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We pride ourselves on accurate assessment and the appropriate use of manual therapy, exercise, and education for individualized patient care.

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Scotia Physiotherapy is the oldest, independently owned physiotherapy clinic in Nova Scotia. At Scotia Physiotherapy, we provide evidence-based physiotherapy services in Halifax, NS focused on accurate assessment, hands-on treatment, and individualized exercise programs. Our team of physiotherapists, massage therapists, osteopaths and dieticians understand how an injury or pain can negatively impact your work, your family, and your activities. Our experienced therapists work one-on-one with you to reduce pain, restore movement, and help you return to the activities you enjoy.

We treat a wide range of conditions including back and neck pain, sports injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, concussion symptoms, TMJ dysfunction, and chronic pain. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or managing a long-term condition, our Halifax physiotherapy clinic offers personalized care designed around your goals. We are here to serve you.

OUR SERVICES

Manipulative Therapy

Manipulative Therapy

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Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy

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TMJ and Neck Clinic of Nova Scotia

TMJ and Neck Clinic of Nova Scotia

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Nutrition Counselling

Nutrition Counselling

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Vocal Physiotherapy

Vocal Physiotherapy

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Sports Injury Rehabilitation

Sports Injury Rehabilitation

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Concussion Rehabilitation

Concussion Rehabilitation

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Physiotherapy<br>One:one GYM sessions

Physiotherapy
One:one GYM sessions

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Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) & Injury Management Consultants

Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) & Injury Management Consultants

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Chronic Pain Physiotherapy and Self Management

Chronic Pain Physiotherapy and Self Management

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Trigger Point Dry Needling

Trigger Point Dry Needling

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Acupuncture

Acupuncture

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Virtual Physiotherapy

Virtual Physiotherapy

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Climbing Specific Physiotherapy

Climbing Specific Physiotherapy

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Osteopathy in Halifax, NS | Scotia Physiotherapy

Osteopathy in Halifax, NS | Scotia Physiotherapy

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No Cost Consultation

No Cost Consultation

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Services offerts en français!

Nous sommes fiers de l’évaluation précise et de l’utilisation appropriée de la thérapie manuelle, de l’exercice et de l’éducation pour des soins individualisés aux patients.

Reviews from our Happy Clients.

EXCELLENT
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Based on 59 reviews
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Erin Killorn profile picture
Erin Killorn
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I have been to a number of Physiotherapists at this location for help with various injuries and have always had an amazing experience. Cynthia Murphy in particular is a genius in my book. I totally trust her to quickly figure out what my immediate issue is and really get to the root of it/why it’s happening. She has really helped me improve my athletic performance over time through various therapeutic modalities (manual manipulation, acupuncture, etc) and core exercises that have helped me rehab an old back injury to where I am doing as much or more than what I could do before the injury 10 years ago!
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Jacquie Bell profile picture
Jacquie Bell
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I really appreciate the time Dawn spent getting a thorough picture of my concerns at this time. Her techniques were filled with care and quite gentle, but got at the issues.
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Abigail Tennant profile picture
Abigail Tennant
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I have been going to Scotia Physiotherapy on and off for three years. I have been treated by Jennifer Wade for my TMJ dysfunction, neck pain, and post knee surgery recovery. I have also been treated by Emily Coolen for my shoulder and my hip problems. I have also received a massage at this clinic. I cannot say enough great things about my therapists. They are kind, listen to the patient, and provide effective treatment that reduces pain and increases function. I typically receive a treatment for about 30 minutes and the spend another 15 - 30 minutes with the TENS machine, DMS machine, heat/ice, or dry needles in place. I am also always emailed a copy of my exercise program as well as my receipts which makes for easy insurance claims. I have been to many different physiotherapy clinics and this will always be my favourite.
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Heidi Dierickse profile picture
Heidi Dierickse
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Great clinic! Been coming here for awhile now. I have seen both Jennifer and Cynthia, and they both absolutely wonderful! The staff are friendly, professional, and are willing to go the extra mile to help you out. Highly recommended!
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Christopher Curtis profile picture
Christopher Curtis
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Great service, excellent work. My knees are getting better! Thanks Emily.
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Karen Britten profile picture
Karen Britten
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Erin Sutherland RMT is my reason for going. Highly recommend.
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Meghan C profile picture
Meghan C
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Excellent massage and physiotherapy providers here, very knowledgeable and skillled. Staff is always friendly and helpful when I visit.

Cole Harbour Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation 

If Halifax, NS is not convenient for you our sister clinic, Cole Harbour Physiotherapy, is located at 1153 Cole Harbour Rd, Dartmouth, NS. 

Cole Harbour Physiotherapy opened in 2003 and offers physiotherapy, massage therapy, kinesiology, osteopathy, dietetics, bracing, in-clinic and at-home services and more!

