Karen grew up in Southwestern Ontario but always had a desire to live by the ocean or the mountains. She found herself often travelling to the west coast for vacation and thinking, "I wish I could live here!" In 2025, she decided to make her dream a reality and moved to Victoria to enjoy the island life!
Karen graduated with a bachelors degree in Health and Rehabilitation Science from the University of Western Ontario. She went on to complete her Masters of Physiotherapy at Queen's University in 2015. Karen always had an interest learning about biomechanics and how the body moves and functions in everyday activities. Her interest in neuro rehabilitation blossomed after completing two neuro clinical placements during her Masters Degree. She found the brain the most interesting structure of them all! From there, she developed a passion for learning about all things neuro.
Following graduation, Karen worked at Parkwood Institute in London, Ontario on the inpatient Stroke and Neurological Rehabilitation unit. She found it extremely rewarding working with individuals in the early stages of recovery, witnessing neuroplastic change on a daily basis. She understood how important it was to motivate and create FUNctional treatment plans that focus on patient centered goals during this critical time in their rehabilitation journey. Her treatment ideology stems from the motto, "if it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you".
Karen has a special interest in treating those with stroke and brain injury. In order to optimize functional outcomes, Karen has pursued additional education in neuro recovery, earning her full Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) certification, as well as advanced courses including working with individuals with ataxia, pusher syndrome, acute management, and gait retraining. She also has training in the use of the Hocoma Lokomat, Eksobionics Exoskeleton, Restorative Technologies Functional Electrical Stimulation, and Body Weight Support Treadmill training.
Karen was also a clinical instructor at Western University in the department of Physical Therapy. She has a passion for teaching and frequently takes on physical therapy students, many of whom continued to work in the neuro field following graduation. She was awarded the clinical preceptor award from Western University in 2020. She has also participated in research studies analyzing the use of technology in neurological recovery and rehabilitation.
Outside of work, you can find Karen walking her dog, Rex, along the many paths and trails around the city. She keeps herself active by playing Pickleball and Ultimate Frisbee. She loves travelling and exploring the world, immersing herself in all new cultures and cuisines! She is always looking for recommendations for new trails to hike and restaurants to enjoy.
