Interaction – OPA’s Annual Conference2019-03-20T09:36:32-04:00

Logo for Interaction

Registration available onsite and online

InterACTION 2019 takes place in Toronto on Friday, April 5 – Saturday, April 6, 2019. InterACTION is the Ontario Physiotherapy Association’s annual conference. It is a chance to learn about new evidence and innovations helping you make Ontarians stronger.

Questions about our conference? Email conference@opa.on.ca.

Tina-Varughese-pictureKeynote Speaker – Tina Varughese

50 Shades of Beige: Communicate with the Cross-Cultural Advantage

Find out more by clicking the Keynote Speaker tab.

Make a Team of 5 for your Chance to Win $1000

team-up-pictureMake a team of 5 and register* your team by April 1, 2019. Find out more – click the Team UP Contest tab.

Register online or onsite

REGISTER NOW
Registration Fees

Please note: Full conference registrants receive a discounted rate for the Award’s Dinner and Gala of $25. HST is added to all fees.

New Price for New Graduates! Enjoy a discount to InterACTION 2019 to connect with your physiotherapy colleagues.

15% discount for full conference registration for the following:
  • Speakers: Check your email for the coupon code.
  • Become a Voting Delegate: Read your OPA & District Updates for information about being a voting delegate for your District or contact your District President. Find your District.

Item Category Regular Rate
Full Conference with Gala OPA Member $425
Full Conference OPA Member $400
Full Conference Student (Member & Non-member) $195
Full Conference New Graduate (Member only) $350
Full Conference Non-member $500
Awards Dinner and Gala Tickets Regular Rate
For full conference registrations $25
Extra Ticket (Gala ticket only) $85
Item Category Regular Rate
Friday Evening Only OPA Member $110
Friday Evening Only Student (Member & Non-member) $70
Friday Evening Only New Graduate (Member Only) $95
Friday Evening Only Non-member $160
Friday April 5, 2019
Time
9:00am – 5:00pm Wound Care Principles and Assessment – separate registration
3:00pm – 9:00pm Registration Open
5:00pm – 6:30pm Poster Presentations
6:30pm – 7:45pm

Official Welcome & Keynote Speaker
7:45pm – 10:00pm Exhibit Hall & Evening Reception
10:00pm Student Social
Saturday April 6, 2019
Time
8:30am – 3:30pm Exhibit Hall
9:00am – 9:30am Networking Coffee Break
Exhibit Hall
9:30am – 10:30am Education Sessions – Breakout #1
10:30am – 11:00am Networking & Nutrition Break
Exhibit Hall
11:00am – 12:00pm Education Sessions – Breakout #2
12:00pm – 1:30pm Lunch
1:30pm – 2:30pm Education Sessions – Breakout #3
2:30pm – 3:00pm Networking & Nutrition Break | Prize Draws | Poster Awards
3:00pm – 4:00pm Education Sessions – Breakout #4
4:00pm – 4:15pm Break
4:15pm – 5:15pm Innovation and Technology Panel – Plenary
5:00pm – 6:00pm Credentialing
5:30pm – 6:30pm Pre-AGM
6:30pm – 7:15pm Gala Reception
7:15pm – Midnight One World Awards Dinner & Gala
8:00am – 9:00am

Breakfast Presentation – Plenary

Billing Fraud – Strategies to Protect Yourself

The College is pleased to facilitate a conversation about the trends it is seeing related to billing. College staff and an insurance industry representative will answer your questions, talk about the current environment and update you on what PTs and their employers should consider in their workplaces. Come ready for a great breakfast and ready to chat!
8:30am – 1:30pm Poster Presentations
Sunday April 7, 2019
Time
7:00am – 8:45am Delegates Breakfast
7:30am – 8:30am District Presidents Breakfast
7:30am – 8:45am Credentialing
9:00am – 11:00am Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Tina-Varughese-pictureTina Varughese – Keynote Speaker

50 Shades of Beige: Communicate with the Cross-Cultural Advantage

When 20% of Canada’s population is foreign-born, communicating with the cross-cultural advantage is arguably one of the most important skills for health care professionals to develop. It is important for health care professionals to establish immediate trust to successfully diagnose and treat patients with knowledge, care and compassion. Being able to communicate cross-culturally in the workplace leads to enhanced productivity, positivity, and performance. Managing and mitigating cultural diversity leads to innovation, fosters employee engagement and promotes an inspiring workplace culture. Additionally, unconscious biases regarding culture affect and impact decision making. Recognizing, managing and mitigating unconscious bias promotes diversity and inclusion. In a fun, highly entertaining and thought-provoking manner Tina Varughese will offer attendees insights and strategies to communicate more effectively cross-culturally.

