OUR STAFF

Our interdisciplinary Health Care Team is comprised of a local regulated healthcare providers. Together we strive to help you accomplish your goals and achieve your potential through focused health care that meets your needs.

CLINICAL CARE MANAGER
Tara Pieczko

CLINICAL SUPERVISOR
Terri Zeleny - Nova Care site

REGISTERED PHYSIOTHERAPISTS
Michael Poling PT, MScPT, MSc, HBK, CAFCI, Cert. MDT, Adv. Practice PT (Spine)
Matthew Beda PT, MSc, BSc, Cert. IDN, CAFCI, MScPT
Andrew Hubbard PT, HBA, ACCDN, MCISs Adv. Practice CMP, FCAMPT
Hasan Rahman PT, BScPT, DPT, NASM-CPT, CES. Cert. Ortho Medicine, Cert. MDN
Nathan Di Franco PT, MScPT, HBK
Leigh Jeffries PT Res., MScPT, MSc, HBK

REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPISTS
Kelly Catton RMT

SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIAN (CERTIFIED)
Dr. Sheryl Wark CCFP (SEM), Dip. Sport Med, HBK, BSc

REGISTERED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
Jory Spring OT Reg. (Ont), MScOT

REGISTERED SOCIAL WORK & COUNSELLING
Kaitlyn Ciddio MSW

REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
Chad Clower Reg. CASLPO, MSc

REGISTERED KINESIOLOGIST
Frank Avella RKin, HBK, WorkWell Certified

BIOGRAPHIES

ADMINISTRATIVE

Tara Pieczko (she/her), Clinical Care Manager
Tara holds an Office Administrative Certificate. Her warm and friendly personality, along with her management skills and dedication to staff and patients, keeps our clinic running smoothly. She is often busy at work behind the scenes, whether assisting our motor vehicle accident clients and physios with their paperwork, or billing extended health & insurance companies. Tara loves the outdoors and spending time with her boys and her 2 fur babies, Trixie and Harley.

Terri Zeleny (she/her), Clinical Supervisor
Terri was born and raised in Thunder Bay. She has been working in support roles in physiotherapy clinics since 1986 spending most of that time as a Physiotherapist Assistant and more recently in an administrative role. She has always been a people person and is grateful for the experience of working with so many people in Thunder Bay and surrounding area. Hearing their stories and being able to assist in their recovery has been a very enriching & rewarding experience. Terri is active in the Thunder Bay community being on the board for Bicycles for Humanity for 8 yrs and a Scout leader for 7 yrs. She was an avid runner participating and volunteering at many races, triathlons and other community events such as the Dragon Boat races and Bluesfest. With a love of the outdoors and adventure Terri spends her downtime fishing, kayaking and camping. Quetico is a favorite spot at the Dawson Trail campground as well as off the grid back country trips. She is also a licensed skydiver with close to 100 solo jumps. She is the mother to adult twin sons who have enjoyed many adventures with her, including skydiving together! She loves to spend time with them, their spouses and her extended family.

REGISTERED PHYSIOTHERAPISTS

Michael Poling (he/him), PT, MScPT, MSc, HBK, CAFCI, Cert. MDT, Adv. Practice PT (Spine)
Mike Poling has been a long standing member of the healthcare community since beginning to work with patients as a Kinesiologist in 1991, completing a research Master’s degree in Sports Medicine and Biomechanics after his undergraduate degree. In 2002, he returned to academics to complete a second Master’s degree in Physiotherapy.
Since starting his journey in treating patients, he has taken over 150 post-graduate courses, from manual therapy with the Orthopaedic Division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association to being fully credentialed with the McKenzie Institute International. He has completed neurodynamic courses from David Butler, Lorimar Mosley and Michael Shacklock, Acupuncture certification from Acupuncture Canada (formerly AFCI), Mulligan training in movement based manual therapy from Jack Miller and certifications in advanced spinal care, gait analysis, functional capacity evaluation and ergonomic evaluation and prescription. With a special interest in lower extremity and spinal conditions, Mike helped to pioneer protocols for the Canadian Back Institutes across Canada and the US, The Saskatchewan and Alberta WCB, SGI and the Alberta and Saskatchewan Ministries of Health and has been asked to consult with numerous professional athletes and teams on spinal and lower extremity injuries. More recently, in Ontario, he was involved in the development and research for the Spinal Rapid Access Clinics (formerly the ISAEC program) throughout the province, as an Advanced Practice Physiotherapist in Spinal Care. He is a member of the Spinal Care Network, a provincial and federal group of healthcare professionals standardizing and improving spinal care in Canada by working with specialty surgeons, physiotherapists, chiropractors and many other healthcare professionals to undertake research and advancements in assessment and treatment procedures. Mike is also an Assistant Professor of Clinical Science at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine and has been there since the school opened, sharing his passion for many aspects of medicine with students and faculty. He has been nominated several times for providing outstanding education. Mike is passionate about improving the effectiveness and skills of healthcare professionals across Canada. When not working, Mike enjoys his time with his family and his home on the big lake. His young children keep him busy and entertained, while his wife keeps him grounded, organized and sane.

