Our Team - Optimize Physiotherapy

Therapists

Arri McWatt

Physiotherapist, Owner

Arri (he/him) graduated with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy in 2010 from the University of Alberta. Since then, he’s gathered extensive experience working with clients of all ages (from 5 to 95!) and all levels of mobility and function.

Challenging himself to create unique treatment plans to optimize outcomes for each individual truly drives his passion for physiotherapy.

Voted YEG Fitness Physiotherapist of the Year 2017
Certificate in Medical Acupuncture by the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute
Certified in Spinal Manipulation (Jim Meadows) with the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta
Level 1 and Level 2 components of the Advanced Orthopaedic and Manual ManipulativePhysiotherapy program offered through the Canadian Physiotherapy Association
Muscle Mobilization and Deep Tissue Massage
Mulligan Mobilization with Movement
Fascial Movement Taping (RockTape/K-Tape)
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
Vestibular Rehabilitation Certified
Selective Functional Movement Assessment Level 1
Finalist for YEG Fitness Physiotherapist of the Year 2016
Certified in SIGVARIS compression clothing fitting
Physiotherapist for CrossFit Armoury athletes at Western Regionals 2014, 2015 and 2017
CCMI Concussion Certification

Aaron Norris

Physiotherapist, Owner

Aaron’s (he/him) passion for physiotherapy is evident in the positive attitude and energy he brings to the clinic each and every day. After acquiring his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with Honours from Memorial University in his hometown of St. John’s, Newfoundland, Aaron graduated from the University of Alberta with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy.

Aaron grew up with a passion for movement and sport, playing baseball, basketball, volleyball, hockey and golf. He loves working with people and so Physiotherapy was a natural fit for him.

Aaron’s built extensive experience working with clients with a wide range of ages and backgrounds, and loves helping people become better versions of themselves.

Outside of the clinic, Aaron’s active in hockey, golf, cycling, Olympic lifting, CrossFit, and Peloton. He also loves playing guitar and spending time with his beautiful girls.

Voted YEG Fitness Physiotherapist of the Year 2016
Level 1 and Level 2 components of the Advanced Orthopaedic and Manual Manipulative Physiotherapy program offered through the Canadian Physiotherapy Association
Certified in Spinal Manipulation (Jim Meadows) with the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta
Muscle Mobilization and Deep Tissue Massage
Fascial Movement Taping (RockTape/K-Tape)
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
Selective Functional Movement Assessment Level 1
Physiotherapist on the rehab team of the Edmonton Rush Lacrosse Club of the NLL from 2011-2013

Courtney Von Wackerbarth

Physiotherapist

Courtney’s (she/her) passion for physiotherapy originates from overcoming health issues of her own. After bouncing around the healthcare system without answers, a physiotherapist properly diagnosed her with a rare form of arthritis. This inspired Courtney to pursue physiotherapy so she could help others with that same level of passion and care.

Courtney graduated from the University of Alberta with a Masters of Science in Physical Therapy in 2018, and now thrives on collaborating with clients to develop effective treatment plans.

Courtney focuses on Pelvic Health Physiotherapy and is specially trained to rehabilitate the pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor muscles are the same as any other muscle in the body and requires just as much attention. Learn more about Pelvic Health Physiotherapy.

Level 1 Advanced Orthopedic and Manual Manipulative Physiotherapy program offered through the Canadian Physiotherapy Association
Certified in Internal Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
On Point Needling: Upper and Lower Quadrant Dry Needling
CCMI Concussion Certification

Anastasia Muchinsky

Physiotherapist

After completing her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with Distinction at the University of Alberta, Anastasia obtained her Master of Science in Physical Therapy.

Anastasia is a Certified Vestibular Therapist and can help anyone suffering from dizziness, vertigo, balance issues and more.

Her treatment style values longevity and providing individuals with the tools to be successful outside of physiotherapy.