Tina Varughese

For fifteen years Tina Varughese, B.A., B.Comm, worked with immigrants in her roles with the Province of Alberta’s immigration office as well as running her own successful relocation and settlement firm. She has been profiled in Alberta Venture Magazine as well as the Calgary Herald and is a contributing writer for the Human Resource Institute of Alberta’s Network magazine, Calgary Real Estate News, and Home to Home magazine. In 2018 she was named one of Canada’s 10 Notable Speakers in Ignite Magazine. She is the President of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (Calgary) chapter. Her interactive approach is insightful and her delivery is highly entertaining. She breaks down barriers to create a comfortable and fun space where people ask the questions they might otherwise be afraid to ask. Tina has been the face of diversity, literally, when she was chosen to be in Dove’s Campaign for Real Beauty representing beauty in diversity. With two kids, five fish and one husband, she resides in Calgary where she recently began hip hop classes.

Key takeaways

  • Cultural differences in communication: Indirect vs. direct speaking styles
  • Individualistic and collective cultures: How values change the way we communicate
  • Effective day-to-day communication when English is a second language
  • Non-verbal communication: Why the “unspoken” word is the most important of all
  • How global companies lose millions in revenue due to a lack of understanding of cultural differences
  • Why Creating a Culture of Inclusion affects Positivity, Profits and Purpose

