Derek graduated from the University of Western Ontario in 2003 with an Honors degree in Kinesiology with Psychology and returned to graduate from UWO with a Masters in Physical Therapy in 2005.  Since then, he has worked in both private practice as well as publicly funded areas of physiotherapy in both Ontario and British Columbia.  During these experiences, Derek has gained knowledge in and appreciation for a number of areas of rehabilitation.  Specifically, Derek has gained experience in the area of stroke and neurological rehabilitation and completed the Certificate Course in Neurodevelopmental Treatment approach (NDT) in 2022.  He is also an authorizer for the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) through the Ministry of Health and Long Term care for mobility aides, which allows him to assess, prescribe and facilitate the process of receiving government funding for walkers when needed.  A big area of special interest for Derek is Concussion Management. He not only believes that early detection and proper management of concussion is essential, he also feels that physiotherapy along with a multidisciplinary approach is imperative for a healthy recovery.  Derek has trained with Shift Concussion Management, Complete Concussion Management, and R2P Concussion Management, and annually completes a massive open online course on concussion offered by Université Laval.  Up to date information from these courses combined with clinical experience helps facilitate better outcomes for his patients.  Derek’s general approach to treatment is an active one with a focus on exercise, sleep hygiene, and general health promotion.  However, other training includes dry needling (Gunn Intramuscular Stimulation [Gunn IMS] - University of British Columbia), manual therapy (Intermediate Exam completed through the Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Physiotherapy Curriculum), acupuncture, and Connect Therapy/Thoracic Ring Approach through Dr. L.J. Lee's Connect Therapy Series.  

 

Currently, Derek resides in Guelph with his wife and two children.  He enjoys playing soccer, guitar, camping, household projects, his vegetable garden and most importantly spending time with his family.