Originally from Minsk, Belarus, Anastasia is bilingual – speaking English and Russian. Anastasia dedicates herself to performing a comprehensive assessment because she knows everyone has a unique story and body and deserves the time for it to be fully understood.

Master of Science in Physical Therapy
Certified Vestibular Therapist – Dizziness and Balance Rehabilitation Clinic
Level 1 Advanced Orthopedic and Manual Manipulative Physiotherapy program offered through the Canadian Physiotherapy Association
Upper and Lower Quadrant Dry Needling – On Point Needling
Bilingual – speaking English and Russian.

Seth Waselenchuk

Physiotherapist

Seth (he/him) graduated from the University of Alberta with his Bachelor of Kinesiology in 2019. While there, he spent time with the Golden Bears Varsity football team, followed by beginning working as an assistant, and then a kinesiologist at Optimize.

This time with patients is when he found his appreciation for showing others how strong they could be, and opening their eyes toward the benefits of moving their bodies intentionally. He continued down this path and began teaching group fitness classes, working as a personal trainer, and in 2020, was accepted into the Masters of Science in Physical Therapy program at the U of A. He graduated the program at the end of 2022 and knew there was no place like home, immediately accepting a
job where it all started, at Optimize!

Seth’s treatment style revolves around putting the patient first. Your goals are his goals. He begins with education, ensuring everyone understands what could be creating their pain. Then, through collaborative discussion a treatment plan is developed, focused on building up strength and confidence through movement. By the end of your rehab journey he hopes you leave at a level better than where you were at prior to the injury. In his mind, there is no greater feeling than reminding someone how much they are truly capable of!

Master of Science in Physical Therapy
Bachelor of Kinesiology, CSEP-CPT
Certified Personal Trainer – Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology

Steven Canduro

Physiotherapist

Steven (he/him) wholeheartedly believes in the benefits of exercise and movement when it comes to overcoming injury, and is exactly why he is pursued his career in physical therapy.

He graduated with distinction from the University of Alberta in 2019 with a Bachelor of Kinesiology. While working through his Kinesiology degree, Steven chose to major in Sport Performance—sport and physical activity play a major role in his life and overall outlook. Steve completed his Masters of Science in Physical Therapy program at the U of A in 2022.

Bachelor of Kinesiology, Major in Sport Performance
Master of Science in Physical Therapy
On Point Needling: Upper and Lower Quadrant Dry Needling

Peyton Walker-Livingston

Physiotherapist

Peyton (she/her) graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology in 2020. She continued on her passion for rehabilitation medicine while working as a Kinesiologist at Optimize and in 2024, graduated from the University of Alberta with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy.

Peyton’s interest in rehabilitation stemmed from her own experiences as a competitive dancer and certified dance instructor with the Canadian Dance Teachers Association. Throughout her years of competition, she suffered multiple injuries, some of which were left untreated. As an undergrad, she developed an interest in rehabilitation, and her first visit to a physiotherapy clinic solidified her decision.

Peyton believes that everyone can reach their full potential through movement and a positive, inclusive environment. She strives to help her patients achieve their goals in a fun and enjoyable way and encourages them to remain active for life.

Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology
Master of Science in Physical Therapy
Certified in Internal Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Keaton MacIver

Physiotherapist

Keaton (he/him) is a physiotherapist who brings a genuine passion for movement, sport, and helping people feel more confident in their bodies. His path to physiotherapy started long before his career did.

As an awkward, unathletic kid who somehow found himself committed almost exclusively to contact sports, Keaton spent plenty of time in physiotherapy clinics himself. He quickly became fascinated by the environment, from the problem-solving and energy to the camaraderie between clinicians and patients.

Today, physiotherapy gives Keaton the opportunity to combine his love of sport and wellness with his interest in human anatomy, all while helping people get back to the activities and experiences that matter most to them. He genuinely enjoys the puzzle-solving side of physiotherapy and appreciates the unique challenges each person brings to the treatment room.

