Meet the Elevation Health Team!
TJ Unger
Physiotherapist - Cold Lake + meadow Lake
After graduating from the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program in 2010 and then the Masters of Physical Therapy Program in 2012 from the University of Saskatchewan, TJ accepted a position at the Cold Lake Healthcare Centre Rehabilitation Department and was quick to call Cold Lake home.
TJ has a diverse care experience including acute care, long term care, post surgical/fracture, neurological, cardiac care, chronic condition management, pre/post natal care, sporting injuries and treating muscle, joint and nerve conditions. TJ continued her educational pursuits completing courses in Kinesiotaping, Functional Dry Needling (Level 1 & 2), McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy and Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Therapies (Level 1 & 2 Lower).
TJ fell in love with the Physiotherapy profession and prevention based approaches to healthcare while studying at the University of Brisbane, Australia. While there she had the opportunity to work as a Sport Trainer along side an Adolescent Sport Physiotherapist. Rural health disparities has always been another area of interest after growing up in Northern Saskatchewan. She believes that people who live in rural areas should have access to the same opportunities for healthcare as their urban counterparts. There in lies the premise of Elevation Health. To offer a coordinated multi-disciplinary care innovative facility to Cold Lake and surrounding communities.
Continuing with her love of sport and physical activity she has been the Volunteer Coordinator for the Run for Ronald Macdonald House Charities Northern Alberta for the past two years and has had the opportunity to assist coaching in the Jr. and Sr. Female Volleyball Programs at Cold Lake High School the past several years. When TJ is not busy you will most likely find her doing some form of outdoor adventure activity, such as paddle boarding, white water canoeing, snowboarding or her new favorite past time, hiking mountains with her young family.
Bethany Compton
PHYSIOTHERAPIST - Cold Lake
Bethany has always had an interest for helping others and being active while growing up in a small town in Newfoundland. Throughout her entire life, she has been involved in playing sports, coaching, outside activities and volunteering within her community. Her decision to pursue physiotherapy as a career came from being fascinated with the function and movement of the human body. After graduating from Memorial University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology, she then went on to complete her Master’s of Science in Physiotherapy at Dalhousie University.
Bethany’s approach to rehabilitation focuses on education, functional dry needling, manual therapy and exercise prescription to achieve functional outcomes and goals. She is a strong believer of continued education and research, and is very motivated to continue taking courses to enhance her knowledge and skills in order to provide the best quality of client care and evidence based treatments. Since starting her career, Bethany has become certified in Functional Dry Needling , Piston Science Part 1: The Diaphragm/ Pelvic Floor Piston for Adult Populations. (Julie Wiebe), Mackenzie Level A MDT: Lumbar Spine, Level 2 Lower Quadrant Orthopedic Division, Vestibular Courses/ Concussion, Intro to Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Intro + Advanced Vestibular Rehabilitation, Vision in Vestibular Rehabilitation and Concussion, Managing Dizziness in Post Concussion Syndrome and Concussion Management Workshop Level 1+2.
Bethany also has a special interest working with the pediatric population. She has experience with Tippy Toe Walkers, Torticollis, Post-fracture rehabilitation, Neurodevelopmental conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and Muscular Dystrophy.
She looks forward to helping her clients and working through individual challenges.
Outside of work, you will see her spending time outside, paddle boarding, at the gym, travelling with her husband, or spending time with family and friends.
Adam Schwabe
PHYSIOTHERAPIST- Cold Lake
Adam is a highly passionate individual when it comes to health, exercise, and fitness. He has dedicated a significant portion of his life to sports and fitness activities. During his time in college, Adam played collegiate volleyball for five years and curling for one year as a member of the Augustana Vikings.
In addition to volleyball and curling, Adam has a wide range of athletic passions. He enjoys playing golf, rock climbing, wake surfing, tennis, pickleball, and regularly exercises in the gym. His involvement in various sports throughout his life has exposed him to a fair share of injuries. These experiences led him to pursue a career in Physical Therapy.
Adam completed his Master of Science in Physical Therapy in 2016 from the University of Alberta. His treatment style revolves around exercise promotion for long-term healing, manual therapy, functional dry needling, and patient education. Over the course of his career, he has worked with diverse populations, including individuals with general musculoskeletal injuries, neurological conditions such as stroke and Parkinson's disease, cardiac patients, pediatrics, fractures, post-surgical cases, and geriatric deconditioned individuals.
Adam holds several certifications to enhance his professional expertise. He is certified in Soft Tissue Release, Sport First Responder, Vestibular therapy, and Functional Dry Needling. These certifications allow him to provide specialized care and treatment to his clients.
Sports rehabilitation and healthy aging are Adam's areas of special interest. He is motivated to work with individuals who are determined to improve their health, well-being, and overall quality of life. Adam's drive to make a positive impact on his clients' lives makes him strive to improve therapeutic outcomes in every client he works with.
