Julia McDaniels leads our Pelvic Health / Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy practice. She has over 15 years experience treating patients at River East Physiotherapy.

Unique Service Offerings

Julia offers a wide variety of physiotherapy services relevant to the pelvic floor and pelvic health. She also offers acupuncture & dry needling, and assessment and treatment of running injuries. That means for she’s your person for:

• Pregnant or post-partum runners,
• Incontinence,
• Pelvic pain,
• Pelvic organ prolapse, or
• Anything related to pelvic floor physiotherapy.

Julia is skilled at providing physiotherapy via video call, which can be a very comforting option for clients dealing with sensitive pelvic health issues.

She speaks English or French.

Julia’s Approach

Julia takes a highly adaptable approach to treatment. “I like to really get to know my patients so I can determine which treatment approach will work best for that individual person,” says Julia. “Then I can tailor their treatment plan to meet their specific needs.

“I find some people need a very active-based approach, some require more hands-on treatment, and some just need high quality education,” says Julia. “I do a lot of work to prepare for my clients, and that helps me adapt quickly.”

Training & Qualifications

Julia is a graduate of the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation with a degree in Physical Therapy. On top of her university qualifications, she has completed training in:

• Pelvic Health Physiotherapy (Levels 1, 2 & 3, Pelvic Health Solutions)
• Pregnancy and the Pelvic Girdle (Pelvic Health Solutions)
• The Evil Triplets of Pelvic Pain (Pelvic Health Solutions)
• The Unhappy Bladder (Reframe Rehab)
• Myofascial Management of the Pelvic & Thoracic Outlets (Murray Machutchon)
• Acupuncture (Acupuncture Canada)
• Integrated Dry Needling (Whitmore Physiotherapy)
• New trends in the Prevention of Running Injuries (The Running Clinic)
• Managing the Injured Runner (Kim Senechal, Pan Am Clinic)
• Advanced Exercise and Physical Literacy (Jean-Francois Berard, Pure Physiotherapy)
• Physiologic Yoga Certification (Leslee Watt, Physiologic Yoga)
• Physical Literacy Enhanced Rehabilitation (Dr. Dean Kriellars, University of Manitoba)
• Advanced Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy (Level 1, Level 2 Upper Quadrant, Canadian Physiotherapy Association)
• Knee rehabilitation (Foundation Rehabilitation Symposium)
• Hand and wrist rehabilitation (Foundation Rehabilitation Symposium)
• Foot and ankle rehabilitation (Foundation Rehabilitation Symposium)
• Functional reconditioning programs
• TMJ assessment and treatment
• Custom orthotics

Read more about Julia on our website, here…

Julia McDaniels leads our Pelvic Health / Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy practice. She has over 15 y... Read More

Abby Jervis has over 20 years experience helping people get back to doing what they love, pain-free and with confidence.

Abby has a special passion and advanced training in hand physiotherapy. So for tricky or stubborn hand, arm and shoulder injuries, she’s your person.

Abby’s Approach

“I believe that great care starts with great listening,” says Abby. “I take the time to understand what each client is hoping to achieve — whether it’s returning to work, getting back on the hiking trail, or simply being able to lift a coffee mug without pain.

“Once we’ve clarified those goals, I provide a clear, realistic plan and timeline, so you know what to expect and how we’ll get there together.”

Unique Service Offerings

Abby likes to incorporate acupuncture and/or dry needling into her practice, allowing her to provide a more holistic approach to treatment.

She is also experienced in: - custom splinting, particularly finger splints and static hand splints, - performing ergonomic assessments, and - performing physical demands analyses.

Training & Qualifications

Abby Jervis holds a Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation in Physical Therapy from the University of Manitoba. On top of her university qualifications, she is also trained in:

• Acupuncture (Acupuncture: The Art and Science)
• Dry Needling (Kinetacore: Functional Dry Needling)
• Functional Capacity Evaluations (WorkWell Systems Inc.)
• Advanced Orthopedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy (Canadian Academy of Manipulative Therapies - Level 1; Level 2 Lower)
• Spine, shoulder, arm and hand mobilization (Mulligan Concept Mobilization – Spine and Upper Extremity Certificate)

Read more about Abby and her unique services here on our website…

Abby Jervis has over 20 years experience helping people get back to doing what they love, pain-fr... Read More

Karim Nweilati holds a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Manitoba. He has a keen interest in managing chronic back pain, and in treating neck and spine conditions. Karim has completed post-graduate training in acupuncture.

