Come as you are. We'll start with what you're bringing in.

Wear comfortable clothing that you can move easily in. Soft, flexible clothing such as leggings, athletic pants, shorts and a comfortable T-shirt or top works well. Please avoid jeans, belts, restrictive clothing that does not move well, dresses and skirts, as well as jewelry or accessories that may get in the way of assessment or treatment. Clothing stays on throughout your appointment — you will not be asked to undress for assessment or treatment.

Generally, you can book directly with an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner without a physician referral. Some extended health insurance plans have their own reimbursement requirements, so check your individual policy if you plan to submit your appointment through insurance.

Many extended health benefit plans in Canada include coverage for services provided by eligible Osteopathic Manual Practitioners, but coverage varies by insurer and individual plan. If you plan to claim treatment, confirm your coverage directly with your insurer.

OSTCAN — Osteopathy Canada — is a national organization representing provincial osteopathic associations whose practitioner members meet established educational and professional standards. Your individual insurance coverage should always be confirmed directly with your insurer.

OSTCAN — Osteopathy Canada — is a national organization representing provincial osteopathic associations whose practitioner members meet established educational and professional standards. The Ontario Association of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners (OAO) is an Ontario professional association and a member association of OSTCAN.

We begin with a conversation about what you are experiencing, relevant health and injury history, and aspects of everyday life that may matter. You do not need to understand osteopathy before you arrive — I will explain what we are doing as we go. Treatment is not based on forcing your body through pain; please tell me what you are experiencing, and treatment can be changed at any point.

No. I do not perform HVLA (high-velocity, low-amplitude) manipulation — the rapid, controlled thrust techniques that can create a cracking or popping sound. HVLA falls outside my scope of practice. My treatment uses other hands-on osteopathic techniques selected according to what I find during assessment.

Not necessarily. Where you feel a symptom gives us important information, but it does not always tell us where the broader pattern begins. Movement in one region can influence how another manages load and motion, so assessment may include areas beyond the symptomatic location.

Yes. Physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care, medical care and other services may sometimes complement osteopathic care. Let me know what other care you are receiving so I can understand the broader picture, avoid unnecessary duplication and refer appropriately when needed.

Not every symptom is an osteopathic problem. Sometimes your history or assessment suggests that medical investigation, rehabilitation or another healthcare professional is more appropriate. If something appears to fall outside my scope of practice or I believe another form of care should be involved, I will tell you.

There is no predetermined number. Treatment frequency depends on what we find, how your body responds and what makes sense for you — I do not believe in booking you into care you do not need.

Children are welcome in my practice. I have pursued continuing education in pediatric osteopathic care and continue to develop my study in this area. Assessment and treatment are adapted to the child's age, development, presentation and comfort.

Yes. I want you to understand what I am assessing and why something may be relevant. You are welcome to ask questions at any point, and you remain in control of your care throughout the appointment.