GILLES DUMONT
PHYSIOTHERAPIST- Cold Lake
I was born in Bonnyville and raised on a dairy farm near Moose Lake. At the University of Alberta, I completed a BSc in 1994 followed by a BScPT in 1998. I have worked in a number of clinical settings but enjoy orthopaedics the most. I have pursued further studies in manual therapy, functional exercise and dry needling. I enjoy staying active in the outdoors and spending time with my family.
Kirsten Large
Physiotherapist - Meadow Lake
Originally from Manitoba, Kirsten first moved to Saskatchewan in 2013 to pursue an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology from the University of Regina. After graduation she moved to Alberta where she had the opportunity to cultivate a passion for Adapted Physical Activity, which is eventually what led her to pursuing a career in physical therapy.
She moved back to Saskatchewan to obtain her Masters of Physical Therapy from the University of Saskatchewan and stayed in Saskatoon post graduation to work within the public health sector learning the ins and outs of how medical conditions impact health and wellness. Now, her and her partner are making the move to the community of Meadow Lake which has opened up a new and exciting opportunity for Kirsten to expand her practice into the private physical therapy world.
Kirsten’s background in Adapted Physical Activity compliments her education in rehabilitation well. It has taught her creative ways to get people of all abilities moving their body, and allows her to adapt her rehabilitation approach to suit the needs of each individual in her care. She is looking forward to furthering her knowledge within the realms of musculoskeletal injuries, vestibular therapy, pediatrics, and pelvic health so she can continue to support others on their journey to living a life with more movement.
In her spare time you’ll find Kirsten adventuring with her dogs, traveling throughout Canada, crafting, reading, or learning a new skill in acro yoga. She is excited for the move to Meadow Lake for the endless opportunities to explore the outdoors, and can’t wait to get to know the community!
Candace Van Der Voort
REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPIST - Cold Lake
Candace Van Der Voort attained her Bachelor of Arts Degree through the faculty of Kinesiology with a major in Athletic Therapy in 2005 from the University of Winnipeg. While in university she worked with the Wesmen Women’s Volleyball team for 3 years, several club football teams and spent many hours in the University’s Athletic Therapy clinic. Her program focused on the importance of proper assessments and rehabilitation of injuries and ignited her passion for integrating massage techniques into treatment sessions.
After university she moved to Lake Louise to work at the ski resort and volunteered at a local athletic therapy clinic working alongside Canadian Olympic cross country ski athletes. There she was introduced to the effectiveness of active release techniques. The diversity in treatment strategies that she was learning sparked a yearning to sharpen her emergency management skills. She then completed her training as an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) followed by Emergency Medical Technician from the Canadian College of EMS. Later that winter she put her skills to the test as ski patrol at the Snow Valley Ski Resort. She moved back to Bonnyville in 2007, where she still resides, and accepted a position as a physiotherapy assistant at Health First Physiotherapy. There she gained invaluable experience rehabilitating clients involved in motor vehicle collisions, worker’s compensation cases, local athletes and general public. On weekends, when she wasn’t in the physiotherapy clinic, she was working for the Bonnyville Municipal Ambulance, both of which she dedicated 7 years. During her years in physiotherapy she worked alongside an amazing massage therapist who inspired Candace to become one herself. In 2013 she completed her massage therapy diploma from Alberta Massage Training and moved her practice to the Oasis Spa in Cold Lake. In that time, she has worked alongside some great professionals and met many wonderful people and is looking forward to continuing to learn and grow at Elevation Health!
Massage is definitely Candace’s PASSION! She will tell you that she loves her career and this is what she is meant to do! All of her education and experiences have culminated to make your massage experience thorough and unique. She integrates her assessment and rehabilitative experience with massage techniques. Massage therapy is very dynamic, no two therapists are alike, they choose the path that best compliments their interests and techniques to compliment client treatments. Candace defines her approach as “therapeutic”, a mixture of relaxation and deep tissue, with complimentary adjuncts such as myofascial cupping, hot stone therapy, kinesiotaping, and athletic taping. Amongst these disciplines she also provides pre and post natal massage. The drive and pursuit for lifelong learning at Elevation Health is making us all Freakin’ Amazing Muscle Whisperer’s! When Candace isn’t at the office she loves to spend time with her friends and family cooking up a storm, playing games and enjoying life!
Kyla BANKS
REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPIST - Cold Lake
Kyla was born and raised in Humboldt Saskatchewan. After high school she moved to Saskatoon to attend The Professional Institute of Massage Therapy. She has been a massage therapist for the past 10 years working in spas, massage clinics and also self employed with a mobile massage business.
Over the years, she has seen a wide variety of clients, helping her become a very versatile therapist. This has developed her skills to make sure each treatment is specifically tailored to each client.