Andrew Hubbard (he/him) (Associate) PT, HBA, ACCDN, MCISs Adv. Practice CMP, FCAMPT
Andrew graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2014 with his Honours BA in Kinesiology & Physical Education. He completed his Master of Physical Therapy degree in 2016 at Western University. Andrew is originally from the small town of Hanover, ON and is a familiar face returning to Thunder Bay, having worked previously with the team at the Hand and Upper Limb Clinic. In 2020, Andrew moved back to southern Ontario, returning to Western University and completed a Master of Clinical Science degree in the Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy field of their Advanced Health Care Practice program. He is a Fellow with the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapists (FCAMPT). CAMPT-certified physiotherapists have advanced training and clinical abilities in orthopaedic assessment and have attained internationally recognized qualifications in hands-on manipulative therapy (https://manippt.org/). Andrew is also trained in acupuncture and is certified through Acupuncture Canada in dry needling. He has training and experience in treating temporomandibular dysfunction, dizziness and concussions. He combines these skills with evidence informed individualized education and exercise prescription to work towards your own goals and assist you with an ACTIVE recovery toward symptom management, improved function and quality of life! In his spare time, Andrew enjoys exercising, playing golf and a variety of recreational sports, playing guitar and spending time with friends and family.

Matthew Beda (he/him) (Associate), PT, MSc, BSc, Cert. IDN, CAFCI, MScPT
After graduating with honours degrees in Biology and Psychology from Lakehead University, Matthew had an interest in human function which led him to pursue his Master’s of Physical Therapy from the University of British Columbia.
Matthew returned from British Columbia to Thunder Bay where he resides with his wife Kayla, two sons and a German Shorthaired Pointer. An avid outdoor enthusiast and traveller, Matthew enjoys his time on the water or in the outdoors. You'll often find him fishing for steelhead, walking in the bush hunting or spending time camping with family and friends.
Professionally, Matthew has continued pursuing advanced manual therapy through the Canadian Physical Association Orthopedic Division, and has become CAFCI acupuncture certified. He also practices Integrated Dry Needling. Furthermore, Matthew has an interest in vestibular rehabilitation Other personal and professional areas of interest are sports physical therapy, gym athletics and weightlifting. He has taken certification courses in kinesio K-taping, neurodynamic course with Michael Shacklock, Vestibular Course with Bernard Tonks and Stecco Myofascial Release.

Nathan Di Franco (he/him), PT, MScPT, HBK
Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Nathan has a strong commitment to serving the residents of Northwestern Ontario as an active member within the healthcare community. Nathan obtained a Master of Physical Therapy from the University of Toronto in 2020. Prior to this, he completed a Honours Bachelor in Kinesiology from Lakehead University in 2016. Nathan is a registered physiotherapist in good standing with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario. Nathan continually develops his profession and actively participates in post-graduate education. He has completed courses in kinesiology taping, vestibular rehabilitation, concussion management, and has begun the process of completing his manual therapy levels through the Orthopaedic Division. His integrative assessment and treatment approach focuses on manual therapy, soft tissue work, exercise prescription and client education. In his spare time, Nathan enjoys weightlifting, recreational sports, and spending time with family and friends.

Leigh Jeffries (he/him), PT Resident, MPT, MSc, HBK
Leigh holds a Master of Physical Therapy from the University of Western Ontario (2021), a Master of Science in Kinesiology (2018), and Honours Bachelor of Kinesiology (2015) both completed at Lakehead University. Leigh is a Registered Physiotherapist Resident with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario and is a member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Leigh has further post-graduate training through the SHIFT Concussion Program completing the Level 1 and 2 courses. He plans on pursue post-graduate education in order to continue to develop and improving care for clients.
Leigh’s treatment philosophy focuses on empowering clients through education, combining that with exercise prescription and manual therapy or soft tissue work when needed. When he is not working Leigh enjoys spending time outdoors; camping, hiking, canoeing or kayaking. He is involved in the Thunder Bay volleyball community through officiating and playing whenever possible. Leigh is also a talented wildlife and nature photographer.

