OUR TEAM OF EXPERTS
Dr. Brendan Gomes
Owner & Chiropractor
DC, D.Acu, B.Sc (Hons), CSCS, CPT, DNS, FRCms, IP, IT, SFMA
DC, D.Acu, B.Sc (Hons), CSCS, CPT, DNS, FRCms, IP, IT, SFMA
DC, D.Acu, B.Sc (Hons) CSCS, CPT, DNS, FRC, IP, IT, FMS
Dr. Brendan Gomes is the owner of The Lab – Movement & Sports Medicine. Working in the Fitness Industry for nearly a decade, as well being a competitive athletes, Dr. Gomes understands the unique physical demands of activity and sport on the body. Taking the strongest tenets from many streams of manual therapy, rehabilitative exercise and complimentary medicine; Dr. Gomes provides fuctional, evidence-based care for the athlete in sport or life.
Dr. Gomes holds a Bachelor’s Degree with specialized Honors in Kinesiology from York University. He later graduated from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College with his Doctorate of Chiropractic in 2017. He spent 8 years as a Personal trainer, owning his own freelance personal training business, all while going to school full time. He is also a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and holds a strong background in exercise science, biomechanics, and sports injuries. He is a certified Biomedical Acupuncturist, as well as the Lead Instructor for Integrated Seminar Series – an innovate, evidence-informed courseware in mobility, movement patterning, rehabilitation, performance biomechanics, acupuncture and integrated therapeutic interventions for other healthcare practitioners. He is a published author in the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association for his paper “Femoroacetabular Impingement in Elite Hockey Goalies”. He was part of the Preseason performance team for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in 2017 and has helped athletes at all levels – from youth, amateur, collegiate and professional ranks. He has worked with athletes from the MLB, NBA, CFL, NFL, and Ironman
Despite the extensive educational background, Dr. Gomes is a firm believer in continuing education to hone his skills and add to the toolbox. He holds certification in Athletic Taping through SportSide Medical, Functional Range Conditioning (FRC), Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilzation (DNS) and Integrated Therapeutics (IP, IT)
His broad experience in movement and biomechanics is exhibited in his unique approach to dissect movement and identify inefficiencies and limitations associated with the condition. He is interested in finding the root cause of the dysfunction, not just treating the symptoms. He is also very passionate about patient education and awareness, to ensure the condition does not return.
In addition, he’s formed partnerships with several gyms across the GTA, where he educates members on a complimentary basis with various workshops – to promote patient education and reduce the incidence of injury in gyms.
Whether you are a professional athletes, avid gym-goer or weekend warrior, Dr. Gomes treats you the same – allowing you feel better, move better and perform better; in whatever it is you do.
M.OMSc, BSc (Hons)
Rowen is a graduate from the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy and has earned in Masters Diploma in Osteopathic Manipulative Sciences. He is now a professional member of the Ontario Osteopathic Association. Rowen studied his undergraduate at York University where he completed his degree majoring in Kinesiology and minoring in Psychology. He then went on to do his certification as a Personal Trainer. After spending time in the health and wellness field, he became fascinated by body’s inherent ability to heal. While searching for a more in-depth understanding of the human body, Rowen came across classical Osteopathy. After receiving his first osteopathic treatment Rowen knew he had found his calling in classical Osteopathy. Human anatomy and physiology had always been his core strengths but osteopathy made him realize that the body truly is a dynamic unit of function. This understanding of “functional anatomy” is an ongoing lifetime study which treats each person as a unique individual. His practice therefore is based on customizing a unique treatment plan for each patient, as no one person is the same as the next.
BSc Kin, DC, FRCCSS(C)
While attending the University of Victoria, Dr Yedon had
a nagging knee injury that kept her from running. After seeing a
Chiropractic Sport Specialist, she walked out of the treatment feeling
significantly better and thought “THIS! This is what I want to do”. After
completing her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, she attended the Canadian
Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC). After graduation, her years as a
competitive flat-water kayaker motivated her to continue learning about sports
injuries in CMCC’s Sports Sciences Residency. During this program, she
learned from sport physicians, orthopaedic surgeons and some of the best sport
chiros around. She went on to become a Fellow of the Royal College of
Chiropractic Sports Sciences. In addition to working in sports injury
clinics for the last 15 years, she has also taught at CMCC for 12 years.
