Darren uses a tailored treatment approach for his patients to optimize results and help them achieve their goals. His treatment philosophy is grounded in imparting knowledge to his patients, soft tissue release and manual therapy, therapeutic exercise including strength and conditioning, restoring movement and reducing pain to get you moving and feeling better. He loves seeing patients meet and exceed their goals by empowering them. Helping others improve and maintain health and quality of life is extremely rewarding to him.

Darren holds a Masters of Physical Therapy from Queen’s University and a Bachelor of Physical Education from Brock University. He has training in contemporary medical acupuncture from McMaster University, soft tissue release, manual therapy, Mulligan techniques for joint mobilization, McKenzie techniques for spine health, pain science, strength and conditioning, and taping. Away from Heal Health & Performance, Darren enjoys being physically active, travelling, going on walks with his dog Dino, and spending time with his family and newborn daughter.

Darren uses a tailored treatment approach for his patients to optimize results and help them achi... Read More

Holly graduated from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, where she took part in various clinical internships working with varsity athletes as both a student on-field therapist and a strength and conditioning coach. She then continued her studies with a diploma in massage therapy from Sutherland-Chan School of Massage Therapy.

She has worked with various populations in therapeutic and rehabilitative settings, including patients with various neurological conditions, post-surgical groups, post-partum and pregnant women, children, spinal cord injury patients, patients with chronic pain, individuals seeking stress management solutions, as well as patients with sports injuries. She has experience working with professional athletes of the PWHPA, NBA, NHL, CFL and Olympic athletes of team Canada Hockey.

Holly enjoys helping her patients tap into their adaptive potential and achieve their functional and performance goals. Her goal has always been to “fix” her patients - she focuses on educating her clients and providing them with everyday tools to help them live injury and pain-free.

She takes a unique, evidence-based approach to massage therapy treatments, and integrates movement and mobility work into her sessions (it is strongly recommended you bring shorts and a T-shirt to your sessions as for this reason). After conducting an integrated movement and neurofunctional assessment, she uses modalities in treatment like cupping, medical acupuncture, myofascial release and joint mobilizations to treat the root of her patient’s dysfunction. Kindly note, treatments are conducted with patients in shorts and t-shirts, not sheets.

When she is not treating, Holly works as a Professor at Sutherland-Chan School of Massage Therapy (and previously, Algonquin College) and enjoys spending her free time with family, trying new restaurants in the GTHA and staying active.

Holly graduated from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, where she too... Read More

BSc Kin, MSc PT, MClSc CMP

Lana completed her Masters of Physiotherapy degree at McMaster University in Hamilton, ON followed by a Masters of Clinical Science in Advanced Healthcare Practice Comprehensive Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy (AHCP CMP) at Western University in London, ON.

Lana’s clinical practice is focused on treatment of orthopedic conditions. Her aim is to guide each individual in reaching their personal health goals by combining their preferences, the latest evidence-informed knowledge, and her clinical expertise to develop an effective treatment plan.

Lana has taken a variety of postgraduate courses and can offer: manual (hands-on) therapy, joint manipulation (adjustments), exercise instruction, acupuncture, manual lymphatic drainage, taping, and soft tissue release (cupping, instrument-assisted).

Outside of the clinic, Lana is a gelato enthusiast, avid tennis fan, and enjoys traveling, barre classes, nature documentaries, and spending time with friends, family and her dog.

BSc Kin, MSc PT, MClSc CMP Lana completed her Masters of Physiotherapy degree at McMaster Univer... Read More

Currently providing virtual appointments only!

“Using health prevention, health optimization and health education, you will feel more confident” - Dr. Anna Graczyk, ND

Dr. Anna Graczyk, ND is a registered Naturopathic Doctor with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO). She graduated with an Honours Bachelor’s in Health Studies and completed her Doctor of Naturopathy at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine.

Main Interests

Mind Health - This includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act as we cope with life stressors. - Experience in: Stress-Management, Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorder, Burn Out, Drug-Nutrient depletion and more

Gut Health - This includes the physical and physiological function of our digestive system. The total mass of the gut and its hormone cells is bigger than all the rest of the cells in our bodies put together. - Experience in: Constipation, Diarrhea, Acid-Reflux, Indigestion, Gas and Bloating, IBS, IBD (Crohn’s and Colitis), Candida, etc.

