Our Team
Physiotherapist and Owner
Kristina Borthistle | MPT, B. Kin, COMT, FDN/IMS
Physiotherapy is the only thing I have ever wanted to do- I have a huge passion for this career. I love the people I get to meet and the ability to help them move and feel better. The human body is fascinating to me and I think my obsession over human movement and mobility is what allows me to be particularly well suited to assess limitations, injuries, and performance. I truly feel like physio is an art and a science, and getting to meet awesome people is just the cherry on top.
I grew up playing almost every different kind of sport, as well as a bit of dance and gymnastics. Nowadays I’m mostly just an avid runner with a huge interest in lifting, Crossfit, and strength and conditioning. My husband Caleb and I grew up in this community, and it’s such an honour to open up a clinic here. In the same year we opened this space, we welcomed our first baby- our daughter Rose! Our daughter Gwen joined her not too long after that, so life is feeling very wonder-full :)
I completed my Bachelors of Kinesiology at University of the Fraser Valley, and my Master’s in Physiotherapy at UBC. I can’t get enough of post graduate training and have taken courses in Mulligan technique, chronic pain, Crossfit and Power Lifting, running assessment and injuries, TMJ, and prenatal/postnatal rehab (c-section care and rehab, return to performance postpartum).
I’ve focused on orthopaedic manual therapy, strength and conditioning, biomechanics, clinical pilates and functional dry needling/IMS through most of my career. Most recently, I completed two post-graduate certificates, one in Orthopaedic Manipulative Therapy and one in Clinical Physiotherapy - Musculoskeletal Specialization at Curtin University in Perth, Australia.
Physiotherapist
Taylor Seidel | MPT, B. Kin
I am a firm believer that we were created to move our bodies in a multitude of different ways and I love to help guide people in finding movement strategies that allow them to incorporate activity throughout their daily lives. I believe that no person should have to suffer in pain alone but instead believe that by journeying together we can work to delve deeper into how we can help your body serve you to the best of its abilities. I have a passion for treating people from all walks of life and think it is such a privilege.
I fell in love with movement at a young age playing volleyball, basketball and soccer for the majority of my adolescent life and have been grateful that movement became integral to my identity. In my adult life, I have found a passion for circuit training, spin, weight lifting and continue to play soccer with a women’s team in the area. Throughout my own personal story, I have realized the importance of adapting physical activity to meet where the body is at in that season of life whether that be in a season of injury, a season of increasing physical fitness or a season of rest. I love that in my role as physio I am able to be an advocator, teacher and guide in people’s rehabilitation journey.
I completed my Masters of Physical Therapy at the University of British Columbia and my Bachelors of Kinesiology at the University of the Fraser Valley. I have a passion for learning and continuing my education in the field of physiotherapy. Most recently I have completed courses in post-op caesarean care and non-internal pelvic floor care.
Outside of the clinic you can usually find me partaking in delicious food and drinks around the lower mainland with my husband or travelling to other countries to do so. I have a love for all animals and plan on having as many dogs possible in the future!
Physiotherapist
Natalie Riley | MPT, B. Kin
From a very young age, you can find me spending time in nature or running along white sand beaches. My nourishment includes movement and nature.
I've been an athlete and lover of nature all my life. I see Physiotherapy through a holistic lens and truly believe in the co-creative process. Physiotherapy is my passion and it has highlighted so many of my gifts.
I completed a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of New Brunswick and my Masters of Science in Physiotherapy from Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh Scottland. I'm a lifelong learner and have recently been deep diving into breath-work, intuitive movement practices, movement as a form of meditation. I have further training in performance and rehab exercise, TMJ, complex-persistent pain, yoga, IMS, advanced cervical-thoracic care and mat Pilates.
I love treating pre and postoperative patients and people who are ready to step into living an embodied and greatest life. I've been a track athlete almost all my life and enjoy working with runners/athletes.
Outside of the clinic, you can find me diving into the science of healing through nature. I love design, architecture, fashion and surfing. Very much emersed in emotional intelligence. Hope we can work to build a life you love moving through whatever comes our way. I know what it takes to accomplish your goals. I am passionate about what I do and sharing my knowledge and skills with others and I recognize the power that comes with that.