Keaton works with a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, from athletes to self-proclaimed washed-up weekend warriors and everyone in between. He has a particular interest in helping people navigate persistent or chronic pain and rebuild confidence in movement. He also commonly works with stiff necks and backs, mobility restrictions, persistent tension, and discomfort related to work, training, stress, and everyday life.

His treatment style can be summed up in three words: caring, informative, and goofy. Keaton believes treatment should feel comfortable, collaborative, and relaxed, with education playing a big role in helping people understand what is happening with their bodies. His goal is to make sure patients feel heard, supported, and confident in their ability to take an active role in their recovery.

Outside the clinic, Keaton is always up for a good conversation, especially if it involves food, movies, sports, marine biology, or whatever else makes you feel like yourself. And yes, he still plays contact sports, despite all those years of physiotherapy experience.

Master of Science in Physical Therapy, University of Limerick
Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, University of Alberta

Gillian Altheim

Doctor of Chiropractic

Gillian (she/her) is passionate about improving the mobility and overall quality of life for her patients through excellent chiropractic care. She has a special interest in women’s health; in particular postpartum rehabilitation. This passion has led her to pursue additional education and certifications around women’s health during pregnancy and after birth.

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Gillian grew up in Alberta playing hockey and enjoying nature. After obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Alberta, Gillian graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto, Ontario.

Doctor of Chiropractic
Neurofunctional Acupuncture Certificate from McMaster University
Postnatal Rehabilitation Certificate and GrowCo Rehab Ambassador
Clinical and Athletic Taping
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
CCMI Concussion Certification

Briana Wice

Registered Massage Therapist

Briana (she/her) received her Honours B.Sc. in Kinesiology from McMaster University in 2021. In her time at McMaster, Briana captained her Field Hockey team while also working in the disciplines of strength & conditioning and exercise rehabilitation.

Her desire for constant learning led her to pursue an Honours Diploma in Massage Therapy, and soon after, her Certification in Fascial Stretch Therapy. Briana is also a Kinesiologist and has experience working with various conditions including Spinal Cord Injury and Multiple Sclerosis.

Now a full-time Massage Therapist who draws on her experience as a Kinesiologist and an athlete, Briana’s treatment style combines Fascial Stretch Therapy with Sports Massage and Therapeutic Massage techniques. This treatment style allows the client to remain clothed, therefore maximizing treatment time, and allowing for an easy transition from the table to the gym for mobility and corrective exercises.

Briana uses her skills to help everyone ranging from athletes looking to level up their performance, to the rapidly growing population of “desk dwellers” who are looking to combat the deleterious effects of sitting slouched at a computer screen for 8+ hours a day. Her mission is to empower her clients to gain a greater understanding of their own bodies, so they can get out of pain, and get on with life.

B.Sc. in Kinesiology
Fascial Stretch Therapy
Sports Massage
Therapeutic Massage

Julienne Slomp

Registered Massage Therapist

After years of living an active lifestyle and collecting more injuries than she can count, Julienne (she/her) knew it was time to switch sides of the treatment table.

She had been a regular patient at Optimize for a long time, and once her three boys were all in school, she decided to go for it. She graduated with honours from the Alberta College of Massage Therapy in 2023 and now brings that same passion for movement into every treatment.

Her style blends the relaxing with the functional. Whether you’re looking for general relaxation, sports massage, myofascial release, or therapeutic techniques, she’s all about helping people feel good in their bodies and get back to doing what they love.

When she’s not in the clinic, you’ll probably find her at CrossFit, out on the golf course, or curled up with a good book.

Registered Massage Therapist
Deep Tissue Massage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Myofascial Therapy
Pre & Post Natal Massage
Therapeutic Massage
Trigger Point
Hot Stone Massage
CSMTA Advanced Sport Massage
Supine SRT Level 1

Abbi Davis

Registered Massage Therapist

Abbi (she/her) has always known she wanted to help people. When she was introduced to massage therapy, it just clicked. Growing up in sports, she developed a strong interest in how the body works and heals, and that curiosity naturally turned into a career focused on supporting others.

