From a young age, I have always been a sports enthusiast. As a spectator and participant, I immersed myself in anything and everything. As I entered University, I knew that human biomechanics and sports injuries were of specific interest to me. My family has been in the knee bracing industry since 1980, which undoubtedly helped direct me to both Pedorthics and knee bracing. I have experience in and enjoy assessing individuals of all ages and activity levels, especially athletes ranging from professional to weekend warriors. Over the years I have assessed members of the Vancouver Canucks, Vancouver Giants, BC Lions, and Vancouver Whitecaps. Regardless of one’s activity level, I truly believe an integrated approach is key in addressing soft tissue injuries.

I have a Bachelor of Human Kinetics from The University of British Columbia, and am a Certified Pedorthist (Canada) and Certified Pedorthic Technician (Canada). I am a member in good standing with the College of Pedorthics, and the Pedorthic Association of Canada.

From a young age, I have always been a sports enthusiast. As a spectator and participant, I immer... Read More

Dr. Wendy Tao, a licensed Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, completed her medical training at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine (BINM). She also has a Bachelor of Science from the University of Alberta.

With a focus in naturopathic and aesthetic medicine, Dr. Tao bridges the gap between the two by using the body’s natural processes to achieve optimal health.

Naturopathic treatments used by Dr. Tao may include clinical nutrition and lifestyle counselling, herbal medicine, homeopathy, vitamins & supplements, intravenous (IV) nutrition and chelation therapy, and functional lab and nutrigenomic testing.

Medical aesthetic services offered by Dr. Tao include Botulinum (Nuceiva, Botox, Dysport), dermal filler injections (Teosyal, Stylage), and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) for face and scalp.

Dr. Tao offers general practice with particular focus on:

• Environmental detoxification
• Chemical & food sensitivity
• Women’s health including menstrual irregularities, endometriosis, fibroids, yeast infections, breast health, PMS, PCOS, dysmenorrhea
• Peri-Menopause & Menopause including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood imbalances, fatigue, bone health, poor memory, and low libido
• Adrenal insufficiency/fatigue
• Digestive disorders include indigestion, acid reflux, IBS, gas, chronic bloating, colitis, diarrhea, and constipation
• Sleep disorders
• Weight loss and management
• Cosmetic and therapeutic injections (e.g., TMJ, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), migraines headaches)

Dr. Tao has advanced injectables education in Botulinum and dermal fillers from CBAM (Canadian Board of Aesthetic Medicine). She has also completed courses in cosmetic and therapeutic neuromodulators, and dermal fillers injection certifications from Dr. Alibhai at MD Cosmetics.

Dr. Tao is in good standing with the College of Naturopathic Physicians of British Columbia (CNPBC). She is also a member of the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND) and the British Columbia Naturopathic Association (BCNA).

Dr. Tao has authored several articles on natural health topics, and has co-authored a cookbook titled “Authentic Chinese Smart Carb Cookbook. She has also presented at various conferences and continuing education seminars. She is fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.

When not working at the clinic, she can be found hiking on trails around the Lower Mainland or appreciating gourmet food with friends and family.

Dr. Wendy provides her services through Pacific Coast Integrative Medical Centre Inc., a health profession corporation.

Dr. Wendy Tao, a licensed Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, completed her medical training at the ... Read More

I always knew I wanted to help others through their healing journeys. Becoming a chiropractor resonated with me because I loved the philosophy and science behind it. To me, being a chiropractor is so much more than manual adjustments. It’s really not just about the ‘cracking.’ I create a safe space that honours your mental, physical, and emotional health. I use a number of techniques to help you relax throughout the treatment, in order to get the most effective results. This can include the use of stretching, active release, heat, massage devices, or laser. Manual adjustments are done using my hands or an activator, and nothing is done without your consent. For example, if you’re not comfortable having your neck adjusted, I will use other methods to help correct alignment in that area.

I have been working in Ladner for almost 8 years, and although I live in Vancouver, I have grown to love this community. I’m excited about joining the team at Collaborative Wellness because I believe so strongly in their collaborative and caring approach with patients. I help people of all genders, abilities, and ages (with the exception of babies), including pre- and post-natal care. Most people that come to see me have pain, and my focus is to help you become pain free as quickly as possible, and then give you the tools you need to help you stay pain free. Common things I treat are neck and back pain, headaches and migraines, knee, ankle, and foot pain, vertigo and dizziness, arthritic pain, decreased mobility, nerve pain, poor posture, pelvic pain, and leg length discrepancies. I also work at Rize Fitness in Vancouver and there I focus heavily on sports rehab.