Skin Health - Our skin is a reflection of what is happening inside our bodies. As the most external organ, it can cause us a lot of mental stress when it’s not looking best. - Experience in: Rashes (non-emergent), Eczema, Psoriasis, Acne, Nail Health, Hair loss, and more

Pelvic Floor Therapy - “Pelvic Health is the best possible functioning and management of the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. It is not merely the absence of disease or weakness in these organs. Pelvic health plays an important role in complete physical, mental, social, and sexual well-being.” (Baylor College of Medicine, 2023) - Experience in: Postpartum recovery, leakage of urine, pain or discomfort during sex, anal leakage

Hours - Wednesday 1 PM - 7 PM - Thursday 1 PM - 7 PM

Born and raised in Hamilton, Dr. Anna, ND is proud to be serving the Hamilton area (in-person & virtually) and Ontario wide residents (virtually). She is fluent in English and Polish.

Currently providing virtual appointments only! “Using health prevention, health optimization and... Read More

Nicole graduated from Western University with an Honours Specialization in Kinesiology and a Masters in Physical Therapy.

She brings her expertise in concussion, vestibular, and pelvic health therapy to the Heal team. She is a well-rounded practitioner who has worked in several outpatient clinics, including two in the Vancouver area. She has worked with children, athletes, and seniors for a multitude of orthopedic conditions, such as sport-related injuries and chronic muscle pain.

Additionally, she has experience working at the Michael G. DeGroote Clinic at McMaster University, where she educates the chronic pain population on pain science and nervous system desensitization.

As a clinician, her treatment style is person-specific and holistic. She understands that several factors can influence healing, such as diet and mental health. Her experience working in an interdisciplinary team, whether in a hospital setting or in a clinic, has given her the opportunity to collaborate with multiple team members to help treat patients. In her free time, she enjoys playing hockey, soccer, and hiking with her dog Lily.

Nicole graduated from Western University with an Honours Specialization in Kinesiology and a Mast... Read More

Dana Hames is a graduate from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) where she earned her Doctor of Chiropractic Degree. During her studies at CMCC, she also completed the Neurofunctional Acupuncture program from McMaster University. Prior to CMCC, she received her Honours Bachelor of Science Degree with Specialization in Kinesiology from the University of Western Ontario.

Dana was born and raised in Burlington, ON. It was in high school following a knee injury that she became interested in the human body, anatomy, biomechanics and rehabilitation. She always dreamed of a profession that would combine her interests with her desire to help others. During her undergraduate studies, she had the opportunity to shadow local chiropractors and knew the chiropractic profession was the perfect fit for her.

As an evidence-based chiropractor, Dana uses current research, patient values and clinical experience to thoroughly assess, diagnose and provide individualized treatment plans to her patients. She is a strong believer in exercise as medicine and incorporates rehabilitative and functional exercises into every treatment plan. She also uses various treatment techniques, including chiropractic adjustments, mobilizations, soft tissue therapy, acupuncture, modalities and education. Dana ensures her patients’ have the appropriate knowledge and tools to best manage their pains and better understand their bodies. Together, Dana and her patients form a team in order to create a treatment plan that gets them feeling and functioning at their best.

Dana is a fitness fanatic and healthy-living enthusiast. She enjoys resistance training, HIIT, yoga, hiking, rollerblading – anything that gets her body moving! She is currently a trainer at F45 Stoney Creek Mountain and genuinely enjoys helping others achieve (and surpass) their fitness goals. In addition to exercise, other pillars of wellness including quality sleep, proper nutrition, mental health and social support are of great importance to Dana. A healthy, balanced and functional lifestyle is different for everyone, and it is one of Dana’s missions to help others find a lifestyle that works best for them!

Dana Hames is a graduate from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) where she earned ... Read More

Ljuba Manzella holds a Bachelor of Science from York University. This is where her love for human anatomy developed, leading her to continue her studies at the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy where she obtained her Masters of Osteopathic Manipulative Sciences.

Ljuba’s goal is to work with her patients to build their overall health and improve the day-to-day lives of others each and every day!