Karim’s Approach

“I prioritize understanding my patients’ concerns and needs,” says Karim. “This allows me to develop personalized recovery plans for each patient.

“My goal is to help patients return to their activities, whether it’s walking, sports, or something else. I strive to make physiotherapy enjoyable. And I like to take the time to explain the rationale behind each exercise and treatment technique – patients are often curious about this, and they deserve to know.”

Unique Services

Karim is bilingual and provides physiotherapy services in both English and Arabic.

Advanced Training

On top of his university qualifications, Karim has completed post-graduate training in:

• Relieving neck and upper back pain

• Improving recovery from surgery with Physical Literacy Enhanced Rehabilitation

• Low level laser

• Custom Orthotics

• Relieving jaw pain and dysfunction (TMJ issues)

• Ergonomic Assessments
• Acupuncture

Read more about Karim here on our website…

Karim Nweilati holds a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy and a Bachelor of Science from the Uni... Read More

Kris Seo holds a Master’s of Physical Therapy from the University of Manitoba’s faculty of Medical Rehabilitation.

He has completed post-graduate training in: - Acupuncture - Treating dizziness and balance issues, and - Relieving TMJ (jaw) pain and dysfunction.

Kris also holds a Bachelor of Kinesiology, with a minor in psychology.

Unique Service Offerings

Kris Seo is bilingual and can provide physiotherapy services in both English and Korean.

He also has extensive experience prescribing therapeutic exercise, drawing on his graduate-level training, his previous work as a personal trainer and his various roles leading group exercise sessions.

Kris’ Approach

“Clients get the best results when they feel empowered and are active participants in their treatment plan,” says Kris. “I do this by making sure my clients understand their injuries.

“I also like to focus on finding the cause of the injury, not just on treating the symptoms. Knowing the cause is crucial for preventing the injury from happening again, or for resolving long-standing injuries.”

Read more about Kris Seo here on our website…

Kris Seo holds a Master’s of Physical Therapy from the University of Manitoba’s faculty of Medica... Read More

Don Charbonneau, Physiotherapist, has been treating patients at River East Physiotherapy for nearly three decades. Don graduated in 1996 with a Bachelor’s of Medical Rehabilitation in Physical Therapy from the University of Manitoba. 

Don’s Approach

In the clinic, Don takes a hands-on approach to physiotherapy, customized to each client.  He uses manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and education, so his clients understand how they can best help themselves on their path to recovery.  

Don also uses “modalities,” including acupuncture, dry needling, and low level laser to facilitate healing and restore normal biomechanics.

Don is skilled at providing physiotherapy via video call.  

Advanced Training

On top of his university qualifications, Don has completed the following post-graduate training:

• Advanced Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy (Levels 2 & 3, Upper & Lower Quadrant Diplomas, Canadian Physiotherapy Association)

• Acupuncture (Acupuncture Canada)

• Dry Needling (Gokavi Transverse Technique Program)

• Jaw / Temporomandibular (TMJ) dysfunction - Evaluation and Treatment.

• McKenzie Method for Treating Low Back Pain - Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (The Robin McKenzie Institute Canada, Levels A & B)

• Functional abilities program evaluations and reconditioning program

• Custom orthotics

• Low Level Laser

• Parkinson’s Disease - Exercise as Primary Treatment (Neurofit BC)

• Manual Therapy of the Thoracic and Pelvic Outlets

• Physical Literacy Enhanced Rehabilitation (Dr. Dean Kriellars)

Read more about Don here on our website…

Don Charbonneau, Physiotherapist, has been treating patients at River East Physiotherapy for near... Read More

Liana Stecky has 30 years of clinical experience as a Registered Massage Therapist.

Liana’s Approach

Liana is passionate about helping people. She is intuitive and works to create a comfortable and calm environment for her patients. She uses a blend of techniques to treat stress-related concerns, injuries, and acute and chronic pain.

Unique Service Offerings

Liana is a graduate of the Wellington College of Remedial Massage Therapy, and has completed extensive post-graduate training. This includes training in relaxation massage, deep tissue massage, cupping, Gua sha Technique, scar tissue massage, and lymphatic massage therapy.