Click Here to Visit

 
Back Pain Culprits
Back Pain Culprits
Is Lower Back Pain Affecting You?What is Lower Back Pain?The low back, also called the lumbar region, is the area of the back that starts below the ribcage. Almost everyone has low back pain at some point in life. Symptoms of Lower Back Pain:These might range from a dull ache to a stabbing or shooting sensation. The pain may make it hard to move or stand up straight. Pain that comes on suddenly is “acute.” It might happen during sports or heavy lifting. Pain that lasts more than 3 months is...
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Jennifer Wade

PT, BScKin, MScPT (she/her)

I’ve been a practicing physiotherapist since 2012 and genuinely love what I do. I value the opportunity to get to know my patients and understand how their pain or limitations are affecting their daily lives—so we can work together toward meaningful, lasting change.

Since joining Scotia Physiotherapy in 2013, I’ve developed a special interest in temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) and have become deeply immersed in this complex and rewarding area of practice. I continue to treat people of all ages for a broad range of neuromusculoskeletal concerns, but TMD remains a strong clinical focus.

I’m passionate about lifelong learning and constantly seek opportunities to refine my skills in a holistic and evidence-informed way. I have pursued mentorship with advanced practitioners and regularly collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including observing jaw-related surgeries in operating rooms, as well as treatments in clinical settings to deepen my understanding of surgical and interdisciplinary care.

I’ve completed extensive continuing education in areas such as manual therapy, pain science, acupuncture and dry needling, movement impairments, concussion management, trauma-informed care, and TMD. I’ve also taught in Dalhousie University’s Gross Anatomy and Musculoskeletal labs, and have been invited to speak to dental professionals, including dentists, and periodontal and dental students, on the role of physiotherapy in managing TMD.

What matters most to me is providing one-on-one care that treats the whole person. I strive to uncover how lifestyle, stress, and broader health influences can shape physical symptoms, and I value the simplicity of physiotherapy techniques applied to the body’s complex systems—much like how the simple act of walking can offer wide-ranging physical and mental benefits.

I look forward to working with you.

Feel free to contact me at jennifer.wade@scotiaphysiotherapy.ca with any questions.

Call 902 425 3065 or book online HERE

Dawn Hanifen

BScPT

Upon graduation from St. Francis Xavier University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology Dawn Hanifen (she/her) moved to Edinburgh, Scotland where she completed a BScPT in 2005. In Scotland, Dawn gained valuable experience in all disciplines of Physiotherapy including Orthopaedics, Neurology and Cardiorespiratory. After returning to Nova Scotia, Dawn focused her career path in the direction of Orthopaedics.

Dawn has extensive post-graduate training in gait analysis, pain management of spinal syndromes, acupuncture, manual therapy and movement systems disorders. She continues to prioritize continuing education, and actively expands her knowledge base, skill set and clinical reasoning to help clients achieve their goals.

Dawn is passionate about helping people struggling with neck pain and headache following motor vehicle collisions, workplace and sporting injuries. Dawn employs manual therapy, individualised exercise prescription, modalities and education to ensure each client achieves their goals and optimizes their function, enabling each individual client to live a happy, healthy and active lifestyle.

Please feel free contact her @ dawn.hanifen@scotiaphysiotherapy.ca with questions.

Call 902 425 3065 or book online HERE

Carolynn MacLennan

R.M.T., BScHK

Carolynn MacLennan graduated from the massage therapy program at Northumberland College in 2003 and has received additional training in advanced sports massage and pregnancy massage. She also has a BScHK from St FX University.

Carolynn has experience treating a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions including back and neck pain, sports related injuries, repetitive strain injuries, postural imbalances and the aches and pains that accompany pregnancy. She provides a deep tissue, specific massage, but believes a relaxing approach is an important element to any massage therapy treatment.

Whether it’s part of a treatment plan for a specific injury, a preventative measure or a stress relief treatment, Carolynn is dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy, happy and active lifestyle.

Carolynn’s hours: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10-4pm Tuesday & Thursday 5:45-8pm. 

Call 902 425 3065 or book online HERE

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Cheryl MacPhail

RMT

Cheryl believes in treating each client as a whole person — creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel comfortable expressing their needs and goals, and receiving care that’s genuinely personalized to them.

Originally from Nova Scotia, Cheryl completed her Bachelor of Kinesiology (Co-operative) with Honours at Memorial University in St. John’s before going on to earn her Diploma of Massage Therapy at the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy, also with honours.

Her approach combines relaxation-based techniques with targeted therapeutic treatment, always tailored to the individual. Since graduating, she has expanded her skills with additional training in cupping, gua sha, intraoral TMJ treatment, and external approaches to pelvic pain and dysfunction — and she is committed to continuing that growth so her clients always receive the most effective care available.