On her free time Ljuba enjoys playing soccer, spending time with her family/friends and enjoying cottage weekends!

Ljuba Manzella holds a Bachelor of Science from York University. This is where her love for human... Read More

Dr. Alisha Nachman has a passion for chiropractic that has spanned her entire life.  Born and raised in Oakville, Alisha grew up as a classical ballet dancer, training at a professional level.  She sought chiropractic care at the age of 11 after sustaining a neck injury during a ballet rehearsal.  Amazed by the treatment, Alisha decided during that first visit that one day she would become a chiropractor.  Dr. Nachman attended McMaster University where she completed a Bachelors degree in Kinesiology with Honours, and a minor in psychology.  She then attended the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) where she earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree with clinic honours. Alisha is a strong advocate of the chiropractic adjustment offering both spinal and extremity manipulation along with manual therapy, muscle release therapy, cupping and rehabilitative exercises. Dr. Nachman focuses on patient-centered care, making each individual’s goals a priority. Alisha enjoys educating her patients on injury prevention and hopes to inspire healthy, active living. In her spare time, Alisha loves to explore the world through travelling and photography, although most of her time now is spent chasing after her daughter Remi.

Dr. Alisha Nachman has a passion for chiropractic that has spanned her entire life.  Born and rai... Read More

Have you ever felt like no matter what diet you try or how many hours you spend at the gym, you just can’t lose the weight? Or despite all your efforts to channel your ‘willpower’, your cravings overpower you every single time? Do you dread going out to dinner with friends, for fear that you’ll have to beeline it to the bathroom or that you’ll end up feeling gassy or bloated every time you try to enjoy a nice meal out? Or how about that dreaded ‘time of the month’ when you feel like your whole life needs to be put on hold because of painful menstrual cramps, breast tenderness and moodiness?

You may have even had routine blood work done and have been told that ‘everything looks ok’, which may seem reassuring but may actually feel more frustrating when you still don’t feel ok. I want you to understand that this is not your fault. These are signs that we need to make strategic lifestyle changes while also helping to address underlying hormonal imbalances.

Hi! I’m Dr. Sukriti Bhardwaj, ND. I focus on female hormonal health and digestive health. My life’s purpose and calling is to help YOU take back control of your health, shed the unwanted pounds, have abundant energy, clarity of thinking, feel confident in any outfit, and feel like you can go out to dinner with friends without feeling gassy, bloated and just plain uncomfortable. I’m also passionate about women’s health concerns including painful periods, PCOS, and helping to make the transition through menopause as seamless as possible.

Another passion of mine is supporting people with cancer. After completing my four year Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree, I completed a two-year post graduate residency where I supported people with various types of cancer including breast, lung, prostate and colon cancer during their treatment to reduce side effects and after cancer treatment to reduce risk of recurrence. Prior to earning my Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree, I completed the Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honours) program from McMaster University. In my free time, I love exploring all that Hamilton has to offer and you’ll often find me hitting the trails or enjoying a nice workout at the gym.

Have you ever felt like no matter what diet you try or how many hours you spend at the gym, you j... Read More

Annette Orzel is currently on maternity leave!

Annette Orzel holds an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from McMaster University where she excelled in rehabilitation and functional anatomy.

Her fascination with anatomy and passion for helping others compelled her to continue her education at the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy where she obtained her Masters of Osteopathic Manipulative Sciences (M. OMSc). Now, as an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner at Heal Health & Performance she is thrilled to be serving her community and helping people with their physical health!

On her spare time Annette loves playing volleyball and going on hikes with her german shepherd, Rex.

Annette Orzel is currently on maternity leave! Annette Orzel holds an Honours Bachelor of Scienc... Read More

Dr. Jess is currently not accepting new patients. She is going to be going on maternity leave after June 2024. If you are a new patient or existing patient (who can’t get in) please book with one of the other chiropractors at Heal. We all have a very similar practice style and you will be in great hands with any of them!! - Dr. Jess :)

Dr. Jessica Leroux graduated as a Doctor of Chiropractic from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto, Ontario. Her journey in becoming a sophisticated healthcare professional began with her undergraduate Honours Life Science degree from McMaster University. During these years she discovered Chiropractic through shadowing experienced, evidence based chiropractors and decided it was the path for her. Since then Dr. Leroux excelled with a high educational standard and translated her knowledge into superior hands on customized treatments.