Kashfia-Alam-pictureKashfia Alam, Quality Improvement Specialist As a Quality Improvement Specialist at Health Quality Ontario, Kashfia Alam is leading the adoption of multiple quality standards, including the Osteoarthritis quality standard in Ontario. She is a Public Health professional with a solid understanding of health industry trends, supported by experience that ranges across the health care continuum.
Anita-Ashton-pictureAnita Ashton, Deputy Registrar Anita Ashton is the Deputy Registrar at the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario. For the last 20 years Anita has worked in professional regulation in the areas of investigations, disciplinary proceedings and compliance monitoring. More recently Anita added registration, quality assurance and practice advisory to her portfolio. Anita has a Master’s degree in Public Administration and completed post graduate studies in human resources, investigations and alternative resolution.
Dominic-Batt-pictureDominic Batt Dominic graduated from the University of Nottingham (UK) in 2007 and worked as a Physiotherapist in the National Health Service prior to moving to Canada in 2009.  He worked in Vancouver for 4 years in private practice before spending a year in Nunavut providing Physiotherapy to the under-serviced communities of Baffin Island.  In 2014, Dominic moved into management, managing a CBI Health clinic in Medicine Hat, AB before moving to Ontario to be closer to family, where he lives with his wife and 2 young children.  After working as Regional Manager in Cambridge/Kitchener/Waterloo for CBI Health Group, Dominic returned to the public sector – as Manager of Therapy Services at Brant Community Healthcare System.  In his spare time, Dominic is completing an MBA (healthcare specialization) from the Degroote School of Business (McMaster University).
Connor-Balzer-pictureConnor Balzer, MScPT, BHK I am a recent graduate from the McMaster Physiotherapy program and am currently working in an orthopaedic clinic. I have been involved in sports my whole life, and have a large interest in anatomy, functional training and sports rehabilitation.
Sanjeev-Bhatia-pictureSanjeev Bhatia, MScPT, MBA Originally a physiotherapist, Sanjeev Bhatia spent 10 years being at the forefront of running and growing one of the largest network of rehab clinics in Canada (100+ locations). He has worked with hundreds of clinic owners, clinicians, front desk staff, managers, and executives to structure the business, master how to implement change, and ensure staff “buy-in”. Currently, Sanjeev works as managing partner for Clinic Accelerator, a community of clinics across North America.
Slava-Blokhin-pictureViatcheslav (Slava) Blokhin, MScPT, Co-founder Slava is a recent University of Toronto graduate with a passion for enabling those around him to reach their full potential. He saw an opportunity to teach physiotherapists about business skills and concepts, which would propel the physiotherapy profession to the next level. This lead to co-founding an online platform called PT Business Corner with Soroush Peyvandi. In his spare time, Slava enjoys self-development by reading books, listening to podcasts and playing soccer.
Alison-Bonnyman-pictureAlison Bonnyman, MScRS, BScPT Alison is the founder of Canadian Aquatic Rehab (CARI). CARI connects therapists, patients and provides courses in EBP of aquatic therapy across Canada. She has an active practice, is a guest lecturer and consults in the community. Alison has completed Aquatic Courses internationally. Her research assessed the impact of aquatic therapy in women with osteoporosis and she has presented research nationally and internationally. She is the WCPT Aquatic Rep for Canada and a member of ATACP, UK.
Lisa-Brice-Leddy-pictureLisa Brice-Leddy,  BSc.PT, MSc(RS) Lisa practiced clinically in neurological rehabilitation before moving into Practice Leader and Clinical Educator roles. She is currently a member of the OPA Board of Directors. Lisa’s research interests include exploring the utilization of OTA/PTAs to provide enhanced access to PT care.
Devin-Brooks-pictureDevin Brooks, MScPT My name is Devin Brooks, a recent graduate from McMaster’s Master’s of Physiotherapy Program currently based in the Eastern GTA. I have a passion for injury prevention from both a community and health care provider standpoint and was grateful for the opportunity to explore it with our thesis project.
Connor-Caba-pictureConnor Caba, MScPT Connor completed his BHK degree from the University of Windsor before recently graduating from McMaster’s Physiotherapy Program in 2018. He has since started his career working in private practice in his hometown of Amherstburg. Connor is always looking for ways to become involved and hopes to do so by joining committees and groups to support the profession of physiotherapy. He is happy to be attending his second OPA conference and looks forward to presenting his team’s research this year.