My credentials: I studied biology and kinesiology, before transitioning to the Western States Chiropractic College where I got my Doctor of Chiropractic degree. I am also a member in good standing with the Canadian Chiropractic Association.

I always knew I wanted to help others through their healing journeys. Becoming a chiropractor res... Read More

I’m Mila, a fourth-year Naturopathic Medicine Student at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (Boucher Campus). I have a previous degree in Biomedical Science with a minor in Psychology from the University of Waterloo.

As a teenager, I struggled with cystic acne. I was not having success with the conventional treatments I was trying, so I sought a more holistic approach and learned about Naturopathic Medicine. I wanted to identify and address the underlying condition.

My experience ignited a passion for natural healing, particularly in women’s health, skin health, and primary care. I aim to develop individualized treatment plans for patients by addressing the root cause of the condition and educating on how to take charge of your health.

When not in the clinic, I remain active by hiking, skiing, and doing hot yoga. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family members and exploring new foods.

I look forward to helping you become your most vital self (from the inside out)!

I’m Mila, a fourth-year Naturopathic Medicine Student at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Med... Read More

I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. I have experience working with youth and adults dealing with cross-cultural issues, family/marital issues, domestic violence, school concerns, anxiety, depression, substance use, and concurrent disorders (both mental health and substance use together).

I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. In addition to my private practice at Collaborative Wellness, I am currently working as a clinical counsellor in the Primary Care Network of Richmond, part of Vancouver Coastal Health. I have also worked as a concurrent disorders counsellor in the Provincial Youth Concurrent Disorders Program and the Heartwood Centre for Women at BC Children’s and Women’s Hospital. Additionally, I’ve worked at the Mood Disorders Clinic at UBC Hospital, and in the Reproductive Mental Health Clinic at BC Women’s Hospital.

I spend time creating a safe, comfortable and trusting relationship with my clients. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is very important in helping clients discuss their issues and being supported to reach their counselling goals. I believe that clients are the experts of their life and that I understand their life experiences so that I can support the client in making practical and attainable changes.

I use various approaches when working with clients as I believe everyone is individual and that the therapy must fit the client, not the client fit the therapy. I work from a client-centred approach and the therapeutic approaches I use the most are motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioural therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I am flexible in working with the client and finding an approach that aids in a collaborative client-therapist relationship.

I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Associ... Read More

Please note: Lauren is a STUDENT naturopathic intern in her 4th year of study at the Boucher Campus of CCNM. She is supervised by Dr. Lisa Ghent, ND.

I have always gravitated towards healing careers and envisioned myself serving the public as a primary health care provider. My own struggles with energy, burnout and mood led me to a Naturopathic doctor. I was taken aback by the thoroughness and compassion of the visit. I left feeling educated and empowered in my own health journey, which inspired me to want to pursue my calling.

After graduating university, my journey in healthcare began in the field of behaviour optometry, where I served as a visual therapist treating post-concussive patients and children with learning disabilities such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorder. This experience equipped me with the valuable insights into the intricate relationship between vision, cognition and overall well-being. It also gave me the confidence to take the next step into the field of Naturopathic medicine.

As a 4th-year Naturopathic Doctor Intern, I am committed to empowering my patients to become active participants in their own health. I believe informed individuals make healthier choices and achieve a long-lasting well-being. I relish the opportunity to apply my skills in creative problem-solving, drawing from the many Naturopathic modalities; Whether it’s herbal medicine, nutrition, acupuncture or lifestyle counseling, I approach each case with a commitment to finding the most effective and personalized solutions.

Beyond the clinic, I love staying active through biking, weightlifting and dancing. I enjoy going on trips and holidays with my family, and on those rainy days snuggling up with my husband to watch a movie.

My credentials: Graduated from the University of Victoria with a BSc. In Biology and Psychology, 2024 Naturopathic Doctor Candidate, Certifications in Motor Training, Learning Related Visual Problem with Emphasis on TBI through the Optometric Extension Program Foundation, Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors Student Representative.

Please note: Lauren is a STUDENT naturopathic intern in her 4th year of study at the Boucher Camp... Read More

Please consider adding yourself to the waitlist if you would like to be seen within a shorter timeframe than what is available, or email me directly at acu.alyssa@gmail.com if you have an questions or concerns.

I love the spiritual shifts that are possible with acupuncture, and how they can help us become better versions of ourselves. I am especially interested in helping patients have more compassion for themselves, which ultimately is key to becoming the parent (or person) they want to become.

