(She/Her/Hers)

Diana Alvarez, R.Ac., graduated in 2009 with Diploma of Acupuncture from the Canadian College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in Victoria, B.C. and is a licensed acupuncturist registered with the CTCMA of BC. Raised in Ottawa, Diana worked in the film industry in Toronto for 17 years before deciding holistic medicine was the right area of work for her. Her personal experience with acupuncture began in 1993 and she has been fascinated with it ever since.

Diana has had success in treating the following conditions: headaches, migraines, neck and shoulder pain, low back pain, sciatica, frozen shoulder, insomnia, plantar fasciitis, hip pain, anxiety, depression, grief, quitting smoking, immunity boosting, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, menopausal symptoms, reproductive and hormonal issues, digestive problems such as colitis and diverticulitis, side effects from radiation and chemotherapy, seasonal allergies and colds, stress from trauma and abuse.

Although her practice is specifically based upon acupuncture, the following may be incorporated: acupressure (using the same acupuncture points but without needles), cupping, heat therapy lamp, mild forms of electrical stimulation for the needles, ear acupuncture, magnets, and moxibustion and, when appropriate, Gua Sha (to help open up the fascia), and nutritional advice based upon TCM.

Diana enjoys being an urban bicyclist, the out of doors with walks and hikes, practices yoga and meditation, partakes in art classes, enjoys cooking and sharing food, sings with a local Victoria choir and still loves watching movies in her spare time.

Areas of study that Diana brings to better your experience with acupuncture are use of Master Tung’s points, Dr. Tan’s approach, Qi Gong, Kiiko Matsumoto’s Hara Diagnosis. Please see full list of educational credits below.

Kiiko Matsumoto, Japanese Acupuncture, Hara Diagnosis, March 2018 and July 2015

Ann Cecil-Sterman Sinew Channel Theory, March 2018

Access Consciousness Bars Certification, October 2017

Acupuncture for Low Back Pain, April 2017

Elisabeth Rochat de Vallee, Classical Chinese Medicine. Understanding the Eight Extraordinary Meridians, the Brain and the Five Spirits, November 2016

Master Tung Essential Acupuncture, March 2016

Suzanne Robidoux, Scalp Acupuncture, March 2015

The Ancient Art of Cupping, February 2015

Clinical Record Keeping, February 2015

Spring Forest Qi Gong, January 2014

Dr. Tan Acupuncture 1,2,3, May 2013 Accunect, October and December 2012

COMS, Canadian Oriental Medicine Symposium, Vancouver, 2008, 2012, 2015

(She/Her/Hers) Diana Alvarez, R.Ac., graduated in 2009 with Diploma of Acupuncture from the Cana... Read More

Christina is a fully licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner and Licensed Acupuncturist with the CTCMA of British Columbia. She is an extremely motivated and passionate health care professional with a vast knowledge base including; kinesiology, acupuncture, herbalism, cupping, nutrition, exercise science, athletic injuries, scalp acupuncture, trigger point injection therapy and kin taping. Inspired to integrate both Western and Eastern healthcare practices to create a more rounded, individualized whole body approach to healing and preventative medicine. 

Christina is committed to health and safety, taking great care in providing patients with personalized treatments. Areas of focus include; general practice, woman’s health, athletic injuries, concussions, neurological diseases, acute and chronic body pain, post-surgical scar therapy and mental health and addictions.   Christina completed a four-year Kinesiology degree from McGill University in Montreal followed by a a 5 year Dr. of Traditional Chinese Medicine diploma at Pacific Rim College in Victoria BC. Christina spent a semester studying Acupuncture and Herbs at Liaoning University in Shenyang China, completing daily hospital rotations focusing on neurology. After graduating from Pacific Rim College, Christina applied and was awarded a Canada-China Scholarship which allowed her to study Mandarin at Wuhan University in China in 2016.   Christina has spent the past two years working at a very busy multidisciplinary clinic in Dawson Creek BC. She is excited to continue her journey back in Victoria at Acacia Health.