Jaimie-Coleman-pictureJaimie Coleman, PT, BPHE, MScPT, MHM(c) Jaimie is the Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education and Graduate Coordinator in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto. She is currently in her final year from completion of a Master of Health Management at McMaster University. This has provided an opportunity to merge leadership and management in theory in health with education of our future physical therapy colleagues. Jaimie also continues to work clinically as a physiotherapist at Trillium Health Partners.
Helena-Dackovic-pictureHelena Dackovic, Physiotherapy Resident I recently completed my Masters of Physiotherapy degree from McMaster University (2018), after graduating in 2015 from Wilfrid Laurier University with a Bachelor of Health Sciences. My area of practice is in orthopedics, and I work in the Kitchener-Waterloo region. I’m excited to start my internal Pelvic Health courses in the near future as well!
Shannon-DeLenardo-pictureShannon DeLenardo, Director, Anti-Fraud and Electronic Claims Shannon DeLenardo is the Director, Anti-Fraud and Electronic Claims with the Canadian Life and Health Association (CLHIA), a voluntary trade association with member companies that account for 99 percent of Canada’s life and health insurance business. In her role, Shannon is responsible to build consensus on concerns important to member companies and for leading industry committees, working groups and projects related to the mitigation of benefits fraud, and electronic claims management.
Suzanne Dickie, BPHE, MScPT Suzanne graduated from Queen’s University in 2015 with a Bachelor in Physical and Health Education, and recently completed her Masters of Science (Physiotherapy) degree at McMaster University. During her physiotherapy education, she participated in a research study related to perinatal pain neuroscience education. Suzanne currently works in a private orthopaedic clinic.
Julia-DiPaolo-pictureJulia Di Paolo, Reg.PT Julia is a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist in private practice over 20 years, starting in orthopedics, with sports and spine injuries and evolving into women’s health She has presented on DRA, the pelvic floor, and Labour & Birth at the local, national and international levels and has written and teaches courses for trainers, allied health professionals, pelvic-health-physiotherapists and midwives through Bellies Inc. Julia is the author of the Labour and Birth Handbook and co-author of Pregnancy Fitness.
Margot-Dods-pictureMargot Dods, MScPT Margot Dods graduated from McMaster Physiotherapy in 2018 and is currently working in outpatient orthopedics.
Mark-Drager-pictureMark Drager Mark loves entrepreneurs and people with something to prove. As the founder of PHANTA, he helps them crystallize their vision, get to the heart of what they’re doing, and then through purpose and a mission-driven strategy, absolutely crush the things that are holding them back from making it happen.
Mélanie-Farmer-pictureMélanie Farmer, Physiotherapist Mélanie Farmer graduated from the University of Ottawa physiotherapy program in 2002 with a BSc PT. She recently graduated from the IDEAS program (Improving & Driving Excellence Across Sectors) from the University of Toronto in September 2018. She has been working at Hôpital Montfort, a teaching hospital in Ottawa for the last 17 years. Over the years, she acquired experience working in a private setting, diverse acute and rehabilitation inpatient floors and out patient / prehabilitation clinics, including working as an advanced practice physiotherapist at the rapid access clinic.  As of June 2018 she also now works as a project lead for a ministry funded pilot project.
Chandra-Ferrer-pictureChandra Farrer, BScPT, MSc Chandra Farrer is an Advanced Practice Physiotherapist at Women’s College Hospital since completing the Advanced Clinician Practitioner in Arthritis Care program. She is a Clinical Lecturer at the University of Toronto. She received her entry to practice degree from the University of Western Ontario and has a Masters in Quality Improvement and Patient Safety from the University of Toronto. Her research interests include evaluation of models of care and centralized triage.
Paulette-Gardiner-Millar-picturePaulette Gardiner Millar, PT, BScPT, FCAMPT, CAFCI Paulette has worked with pt Health, a national company providing outpatient physiotherapy, since graduating in 1998. Her many roles in Operations have included clinician, Clinic Director, Regional Director of Ontario, and now Director of Operational Communication & Quality Improvement. She has always maintained a passion for ensuring the best patient and employee experience, which led her to continue her education as a student of the Queen’s University Master of Science in Healthcare Quality.
Gillian-Grant-pictureGillian Grant, MScPT, BKin Gill is a physiotherapist at Toronto Academic Pain Medicine Institute (TAPMI) at Women’s College Hospital, and holds a graduate certificate in chronic pain management from McGill. She also works within the ambulatory total joint replacement surgical team at WCH. She is a member of the clinical advisory group aiding in curriculum development and facilitation of labs relevant to persistent pain in physiotherapy practice.