Call 902 425 3065 or book online HERE 

ALISON BEATON

PT, MClSc, FCAMPT, Diploma Sports Physiotherapy

Alison Beaton (she/her) works with general orthopaedic clients and athletes of all levels to optimize their movements in sport and in life. Alison combines her specialized training in manual and manipulative therapy with movement pattern and muscle imbalance retraining to promote rapid, safe, and effective recovery from injuries and chronic stress.

Her extensive experience with elite athletes includes current Olympians, Canadian National Teams, Cirque du Soleil and Broadway performers. She owns Scotia Physiotherapy, is a member of the Integrated Health Services team for Triathlon Canada and the IST lead for Surf Canada, formerly Canada Freestyle Ski. She works locally with Dance NS, Neptune theatre in Halifax and visiting Broadway productions.

Alison graduated from Dalhousie University in 2003, completed an Advanced Diploma of Orthopaedic Manual and Manipulative Therapy in 2009, a Masters of Clinical Science in Manipulative Therapy (Western) in 2012 and a Diploma of Sport Physiotherapy in 2014 . Alison teaches within the Canadian Physiotherapy Association post-graduate Orthopaedic course system, as well as in the School of Physiotherapy and Department of Anatomy at Dalhousie University. She is the past chair of the Nova Scotia Orthopaedic Section and of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association Orthopaedic Division.

Alison’s passion for physical fitness and optimizing movement patterning is not limited to the clinic. She is active in running, surfing, functional fitness and travels extensively as a therapist and for recreation.

Part of the Nova Scotia Government’s Register of Injury Management Consultants.

A Complete Concussion Care (https://completeconcussions.com) provider.

Alison is the owner of Scotia Physiotherapy and Cole Harbour Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation. She sees clients in both locations.

Call 902 425 3065 or book online HERE

Please feel free to contact her @ alison.beaton@scotiaphysiotherapy.ca 

Danyon Nickerson

RMT

Danyon _(he/him)_ is a graduate of the Canadian College of Massage & Hydrotherapy and a member of MTANS. He is a compassionate Massage Therapist dedicated to _inclusive, patient-centered care, meeting each person where they are in their healing journey — recognizing that progress is not always linear.

As a queer clinician, Danyon is committed to providing safe, affirming care for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, having both professional and lived perspective to _understanding the barriers many face in healthcare_. His goal is to create a space where all patients feel seen, supported, and empowered.

He has experience treating a wide range of acute and chronic musculoskeletal, neurological, and systemic conditions, including anxiety, chronic pain, headaches/migraines, TMJD, IBS, arthritis, diabetes, repetitive strain injuries, postural dysfunctions, fibromyalgia, frozen shoulder, whiplash-associated disorders (WAD), plantar fasciitis, thoracic outlet syndrome, and more. He also welcomes patients seeking rest, relaxation, and stress relief.

Treatment approaches include: Cupping massage therapy, Swedish Massage, Myofascial Release, trigger point therapy, passive stretching/ROM, PNF, proprioceptive techniques, and myotonics. He is committed to ongoing education, with plans to pursue training in CranioSacral Therapy, Graston Technique ®, and scar-tissue-focused techniques.

Outside of clinic, Danyon enjoys walking, going to the gym, playing video games, binging TV shows and spending time with friends, family, and his two cats, Mango and Edgar.

Availability: Sun-Thurs 

Treatment options:*30, 45, 60 & 90 mins 

Call (902) 425-3065 or book online HERE

Please note: for all first visits, including those seeing Danyon for the first time, we kindly ask that you book a 60-minute initial assessment appointment.

Feel free to contact him through email: danyonnickersonRMT@gmail.com or via Instagram @Danyon.RMT https://www.instagram.com/danyon.rmt/  for any questions.

Alex Campbell

PT, BScKin

Alex is passionate about helping people get back to doing what they love — and it starts with getting to know each patient and understanding their story.

With a background spanning Kinesiology and Physiotherapy, Alex works across a wide range of presentations: post-operative recovery, stroke rehabilitation, return-to-sport, and repetitive strain management. Whatever brings a patient in, he builds a plan around their specific path.

Alex’s decision to pursue physiotherapy was shaped by his cousin, a respected physiotherapist in PEI whose commitment to accessible, meaningful care left a lasting impression. He showed Alex that rehabilitation should be an empowering experience — not a chore — and that the relationship between patient and clinician matters as much as the treatment itself. That philosophy guides everything Alex does.

He believes clear communication and a collaborative environment make for better outcomes, and isn’t afraid to bring a bit of humour along the way.