She specializes in deep tissue massage and is passionate in the areas of pre and postnatal massage, intra-oral TMJ massage, and hip flexor work.
"I believe that the mental aspect of a massage is just as important as the physical aspect, to ensure every client leaves feeling their absolute best!"
Outside of work you will find Kyla travelling with her fiancé, spending time at the lake, sipping an iced coffee.
Ange Martinez
REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPIST - Cold Lake
I graduated from the VH Vicars School of Massage Therapy in Calgary, with 2200 certified hours. I was born in Venezuela and graduated as a computer engineer, working as a consultant for different banks in Latin America and Europe for more than 10 years. I moved to Canada in 2012 and made this great country our home!
I decided to take a 360 degrees change in my professional life by starting to do what I really love. Helping people to live without physical discomfort is my passion. I have been a Massage Therapist for 7 years working in spas, and also self employed with a home based business. As a Massage Therapist , I find great satisfaction in meeting the different challenges that each and every body presents, putting into practice all the knowledge I have acquired to help them feel better. I like to approach every session with an effective and safe treatment plan, and realistic goals, in an attempt to get the most out of your time. I understand that some people come for a specific treatment while others come just to relax. Either way, massage is a great tool to improve quality of life, and I am privileged to be able to help provide that.
I specialize in deep tissue massage, hot stone, and cupping. I am passionate about treating and relieving pain from musculoskeletal conditions, imbalances due to stress, bad habits, or poor posture. I am also passionate in the areas of pre and postnatal massage as well as infant massage.
I like to keep myself up to date and am always learning. I have completed courses in Kinesiotaping, Acupressure/Meridian/Essential Oils, Reconciling Biomechanics with Pain Science and Reiki 2.
When I am not working l enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, photography, reading, re-decorating my house, yoga and most recently skiing.
Melanie MCFEETERS
MASSAGE Therapist Student - Cold Lake + Meadow lake
In the world of Equine Sports Therapy, Melanie has had the honor of working with elite athletes, particularly the revered horses that captivate audiences at the Calgary Stampede. Her hands have also skillfully tended to world champion bucking horses, marking a pivotal moment in her commitment to the well-being of both humans and animals.
Melanie envisions a future specializing in occupational health, weaving together her passion for wellness with her diverse experiences.
Beyond the massage table, Melanie's life is pretty busy. She's a mom to, newest addition, little Tucker, helps out with the family grain farm, and pitches in with the log trucks alongside her spouse.
As a self-professed "crazy horse girl" and dedicated barrel racer, Melanie's venture into massage therapy stems from a desire to seamlessly transition her expertise from Equine Sports Therapy to human care.
Melanie's goal is simple: "As a massage therapist, my passion is your well-being. I strive to bring comfort and ease, guiding others towards a life without pain."
Melanie looks forward to this dynamic journey as she skillfully blends her dedication to health, and the artistry of massage therapy into a unique tapestry aimed at enhancing the well-being of all those she encounters.
AMY Senecal
Personal Trainer/ Client Care Coordinator - cold lake
Amy is a Certified Personal Trainer with a passion for healthy living and wellness.
She continues to expand her knowledge in the field of fitness and has received additional certifications as a Nutritionist, Exercise Recovery Specialist, and Glute Training Specialist for core strength, balance and stability.
Amy cares deeply about the wellbeing of her clients and strives for excellence in helping people reach their health and fitness goals with the rest of the great team at Elevation Health.
Jenna Cronin
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Jenna was born and raised in London Ontario, but has called Cold Lake home for the past 12 years. She has an education studying various forms of art and has a passion for all things that require creativity. She brings 13 years of customer service experience to her position. She takes pride in ensuring that you experience the highest level of customer service and will work with you to ensure your experience with scheduling appointments and billing are as stress free as possible. Creating relationships with patients is very important to her and she loves seeing patients smiling faces from the good experience they receive when they enter the clinic.
Outside of Elevation you will find her spending time with her three young boys and husband, creating for her design business , paddleboarding or visiting family in Ontario.
GINA PATTERSON
CLIENT EXPERIENCE MANAGER
Just a girl from the east making her best life out west! My Alberta adventure started on a whim after moving from a small town in Northern Ontario, to continue my career as a Social Service Worker. It was a big move that paid off!
Shortly after relocating, I met my spouse of 14 years, changed careers completely, expanded my family and settled in for the long haul. I am a mom to 3 kids, and 2 fur babies who enjoys downhill skiing, curling, gardening/plants, CrossFit, traveling our beautiful country and spending time at home with my family!
A lot of change in those first few years of being in Cold Lake, but it was all for the better. Even though I graduated from Loyalist College in Belleville Ontario as a SSW, I kept getting drawn back to the Administrative side of things and have been able to gain a wealth of experience and skills over 21 years. I am excited to take on my role and look forward to growing my educational background in the future!