Janelle-Gravesande-pictureJanelle Gravesande, MSc Janelle Gravesande is a second-year PhD student at McMaster University supervised by Dr. Julie Richardson. She is the inaugural student in the combined options program in which she will complete a PhD in Rehabilitation Science and a MSc in Physiotherapy over 5 years. Her doctoral thesis focuses on predictors and trajectories of functional decline in older adults with diabetes and hypertension. Her goal is to become a Clinician Scientist specializing in mobility enhancement of older adults.
Rebecca-Grubb-pictureRebecca Grubb, MSc PT Rebecca obtained her BA in Kinesiology at Western University before completing her Masters of Science in Physiotherapy at McMaster University. As a physiotherapy student, she was involved in research and evidence-based practice focused on the role of physiotherapists in perinatal care utilizing pain neuroscience education to improve birth outcomes. Rebecca is currently employed in orthopaedic private practice where she plans to pursue a specialization designation in pelvic health physiotherapy.
Jennifer-Harris-pictureJennifer Harris, BScPT Jennifer Harris is a registered Physiotherapist and Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist working at University of Ottawa Heart Institute as Regional Manager of CVD Prevention and Rehabilitation Outreach. She directs Heart Wise Exercise, a community exercise model, and facilitates cardiac rehab regional delivery in Champlain Region. She has received the Canadian Cardiac Rehabilitation Association’s Annual Leadership Award for both Clinical Practice in 2011 and Knowledge Translation in 2016.
Seyedeh-Bahar-Hashemi-pictureSeyedeh Bahar Hashemi, MScPT Seyedeh Bahar Hashemi has recently graduated from the McMaster University in 2018 with a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy. Bahar is very interested in improving the clinical education of health professional students and is currently a member of Education Leadership Council at University Health Network.
Victoria Jelilyan, Physiotherapist Tori completed her Bachelors of Health Sciences (Honours) and Masters of Science (Physiotherapy) degrees at McMaster University. During her physiotherapy education this past year, she was involved in research related to perinatal pain neuroscience education. Currently, Tori works in a private practice focused on neurological and orthopaedic rehabilitation.
Carol-Kennedy-pictureCarol Kennedy, BScPT, MSc Carol Kennedy has a clinical background in physiotherapy combined with training in clinical epidemiology. She works as a lead in the Quality Standards Program at Health Quality Ontario (HQO) developing clinical care standards. Previously she worked at St. Michael’s Hospital and the Institute for Work & Health leading projects evaluating arthritis care and musculoskeletal health and outcomes research.
Judy-King-CPO-pictureJudy King, PhD, MHSc, BHSc (PT) Dr. Judy King is a physiotherapist and associate professor in the physiotherapy program at the University of Ottawa in Canada. Her patient centred research is in the area of patient education, specifically as it relates to chronic disease management, for people living with chronic cardiac and respiratory conditions. Fields of study include health literacy, patient safety, culture, elearning, transformative learning and mentorship. She has received more than $1 million dollars in research fun.
Calvin-Lee-pictureCalvin Lee, MScPT Graduated with his MScPT from the University of Toronto in September 2018.
Alena Lukich, HBSc, MBA Alena is a service-oriented leader with an interest in quality improvement. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Life Science degree and a Masters of Business Administration in Health Services Management from McMaster University. She has worked at organizations including Sick Kids, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Currently, Alena works for the Brant Community Healthcare System as a Quality, Utilization and Patient Safety Consultant.
Amanda Manoharan, MPH, BSc Amanda has a strong interest in health technology assessment and evidence-based research. Amanda completed a Master of Public Health, specialization in Epidemiology at University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health and a bachelor of science in Health Studies at University of Waterloo.
Andresa-Marinho Buzelli-pictureAndresa Marinho Buzelli, Education Session Presenter Andresa has recently achieved her doctorate from the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, U of T. Her thesis focused on the analysis of postural control of individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI) during immersion in water. Andresa is an internationally-educated physiotherapist with specialization in Neurorehabilitation. Andresa long-term research vision is to develop optimal aquatic therapies for balance and mobility functions of individuals with SCI and other neurological conditions.
