Yes! Most insurance companies we work with cover chiropractic care, acupuncture and massage therapy services. However, it also depends on your personal coverage. You can verify your own coverage and exactly how much is dedicated to each service with your insurance company, and we will handle the rest! ​ please note: direct billing may not be available to all patients as each insurance company carries its own policies about direct billing

To schedule an appointment at Empower Health and Wellness, simply contact our office by phone or through our online booking system. Our friendly staff will assist you in finding a convenient time for your visit.

No, you do not need a referral from your primary care physician or other medical providers to schedule an appointment with us. We welcome all patients, whether they're seeking treatment independently or before seeing another doctor.

We require 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule your appointment without charge. ​ Cancellations are not accepted via text message or instagram DM. Please email info@empowerhealthandwellness.ca or call us at 705-726-3858 Missed appointments or appointments cancelled less than 24 hours notice prior to the appointment time are subject to 50% of the appointment fee for the first missed or late-cancelled appointment, and subject to the full 100% fee for subsequent missed appointments or late cancellations. please note: you are not able to claim fees for missed appointments under your extended health benefits.

While we treat patients without referrals, some insurance providers may still require prior authorization. We recommend checking with your insurance company before scheduling an appointment to ensure coverage. If you need assistance understanding your benefits, we're happy to verify them for you.

We are located at 301 Bryne Drive - Unit 9 in Barrie Ontario!

Absolutely! You can schedule an appointment with us even if you're unsure about your insurance coverage. We'll work with you to verify your benefits and help you understand what your plan covers before proceeding with any treatment.

Yes! With that being said, not ALL insurance companies offer insurance coverage. A quick phone call to your insurance company will clarify if your policy covers acupuncture.

Different people experience different sensations with acupuncture. Most feel only minimal discomfort when the needle is inserted - a small pinch. Once the needles are in place, there should be no significant discomfort. Some people report an “achey” sensation in or around the point of insertion, itching or warmth.

Since each treatment is created specifically for each patient and no treatment is the same, the needles will be placed in varying locations, based on the reason of your visit. The needles can be placed anywhere from head to toe, however, if there are areas you would like to avoid, just say so!

ABSOLUTELY - All needles are thrown into a designated sharps container after use. This goes for needles used by all practitioners at the clinic.

Acupuncture is very safe when it is carried out properly, however, when dealing with needles, there are risks that come along with treatment. All of our needles are a sterile, one-time use disposable needles. Here are a few possible side effects and risks that you may experience during or after treatment: minor bleeding and/or bruising and swelling minor soreness at site of needle insertion temporary aggravation of symptoms (in less than 3% of patients) nausea and/or fainting (can occur in certain patients) possible bent or stuck needles possible perforation of internal organs (ex: pneumothorax)

Only those who are registered with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (CTCMPAO) are allowed to: Use the protected title of R.Ac or TCMP Perform the authorized controlled acts: perform a procedure on tissue below the dermis and below the surface of a mucous membrane for the purpose of performing acupuncture communicate a TCM diagnosis identifying a body system disorder as the cause of a person’s symptoms using TCM techniques

Traditional Chinese Medicine “TCM” (Acupuncture) was originated in ancient China and has a history of over two thousand years. Chinese Medicine uses the theory of Yin and Yang to explain the mechanism of balancing the functions of the body. Acupuncture is the study of energy flow called qi which flows through the body and performs multiple functions to maintain health. When we insert the needles, it stimulates points on or under the skin that releases qi, in which it then travels through channels called meridians. When there is a blockage of qi, called stagnation, we begin to see chronic pain or other imbalances arise, and our role is to correct and balance it.

Traditional Chinese Medicine handles disharmonies from within, things like organ imbalances, stress, insomnia, skin conditions or even fertility complications. Medical acupuncture is most commonly practiced by chiropractors, massage therapists and physiotherapists, who are trained in using the needles to stimulate trigger points and dealing with superficial ailments.