Christina is a fully licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner and Licensed Acupuncturis... Read More

Since graduating in 2012 from the 3000 hour program at the Okanagan Valley College of Massage Therapy, I have been passionately assisting people along their unique health journeys and empowering people to embrace self-care. Within my experience, I have realized how much everything is intricately connected in our unique bodies and how it has the innate ability to heal itself in a peaceful state - each body system yearns for balance and the ability to flow in order to function optimally as a whole, healthy human being. I enjoy continuously expanding my knowledge base and techniques to better serve my patients and help you reach your health goals - whether it’s to improve stress levels, regulate sleep cycles, balance symptoms of a specific condition, or just to give yourself permission to pause.

Through authentically listening to your needs, conscious palpation and mindful yoga-based homecare, I combine a customized blend of therapies to holistically treat with care and intention. I receive great joy in connecting and being present with my patients, guiding and empowering you towards a higher quality of life and self acceptance.

Since graduating in 2012 from the 3000 hour program at the Okanagan Valley College of Massage The... Read More

Growing up in Victoria, Diandra developed a strong passion for athletics that endures to this day. From a young age, she began receiving massage therapy treatment for pain and injury recovery. The notable benefits of massage therapy led her to seek treatment more routinely for general maintenance and preventative reasons. She was amazed by the significant increase in her body’s overall performance and well-being with more frequent visits. The power massage therapy has had for her physically and mentally for nearly two decades led her to pursue a career in this sector of health care.

Diandra takes great pride in recognizing every person has unique health care needs and should receive individualized treatment. She always strives to create a relaxing treatment environment and encourages open communication to best achieve every client’s goals. Even though she has an immense passion for sports, her greatest passion is to help anyone that chooses to enter her treatment room and leave them feeling better upon exiting. She uses massage techniques that encourage relaxation, while also facilitating therapeutic change. She navigates toward deep tissue general Swedish massage, as well as trigger point and pin and stretch techniques. Her passion for massage, healing and connection are intrinsically valuable to her practice of massage therapy.

Outside the clinic, she enjoys playing any recreational sport that involves a ball, hiking, cycling, and multi-day backpacking trips exploring Vancouver Island’s remote wilderness. Her previous degree in Education has inspired a small business of administering and coaching children’s soccer programs, which she loves doing part-time.

Growing up in Victoria, Diandra developed a strong passion for athletics that endures to this day... Read More

(He/Him/his)

I am fully vaccinated. Please note the absence of disclosure on a practitioner’s bio does not mean they are not vaccinated, but rather that they have chosen not to disclose in this manner.

Aaron is passionate about musculoskeletal physiotherapy. He strives to provide a caring experience where the patient feels comfortable and supported in their journey to recovery. Aaron prides himself on being up-to-date on the latest scientific evidence and delivering evidence-based care in a way that the patient can relate to.

After recovering from chronic pain himself, Aaron has a special interest in caring for people with persistent and chronic pain.

Aaron earned a Master in Physiotherapy (MPT) degree from the University of Sydney, Australia in 2007. Prior to that, he graduated with a Bachelor degree in Exercise Science and Rehabilitation (first class honours) from the University of Wollongong, Australia.

Aaron has been a registered practicing physiotherapist throughout Australia, in New York City and in British Columbia, Canada.

Previously, Aaron enjoyed basketball, rowing, Mauy Thai, field hockey, swimming and dance. These days he enjoys running after his daughters and any other form of exercise he can find time for.

Services include:

Assessment and diagnosis of musculoskeletal injuries

Persistent and chronic pain rehabilitation

Motor vehicle accident rehabilitation

Sports injury rehabilitation

Clinical Pilates

Hands on therapies such as myofascial release techniques, trigger point therapy, joint mobilization and manipulation, deep tissue and gentle muscle relaxation techniques.

(He/Him/his) I am fully vaccinated. Please note the absence of disclosure on a practitioner’s bi... Read More

(She/Her/Hers)

Keja’s interest in understanding the body and learning how to keep it functioning optimally was originally fuelled by her own recovery from sports-related injuries. In 2006 she graduated from Sutherland-Chan School in Toronto and became a Registered Massage Therapist. After many fulfilling years working in the heart of downtown Toronto Keja moved with her family to the west coast.