Her treatment style is intuitive, integrative, and restorative. She takes the time to listen to what your body is telling her and tailors each session to meet you where you’re at.

Abbi loves working with a wide range of concerns, from tension headaches and migraines to sciatica, neck and shoulder pain, and chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and arthritis. She also has a passion for supporting clients navigating mental health challenges, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.

Outside the clinic, Abbi stays active in ways that keep her grounded and energized. You’ll often find her at yoga, doing weight training at home, or getting outside for snowboarding and cross country skiing.

Registered Massage Therapist
Fascial Stretch Therapy
Cupping

Mackenzie Blackstock

Registered Massage Therapist

Mackenzie “Mack” (she/her) is a Registered Massage Therapist who combines her passion for helping people with her love of problem solving and an active lifestyle.

Her own experience with sports-related injuries sparked an interest in helping others recover, move well, and get back to the activities they enjoy.

Mack takes a focused, goal-oriented approach to treatment. She enjoys working with clients who have a specific concern they want to address and finding ways to make meaningful progress throughout their care. Her treatment style is firm, smooth, and therapeutic, with each session tailored to the individual and their needs.

Mack commonly works with clients experiencing lower back pain and shoulder tension, but she believes you don’t need to know exactly what’s causing your discomfort before coming in. Part of her role is helping you understand what may be contributing to your symptoms and determining how massage therapy can support your recovery.

Outside of the clinic, Mack enjoys staying active and spending time playing and watching sports.

SESMT 2200hr Diploma

Kinesiologist

Zoe Melnychuk

Kinesiologist & Personal Trainer

Zoe (she/her) is a Kinesiologist with extensive experience in high-performance sports and injury management. She works with clients to regain strength, improve mobility, and return to the activities they enjoy with confidence, drawing on her background as a competitive runner and rugby player.

Zoe started as a young athlete, running cross country and competing in track and field. Repeated overuse injuries introduced her to weightlifting and physical therapy, showing the importance of diverse training and proper body care. She later switched to rugby, playing for the Pandas at the University of Alberta, where another injury shaped her approach to recovery and performance.

She completed a practicum as a Student Kinesiologist with Varsity Health and Bears Football, focusing on injury management and helping athletes return to play. Zoe gained additional experience internationally with the University of Otago women’s rugby program in New Zealand, applying high-performance recovery and injury management techniques.

At Optimize, Zoe draws on her competitive sports background to help clients regain strength, move with confidence, and enjoy their favourite activities. Outside the clinic, she stays active in all seasons, explores new cafes, is working toward her Emergency Medical Responder certification through NAIT, and is the lead singer in a rock band.

Bachelor of Kinesiology with Distinction, Major in Sports Performance (University of Alberta 2023)

Nathan Simpson

Kinesiologist, Strength, Conditioning & Performance

Nathan (he/him) has always been passionate about sports and an active lifestyle. After playing junior hockey, a season-ending injury led to months of rehabilitation, sparking his interest in kinesiology.

While taking his Bachelor of Kinesiology degree, Nathan developed a deep appreciation for human movement, performance, and recovery. While initially drawn to working with athletes, his practicum at Optimize inspired him to help people from all backgrounds. Now pursuing physiotherapy, Nathan is dedicated to improving health and well-being in and out of the clinic.

Outside of work, he enjoys hockey, fishing, kayaking, and a good trivia board game.

Bachelor of Kinesiology

Jenna Karach

Kinesiologist, Strength, Conditioning & Performance

Jenna’s (she/her) path into kinesiology started through sport and never really left. As a lifelong athlete and former USPORT basketball player, she’s spent years in training rooms, gyms, and rehab settings, seeing firsthand what it takes to recover, rebuild, and perform at a high level.