Dr Yedon’s assessments are very thorough as she searches for the
what and the why: the what hurts and the why did it start hurting in the first
place. If you have a chronic issue that you are ready to work through or if
there’s something new keeping you from doing what you love, Dr Yedon looks forward to working with you to help you feel
better, move better and perform better.
Whether you are an
office athlete or an Olympian, Dr Yedon is
dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Injuries occur when the stress
acting on tissue is greater than that tissue’s capacity. With the
right combination of manual treatment, acupuncture, mobility and strengthening
exercises, Dominique will help you reduce the stress acting on your body while
also increasing your body’s resilience.
Outside of the
clinic, Dr Yedon loves to run, hike, cook and
freeze in hockey rinks as she cheers on her husband and two sons.
MScPT, B.Sc
Richard Iheadindu is a graduate of the Queen’s University Master of Physical Therapy program. He completed his undergraduate degree at York University where he played for the York Lions men’s basketball team completing his bachelor’s in Kinesiology and Health Science. Richard then did his post grad at Queen’s University where he played for Gaels Varsity basketball team for one year whilst completing his physiotherapy degree. At Queen’s, Richard was also able to learn some advanced manual techniques like spinal manipulation. Since his formal education, Richard has rehabilitated a wide variety of clientele ranging from the high-level athletes to the acutely ill in the hospital.
His postgraduate education includes completing courses in advanced manual therapy techniques, blood flow resistance training and acupuncture for improving his skills in private practice. He strongly believes that the capacity of movement leads to increased quality of life and mental well-being. He enjoys treating a variety of clientele and working in diverse settings to continue learning in all areas of physiotherapy. When Richard is not working, he enjoys playing basketball and weightlifting.
I started my journey into healthcare at the guidance of a wonderful Massage Therapist very close to me. Enrolling into college 3 years ago for this career, I was misguided to believe that it was just about getting a job. Massage therapy changed my life in so many ways. The knowledge I gained really led me on a journey to better overall physical health and well-being. I found passion for my career through application and results. If I wasn’t learning muscles, I was at the gym working them. I developed a passion for fitness and human anatomy. Creating an personalized treatment plans and helping my clients reach each milestone towards rehabilitation and pain relief is what pushes me as a therapist. And now, I’m looking forward to making a positive impact in the lives of all my patients
M.OMSc
Andrew has been around athletes his whole life. After years of playing volleyball and encountering numerous shoulder injuries, Andrew discovered first-hand the power of Osteopathy. The osteopathic treatment of his sports injuries led him to study the science of Osteopathy. From a young age, Andrew had a strong desire to work with athletes, helping facilitate their rehab to get them back to performing.
Along with Andrew’s years of playing competitive volleyball, he also enjoys cycling, running, tennis, basketball, hockey, soccer, weightlifting, and swimming. He has vast experience coaching volleyball, as well as training athletes of all sports. Although Andrew treats a wide range of patients, his emphasis is working with athletes. Andrew’s clinical experience involves treating numerous soft tissue, repetitive strain injuries that athletes encounter, such as tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff strains, as well as neck and back injuries.
Andrew is a graduate of the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy, with a Masters Diploma in Osteopathic Manipulative Sciences. Prior to his Osteopathic education, Andrew graduated McMaster University with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, earning a spot on the Dean’s Honours List. Andrew is constantly involved in furthering his knowledge and skills, partaking in workshops and seminars to be able to provide the best care for his patients.
I started out in this field because I was inspired by the care and sports rehab that I received when I was an athlete. From competitive gymnastics to soccer to varsity track and field, I’ve been in and out of my fair share of clinics!
I have a passion for helping people return to doing what they love. Whether that be sports, recreational activity, or returning to a pain-free everyday life. I want to work as a team with each individual to create a treatment that fits their mental and physical needs. I believe that exercise and activity is an essential component of wellbeing and want my clients to be able to engage in these activities without compromise.
Education-wise I went to Western (GO STANGS!) for my undergrad, earning a Honours Bachelor of Arts with Specialization in Kinesiology and followed that with a Diploma of Massage Therapy from Sutherland-Chan.
In my spare time, I like to lift weights, read, play volleyball and spend time with family. I’m a huge sports fan, especially the Leafs, Raps and Jays!