In busy and stressful times it can be easy to put ourselves at the bottom of the list. Keja believes that massage therapy can be a great tool to help reset the balance and achieve a deeper awareness of your body and its needs.

Whether you have a physically challenging or sedentary job, are a weekend warrior or training for a big race, are in need of relaxation, stress relief, injury recovery, ease from pregnancy-related postural changes or have any other reason for seeking Massage Therapy, Keja will meet you where you are today and work with you to achieve your wellness and treatment goals.

She approaches each person and treatment individually and applies a variety of techniques depending on your preferences and needs. This can range from deep tissue and myofascial release to the subtle touch of Craniosacral Therapy. She aims to always keep learning new ways to assist the body’s innate ability to heal and enjoys expanding her knowledge and skills through continuing education.

When she’s not working you’ll find Keja outdoors hiking, biking and paddleboarding with her family or in the pottery studio using her hard-working hands to shape clay into interesting, and sometimes beautiful things.

Further Education:

CranioSacral Therapy with Upledger (3 levels) and Robert Harris (advanced)

NISA techniques (Neuromuscular Integration and Structural Alignment)

TMJ Dysfunction (for relief from jaw pain and headaches)

(She/Her/Hers) Keja’s interest in understanding the body and learning how to keep it functioning... Read More

(He/Him/His)

Initially born and raised in small town Saskatchewan, Owen moved to the west coast 10 years ago so he could explore this beautiful part of the world. He became involved in the wellness community for several years before deciding to study massage therapy. He graduated from the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy in December 2020.

Owen is passionate about the field of Massage Therapy and all that it has to offer, whether it be for recovery, maintenance or relaxation. He believes that human touch can have a powerful effect on helping the body to heal from physical and emotional trauma. He incorporates a variety of techniques into his treatments including Swedish, deep tissue, trigger point therapy, myofascial release and joint mobilizations.

In his spare time, Owen enjoys the outdoors, photography and befriending cats.

(He/Him/His) Initially born and raised in small town Saskatchewan, Owen moved to the west coast ... Read More

Rose is dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care by combining rehabilitation exercises, soft tissue therapy, and adjustment techniques. She tailors her treatment plans with a focus on long-term wellness and functional recovery. She adapts methods to include low-force techniques and collaborates closely with patients to develop personalized care strategies. Her experience spans a wide variety of patients, from CrossFit athletes to individuals recovering from motor vehicle accidents. She strives to develop meaningful, collaborative relationships and values a dynamic approach to care.

Rose graduated with high honors of Magna Cum Laude from Palmer College of Chiropractic West in the San Francisco Bay Area. Rose completed a clinical rotation at the Department of Defense Veterans Affairs Hospital in Redding, California, where she gained experience working with veterans of all ages in the Rehabilitation Department.

Rose has advanced training in Myofascial Decompression Therapy (Cup Therapy) from San Francisco State University, which she offers in addition to traditional compression-based soft tissue manipulation. She is also trained in Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS), which utilizes exercise therapy techniques to enhance muscular stability and movement.

Outside of the clinic, Rose enjoys spending time in the chilly waters, surfing or snorkeling along the beautiful coastline of Vancouver Island.

Rose is dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care by combining rehabilitation e... Read More

(He/Him/His)

Thiago Menon completed a 6 years program in Osteopathy at the Madrid School of Osteopathy, in 2018, he received his DO from IBO Brazilian Institute of Osteopathy. He had his own practice in Brazil where he had the opportunity to work with a wide range of patients of different ages and conditions. In 2017, he moved to Canada and worked in different locations in Richmond, Vancouver and Calgary. Originally, Thiago graduated as a Physiotherapist in 2004 in Brazil, but isn’t registered as a physiotherapist in Canada.