Hasan Rahman (he/him), PT, BScPT, DPT, MPT (c), NASM-CPT, CES. Cert. Ortho Medicine, Cert. MDN
Hasan has been a resident of Thunder Bay for more than seven years. He is a lifelong learner, was originally born and raised in Bangladesh. He has extensive experience working as a clinician for more than 15 years in many different work settings, such as private practice, public hospitals, and long-term care homes. He also likes to teach; therefore, he involves himself as a clinical lecturer in the Clinical Science at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (https://www.nosm.ca). Hasan has completed the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree program from A. T. Still University, Arizona, USA. He also completed his certification as a personal trainer (CPT) and corrective exercise specialization (CES) from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (https://www.nasm.org). Additionally, he finished his sports performance specialization training from the American Council of Exercise (https://www.acefitness.org). Hasan has a special interest in pain education. He completed different coursework to manage chronic pain patients. He has great enthusiasm for incorporating medical acupuncture and exercise medicine to give his patients the best care. Hasan has previous experience working as a resident physiotherapist in Australia and has taken many courses in orthopaedics and sports physiotherapy accredited by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (https://australian.physio/). Hasan has also completed his certification in Orthopaedic medicine (Cert. OM) from the ETGOM Cyriax ( https://cyriax.eu), and Certification in Spinal Manual Therapy (CSMT) from Manual Concepts (https://www.manualconcepts.com). He is currently pursuing the Certificate of Competency in Vestibular Rehabilitation (CCVR) Course from 360 Neurohealth, USA (https://www.360neurohealth.com) to gain a thorough understanding of the management of dizzy and concussive patients. Hasan likes to explore nature. This has given him a great passion for watercolour painting. When not working, Hasan enjoys his time being with his wife and three children!

REGISTERED KINESIOLOGIST

Frank Avella (he/him), R.Kin, HBK, WorkWell Certified
Frank is born and raised in Thunder Bay and is thrilled to be able to provide Kinesiology services to those in Northwestern Ontario. Frank attended Lakehead University where he completed an Honours Bachelor in Kinesiology in 2021. Frank is a Registered Kinesiologist with the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario and is a member of the Ontario Kinesiology Association. He is excited to continue to learn and provide care to the community amongst the rest of the amazing team at Fairway. In his spare time he enjoys basketball, weight lifting, camping, music, and spending time with friends.

REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPIST

Kelly Catton (she/her), (Associate) BA, RMT
Kelly was born and raised in Thunder Bay. She attended Lakehead University where she obtained a Bachelor Honors in Fine Arts and studied Textile Design at Capilano University in North Vancouver. She then graduated from Massage Therapy and registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario in 2013 and has been practicing since.

Kelly enjoys the outdoors and spends timehiking, camping and gardening. She has two cats named Ziggy and Lulu and a dog named Finn who are absolutely everything to her.

CERTIFIED SPORTS MEDICINE PHYSICIAN

Dr. Sheryl Wark (she/her), (Associate) CCFP (SEM), Dip. Sport Med, HBK, BSc
Dr. Wark is a certified Sport Medicine Physician who is from Thunder Bay. She completed her Kinesiology and Psychology at Lakehead University and worked as a personal trainer/Kinesiologist while continuing her education in Diagnostics. After completing her BSc in Radiation Sciences and Nuclear Medicine Diploma through the University of Toronto/Michener Institute program, she worked as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist in Winnipeg and Thunder Bay. She then entered medical school at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) and went on to complete her Family Medicine Residency with NOSM as well. She then completed her Fellowship in Sport and Exercise Medicine through the University of Manitoba/Pan Am Clinic program. During her fellowship, she worked at the Minor Injury Clinic at the Pan Am Clinic managing acute/subacute injuries such as sprains/strains and fractures. She also trained at the Pan Am Concussion Program dealing with concussion, return to learn, and return to play management. In regards to team sports, she spent time with the Winnipeg Jets and was the Chief Doping Control Officer for the FIFA Women’s World Cup (Manitoba site). She also covered the Rifle’s Football games and volunteered at the PGA McKenzie Tour. She has continued to volunteer her time after returning home, with international events such as the Can-Am Police-Fire Games 2016. Her current qualifications are her CCFP(SEM) -College of Family Physicians of Canada with a Certificate of Added Competence in Sport and Exercise Medicine & a Diploma in Sport and Exercise Medicine through CASEM (Canadian Academy of Sport and Exercise Medicine).