Acupuncture will not interfere with your medications; however, acupuncture can be part of reducing and in some cases, replacing the drug. This is not certain in every case, nor guarantee.

Massage therapy can provide numerous benefits, including stress reduction, pain relief, improved circulation, enhanced flexibility and range of motion, and relaxation of both body and mind. It can also help alleviate symptoms associated with various conditions such as anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.

During a massage session, you can expect to lie on a comfortable massage table while your therapist applies various massage techniques to your body. You may be asked to undress to your comfort level and will be draped with a sheet for privacy. Your therapist will communicate with you throughout the session to ensure your comfort and may adjust pressure or techniques based on your feedback.

The frequency of massage therapy sessions can vary depending on individual needs and goals. Some people benefit from weekly sessions to address chronic issues or manage stress, while others may choose to schedule massages on a monthly or as-needed basis for maintenance and relaxation. Your massage therapist can help determine an appropriate treatment plan based on your specific needs.

Yes, massage therapy is known for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. The gentle manipulation of muscles and tissues during a massage can help calm the nervous system, release tension, and promote a sense of well-being.

Yes, massage therapy can be safe and beneficial for pregnant women when performed by a qualified massage therapist who has experience working with expectant mothers. Prenatal massage techniques are specifically designed to address the unique needs and concerns of pregnant women and can help relieve discomfort, reduce stress, and promote relaxation during pregnancy.

The duration of a massage therapy session can vary depending on individual preferences and the specific type of massage being performed. Typically, sessions range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, with 60 minutes being the most common duration for a full-body massage.

The type of massage therapy you need depends on your specific goals and preferences. If you're looking to relax and unwind, a relaxation massage with gentle, flowing strokes may be more suitable. If you're experiencing muscle tension, chronic pain, or specific musculoskeletal issues, a therapeutic or deep tissue massage with firmer pressure and targeted techniques may be more beneficial. Your massage therapist can help determine the most appropriate type of massage for your needs during your initial consultation.

Yes, massage therapy can complement other forms of therapy or treatments such as chiropractic care or acupuncture. Many healthcare professionals recognize the holistic benefits of integrating massage therapy into comprehensive treatment plans to address a wide range of physical and emotional health concerns.

Your Physical Therapist will start with a subjective assessment, meaning they will get you to explain your concerns and follow it up with more specific questions to ensure that they get the whole picture. They will then do an objective assessment where they’ll ask you to move, and do some hands-on tests to gather some more information. Provided there is enough time, your therapist will take some time to do some hands-on treatment. Finally they will also take the time to explain the treatment plan and what to expect.

If you’re asking that question it likely is! Physical Therapists can manage a significant range of conditions. A good Physical Therapist should always tailor their treatment to the patient and make sure their goals align with yours.

Yes! Your Physical Therapist can work within your healthcare team to make sure they deliver appropriate adjunct treatments that compliment the care you are already receiving.

Clothing you can move in! Nothing inflexible. If you’re coming straight from work a change of clothing may be recommended.

Pelvic floor appointments are ideal for patients with concerns regarding their pelvic floor, persistent back or hip pain that hasn’t been resolved with other physiotherapy routes, and for pre and postpartum care. The following would be considered pelvic floor concerns: incontinence, pelvic pain, labour preparation, pain due to pregnancy, chronic constipation, urgency and frequency, prolapse, post surgical care, and management of side effects of cancer treatment affecting the pelvic floor. Orthopedic appointments are what you would traditionally think of when thinking of physiotherapy. This includes general musculoskeletal issues such as sprains and strains, fractures, concussions, joint pain, headaches, balance and coordination issues, management of chronic conditions, general strengthening and preventative treatment.

This depends on the surgery - your surgeon should outline any restrictions and the amount of time to avoid certain activities. Many surgeries require physiotherapy as follow-up treatment, and will be outlined in your treatment plan.