Danya attended the Ontario College of Health & Technology and graduated with honours in November 2018.
She is registered with the College of Massage Therapists’ of Ontario, a member of the Registered Massage Therapists’ Association of Ontario, and a member of the Canadian Sport Massage Therapists’ Association.
Her goal is to create a treatment that is specific to each client’s needs. Whether it is to enhance athletic performance or promote active daily living, she integrates all aspects of her patient’s health in order to optimize their care.
Along with this, she tries to educate her clients on self-care to increase their recovery time, as well as prevent future injury.
Her style of massage combines Myofascial release, stretching and deep tissue techniques. She believes in collaborative care with the patient so that each treatment and patient goal is achieved.
Danya has experience working with a wide variety of patients, such as, rehabilitation, athletes, everyday wellness & prenatal care.
Her background in competitive sport allows her to understand and treat common injuries found int he athletic community.
Danya currently works with players of the Toronto Raptors G League basketball team.
She continues her work with athletes participating in other sports such as: Soccer, Volleyball, Hockey, Golf, CrossFit, Bodybuilding, Powerlifting, Running, Cycling, and Martial Arts.
MScPT
Maryam completed an Honours Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences from McMaster University in 2017 and completed her Master of Science in Physical Therapy at Western University in 2020. Maryam has experience working in a diverse range of populations, including orthopedics, pediatrics and neurological rehabilitation. She aims to provide the best care for all of her patients, taking a holistic approach in her treatments. Maryam believes in providing patient-centered care that includes patient education, manual therapy and exercise prescription to get her patients back to doing the things they love! Maryam hopes to continue her post-graduate education, having already completed her Level 1 Manual Therapy certification with the orthopedic division, certified in concussion and vestibular rehab, introduction to pelvic floor, and acupuncture and dry needling,
Dr. Thomas Lalonde is a Chiropractor with nearly a decade of experience in the Fitness/Rehab Industry. He holds a Diploma in Fitness and Health Promotion with honours from Humber college, a Bachelor’s Degree with Honours from Brock University, and a Doctorate of Chiropractic from The Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College.
Dr. Lalonde has an extensive background in treating sport injuries, specifically specializing in Golf Performance Therapy. In 2021, he traveled with the Toronto Players Tour as their Head Therapist, He took on the role of Head Performance Therapist for an Ontario based Golf Program and continues to serve as the Head Therapist for the Osprey Valley Open on the PGA Tour Canada.
Throughout his education, Dr. Lalonde has spent time furthering his knowledge and is also Certified in Integrated Needling Acupuncture, Integrated Assessment + Integrated Patterning, Titleist Performance Institute, Active Release Technique as well as, Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization. He is also one of the Lead Instructors for Integrated Seminar Series – an innovative, evidence-informed courseware in mobility, movement patterning, rehabilitation, and Acupuncture for other healthcare providers taught around the world.
RMT
Stacey Arbour became a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) after completing her studies at Kikkawa College in Toronto. She also holds a Specialized Honours degree in Kinesiology and Health Science, which she obtained from York University. As a health care practitioner, Stacey feels it’s imperative to stay current in order to provide her clients with the most up-to-date, personalized care, and she continues to regularly participate in workshops and courses that further broaden her knowledge base to ensure this. As a health and fitness advocate, Stacey adopts a holistic approach to health and wellness, and encourages her clients to do the same. With years of experience in the health and fitness industry, Stacey possesses an enriched, diverse understanding of the body and body processes. She utilizes this knowledge to tailor her treatments to meet the needs of the individual, and create home care programs to further enhance their recovery. Stacey has experience treating an array of conditions at various stages of healing, spanning from soft tissue injury and chronic pain, to neurological conditions, such as Multiple Sclerosis and Cerebral Palsy. She specializes in therapeutic massage with a focus on Soft Tissue Release (STR) and myofascial manipulation, and is competent in all styles of Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, sport injury treatment, and pre and post natal massage
Bianca is a firm believer that movement is mankind’s greatest gift. With a background in strength and conditioning, Bianca has always noticed how people move and experienced the benefits of regular treatments by a variety of healthcare practitioners not only for herself but for her clients as well.
