Holistic Practitioner, Animal Advocate, Driven by Purpose
My journey into healthcare started with a personal story: witnessing my mother’s courageous battle with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Her resilience shaped my commitment to helping others find healing, balance, and comfort.
Since 2015, I’ve dedicated myself to restoring well-being in my patients, with an approach that considers the whole person—or animal—inside and out.
My Story
At just three years old, I began to understand the challenges my mother and our family faced. In the mid-90s, MS was a complex and poorly understood condition, leaving us searching for answers. My mother explored countless remedies—from bee sting therapy to physiotherapy—while radiating strength and joy.
Through her trials, I learned invaluable lessons about resilience, compassion, and the importance of seeking comfort in difficult times.
As I grew, other family members also faced health challenges, deepening my commitment to holistic care.
After high school, I explored Cardiovascular Technology but found myself drawn back to my roots, working in my parents’ surveying business. This detour rekindled my passion for learning and led me to Pre-Health Sciences at Mohawk College, where my love for rehabilitation truly blossomed.
In 2015, I began practicing as a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT), a role I continue to embrace. However, I soon felt a desire for a deeper understanding of the body’s complexities.
A transformative encounter with a manual osteopath opened my eyes to the interconnectedness of healing, guiding me toward a path that felt like home.
In 2018, I immersed myself in manual osteopathy, learning from incredible mentors who shaped my approach to care. Their insights have empowered me to help patients overcome chronic pain and stress.
As I approach October 2024, I am on the verge of completing my diploma in Animal Manual Osteopathy, allowing me to provide holistic care for both humans and their beloved animals. My journey is one of love, compassion, and a commitment to healing for all.
My adventure into Animal Manual Osteopathy began with a tiny Yorkie and a menagerie of companions—a hamster, a rabbit, ducks, and our noble Golden Retriever. Each creature sparked a connection that felt almost magical. A horse named Summer would later weave the deepest bond, revealing the intricate tapestry of human-animal relationships.
During the peculiar times of COVID, I rehabilitated my partner’s senior dog, which further entwined my heart with animal care.
My pet rat, Tony, unveiled the surprising depths of animal intelligence and emotion. Yet, it was Summer’s struggles with her health—poor foot care and behavioral woes—that ignited my passion for healing. Treating her, Tony, and my senior dog was my first foray into animal osteopathy, showing me the transformative power of compassionate treatment.
Inspired, I dove into formal education, dedicating myself to ensuring every creature feels their best.
Credentials
Diploma in Pre-Health Sciences, Mohawk College (2011)
Diploma in Massage Therapy, Trillium College (2013)
Registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) since 2015
Diploma in Osteopathic Manual Practice, Southern Ontario College of Osteopathy (2022)
Diploma in Animal Osteopathic Manual Practice, London College of Osteopathy (Expected 2024)
- Currently completing Hoof Help Canada’s Level 1 Hoof Health Course
Some Issues I Collaborate With Patients On:
Chronic Pain
Severe Injuries
Persistent Headaches
TMJ Pain
Scoliosis
Digestive Issues
Cancer
Chronic Stress
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
ADHD
Menstrual Pain
Knee Injuries
Mobility Challenges
Fatigue
Anxiety
Sports Injuries
Fibromyalgia
Arthritis
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Postural Issues
Insomnia
General Wellness and Preventative Care
My Care Extends To:
Pre-operative Recovery
Post-operative Recovery
Obstetrics
Pediatrics
Geriatrics
Palliative and Hospice Care
In-Hospital External Health Needs (I support patients in managing these needs but do not provide direct treatment)
My holistic approach goes beyond symptom relief. I focus on understanding the complexities of every individual’s experience to promote overall wellness, empowering you to achieve your health goals.
Chelsea Russell
Manual Osteopathic Practitioner and Registered Massage Therapist
Your Path to Whole-Body Wellness
Book now and experience the transformative power of holistic, hands-on healing.
- Manual Osteopathic Treatment for humans and animals
- Registered Massage Therapy (RMT)
- Isophit Isometric Strength Training
- In-clinic bookings available as well as in-home appointments (by prior arrangement only).