What conditions do you treat?

Please see the services page for a full list. I can also work with you towards a fitness or performance goal, without an underlying complaint.

How long are your appointments?

Initial assessments are 1 hour in person, or we can do two 30minute appointments, with the first half being virutal to gather your health history and the second half in person to do the physical assessment. Pessary Fitting appointments are booked for 60minutes. 

What are you doing in clinic to protect against COVID-19?

I have implemented various infection control measures at all my locations as outlined by the Ministry of Health and College of Physiotherapists of Ontario so that we both stay safe and healthy. This includes clients and myself completing a COVID screening to ensure we are both low risk when meeting in person, and following all advised cleaning protocols in the clinic. Mask mandates will be followed as outlined by Public Health for Healthcare settings. 

Do you do direct billing, MVA claims or WSIB claims?

Only at the Defy Sport Performance and Physiotherapy location. Otherwise you are billed at the time of your appointment and you can claim your appointment independently with your insurance company. If you are claiming under MVA or WSIB I can direct you to local practioners who work under this model.

Can I claim Pelvic Health appointments under Physiotherapy for insurance purposes?

Yes! I am a Registered Physiotherapist in Ontario and you can claim all appointments under Physiotherapy with your private insurance provider, whether I am seeing you for an orthopedic, pelvic health or pessary fitting appointment. 

Do you offer services to those in the LGBTQ2+ community?

Although the majority of my training and clinical experience has involved cisgender women, I am an LGBTQIA2+ ally. The majority of the principles and concepts in the holistic, biopsychosocial approach that I take with any of my clients can be applicable and useful to anyone, however there are specific considerations to take into account when someone is undergoing gender affirmation therapy or surgery. I am familiar with Physiotherapy techniques that can be helpful with chest feminization or masculinization surgeries, as well as post-op vaginoplasty including dilator use. Feel free to message me below if you have any questions, and if I cannot address them adequately for you then I can refer you to another local practitioner with additional education and insight.

Do you offer Pelvic Health Physiotherapy to those with male anatomy?

Yes, I can help with pelvic concerns with any genital anatomy, although the bulk of my experience is with cisgendered women. I am familiar with treating primarily urinary incontinence for cisgendered men (assigned male at birth), but do strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for all my clients. 

Do I have to participate in an internal pelvic floor exam?

Nope. Every part of a Physiotherapy exam is completely dependent on your comfort, consent and what your concerns are. An internal exam may not be indicated as part of your care if you are coming in for something like shoulder pain. If you have low back or hip pain, then an internal exam may be beneficial but it is always up to you. If you have a pelvic health specific complaint then an internal exam would be indicated and would allow us to have the most complete picture of what is contributing to your concerns. However, this is always done within your comfort and consent, and we can stop an assessment at any time or defer to completing it at another appointment. Learn about what is involved in an internal exam.

Do I have to do anything to ‘prepare’ for a pelvic health assessment?

Whatever makes you feel comfortable. Your choice of “hair style” or personal grooming tends not to impact the assessment. You do not need to shower or “clean up” before an appointment.

Can I have a pelvic health assessment on my period?

Yes, you can! Vaginal tissues do change in response to our hormones so it can be valuable to be assessed during your period, especially if you have more symptoms related to your menstrual cycle. I will have you remove your tampon or diva cup, if you use one, before the internal and you can replace it afterwards. Internal exams are always done with your consent, so if you aren’t feeling it while you are on your period then we can always refrain and revisit another day if needed. 

I have been referred to you by another Pelvic Health Physiotherapist or practitioner for a pessary fitting. What do I do?

For All Things Pelvic in Kitchener, you can book pessary fitting appointments directly by calling 519-222-2402 and Helen will be able to set that up for you and give you any information that you need. For a fitting at Ebb and Flow Wellness in Burlington, please email me directly at jtc.rpt@gmail.com so that we can set up an appointment. You will get an email after you book your appointment outlining the pessary fitting appointment as well as some paperwork to complete. Please see the contacts page and feel free to check out more information about pessaries. I am not currently fitting pessaries at the Guelph location as of 2023. 

Still have questions? Feel free to check out the education section for information about pain and pelvic health concerns, or send me your question below!