Read more about Liana here, on our website…

Liana Stecky has 30 years of clinical experience as a Registered Massage Therapist. Liana’s Appr... Read More

Dana Bubenko has a particular passion for working with clients living with post-stroke, brain injury, Parkinson’s, and other neurological conditions. Dana graduated in 1997 with a Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation in Physical Therapy from the University of Manitoba. 

Dana’s Approach

Dana takes a hands-on approach, working one-to-one to help her patients retrain normal, everyday movements that are important to them.

Unique Service Offerings

1. Stroke & Brain Injury: Dana’s extensive training and experience in stroke and brain injury rehabilitation make her services relatively unique in Manitoba.  

2. Hands-On Treatment: Dana’s manual therapy skills are also unique, particularly her approach to applying them with stroke and brain injury clients, and her skills in visceral manipulation. Visceral manipulation is a hands-on treatment to help your internal organs and nerves glide smoothly in your body.

3. Physiotherapy in Spanish: After working on the border of Mexico for over 20 years, Dana can provide Physiotherapy services in both English and Spanish.  

Read more about Dana on our website…

Dana Bubenko has a particular passion for working with clients living with post-stroke, brain inj... Read More

Johanna (pronounced “Yohanna”) Nicholson holds a Master’s of Physical Therapy from the University of Manitoba, and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Winnipeg. She loves getting clients back to their hobby, sport, job or regular day-to-day activities.

Johanna’s Approach

“I recognize that every injury and each person is very unique,” says Johanna. “So I like to provide a customized approach for each client that will fit with their lifestyle and schedule. I do this by partnering with my clients to meet their rehabilitation goals through a combination of education, hands-on therapy and therapeutic exercises.

“I believe it is important to get to the root of the problem and not only symptom management to help achieve optimal wellness.”

Unique Services

Johanna has a strong interest in relieving pain and stiffness from osteoarthritis, and in getting people back to their active lifestyles after joint replacement surgery. She leads our clinic’s hip & knee classes and our GLA:D classes.

Learn more about our clinic’s Arthritis Relief Program, here.

Advanced Training

On top of her university qualifications, Johanna has completed post-graduate training in:

• The latest evidence-based approaches for managing osteoarthritis (GLA:D Canada)

• Relieving jaw pain & dysfunction 

• Low level laser 

• Physical Literacy Enhanced Rehabilitation (Dr. Dean Kriellars, University of Manitoba)

• Custom orthotics

• Functional reconditioning programs

• Ergonomic Assessments

Read more about Johanna Nicholson on our website, here…

Johanna (pronounced “Yohanna”) Nicholson holds a Master’s of Physical Therapy from the University... Read More

Ryan Pang graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Science, and a Master of Physical Therapy through the faculty of Medical Rehabilitation. He is certified in acupuncture and dry needling, and is trained in performing functional abilities evaluations and reconditioning programs.

Ryan’s Approach

“I like to think of every injury as a problem that I need to solve. And no injury is ever exactly alike,” says Ryan. “My approach therefore tends to vary, depending on my patient’s injury, the acuteness of the injury and what type of treatment the patient is best responding to. I’m always modifying my approach to help get my patients better faster.”

Unique Service Offerings

On top of general physiotherapy services, Ryan offers dry needling, acupuncture, and custom orthotics. He’s also skilled at treating patients by video call.

As a professional mixed martial artist, Ryan has unique insight into preventing and treating injuries associated with martial arts and other high-level sports. He understands mental, physical, and performance demands facing athletes, and loves to customize his treatment to help them achieve their goals.

Training & Qualifications

Ryan Pang holds a Master’s of Physical Therapy and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Manitoba’s faculty of Medical Rehabilitation. On top of his university qualifications, he is also trained in:

• Acupuncture (Acupuncture Canada)
• Dry Needling (Kineticore Functional Dry Needling Level 1)
• Physical Literacy Enhanced Rehabilitation (Dr. Dean Kriellars)
• Functional abilities evaluations and reconditioning programs
• Jaw / Temporomandibular (TMJ) dysfunction treatment
• Custom orthotics (Paris Orthotics Technical training)
• Parkinson’s Disease - Exercise as Primary Treatment (Neurofit BC)
• Ergonomic Assessments
• Low Level Laser

Read more about Ryan on our website, here…

Ryan Pang graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Science, and a Master of P... Read More

Alexandra (Alex) de Vries’s physiotherapy practice focuses on vestibular and concussion rehabilitation. She has nearly 29 years experience, and is one of the most highly trained vestibular physiotherapists in Winnipeg.

