Manual therapy for the pelvic floor
- Pursuing advanced credentialing in manual therapy (FCOMPT)
- Publication in 2SLGBTQIA+ Health, Pelvic floor dysfunction and cancer treatment, Neurological rehabilitation, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease rehabilitation and Respiratory muscle rehabilitation
Language: Lily offers treatment sessions in Mandarin.
Madison McKinney (she/her)
Registered Physiotherapist
My top skills and approach as a physio: Listening to my client’s story, collaborating with them throughout treatments and empowering them to be active participants in their recovery.
Why I love pelvic health: Pelvic health positively impacts people’s lives – it is so rewarding to be part of this journey with my clients!
Why I love my job: I love connecting with people and I am constantly learning and growing!
Someone who knows me well would describe me as: easygoing, caring and positive.
I can’t get through the day without: coffee!!
What gives me vitality: spending time with my friends and family.
Something to know about me: I love to ski, so I moved to Vancouver from Ontario so I could live close to the mountains!
Training / Qualifications / Experience
Masters of Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Kinesiology from McMaster University
Jessie McDougall (she/her)
Registered Physiotherapist
Why I love pelvic health: I am drawn to issues that are complex, deep, and significant, and pelvic health hits all three. I feel it’s such an underappreciated area of the body, and issues here can have impacts on all aspects of our lives.
I can’t get through the day without: A quiet moment for myself – whether it’s sitting with a cup of coffee and my cat in the morning, a quick quiet walk in the middle of the day, or watching the sunset in the evening.
What do you like best about being a physiotherapist: I love the interactions I get to have. I feel I am continuously learning and growing as a person and a professional with every interaction I have – whether it’s a colleague or someone coming in for treatment.
What gives you vitality: Nature! I try to get outside as much as I can, whether it’s backcountry skiing, running, climbing, camping, sailing, or anything else.
Training/Qualifications/Experience:
- Master of Physical Therapy from the University of British Columbia
- Masters of Arts in Kinesiology from the University of British Columbia
- Thesis topic: How athletes cope with and appraise pain
- Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Simon Fraser University
- Post graduate training in pelvic floor: urinary incontinence, bowel/bladder health, sexual health, prolapse, and pelvic pain
Currently completing a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of British Columbia.
Mika Fogelman (she/her)
Registered Physiotherapist
My approach as a physiotherapist: Meeting clients where they’re at and building a relationship of trust and support! I also love to find creative solutions to incorporate movement into daily life.
What do you like best about being a physiotherapist: The opportunity to connect with so many amazing people and help them tune into their body.
Someone who knows me well would describe me as: Joyful, passionate, caring and optimistic.
What helps me relax: A deep breath in, a shimmy shake, and a full-body breath out.
Something to know about me: I love getting creative! Whether it’s painting murals, designing graphic tees, or hand-making cards for the people in my life, I find it so grounding to let my imagination run wild and create something palpable with it.
Training/Qualifications/Experience:
- Masters of Physical Therapy from the University of British Columbia
- Bachelors of Kinesiology from the University of British Columbia
- Post graduate training in pelvic floor: Urinary incontinence, bowel/bladder health, sexual health, prolapse, and pelvic pain
Chelsea Elvy (she/her)
Registered Physiotherapist | Clinical Pilates
My approach as a physiotherapist: Making clients feel heard and understood, restoring clients autonomy with their body and with movement, empowering individuals to pursue goals no matter how big or small. I will find a way to help a client achieve a goal, whether that means building up strength/capacity or re-framing the goal if necessary, I’m not the physio who will ever tell someone they can’t do something.
Why I love my job: Having been on the patient side of chronic pain physiotherapy, I’ve realized how important it is to be surrounded by a team of practitioners who are understanding, knowledgable, and work together to empower clients.
Something to know about me: I have endometriosis and know what it’s like to navigate through the ups and downs that come with that! I also played varsity sports in university and wish I had known about pelvic health during my athlete days.
What’s my personality like: I love staying in as much as I love meeting up with friends or going out on a date night. I’m a sucker for a franchise movie series (Jurassic Park, Star Wars, Marvel), the more CGI the better! I have big feelings and care deeply about my people (and all dogs).
Favourite compliment I received from a client: When a client who was fearful of a new diagnosis told me that she always feels listened to and supported in our sessions.
If I had one wish: That anyone with pelvic pain is listened to and taken seriously from their very first symptom.
Training/qualifications/experience:
- Master of Science in Physical Therapy, 2016 University of Toronto
- STOTT Pilates: Rehab Mat Level 1 & 2, Rehab Reformer Level 1 & 2, & Rehab Cadillac, Chairs, & Barrels Level 1 CPA Orthopaedic Division Level 3 Upper
- Pelvic Health Solutions Non-Internal Pelvic Floor Course
- Reframe Rehab Exercise Reframed: Exercises for a Sensitive Nervous System
- Pelvic Health Solutions Level 1 (theory only)
Jacqueline Seppelt (she/her)
Physio Support Worker | Clinical Pilates & Client Care Coordinator
What’s her approach as PTSW? I approach clients with compassion and encouragement. I want to make clients feel empowered to move their bodies in ways that feel comfortable and strengthening. I give clients the agency to make informed choices about their care and support their choices with my own insights into their body.Her favourite client’s moment?
My favourite client moments are times when clients feel understood and acknowledged. Whether in session or at the front desk, everyone deserves to have the time to explain their needs and the space to make sure they feel supported. My favourite moments are when I can see clients tune into their bodies because of the nurturing environment we’ve built with them.Best compliment she received? My clients tend to compliment the way I explain movement using tangible imagery. Past clients have enjoyed the way I use everyday words and objects to explain complex body sensations and minute movements in their bodies.Something to know about her: I am calm but determined. I have a warm and welcoming presence that makes people feel comfortable and heard. I also like to have fun and do not shy away from silliness in sessions.Training/Qualifications/Experience: Certified Fletcher Pilates Instructor as of 2022. Teaching as an apprentice and then certified instructor since 2021.
Soon to be certified Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist.Camille Morgan (she/her)
Camille Morgan (she/her)
Oli Keady (they/she/he)
Oli Keady (they/she/he)
Oli Keady (they/she/he)
Client Care Coordinator
What are their top skills and approach as a Client Care Coordinator? I prioritize listening to patient needs and stories. I want everyone to be heard and thought of, especially when it comes to accessing care.
Why do they love pelvic health? I saw how life changing pelvic health is, and care deeply about reducing stigmas around pelvic and sexual health so that more people can access the care they need.Why do they love their job? I love forming new connections with patients and working with staff who share common values of respect, care and growth.Something to know about them: I have a drag alter-ego who looks eerily like Justin Bieber…Do you believe in our vision and want to be part of this awesome team!? View Job Openings
Match Me With A Cheerful Physio!