* Thiago is currently practicing as an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner, and is not able to bill as physiotherapy.*

He has taken a special interest in athletes, as he worked as an Osteopathic Practitioner at Volleyball Maringa of the Super League in Brazil. In Vancouver, he had the opportunity to work with the Women’s Canadian National Volleyball Team during the summer season in 2018 and also with professional ballet dancers.

With a strong background for treating low back pain, headaches, disc hernias, migraines, torticollis, reflux, gastritis, and pediatric/infant care, Thiago uses a wide variety of techniques and skills that allow him to treat with compassion and he enthusiastically commits to the health and well-being of his patients.

Thiago is an active member of the Alberta Association of Osteopathic Manual Therapists (AAOMT) and Registro Brasileiro dos Osteopatas (DO MRO Br) and an active member of Osteopathy BC (Society for the Promotion of Manual Practice Osteopathy). AAOMT and Osteopathy BC are members of both the Canadian Federation of Osteopaths (CFO) and the Osteopathic International Alliance (OIA).

(He/Him/His) Thiago Menon completed a 6 years program in Osteopathy at the Madrid School of Oste... Read More

(She/Her/Hers)

Jennifer was born and raised in Victoria, BC. Her Chinese heritage has always inspired her to cultivate longevity and wellness through meaningful health practices and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Her passion for acupuncture and neurological health started while she was healing from a brain injury she received during a car accident. As a result of the brain injury, Jennifer was put into a medically induced coma for ten days with the hope it would give her brain a chance to heal. After regaining consciousness, she had many health professionals who helped in her recovery; however, it was her doctor’s suggestion to get acupuncture treatment that was the key to her full recovery.

After her own experience healing from a brain injury, she decided to focus her work on acupuncture treatment for pain and neurological conditions. Jennifer is passionate about sharing the wonderful effects of neuro-acupuncture and positively impacting people with pain or symptoms that are often challenging to manage.

In 2016, Jennifer graduated from Pacific Rim College and completed licensing exams with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of British Columbia (CTCMA). Since then, she has focused her studies and training on helping those with pain and neurological conditions such as stroke, neuropathy, trigeminal neuralgia, MS, Bell’s Palsy and more.

Jennifer has become certified with the Neuro-acupuncture Institute (NAI) and the Complete Concussion Management Institute (CCMI). She has completed extensive study in specialized systems of acupuncture for pain and neurological conditions, including neuro-anatomical acupuncture, neuro-meridian acupuncture and neuro-acupuncture, which has included training with experts including Dr. Jason Hao, Dr. Poney Chiang and Dr. Joseph Wong.

Jennifer is grateful to share the wonderful effects of neuro-acupuncture treatment for pain and neurological dysfunction by combining modern scientific understanding with classic acupuncture theories for a unique perspective and insight. Her practice is inspired by her recovery after injury, her family and role as a mother, and continually reflecting on nature. In her time away from the office, you will most likely find her in the garden, at the park with her kids, or on an adventure in the forest or the ocean. She intends to help anyone suffering from pain or neurological symptoms to live with greater ease, comfort and well-being.

For more information about Jennifer Midlane and her practice, please visit her website – www.neuroacupuncturevictoria.com

(She/Her/Hers) Jennifer was born and raised in Victoria, BC. Her Chinese heritage has always ins... Read More

(She/Her/Hers)

Makala grew up on the Island, and played a wide variety of sports throughout her childhood. She picked up rowing in her teenage years, and it quickly became her favourite activity on her schedule. This discovery lead her to the Women’s Rowing team at the University of Victoria, and to choose to do a degree in kinesiology.

While rowing, Makala discovered a passion for coaching and sharing her love of sport. She spent over 8 years facilitating learn-to-row camps, youth performance programs, as well as masters athletes sessions. Later in her degree, she began work with the Pacific Institute of Sport Education, as a Physical Literacy Instructor for children, leading both in and out of school programming.

Over her many years as a movement educator, she has had the pleasure of working with infant clients all the way to athletes in their nineties. In her clinical practice, Makala focuses on education, collaboration, and bringing a sense of fun to movement - whether you are a kid or an adult, enjoying your activity is key.