Physiotherapist
Marika Harris | MPT, B. Kin
My love of movement extends beyond rehabilitation; I seek to create continuity from the rehabilitation journey to performance focused goals. As a lover of all things barbell and resistance training, I am well versed in the art of building strength and endurance. With a genuine passion for helping people reach their peak physical potential, I’m here to help guide you to your strongest self.
Born and raised in the beautiful Okanagan, my upbringing was marked with a passion for volleyball, basketball, hiking and eventually strength training. My path to becoming a physiotherapist was crystal clear early on, as these sports introduced me to the world of sports-related injuries and performance and ignited a passion in me. I completed my Bachelor of Human Kinetics at UBC Okanagan, attended a 2-month outdoor education and hiking school in Austria, and then completed by Master of Physical Therapy at UBC. Movement is not just a profession but a way of life, so you’ll never catch me without some form of activity – whether it’s weightlifting, yoga, mobility practice, walking, hiking, cycling or trying out a new sport.
Physiotherapist
Lauryn Guy | MPT, B. Kin
My passion for becoming a physiotherapist started after suffering a knee injury during my athletic days. I spent countless hours in physiotherapy, and it became my safe space. It wasn’t just about getting stronger; it was about reclaiming my ability to do what I love and getting back on the field quicker. That experience taught me the profound impact physiotherapy can have, and it inspired me to give back by helping others achieve their goals too.
I grew up in beautiful Kelowna, where I spent much of my time playing sports, including soccer, field hockey, volleyball, and basketball. My love for movement and the human body naturally led me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Human Kinetics at UBC Okanagan. After my undergraduate studies, I continued my education at UBC Vancouver, completing my Master’s of Physical Therapy.
When I’m not working with clients, you can find me staying active in spin classes and hot yoga, or unwinding with a good book and some meditation. I love connecting with friends, whether it’s over a coffee or at one of the breweries in town. Staying balanced and maintaining my own wellness is something I prioritize, and I bring that same mindset into the care I provide for my clients.
Whether you're recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or looking to optimize your movement, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Together, we’ll create a plan tailored to your goals and get you back to doing what you love!
Physiotherapist
Hannah Peters | MPT, B. Kin
My passion for movement began at a young age when I started swimming. I recognized that with experience, I could excel at something I loved, but it would also involve rehabilitation and healing, post-injury. It was this experience, coupled with my interest in science that led me to embark on a career where I could help people reach their physical goals through movement and exercise.
When I began my career, I worked in medical research, focusing on incorporating the most up to date evidence into practice, and I carry this passion forward in my career as a physiotherapist. My educational journey began in the Fraser Valley at University of the Fraser Valley (UFV). I continued on after my undergraduate degree to obtain a Master of Science in Experimental Surgery from McGill University. I then completed my physiotherapy degree at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia. Throughout my education, I gained invaluable experience in various outpatient physiotherapy settings, including fracture rehabilitation in Ireland, osteoarthritis assessment in Nova Scotia, and orthopedics in New Brunswick. I would love to work with you to create an active and functional rehabilitation plan tailored to your individual’s needs and designed to help you reach your rehabilitation goals.
Chiropractor
Dr. Meredith Barbour | D.C., B.Sc., BFA
I began my career as a personal trainer, and Pilates instructor, but found myself wanting to learn more to give more to my clients. Blending Chiropractic into my movement background has given me a unique advantage to understanding your concerns. My goal is always to have you feeling your best, and maybe (hopefully!) this includes getting you into a healthy movement routine.
My treatment involves chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue release and active rehab. My education includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts from SFU, a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology and a Doctorate in Chiropractic from University of Western States in Portland Oregon. I am so excited to be with Novo Physio and Health and I am so honoured that you have chosen us to be a part of your health team.
Registered Massage Therapist
Jessica Edmiston | RMT
Currently on Maternity Leave
Jessica graduated from the Vancouver College of Massage therapy in August 2015. She has always been fascinated by human anatomy and kinetics. Jessica believes patient education is the key to a healthy lifestyle. She loves sharing her knowledge of the human body and empowering patients to participate in their health by incorporating stretching and strengthening to prolong the benefits gained from treatment. She has a passion for treating a wide range of conditions such as headaches, whiplash, tendonitis, pregnancy and sports related injuries. During treatments she employs a variety of techniques including deep tissue, trigger point therapy, active release, myofascial release and Graston technique. She believes in finding the best customized treatment plan for each individual to meet both their short-term and long-term treatment goals.