Rhona-McGlasson-pictureRhona McGlasson, PT, MBA Rhona McGlasson is a physiotherapist and the Executive Director of Bone and Joint Canada. She has extensive experiencing working in the public and private sectors. Over the last 10 years she has implemented best practices in musculoskeletal conditions across Canada including changing practice in the hospital and primary care sectors. Rhona is currently the Co lead for the implementation of the GLAD Canada program which has changed care for patients with hip and knee OA across the country.
Giulia-Mesaroli-pictureGiulia Mesaroli,MScPT, BASc (Hons.) Giulia is a physiotherapist at SickKids with a clinical focus in Pain. She is a Project Investigator with the SickKids Research Institute with a research focus on complex regional pain syndrome and neuropathic pain. She is a lecturer at the University of Toronto in the Department of Physical Therapy and a facilitator for Paediatric Project ECHO for Pain. She chairs a committee at the MOHLTC – Paediatric Pain Network, working to develop clinical guidelines for paediatric pain in Ontario.
Karen-Moreira-pictureKaren Moreira, Physiotherapy Resident Karen received her Masters of Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University in 2018. During her studies, she developed a special interest in pelvic health physiotherapy and completed her thesis on this topic. She has completed her level 1 pelvic health course for the treatment of urinary incontinence and will continue to pursue continuing education courses in pelvic health.
Erin-O'Henly-pictureErin O’Henly, MScPT I am a Physiotherapy Graduate from McMaster University. I work in the outpatient orthopaedic sector in East Toronto and North York.
Kara Patterson pictureKara Patterson, PT, PhD Dr. Kara Patterson is a physiotherapist, an assistant professor in the Physical Therapy Department at the University of Toronto and a scientist at Toronto Rehab. She holds a clinician-scientist award from the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Her research focuses on improving gait and balance outcomes for people living with neurological conditions.
Stephen-PattonStephen Patton, PT, BScPT, MScRS Stephen has been a Physiotherapist for 20 years. He has worked primarily in MSK and spent several years in an advanced practice role in the joint assessment program in Hamilton. After a secondment at the HNHB LHIN he charted a new course and is now a clinical manager at Hamilton Health Sciences. Stephen has been an OPA board member and is a past president of the Association.
Soroush-Peyvandi-PictureSoroush Peyvandi, MScPT, Co-Founder Soroush is a MScPT graduate from the University of Toronto and is currently working in the private practice sector. He co-founded PT Business Corner as a way to enhance the profession and allow the many current and aspiring business owners in our profession to learn from the experts in our industry. With his deep interest in business, innovation, and technology, he hopes to combine these with his career in physiotherapy.
Guy-Anne-Proulx-pictureGuy-Anne Proulx, BScPT Guy-Anne Proulx is a registered Physiotherapist and Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist working as a clinician in the Prevention and Rehabilitation Centre of the University of Ottawa Heart Institute since 2008. She did a secondment as a facilitator for the implementation of the Inter-professional Model of Patient Care in 2011 at The Ottawa Hospital. Her clinical interests include motivational counseling and she has been involved in research to help increase adherence to exercise long-term.
Lorenzo-Rosas-pictureLorenzo Rosas, Honours BSc, MScPT Resident Lorenzo is a 2018 graduate of McMaster University’s Master of Science in Physiotherapy program. He highly values the use of evidence-based practice in his work, both within a private and hospital setting, where he regularly attends to patients suffering from various neurological, cardio-respiratory, and musculoskeletal conditions. Through actively pursuing new learning opportunities he hopes to optimize the care of his clients and promote sharing of information among his colleagues.
Lowell-Rose-pictureLowell Rose, BSc Eng, MASc Candidate Lowell received his bachelors degree in mechanical engineering from Queen’s University in 2014. Now at UofT, he is working as a research masters student in robotics, focusing on how assistive devices such as lower body exoskeletons can be used in rehabilitation activities, and improving the control of these devices. He is a member of the Institute for Robotics and Mechatronics (IRM) at UofT, and is part of Prof. Goldie Nejat’s Autonomous Systems and Biomechatronics Lab (ASBLab).