Coming from a sporting background, Makala understood importance of keeping your body ready to tackle anything. Dedicated movement programming has kept her playing sports to this day, despite encountering many injuries along the journey.

First, these looked like quick stretching routines at the end of a soccer practice, and then later, dedicated strength work in the gym to excel during racing season. Now, having retired from competitive sport, this looks more like being ready to go for a hike with friends, have a long day on the bike, or even addressing a nagging injury to be more comfortable during the work day.

Working as a kinesiologist allows Makala to blend her favourite parts of coaching with her passion for human anatomy, and gives her the ability to empower her clients to find movement that helps them feel good and keep doing the things they love.

Away from the clinic, you will find Makala on her bike, either somewhere on the peninsula or out on a gravel road in the forest. These adventures are usually centred around the next stop for coffee or finding a tasty snack. When not riding, she is spending time laughing with her favourite people, baking delicious treats, or looking for whales.

(She/Her/Hers) Makala grew up on the Island, and played a wide variety of sports throughout her ... Read More

Morsal completed her Masters in Physiotherapy at the University of Saskatchewan in 2018 with an undergraduate degree in Psychology. She strives to deliver client-centered care with a holistic approach.

“My interest in physiotherapy was directly related to the quality and quantity of time physiotherapists are able to spend with each client. When we are able to give space to actively listen to our client’s needs we are able to build a trusting partnership which facilitates the process of healing”.

With dedication to ongoing learning, she specializes in pelvic floor physiotherapy and is offering treatment for conditions such as urinary incontinence, pelvic girdle pain, and prenatal/ postnatal care. Morsal enjoys treating a variety of conditions such as general musculoskeletal injuries, TMJ (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), persistent low back pain, and more.

In her free time, Morsal enjoys cooking, spending time outdoors alongside family and friends, and entertaining her two cats.

Morsal completed her Masters in Physiotherapy at the University of Saskatchewan in 2018 with an u... Read More

Teressa is a compassionate, intuitive, energetic therapist who understands life can be challenging and overwhelming. She understands how important it is to create a safe space for injuries to heal, a place to facilitate rest to calm anxieties, and an open mind and heart to support one’s wellbeing. She values each patient’s unique situation and strives to find the most meaningful tailored approach in meeting individuals wellness needs.

Teressa’s areas of interest:

Rehabilitation for acute and chronic conditions Craniosacral and TMJ (Level 1 certified) Trauma and compassion care Stress, tension and pain relief Improve mobility She believes in three essential building blocks in supporting her patient’s goals and their quality of life: tailored massage therapy, one’s body-mind-emotion-spiritual connection, and empowering education and homecare.

Teressa’s treatments include a wide range of very gentle to deep tissue techniques, including: myofascial release, Craniosacral, TMJ, Swedish relaxation massage, nervous system integration, trigger point therapy, stretching, and active modalities to name a few.

Teressa is here to help, whether it’s your first time visit or you are a long-term patient.

In her free time, Teressa loves spending time on the water paddling with local high performance dragon boat and outrigger canoe teams, getting creative in the kitchen, painting, and planning adventures with family and friends.

Teressa is a compassionate, intuitive, energetic therapist who understands life can be challengin... Read More

(He/Him/His)

The most important aspect of care for Graham is to understand and treat the underlying cause of each patient’s symptoms. Through this approach, Graham creates long-term results. He focuses his practice on Therapeutic Deep Tissue Massage including specialty techniques such as Muscle Energy, Myofascial Release, and Exercise Rehabilitation. He addresses each patient’s unique therapeutic needs by taking the time to completely assess their concerns and fully incorporate their therapeutic goals into every treatment. Graham has a special interest in the treatment of headaches, pelvic and lower-back pain, sports-related injuries, and chronic pain.

Graham gained extensive experience working locally in Victoria after graduating from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy (WCCMT) in 2005. He returned to the WCCMT as a teacher in 2008. This role expanded his anatomical and therapeutic knowledge, which is the foundation for diagnostics and treatment. Graham began his career with Acacia Health in 2007. Acacia’s collaborative approach to health and their sense of community have kept him inspired and passionate about his practice and promoting personal wellness.