When Jessica isn’t treating she enjoys adventuring. She loves to travel to new places and take part in new experiences. Jessica recently travelled to Bali and appreciated the carefree and community minded lifestyle that she found there. In all seasons you will find her outside in the Pacific Northwest, snowboarding, hiking, paddle boarding, dirt biking, and camping. While on these adventures, Jessica is usually accompanied by her furry friend Gunner who loves exploring just as much as she does.
Registered Massage Therapist
Alicia Ambrose | RMT
I believe that the body is meant to move, and my passion is helping clients get back to their optimal self so they can enjoy life and all it has to offer. I believe that with proper assessment, communication, and a little sweat, a pain free life can be achieved. My goal is to work with you to build a positive therapeutic relationship to help you recover and succeed in your current and future movement goals.
I completed my Bachelors of Kinesiology at the University of the Fraser Valley, and received my Diploma in Massage Therapy from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy.
Registered Massage Therapist
Courtney Henrikson | RMT
Currently on Maternity Leave
I graduated from Okanagan Valley College Of Massage Therapy in 2015 and have been practicing in the Okanagan for the past 5+ years. My passion is getting to the root of your dysfunction and not just managing your symptoms. I strongly believe, and hope to motivate my patients, that movement is the most important thing in leading a healthy lifestyle and having longevity.
I am so fascinated by the human body and how it moves so throughout my practice I have focused my continuing education on that! Movement, gait, functional muscle patterns, and functional muscle and neurological assessments to determine compensation patterns. Basically what its supposed to do, and why it does the stuff it shouldn’t. The goal is to make my treatments as efficient and effective as possible!
I grew up playing every sport our small town had to offer eventually getting more competitive with Volleyball, Softball, and Basketball. Now I love to run, lift weights, getting outside with my dog Tony, and in the winter my family snowmobiles! When I’m not in the clinic you can probably find me at a brewery, trying a new restaurant, or at home creating my own recipes ( I love to cook!.. Even though it doesn’t always go the way I planned).
Registered Massage Therapist
Kayla Masztalar | RMT
Registered Massage Therapist
Tessa van de Poll | RMT
I graduated from Langara College's Registered Massage Therapy Program in 2020 and began practicing in 2021.
I have a passion for creating a client-centric experience that promotes personal wellness. In my practice I have assisted clients with headaches, mechanical low back pain, MVA injuries, orthopedic injuries, prenatal and post partum and more. Each session, I will take an in-depth health history and physical assessment to provide the most effective treatment for the client’s goals. Treatment will focus on addressing the origin of the pain through techniques such as: Myofascial Release, Swedish Massage, Orthopedics, Joint Mobilizations and Neuromuscular techniques. Outside of massage therapy, I enjoy hiking, running, yoga and cooking and spending time with friends and family!
Registered Massage Therapist
Riley Ruiter | RMT
Registered Massage Therapist
Alecs Estrellado| RMT
I’ve always been passionate about health and wellness, and my deep interest in human anatomy led me to discover the perfect blend of both in massage therapy. After graduating from Douglas College in 2021 with a diploma in Sports Science, I began working as a physiotherapist assistant in a multi-disciplinary clinic. This experience solidified my desire to work in such an environment and along the way, several individuals encouraged me to pursue a career towards becoming an RMT. Recently graduated from West Coast College of Massage Therapy, I’m excited to meet with new clients, work together, and create goals using the knowledge I’ve gained from my program to give everyone the care they deserve.
Summer has always been my favourite season. Whether it's getting ready for a picnic with friends or playing a game of pickleball, I’m always up for some sunshine and summer days. But no matter the season, my love for baking never fades; I'm constantly on the lookout for new recipes to try and share with friends and family. I also have a deep passion for travel. Being born in the Philippines, Hawaii holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me a lot of home but I can’t wait to slowly travel the world.