Jennifer-Ryan-pictureJennifer Ryan, PT, MSc Jennifer is a physiotherapist at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehab Hospital and a graduate student in the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute at the University of Toronto. She has worked clinically with children with neuromotor disorders in inpatient and outpatient settings. Her Masters explored motor learning strategies use in children with cerebral palsy and her PhD will study the effects of physiotherapy and non-invasive brain stimulation on motor learning in children with acquired brain injuries.
Olivia-So-pictureOlivia So, HBScKin, MScPT Olivia holds a MScPT from the University of Toronto and a HBScKin from McMaster University. She is currently practicing as a critical care PT in the MSICU at Toronto General Hospital and at St. Michael’s Hospital. Her most recent publication includes illustrations within a skull-base surgery handbook with Thieme Medical Publishers. In her spare time, Olivia uses her passion for physiotherapy and education, along with her skills in illustration to explore novel ways to impact the delivery of medical education.
Wendy-Smith-pictureWendy Smith, BScPT Wendy, Past-President of the OPA, graduated from McMaster University and has worked in Northern Ontario since graduation. She has worked in hospital, community clinic, long term care and home care and was the owner of her own private practice for a period of 10 years. Wendy has also had experience working with an Aboriginal Health Access Centre and more recently has transitioned to working with the NE LHIN on a project to expand the use of electronic referrals for high volume referral pathways.
Ada-Tang-pictureAda Tang, PT PhD Ada Tang is a physical therapist and Associate Professor in the School of Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University. Her research program is focused on exercise and physical activity to promote recovery after stroke, improve cardiovascular health, and ultimately reduce the risk of recurrent events.
Reuben-Thomas-pictureReuben Thomas, MSc, MScPT, PT Resident Following completing a research based Masters in cardiovascular science from the University of Toronto, I pursued an M.ScPT degree from McMaster University and graduated in November 2018. My interests include geriatric patient care, in addition to understanding the mechanisms involved in chronic pain and its management.
Kyle-Vader-pictureKyle Vader, PT Kyle Vader is a physiotherapist at Kingston Health Sciences Centre and a PhD student in Rehabilitation Science at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. Kyle’s research interests include pain, disability, primary health care, and knowledge translation. Kyle is supported by a Frederick Banting and Charles Best Canada Graduate Scholarship awarded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research as well as an Innovations Strengthening Primary Health Care (INSPIRE-PHC) Research Fellowship.
Julie-Vaughan-Graham-pictureJulie Vaughan-Graham, PT, MSc, PhD Julie holds a post-doctoral fellow with the ReLearn Lab in the Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto and has worked in the area of neurorehabilitation since 1988. She completed her MSc in Neurological Rehabilitation at Leeds Metropolitan University UK in 2010 and her PhD in August 2016, in the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute at the University of Toronto. Julie was recently awarded a Heart & Stroke Foundation Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery (CPSR) Trainee Award.
Catherine Vingerhoets, MSc PT, BAH, c/NDT Catherine is a graduate of Queen’s and McMaster Universities. She has 11 years of experience working in both acute care and rehabilitation settings. Catherine has clinical experience in aquatic therapy from Australia, New Zealand and Canada. She is the owner of Ora Physiotherapy in Barrie, with a focus on neurological rehabilitation, aquatic PT and pelvic health. Catherine holds registration with the College of PT of Ontario and PT Board of New Zealand. She is also an NDT certified therapist.
Darryl-Yardley-pictureDarryl Yardley, PT Darryl is the Director of Quality, Risk, Patient Experience and Therapy Services at BCHS. The founder of Mentorship Bootcamp, a program ​offering business training and career ​coaching to practicing clinicians​. He is the professor of the Business and Entrepreneurship in Physical Therapy course at Western University. He is an advisor with Clinic Accelerator and consults with many clinic owners to grow their business. He has recruited and mentored over 100 therapists. A co-founder myEPE.ca
Alexandra Young, BScKin, MScKin, MScPT, PT Alexandra obtained her BSc and MSc in Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo before completing her Master’s in Physiotherapy at McMaster University this past fall. As a physiotherapy student, her research focused on the role of Physiotherapists in perinatal care, including the use of pain science education to help improve birth outcomes.She currently works at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton Hospital and Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital’s many acute, rehabilitation and outpatient clinics.