Graham’s enthusiasm for sports medicine and working with athletes was sparked by an opportunity to provide therapeutic support for Canada’s national dive team. In 2008 he travelled to China to work with the members of Dive Canada during the Beijing FINA World Cup for diving. Since 2008 he has worked with several patients who have competed professionally in various IRONMAN and international Olympic events, helping them reach their full potential through the treatment of exercise-related injuries and preventative therapy.

One of Graham’s passions is cycling. He is an avid bike commuter who also loves to head out for big rides on the weekend. Philanthropy is also an area that Graham is extremely eager to be involved with. In addition to volunteering for local community events, Graham founded the Cycle of Life Tour. What started in 2011 as a 3,000 km solo bike ride from Alaska to Victoria in support of the Victoria Hospice, has evolved into an annual 200 km group cycling event. To date, the Cycle of Life Tour has raised nearly $1,000,000 dollars for hospice care on Vancouver Island. In 2017 Graham was awarded the Governor General Sovereign Medal for volunteers from his work with the Cycle of Life Tour.

Graham’s enthusiastic attitude towards the practice of massage therapy makes him a valuable asset to the massage therapy community and he is excited to share his passion and skill as part of the Acacia Health team.

(He/Him/His) The most important aspect of care for Graham is to understand and treat the underly... Read More

Due to class sizes we do require participants be signed up for classes a minimum of 4 hours prior to class start times.

I have been practicing yoga since I was 16, when my brilliant mum put in me in a class hoping it would help my heart heal. Not only did I find my safe space on the mat, but I found my love of the human experience. I completed my first teacher training in 2010 and went on to complete a Yoga Therapy certification in 2014. As an avid student I have completed over 1000 hours of yoga specific training.

My teaching style is a blend of hatha and therapeutic yoga. Hatha yoga is a broad term simply referring to combining breath with poses. Many styles of yoga we are familiar with fall under hatha yoga (ashtanga, yin, vinyasa, etc). Therapeutic yoga goes deeper into anatomy with the understanding that although our parts are the same, each person is built differently.

I firmly believe that yoga shouldn’t be about whether you can touch your toes or how you look on the mat, but rather about finding an understanding of your own unique body and how it flows. It is important for me to meet people where they are at on any given day and as such prefer smaller class sizes or one on one teaching.

Due to class sizes we do require participants be signed up for classes a minimum of 4 hours prior... Read More

Mel is away until February 2025, but will be returning with an expanded schedule to offer his patients. Mel’s physiotherapy career began more than 15 years ago in the Philippines and he worked in the health care industry in the U.K. before coming to Canada a decade ago – his country of choice. Mel follows an attentive, one-on-one approach to accurately assess clients’ needs and guide them on the best route to recovery so that they can return to the activities they love with reduced risk of re-injury. When not helping clients, Mel is busy kayaking, hiking, biking, running, and swimming. He enjoys cooking and is a avid photographer, seeking to capture the beauty of this wonderful island we call home.

Services Include: Assessment and diagnosis of Neuro-musculoskeletal conditions Motor Vehicular Accident Rehabilitation(ICBC) Return to activities program / Sports Rehabilitation Core Muscle Stabilization Proprioception and Balance Strategies Nerve mobilization techniques Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization, Myofascial Release technique Kinesiotaping Manual traction techniques

Post grad skills: Certified Lower Extremity Mulligan Technique Certified Biomedical Dry Needling Part 1 and 2

Mel is away until February 2025, but will be returning with an expanded schedule to offer his pat... Read More

Sarah’s treatment goals are to provide her patients with a positive, safe and comfortable experience, through attentive listening and therapeutic touch. As part of her scope of practice she’s pleased to offer education on the importance of movement, self-care and of maintaining proper rest and recovery.

Areas of particular interest are stress and mental health, headaches, prenatal, as well as general maintenance and wellbeing.

In her personal time she enjoys being creative, spending time outdoors, and spending time with her dog.

Sarah’s treatment goals are to provide her patients with a positive, safe and comfortable experie... Read More