Registered Acupuncturists require three years in an accredited program to be able to treat an extensive range of conditions - their scope will often consider more systemic conditions. Your Physiotherapist may use similar points as an acupuncturist, but their assessment will often consider the musculoskeletal and biomechanical implications as opposed to focusing on systemic issues.

Our Physical Therapist will treat children 10 & over and will consider children under the age of 10 on a case by case basis. For younger children the best option for care is a Physical Therapist with training and a focus on pediatric care. If you need help finding a pediatric Physical Therapist or you’re still not sure if you should bring your child to us give us a call and we’d be happy to help!

Osteopathy is a gentle manual therapy that emphasizes the structure function interrelationship of the body. This approach considers the entire body, assessing and treating areas and tissue layers of dysfunction. Osteopathy works by removing obstruction/restrictions in the musculoskeletal system so the nerve, artery, vein, and lymphatic vessels can function freely. This restores health to the tissues so the body can return to it’s inherit ability to self heal and self regulate.

Yes absolutely! Osteopaths working with pediatric patients focus on gentle, non-invasive techniques to support healthy growth and development. They address conditions like colic, reflux, sleep disturbances, and musculoskeletal discomfort by improving circulation, reducing tension, and enhancing the body's natural function. Paediatric osteopathy aims to promote overall well-being and help children thrive, from infancy through adolescence, in a safe and soothing manner.

Yes! With that being said, not ALL insurance companies offer insurance coverage. A quick phone call to your insurance company or peruse through your insurance app will clarify if your policy covers osteopathy.

During a treatment the practitioner will assess the whole body looking for areas of dysfunction. These areas may be distant from the patient’s symptoms or site of complaint, but related on a mechanical, anatomical, or physiological level. Osteopathy uses precise palpation to assess these areas and treat the respective structure which is preventing optimal function. The goal of osteopathy is to restore motion where motion has been lost. Restoring motion returns the structural integrity of the body and therefore function.

Similar to a Medical Doctor’s training, a registered Naturopathic Doctor will have completed post-secondary studies for a minimum of 3 years at university in addition to a 4 year intensive naturopathic program at an accredited naturopathic college. Naturopathic Doctors are required by law to pass rigorous board exams to be registered to practice in Ontario. ND’s provide comprehensive, safe, effective and individualized health care by using natural substances and gentle, non-invasive treatments that stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself. Naturopathic medicine compliments your current conventional medical care. ND’s will network with other health care providers to create comprehensive health care. I encourage all of my clients to actively seek out a comprehensive health care team of knowledgeable, trustworthy health professionals that will work together to create a more holistic, and well-rounded health care system that supports and optimizes each person’s health potential. I whole-heartedly believe it is crucial to draw on the strengths of various health professionals.

Virtually all chronic and most acute conditions may benefit from treatment by a Naturopathic Doctor. Did you know that 85% of chronic disease is treatable with diet and lifestyle? Clinical Nutrition and Lifestyle Coaching are two of the main therapies that Naturopathic Doctors have been extensively trained in to create a foundation for health. People of all ages can be helped by naturopathic medicine, anywhere on the spectrum from infants to elderly.

Many people believe that health is defined by the absence of disease or physical symptoms. However, someone may be in a state of dis-ease without even showing outright pathology. This is because there is a spectrum of events that occur within the body when someone goes from optimal health to presenting with a disease. Dis-ease can range from subtle energetic imbalances, to adaptive physiology, to cellular changes, to organ pathology, which eventually can lead to organ failure in advanced cases of dis-ease. On the other end of the spectrum, total wellness is a state that promotes optimal function, regeneration and repair of the body’s cells, tissues and organ systems all the time. Health is a vibrant sense of well-being on all levels- physical, mental, emotional, social & spiritual well-being. Naturopaths view health not as a destination but rather a journey that requires continual maintenance and refocusing throughout one’s lifetime. One of Naturopathic Doctors focus is on educating clients on the importance of disease prevention and health promotion. A Naturopath will look at underlying susceptibilities that a person may have that increase their likelihood of developing specific types of diseases in the future, and will develop a maintenance plan for long term health promotion by supporting the appropriate body systems to help prevent the expression of those susceptibilities. So even if you do not have a major health concern, it is important to remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If you think of your body as being similar to a car, in that it requires general maintenance, tune-ups, fluid checks, oil filter changes, and so on to perform at optimal levels… just as our bodies need regular maintenance such as high quality whole foods and pure drinking water, periodic fine tuning to various body systems and seasonal detoxification to flush our bodies from harmful toxins that we are exposed to on a daily basis, so that we too can function at optimal levels. I am dedicated to educating people on the realization that health requires continual maintenance throughout all stages of life, in order to achieve life-long wellness.