As a lifelong guitar player, Alex has a personal appreciation for the physical demands placed on musicians and enjoys helping others manage and prevent the repetitive strain injuries that so often come with the craft. Outside the clinic, you’ll find him on the trails, playing music, or spending time with friends.

Call 902 425 3065 or book online HERE 

Morgan King MSc, RD

Morgan king

RD, MSc

Morgan King (She/Her) is a dietitian that works with athletes of all levels to optimize their sport nutrition health and performance. Her philosophy is to foster healthy relationships individuals and food that prioritizes health first. Her experience in sport nutrition comes from her working with athletes at the Canadian Sport Institute Atlantic, Acadia Sport Nutrition, Dalhousie Football and Various club teams in Nova Scotia. 

Morgan graduated from Acadia University in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics. She then pursued her Master of Science of Applied Human Nutrition and Dietetic Internship at Mount Saint Vincent University and graduated in 2022.  

Morgan’s biggest passions in life are food and physical activity. As a lifelong athlete she is eager to try new sports and activities.  As of now, she enjoys rock climbing and hiking. Outside of physical activities she enjoys making baked goods. 

Morgan is pleased to offer virtual and in person nutrition counselling. 

Call 902 425 3065 or book online HERE

Emma MacKEnzie

PT, BScKin

Emma MacKenzie, PT Resident is passionate about improving functional mobility, strength, and quality of life through individualized, evidence-informed treatment plans for her patients. With a Master of Science in Physiotherapy from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Kinesiology from the University of New Brunswick, Emma brings a strong foundation in both clinical practice and academics to her work.

Emma has gained hands-on experience with a variety of different patient populations, including orthopaedic, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions and injuries. Her experience in various hospitals, private clinics, and specialized rehabilitation centers has equipped her with the skills to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with diverse needs effectively. Her undergraduate experience as a Strength and Conditioning coach with the UNB women’s varsity soccer team also highlights her ability to create meaningful exercise programs to help patients reach their personal fitness and rehabilitation goals.

Outside of work, Emma leads an active lifestyle, enjoying running, spending time at the gym, and attending fitness classes. She also has a passion for travel and loves exploring new restaurants wherever she goes, as well as attending as many concerts and live music events as she can. Emma’s personal and professional interests reflect her dedication to a healthy, balanced lifestyle and enthusiasm for discovering new perspectives and opportunities for growth.

Emma offers in-clinic and one:one gym based physiotherapy. 

Call 902 425 3065 or book online @ https://scotiaphysio.janeapp.com/emma

Cynthia Murphy

PT, FCAMPT, BScPT, MCPA

Cynthia Murphy (she/her) joined the Scotia Physiotherapy team in 2012, when she moved to Halifax.

She studied physiotherapy at McGill graduating in 2000 and has since completed several continuing education courses as well as completing her FCAMPT certification in 2017, an internationally recognized certification in manual and manipulative therapy. She enjoys the variety of treating injuries and sports injuries through the whole body, including jaw pain (TMD) and voice issues such as Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD), which she treats in concert with a local voice coach, speech language pathologist and ENT.

Cynthia is passionate about getting people back to activity, encouraging them to stay active and helping them start being active if they are new to working out. She has particular interest in treating knee and lower back pain.

She is active in the community, volunteering as a hockey coach for her boys, and professionally, a past chair of the Nova Scotia Branch of the Orthopaedic Divsion of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.

Call 902 425 3065 or book online HERE

You can contact Cynthia with any questions at cynthia.murphy@scotiaphysiotherapy.ca.

Service également offert en français.

 

Susan cook

Osteopath, RMT

Susan is an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner and Registered Massage Therapist. She is a member of the Nova Scotia Association of Osteopaths (NSAO) and the Massage Therapy Association of Nova Scotia (MTANS). She looks forward to building a collaborative community-based healthcare practice to help people prevent disease through moving with greater ease. Experience hands-on healing strategies that help you release tension, regain and maintain your freedom of movement.

Susan graduated from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet in 1994, and danced professionally in Canada, Scotland and China. She moved to the wild & wonderful Eastern Shore in 2003 to be closer to family. Susan volunteers with and supports the Musquodoboit Trailways and the Gaetz Brook Greenway – both of which are much-loved sections of the Trans Canada Trail Greenway Vision, the Bicycle NS Core Blue Route and the HRM Active Transportation Spine.

Osteopathic manual practitioners assess and treat your body as a whole; seeking to identify areas of dysfunction. The theory being that abnormal functioning (dysfunction) in one area of the body can cause symptoms to present elsewhere. Using a wide variety of hands-on (manual) techniques the osteopathic manual practitioner eases these restrictions to allow normal functioning to resume. Osteopathic clients include newborns to the elderly, athletes and weekend warriors, adults and children, manual workers and office professionals.

Call 902 425 3065 to book or book online HERE