REGISTERED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Jory Spring (he/him), (Associate), OT Reg. (Ont), MScOT
Jory is a Thunder Bay local who completed his Honors Bachelor of Kinesiology at Lakehead University in 2012. He then went on to complete his Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Queen’s University in 2014. Since that time, he has worked in both the public and private sector offering a variety of OT services including pediatric OT assessment and treatment, home safety assessments, mobility devices, motor vehicle accident victims, ergonomic assessments, and clients with home/vehicle modification needs. Jory spent time specializing in providing clinical services to children at the George Jeffrey Children’s Centre where he worked and assisted in developing the home and vehicle modification program. Jory also assisted Canadian veterans as a Field Occupational Therapy Services Officer with Veteran Affairs Canada. Jory is an authorized Assisstive Devices Program (ADP) provider and can assess and prescribe walkers, manual wheelchairs, and power mobility. Jory started his career in hand therapy rehabilitation through the Hand and Upper Limb Clinic in 2018. He has worked with a large variety of hand, elbow, and shoulder conditions including tendon repairs, tendonitis, nerve compression, amputations, and post-operative care. Jory is currently studying to complete his certified hand therapist (CHT) designation as he is very passionate in this field. Jory draws experience from his previous work to help serve his active clients in their rehabilitation to promote total independence. Jory is an active member of the community and enjoys playing golf, hockey, and hiking with his dog Bear.

REGISTERED SOCIAL WORKER

Kaitlyn Ciddio (she/her), (Associate) BScN, MSW, RSW
I recognize that seeking out therapy is a challenging and scary decision for many. Having the opportunity to work with people through what are some of the most difficult times in their lives, I never take for granted. Asking for help is a sign of strength, and I am here to listen. When we create space to be honest, non-judgmental, and compassionate with ourselves, we can see new possibilities and venture towards them with a renewed sense of mastery and courage. I come from a place of authenticity, candour, humour, and compassion and use a trauma-informed, strength-based approach. This means, I tailor counselling and treatment to your individual needs, while focusing on your skills. I work hard to understand your life through your perspective, as this is after all, your journey. You bring unique experiences, values, strengths, and knowledge to therapy that deserve to be respected and honoured. I strive to establish a safe, non-judgmental space for you throughout your therapeutic process. I work with individuals experiencing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, loss, and relational conflict. I believe that an effective therapist both supports and challenges. This means I will celebrate your successes, hold you accountable for your own progress, and support you through times of doubt, grief, and growth. I believe that people run into problems in their lives when the beliefs, strategies, and patterns that may have helped them cope in the past no longer work for them in the present. Regarding my education, I have my Master of Social Work with a Clinical Specialization in Trauma-Informed Practice. I also have a nursing degree (BScN) and a Certification in Concurrent Disorders. I have a strong interest in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and have completed the EFT internship. I also have training in trauma practice and am adept at drawing on elements of: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. You are the expert on your life, and with support and guidance, I believe you can build the one you want. I look forward to learning about your unique story and working together to help you to create meaningful change.

REGISTERED SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

Chad Clower (he/him) (Associate), Reg. CASLPO, MSc
Chad is a registered Speech-Language Pathologist (S-LP) with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO) and a member of the Ontario Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (OSLA). He has a Master of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Minnesota State University-Mankato and is originally from British Columbia but has called Thunder Bay home since 2009. Chad has worked as an S-LP since 2008 and began his career as a school board S-LP where he provided speech and language services for children aged 4-21 (kindergarten to grade 12). Chad has experience working in the special needs classroom and working with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. Most recently, Chad worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Thunder Bay, Ontario as part of the Acquired Brain Injury Program interdisciplinary team from 2009-2016. He has extensive knowledge providing assessment and treatment of speech, language and dysphagia disorders for people living with neurological deficits including acquired brain injury, stroke, neurodegenerative disease and concussion. Chad is currently the Clinical Learning Liaison (CLL), as well as holds the title as Faculty Member: Lecturer with the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM). He is committed to supporting the next generation of professionals having been involved in numerous NOSM learning placements as role of Preceptor/Clinical Educator, as well as engaging in multiple CASLPO mentorship agreements as role of Mentor. Chad is the owner of two local speech and language companies: Neuro Rehab North, Speech & Language Services and Speech & Language Services Thunder Bay dedicated to providing IN HOME, IN COMMUNITY speech and language services for people aged 4-99+. Chad has also teamed up with Michelle Cohen & Associates Speech-Language Pathology out of Toronto and will be providing speech and language services for people living with communication deficits as a result of a Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) in Thunder Bay and area. Chad prides himself on providing a unique and individualized, 1-on-1 and face-to-face comprehensive assessment and treatment experience. Away from the office, Chad continues to give back to our community as a coach with the IP1 hockey program for Norwest hockey. He has a passion for sports and the outdoors and enjoys family time, hockey, golf and engaging in outdoor activities. Chad is a father of two beautiful young and active boys and a husband to his wonderful wife of 8 years. Please visit either neurorehabnorth.wixsite.com/slpservices or chadclowerslp.wixsite.com/slpservicestbay for more information.