An initial consultation with a Naturopathic Doctor can range from one hour to one and a half hours, and follow-up appointments can range from 20 to 60 minutes to provide continued assessment of progress and professional guidance. Subsequent visits are often scheduled monthly or quarterly depending on the individualized wellness program that has been agreed upon. As a trained and experienced naturopathic doctor, I recognize the importance of taking in-depth patient histories to understand all the factors which impact an individual’s health whether it be mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, social or environmental. I also utilize a comprehensive combination ofdiagnostic and assessment tools, including physical exams and lab tests, in order to detect a variety of deficiencies and/or pathologies. I offer customized treatment plans for each client according to their individual needs, by utilizing a unique combination of therapies, including clinical nutrition, homeopathy, botanical medicine, oriental medicine, acupuncture, physical therapies, and lifestyle counselling. My primary goals are to work towards addressing the cause of a person’s illness, rather than solely focusing on treating or suppressing symptoms. I strive to inspire individuals on the remarkable ability of the body to heal itself and restore balance, while continuing to motivate them towards optimal wellness.

Naturopathic medicine is covered by many private insurance companies under the extended health care plan, so it would be in your best interest to check your individual policy for coverage that you may not know that you already have. Do you believe that your health is one of your most valuable investments? Take the first step today to create the foundation for a healthier future by booking an appointment to discover a wellness program that is personally tailored to you.

The decision to pursue therapy is a highly personal one and there is a myriad of reasons why someone might choose to seek it out. Therapy can be beneficial for a wide variety of reasons, such as addressing specific mental health concerns, navigate relationship challenges, coping with life transitions, or simply explore personal growth. We all want to be heard and listened to and therapy can offer a supportive and non-judgemental space to do so. While the decision to start therapy may seem daunting, it can be the first step towards positive change and a more fulfilling life.

Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client, where the client sets the pace and direction of their journey towards healing and well-being since the client is the expert of their own life. Some key components to psychotherapy include establishing a therapeutic relationship, assessment and goal setting, skill building, processing, and healing and much more. At Empower Health & Wellness, the therapist tailors each treatment plan based on the clients’ specific needs and goals.

The therapeutic process is different for everyone. The direction and duration will vary for everyone depending on the individual and their goals and needs. Therapy also depends on the individual’s commitment and dedication to the process.

A typical session lasts a total of 50 minutes. Extended sessions (75 minutes) and shorter sessions (30 minutes) can also be booked.

Unfortunately, at the moment we do not bill directly for psychotherapy. Clients will be responsible for submitting their own receipts for reimbursement. After each completed session, you will automatically be sent a detailed receipt to your email. A credit card will be secured on file when booking your initial session.

No referral is needed by a physician to begin psychotherapy.

The first session is referred to as an intake session which involves a detailed assessment to understand your history, background, and reasons for seeking therapy. Your therapist will also discuss your therapeutic goals with you and work with you to develop a treatment plan that best meets your needs.

We require 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule your appointment without charge. Missed appointments or appointments cancelled less than 24 hour’s notice prior to the appointment time are subject to 50% of the appointment fee for the first missed or late-cancelled appointment, and subject to the full 100% fee for subsequent missed appointments or late cancellations.