Alex graduated with a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy from the Industrial University of Santander, Colombia, in 1996. She came to Winnipeg in 1998 and completed a Master of Science in Rehabilitation at the University of Manitoba in 2002.

Alex’s Approach

“I believe there are important social and emotional matters associated with disability from an injury,” says Alex. “Understanding what is most important for a patient is the best way to help them.

“My role as a physiotherapist is to help people take their power back in their lives, by moving better and functioning better. It’s also important for me to advocate for patients – that means I make sure they get the support they need to reach their goals.”

Advanced Training

Alex de Vries has completed extensive post-graduate training.  Most of this training has been in acupuncture and rehabilitation for vestibular, concussion, bone & joint, and respiratory conditions. 

Here’s just a sample of the post-graduate courses Alex has completed:

• Vestibular Rehabilitation: A Competency-Based Course (Emory Conference Center, Atlanta, Georgia, 2017)
• Vestibular Assessment & Management certification (The American Institute of Balance, Florida, May 3-9 2019, with recertification in 2025, 2023 and 2021)
• Concussion management workshop (Concussion Rehab Works, Level 1 2016, Calgary, Level 2, Vancouver 2018)
• Concussion: What about the Neck? (Carol Kennedy, PT, Toronto, 2018)
• Physical Literacy Enhanced Rehabilitation (Dr. Dean Kriellars, 2024)
• Acupuncture certification (Acupuncture Canada, 2008)
• Respiratory Educator certification (Canadian Network for Respiratory Care, 2015). This certification allows her to provide education and treatment for patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD).

In the 23 years Alex has been a physiotherapist in Canada, she has worked in a multitude of physiotherapy environments in both private clinics and public practice. As such, Alex is uniquely positioned to care for patients with complex medical conditions.  

 Read more about Alex here on our website here…

Alexandra (Alex) de Vries’s physiotherapy practice focuses on vestibular and concussion rehabilit... Read More

Yulia Agarkov has a keen interest in massage therapy for rehabilitation. She has diverse experience and qualifications as a health care practitioner, including as a nurse and a health care aide.

Yulia graduated from the Wellington College of Remedial Massage Therapy in Winnipeg. Her approach focuses on delivering high quality, client-centered care. She is skilled in treating both acute and chronic conditions.

“For me, every client is a challenge,” says Yulia. “I do an assessment to determine what dysfunction my client has, and then find the best way to help them.

“I like to work as a team with other health professionals, including physiotherapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and athletic therapists. I think working as a health care team can help clients achieve their goals faster.”

Yulia is fluent in English, Russian and Hebrew, plus she understands Ukrianian quite well. She’s happy to provide service in these languages, to help make clients more comfortable.

Yulia has advanced training in fascial treatment - click here to learn the benefits of fascial treatment.

Given her unique background as a nurse as well as a massage therapist, Yulia is well equipped to treat patients with complex medical conditions.

Read more about Yulia…

Yulia Agarkov has a keen interest in massage therapy for rehabilitation. She has diverse experie... Read More

Unique Service Offerings

Ranjeet is multilingual. She can provide physiotherapy services in English, Hindi, Punjabi, Bengali and Nepali.

Training & Qualifications

As a physiotherapist Ranjeet Jass’s post-graduate training has included working for six years alongside an orthopedic surgeon.

She has experience treating a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions, and has worked with numerous pediatrics patients with neurological conditions like Cerebral Palsy, Down syndrome, autism, and milestone delay.

Ranjeet Jass holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) from Lyallpur Khalsa College, Jalandhar, with is affiliated with Guru Nanak Dev University, India. She is registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Manitoba.

Ranjeet’s Approach

“I believe every patient has a story beyond their injury,” says Ranjeet.

“My approach is to listen, understand what matters most to them, and create a treatment plan that helps them return to the life they enjoy. I want my patients to feel heard, supported, and confident throughout their recovery.”

More About Ranjeet Jass

Tell us the story of why you became a physiotherapist?