When becoming pregnant, it is not uncommon to experience a roller coaster of emotions - elation, worry, excitement, guilt. Tack on symptoms we are told “are just a part of pregnancy”, and one ends up suffering in silence. My passion lies in holding space for those patients so that they can experience each pregnancy in the most comfortable, safe way possible. I practice a gentle style of acupuncture, and it is of utmost importance that my patients are comfortable (Yes, I use the specialized pillows that enable you to lie face-down throughout all stages of pregnancy)! I am especially passionate about helping patients through higher-risk pregnancies, communicating with their birth team, managing symptoms, and helping them to manage any anxiety. After all, their nervous system is the baby’s nervous system for the first nine months. Please see the booking page for a more detailed list of conditions treated in pregnancy/postpartum.

While not working, I am chasing my two young boys around (and constantly making them snacks).

My Credentials: I have a Bachelor of Kinesiology from the University of Calgary, and graduated as an acupuncturist from the International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Vancouver. I am a Registered Acupuncturist in good standing with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of British Columbia (CTCMA). In 2014, I studied Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture for Face, Neck, and Abdomen with Martha Lucas, and in 2015, went to New York to study Constitutional Facial Acupuncture with Mary Elizabeth Wakefield. I have worked with and learned from some of the most prominent acupuncturists/researchers in Obstetrical acupuncture including Dr. Debra Betts, Dr. Claudia Citkovitz, Dr. Kate Levett, Sarah Budd, and Zena Kocher. In February 2020, I had an opportunity to attend an intensive led by Dr. Citkovitz at Langone Hospital in New York, working with labouring women using acupressure and acupuncture. I have attended additional prenatal/postpartum courses by renowned midwife/acupuncturist Raven Lang, Yvonne Farrell, Laura Elrich and many others. I coach couples and birthing professionals on acupressure use for pain relief during labour. My latest sports medicine course was with Whitfield Reeves. In addition, I have worked on the study and development of my own intuitive and energetic gifts, incorporating elements from Reiki 1 & 2, CranioSacral Therapy 1, 2, & 3, and Quantum Touch, among other techniques.

Please consider adding yourself to the waitlist if you would like to be seen within a shorter tim... Read More

I’m Jayden Dobson, a 4th year Naturopathic Medical Student. I was drawn to Naturopathic Medicine when I realized that true well-being extends beyond the absence of disease. This realization inspired me to find a career where I could support individuals on their journey toward optimal wellness.

My approach is rooted in collaboration, acknowledging that each person has a distinct path to wellness. It is my priority to develop individualized treatment plans that align with your personal values and health goals. I find a deep sense of fulfillment in educating patients, offering insights into their health, and empowering them with the knowledge essential to reach their highest potential.

I look forward to working together on your path to a healthier, more vibrant life!

When I’m not at the clinic, you can find me in the outdoors hiking, camping, and connecting with friends and family!

I’m Jayden Dobson, a 4th year Naturopathic Medical Student. I was drawn to Naturopathic Medicine... Read More

As of April 12, 2024, I am not accepting new patients to my waitlist. All existing patients can continue to see me, regardless of when the last visit was, but please ensure to book the appropriate visit length.

If you were hoping to have your initial visit with Dr. Lisa, don’t worry, there are several other options available at our clinic: - Dr. Wendy Tao ND: An experienced and caring doctor that sees adults and seniors for a range of health concerns, including hormones, cardiovascular health, digestion, and detox support. - Any of the Naturopathic Interns: All are 4th year students who are trained and supervised by Dr. Lisa directly. If you would like to be a long-term patient of Dr. Lisa’s, you will need to have your initial visit with an intern. The interns treat all the same patients that Dr. Lisa does including babies, children, teens, and older.

For return patients: It’s important that you book a visit appropriate in length for what you would like to cover. - If it’s been more than a year since your last appointment, please book a minimum of 60 minutes, and if your concerns have significantly changed, please fill out a new intake form. - If it has been between 6 - 12 months since your last visit, please book at least 45 minutes. - For less than 6 months, book the length that was recommended at your last visit.

NEW: Do you have a group of people that would like education/information on any of the topics listed above? I am now offering small group visits (from 2 to 6) that can be 1 - 3 hours in length. These group visits may or may not be covered by extended health plans. Please contact the office by email if you are interested and would like more information: hello@collaborativewellness.ca.

Thank you for your continued support!

Dr. Lisa provides services through Collaborative Wellness, Inc, a health profession corporation.

As of April 12, 2024, I am not accepting new patients to my waitlist. All existing patients can c... Read More