Registered Massage Therapist
Leeza Finkle | RMT
From an early age, I have been deeply interested in health, wellness, and the intricacies of the human body. I completed my diploma in massage therapy at the West Coast College of Massage Therapy, in New West. Before pursuing massage therapy, I worked as a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, and a Birth and Postpartum Doula.
My approach is centered on addressing the root causes of dysfunction and developing personalized treatment plans to restore balance. I have a particular passion for prenatal and postpartum treatments. Additionally, I have experience with a diverse range of patients and conditions, including stress management, headaches, whiplash, postural support, tendonitis, and more. I utilize a variety of techniques, including Swedish Massage, Trigger Point Release, Myofascial Release, Joint Mobilizations, and Neuromuscular techniques.
When I’m not in the clinic, you might find me tending to my garden or experimenting with new recipes and baking healthy treats in the kitchen.
Kinesiologist
Leah Schroeder | B. Kin
Throughout my life, movement has been my passion. From being a track and field athlete to exploring strength training and yoga, my perspectives about exercise have been formed by a variety of activities. In an effort to pursue more knowledge about these passions of mine, I graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley’s Bachelor of Kinesiology program with a specialization in Exercise Science.
Now, I am ready to help you understand how your body moves, equip you to accomplish daily tasks with more strength, and assist in recovering from any past or present injury. Whatever your goal is, I love collaborating to get there! In a session, we’ll start by assessing where you’re at in movement and beginning activity there before slowly progressing in exercises. I hope to make your kinesiology experience as educational, encouraging, and enjoyable as possible.
When I’m not at the clinic, you can find me outside enjoying movement and nature with friends and family!
Lactation Consultant
Nadine Rockson | RN
Hi I’m Nadine! I’m excited to join Novo as a Registered Nurse proving breastfeeding/ lactation and bottle feeding support services!
I’ve been a registered nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit for 18 years and am a mom of five. I have specialized training and years of experience helping parents and babies in their feeding journeys. The benefits of breast/ chest feeding are widely known for both parent and baby but what I’m most passionate about empowering parents with skills and knowledge to best feed and confidently care for their baby. I will be providing prenatal breastfeeding classes, private consultations on feeding/latching challenges and other feeding support (pumping, increasing or decreasing supply, and bottle feeding).
Outside of my passion for caring for families, you can usually find me trying to decode my kids slang, trying new recipes or jumping in puddles my little ones. I’m looking forward to supporting you!
Clinic Manager
Sarrah Myrol
Our Clinic Manager!
Sarrah makes everything run smoothly at our clinic, with organizing billing and extended health information. She is usually your first entry point into the clinic and is happy to answer any questions you have!
Her background is as a legal secretary and a medical transcriptionist. She was the first person we wanted to bring on at Novo because of her (somewhat obsessive) organization skills. If you need appointments booked, charts obtained, questions asked, you can text her on the clinic phone.
Since COVID she has been working remotely. If you’re lucky enough to see her in clinic make sure to say hi!
Sarrah has 3 young boys who are involved in a bunch of sports that keep her busy, and in her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family. She loves camping, being outdoors and YETI items! We are working on her love of running.
Fun fact: she’s Kristina’s sister :)
Clinic Experience Coordinator
Kailey Waterman
Once upon a time, I joined the Novo Run Club and ended up with a job! Back in early 2024, I applied for the Clinic Experience Coordinator position on a whim and next thing you know, I had a phone interview with Kristina and the rest is history.
I completed my Diploma in Business Administration in Dec 2020 and was working in the insurance industry prior to Novo. I began working at the clinic in Feb 2024 with no previous background in healthcare, relying on knowledge I had from growing up in the sports world playing volleyball & soccer. It has been a challenging but fun learning curve!
My goal as the Clinic Experience Coordinator is to authentically capture what it looks/feels like to be a patient at Novo. I do this through patient relations via text, email, phone, etc. as well as run the instagram page to connect with our community. One of the best parts of my job is connecting with all of you (and finding sneaky appointments). Whether that’s through our communication channels or at Run Club, I love being a small part of your overall experience at Novo. It’s also nice to put faces to names as I tend to work from home a couple days a week!
When I’’m not working, I enjoy running, weight training, spending time with my family/friends, hitting up a local brewery, reading, and watching sports on tv (mainly soccer but a recent NFL fan)