“Growing up, I always wanted to become a doctor,” says Ranjeet. “My father had rheumatoid arthritis, and I saw firsthand how physiotherapy played an important role in helping him manage his condition and improve his quality of life.

“Around the same time, someone suggested I explore physiotherapy as a career. I attended career counselling at my college, where I learned more about the profession and the opportunities it offered. The combination of science, hands-on treatment, and the ability to help people recover and see real progress really inspired me.

“Instead of pursuing medicine, I chose physiotherapy because it allowed me to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives, and I have been passionate about the profession ever since.

What do you like about being a physiotherapist?

“What I love most about being a physiotherapist is seeing hope return to a patient’s face. Helping someone go from pain and dependence to confidence and independence is incredibly rewarding.”

What do you like best about working at River East Physiotherapy?

“I love being part of a team that truly puts patients first. Everyone works together to help patients feel comfortable, supported, and confident throughout their recovery.”

What are some compliments you’ve received from patients?

“Patients often tell me that I listen carefully, explain things in a simple way, and make them feel comfortable.

“They appreciate that I genuinely care about their progress and always encourage them.”

What’s something you’re proud of?

“I’m proud of building my physiotherapy career in Canada after years of hard work, and continuing to grow while helping people improve their lives.”

What’s your favourite thing to do at work?

“My favourite part of the day is celebrating even the smallest wins with my patients —whether it’s taking their first pain-free steps, returning to work, or simply doing something they couldn’t do before.”

Are there any particular clinical challenges you’re passionate about solving?

“I like treating musculoskeletal conditions because every patient is different. Solving movement problems and seeing patients regain their independence is what motivates me every day.”

Is there a clinical area you’re particularly interested in?

“I have a special interest in musculoskeletal rehabilitation because I enjoy helping people overcome pain and get back to doing what they love.

“I also enjoy working with post-operative patients and people living with neurological conditions. Every recovery is different, which keeps me learning and growing as a physiotherapist.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?

“Outside of work, I enjoy staying active by going to the gym, taking long walks, and exploring new trails.

“I also love discovering new restaurants and trying different cuisines with my friends—I’m always excited to find a hidden gem or taste something new.

“When I’m looking to relax, you’ll usually find me reading a good book, watching documentaries, or painting once in a while.

“I also enjoy cooking and experimenting with new recipes. I believe having a healthy balance between work, hobbies, and time with loved ones helps me stay energized and bring my best to my patients.”

Do you have any strong skills outside of therapy?

“I’m a naturally curious person—I thrive on learning. I’ve always been the type of person who asks ‘why,’ ‘how,’ and ‘what if?’ because I enjoy understanding the bigger picture. Whether it’s learning a new skill, watching a documentary, reading a book, or exploring a new culture through food, I’m always looking for opportunities to grow.

“I also love connecting with people, planning adventures with friends, and discovering new restaurants and cuisines. I think this curiosity helps me become a better problem-solver and allows me to bring fresh ideas and an open mind to both my personal life and my work as a physiotherapist.”

What’s something that few people know about you?

“Something that few people know about me is that I have a fear of heights. Growing up, it was a very strong phobia, but I made a promise to myself that I wouldn’t let fear stop me from experiencing life.

“Since then, I’ve pushed myself to try activities like zip-lining, rappelling and paragliding. Every experience is scary at first, but it reminds me that some of the best moments in life happen when we step outside our comfort zone.”

Someone who knows you well would describe you as…

“My family and friends would describe me as caring, honest, and optimistic. They know me as someone who is always willing to help, listens without judging, and enjoys encouraging others.

“They would also say that I’m hardworking, resilient, and always ready to learn from new experiences.”

What do you love about Winnipeg?

“I’m still exploring everything Winnipeg has to offer, but one of my favourite things is how close it is to nature. In the summer, I love visiting the lakes and beaches—they’re beautiful places to relax, unwind, and enjoy the scenery.

“In the winter, it’s amazing to see the nearby lakes completely frozen, and activities like ice fishing make the season so much fun.”

“I also enjoy the greenery, the peaceful atmosphere, and the variety of restaurants around the city.

“Winnipeg has such a calm and welcoming vibe, and I know I still have many more places and experiences to discover.”

Unique Service Offerings Ranjeet is multilingual. She can provide physiotherapy services in Eng... Read More