She works together with each patient to design a plan specific to their goals. This begins with a thorough history and physical examination. Afterwards, she explains her findings, diagnosis and what treatment options are available for each specific condition. Treatment plans may include manual therapy of the joints and muscles, Active Release Techniques® (ART®), instrument assisted soft tissue therapy, electrical stimulation such as TENS and/or rehabilitation exercises. Dr. Leroux is motivated by her patients and feels fortunate to have a career that challenges her to improve the quality of life of every individual that enters her office.

Dr. Leroux currently resides in Hamilton, Ontario. She enjoys spending time at her cottage, doing yoga and hiking with her great dane, Penny.

Dr. Jess is currently not accepting new patients. She is going to be going on maternity leave aft... Read More

Dr. Lauren graduated from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) in 2017 with clinic honours. Prior to her Doctorate of Chiropractic degree, she completed an Honours Bachelor of Kinesiology degree at McMaster. During her time at CMCC she also took the Neurofunctional Acupuncture course through McMaster University.

Since graduating, Dr. Lauren has treated a wide variety of patients from newborns to professional athletes. She has additional training in treating pregnant women and since having her own children in 2019 and 2021, she has developed a true passion for working with this population.

During your appointment, Dr. Lauren will take a comprehensive history, complete a physical examination and then report those findings to you in a concise and thorough manner. She will then present a treatment plan to you with the goal of returning to you back to optimal function as quickly as possible. Dr. Lauren practices evidence based chiropractic and is equipped with the skills to treat the whole body in a variety of different techniques. It is most important to Dr. Lauren that your time at HEAL offers you a comfortable and safe environment. She will always strive to educate and guide you on any health related questions or concerns you may have while remaining unbiased and non-judgmental.

Dr. Lauren moved to Hamilton while finishing her Doctorate of Chiropractic degree and has never looked back! During her free time, you can find Dr. Lauren chasing after her two daughters, aged 2 and 4 and watching her husband play professional lacrosse (go Mammoth!)

She is so looking forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your health and wellness goals.

Dr. Lauren graduated from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) in 2017 with clinic h... Read More

Rebecca graduated from the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy as a certified Master in Practice of Osteopathic Manual Sciences (M. OMSc) and is a member of the Ontario Osteopathic Association. As a lifelong rock climber and competitive climbing coach for over 5 years she gained a deep interest in anatomy and movement. Working with climbers of all ages she was able to experience how asymmetries and restrictions within the body can have a widespread effect on one’s health overall.

Rebecca is passionate about delivering safe and effective treatments which are based on classical osteopathic principles. By restoring movement and realigning the mechanical structure of the body, the important neurovascular structures below are able to function optionally and restore health to not only the areas that need it most but to the entire body as a whole. She strongly believes in supporting the restorative mechanisms that each person possesses, allowing them to take control of their health and feel their best.

Rebecca graduated from the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy as a certified Master in Practice of Os... Read More

Louisa is an RMT and graduate of the Ontario College of Health and Technology with honours. She is trained in a wide variety of massage techniques and is especially passionate about using myofascial release and joint mobilizations to help her clients move and feel better. Louisa treats each client with a holistic approach. She believes in the importance of performing a thorough assessment to find the root of the discomfort rather than chasing symptoms. Louisa is also trained in Fascial Stretch Therapy (FST™) level 1, NKT level 1, cupping and IASTM.

Louisa is an RMT and graduate of the Ontario College of Health and Technology with honours. She i... Read More

A graduate from the Humber College Massage Therapy program, Sonny is successfully trained in a variety of techniques including Swedish massage, trigger point therapy, pre/post-natal massage, and deep tissue massage. Sonny has a strong passion in helping her clients achieve their personal health goals through clinical assessments and individualized treatment planning. With fresh knowledge from her training and studies, Sonny has experience working with clients with neurological conditions, chronic illnesses, sports injuries, as well as everyday impairments, pain, and tension.

A graduate from the Humber College Massage Therapy program, Sonny is successfully trained in a va... Read More