After finishing at Sutherland Chan, Bianca was able to see a clearer vision on why movement is so important – even better, how to move with a purpose. While in the program, Bianca was able to provide thorough assessments and therapy in multiple disciplines including Sport-based Rehab Clinics, Stroke Clinics, and Pre/Post Transplant Patients at the Toronto General Hospital.
Bianca’s approach to treatment includes in-depth assessments and hands-on work. Bianca is intuitive and emphasizes on movement programming. Bianca understands the importance of treatment and movement to help create a positive impact on her clients’ lives.
Outside of helping her clients, Bianca enjoys working out, travelling, and reading at coffee shops. In your next session, be sure to ask her why she enjoys lifting heavy things.
RMT
Rhayelle Azeez-Caesar always had a passion for healthcare since she was young. Since high school she always participated in various outreach programs within the healthcare field. She then went on to complete her undergrad at York University, where she achieved a Specialized Honors Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology & Health Sciences. After graduating, she continued her education at the renowned Sutherland-Chan School of Massage Therapy, where she achieved her Diploma in Massage Therapy. During her time there, she interned at some of the top hospitals in the region, such as Toronto General Hospital, Sunnybrook Hospital and Lyndhurst Center for Brain & Spinal Cord Rehabilitation as well as working with various demographics at events such as VELD and Digital Dreams Music festivals. With her warm demeanor and willingness to learn, she has always maintained a positive energy within the multiple clinics she’s worked at. Her main goal is to provide her patients with the best care possible using natural remedies and various massage techniques ranging from traditional Swedish Massage to deep tissue and myofascial techniques.
MScPT, BPHE (Hons)
Pelvic Health Certified Physiotherapist
Level 1 CAMPT
Kristi completed an Honours Bachelor of Physical and Health Education at Queen’s University in 2017 and went on to complete her Master of Science in Physical Therapy at Western University in 2020. Kristi is passionate about treating patients to empower them to achieve any rehab and fitness goals. Kristi has worked with a very diverse population; from high-performance university athletes, to seniors’ care, and pelvic health. Kristi traveled with the Queen’s Women’s Soccer team to 2 university championships, trained the Men’s Football team during the winter season, and during her time at Western was the trainer for the Junior Mustangs Football Team. After achieving her master’s degree, she focused on continuing education in Pelvic Health Physiotherapy, completing her Level 1, 2 and 3A through Pelvic Health Solutions, as well as Dr. Nicole Cozean’s ‘Pelvic Health Essentials’ and Julie Wiebe’s ‘Piston Science’courses. Kristi’s treatment style emphasizes restored range and function through manual therapy and soft tissue release, as well as comprehensive exercise and proprioception retraining for optimal recovery and injury prevention. While not at work Kristi is a CrossFit athlete, and enjoys getting active with her family and her Bernese x Husky dog, Siggy.
MScPT
Leon completed his Bachelor of Medical Science at the University of Western Ontario, majoring in physiology and medical science. While completing his undergraduate degree, he also worked as a research assistant as part of the Trauma & Neurosurgery Department at St. Michael’s Hospital. He then went on to complete his Master of Physiotherapy at University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom. During his time in Birmingham, Leon served as the student team therapist, providing pitch-side medical coverage for the university’s lacrosse team.
Leon has experience working in a broad range of clinical specialities, ranging anywhere from critical care, gaeriatrics, orthopaedics, to stroke rehabilitation. He has thus worked with a variety of patient populations including the critically-ills, pre-/post-operative, neurological patients and patients with acute or chronic musculoskeletal injuries.
Leon currently splits his practice time working between neurological and orthopaedic population. He utilises an evidence-based, patient-centred approach in therapy combining manual therapy, patient-tailored exercise programs and education as part of his treatment. Furthermore, Leon firmly believes that the recovery journey is a collaboration between the patient and the therapist. He is keen to be part of his patients’ journey, utilising his knowledge to help guide, facilitate and maximise their recovery potential.
Leon is committed to providing excellent patient care. As such, he always aims to further advance his clinical skills through post-graduate professional development and volunteer work. He is a current Red Cross First Responder and a current candidate of the FIFA Diploma of Sprots Medicine in Football. He seeks to further expand his skillsets with plans to be certified in Sports Physiotherapy, Level 1 manual therapy through the Orthopaedic Division, and medical acupuncture.
Outside of clinic, Leon stays active through weightlifting, cycling, swimming, and experimenting new sports.