After going through her own injuries and structured strength programs, she developed a real appreciation for how the body adapts and what it can achieve with the right plan and consistency.

She loves helping people work toward recovery and strength goals, whether they’re coming back from an injury or looking to build confidence in the gym. Jenna is big on results, but just as much on helping people feel good in their bodies along the way. Her approach is practical, supportive, and rooted in understanding that every person’s starting point is different.

Outside the clinic, you’ll usually find her in the gym, since fitness is still a big part of her life. When she’s not training, she’s spending time with family and friends, heading out to the lake, or planning her next trip. She also plays guitar and loves live music, so if there’s a concert in town, there’s a good chance she’s already got tickets.

Bachelor of Kinesiology

Christina Puff

Kinesiologist, Strength, Conditioning & Performance

Christina (she/her) has always been drawn to helping people feel stronger, move better, and build confidence in their bodies. Her passion for fitness and physical activity naturally led her into kinesiology, where she gets to support clients in reaching goals that actually matter to their everyday lives.

She loves helping people improve the way they move through their day, whether that means making daily tasks feel easier or sparking a new passion for physical activity. Christina’s approach is all about meeting you where you’re at and building from there in a way that feels doable and sustainable.

When she’s not in the clinic, you’ll likely find her in a spin class or pushing through a HIIT workout, soaking up the energy and challenge that comes with it.

Bachelor of Kinesiology

Support Staff

Ashley Potter

Clinic Manager

Meet Clinic Manager at Optimize since day one! Since Ashley (she/her) enjoys working in an atmosphere with a close group of like-minded people it’s been a seamless journey.

Prior to her physiotherapy experience, Ashley worked as an Interior Design Technologist designing kitchens. Currently she is working towards getting her Elementary Education Degree, and plans to contribute to the growth and development of Optimize as she finishes her degree.

Pam Nelson

Office Manager

Pam (she/her) is the backbone of our clinic, keeping everything running smoothly and making sure our team stays organized. With a background in Early Childhood Education, she spent a decade caring for children before taking time to raise her own.

Now, as part of the Optimize team, she finds joy in meeting new people and learning from those around her.

Outside of work, Pam loves spending time with her family. Whether it’s camping, golfing, biking, playing board games, or enjoying a good movie night, she makes the most of every moment together. Her warm and welcoming presence makes her an invaluable part of our team!

Jack Elliott

Assistant

Meet Jack (he/him), one of the friendly faces you’ll meet at Optimize. As a Clinic Assistant, he is an integral part of the team that keeps things running smoothly and ensures that every patient has the best possible experience.

Jack’s cheerful demeanour and helpful attitude will make you feel welcome and at ease.

When he’s not working, you can find Jack on the ice as the goalie for the St. Albert Comets. He’s also a dedicated coach for a local basketball team, sharing his love of the game and helping young players develop their skills. Jack’s passion for sports and his active lifestyle make him a perfect fit for the Optimize team.

Dawn Kendall

Assistant

At Optimize Physiotherapy, Dawn (she/her) is the glue that keeps everything running smoothly. As our administrative assistant, she’s the first friendly face you’ll see when you walk through the door—and the quick-witted voice on the other end of the phone.

A self-proclaimed coffee fanatic, Dawn runs on caffeine and sarcasm in equal measure. She’s got a spunky personality, a sharp sense of humour, and a knack for making people feel welcome. Whether she’s managing schedules, keeping the team in line, or sharing a laugh with clients, Dawn brings an energy that makes Optimize feel like home.

When she’s not keeping the clinic in check, you’ll likely find her enjoying a cold beer, cracking jokes, or proving that admin work doesn’t have to be boring. A true people person, she loves connecting with clients and making their experience as seamless and entertaining as possible.

Got a question? Need a good laugh? Dawn’s got you covered.