2019 SPONSORS AND EXHIBITORS

Awards Dinner & Gala Sponsor – CBI Health Group Hosted Breakfast Sponsor – College of Physiotherapists of Ontario
CBI-Health-Group-logoCBI Health Group is Canada’s largest provider of integrated community healthcare. For over 40 years, we have remained totally committed to improving the health and enriching the lives of Canadians.

We organize our teams and services to ensure the right professionals and caregivers provide the right service, at the right time, in the right place.

In over 250 facilities, our services are provided by a dedicated team of more than 13,000 that include physiotherapists, occupational therapists, registered massage therapists, kinesiologists, chiropractors, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, physicians, nurses, caregivers, dieticians and behaviour therapists.

The CBI group of companies includes CBI Health Centres, CBI Home Health, We Care Home Health Services, Monarch House, CBI Workplace Solutions, and CBI Assessment Services. Our expanding transitional and residential community care network now numbers more than 80 homes nationwide.

 College-of-Physiotherapists-of-Ontario-logoThe College of Physiotherapists of Ontario regulates the more than 9,600 registered physiotherapists in Ontario. The College exists to protect and serve the public interest.

Physiotherapists, employers, students, PTAs, patients and anyone else is encouraged to make use of the College’s many supports and resources.

These include the College website www.collegept.org/rules-and-resources, the Practice Advisor at 647-484-8800 or 1-800-583-5885 ext. 241 or advice@collegpt.org, the e-newsletter Perspectives, @CollegeofPTs  and www.facebook.com/CollegeofPTs.
Opening Night Keynote & Cocktail Reception Sponsor – pt Health
ptHealth-logo

pt Health is a Community Clinic Network with 230 corporate and network clinic locations across Canada. Our multi-disciplinary clinics offer a mixture of physiotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care and more. As a healthcare company, it is vital to us that our employees are as a happy as our patients and this past year our employees voted to support us in being certified as a Great Place To Work, through the Great Place To Work Institute Canada. This past year pt Health also joined in a partnership with The Arthritis Society to focus on helping patients living with arthritis realize the potential benefits of a drug-free treatment plan. We strive to make sure all team members live our values every day by going all hands in, learning and inspiring, going the extra mile and being open and honest.
Exclusive Kit Bag Sponsor Student Bus Sponsor Student Social Sponsor
Perskindol-logo Neurofunctional-Acupuncture-logo
  lifemark-logo
Hotel Key Cards Sponsor Photo Booth Sponsor Lanyard Sponsor
BMS-logo  Vitality-Depot-logo Brian-Shumak-Financial-Services-logo
AGM Delegate Breakfast Sponsor Mobile App Sponsor Refreshment Break Sponsor
 Etech-logo Ontario-Internationally-Educated-Bridging-Program-logo Antibex-logo
Hotel Sponsor
 Delta-Hotels-by-Marriott-logo
​​​​

Exhibitors
 DJO-Global-logo Jane-logo Atlas-Médic_logo
 CBI-Health-Group-logo Clinicmaster-logo College-of-Physiotherapists-of-Ontario-logo
 
 Lifemark-logo  Vitality-Depot-logo
 Ortho-Canada-logo Western-University-logo Rehateck-logo
 Medexa-logo  Canadian-Physiotherapy-Association-logo
Acupuncture-Canada-logo Emovi-logo Rock-Tape-logo
Weeneebayko-Area-Health-Authority-logo Accuro-logo Canadian-Mental-Health-Association-logo
Embodia-logo Tynor-Logo phzio-logo
KT-Tape-logo Juvonno-logo Georgian-college-logo
Keeogo-Logo Accreditation-logo Xlent-Care-Products-logo

hands-holding-globe-imageCelebrate the 2019 OPA Special Award Winners at InterACTION’s One World Awards Dinner & Gala on April 6, 2019.

2019 OPA SPECIAL AWARD WINNERS
Greg-Spadoni-picture

Greg Spadoni

INNOVATION AND ADVANCEMENT

The Innovation and Advancement Award recognizes a member who has been a trailblazer within physiotherapy and advances the science of the profession through innovating approaches in clinical practice, research, technology and education. 
Derek-Debassige-picture

Derek Debassige

LEADERSHIP AND ADVOCACY

The Leadership and Advocacy Award recognizes a member who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the profession by increasing the awareness and value of physiotherapy to the public and/or health care community. 
Robert-Cusinato-picture

Robert Cusinato

OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER

The Outstanding Volunteer Award is given to an individual in recognition of their significant contribution to the profession, in a volunteer capacity, at a national, provincial or district level. 

Trudy-Mason-picture

Trudy Mason

OPA SPECIAL BOARD AWARD

Occasionally, the OPA Board of Directors considers awarding a special award to a member in recognition of their service/leadership to the Association and profession that is beyond expectations. The recipient can be an individual (member or non-member) or organization (external to the Association) or component of the Association (such as a District, Division or Committee). The Board is pleased to award Trudy Mason with this honour in recognition of her endless efforts as an outstanding volunteer spanning several years at the District level and her involvement with multiple OPA committees. This award acknowledges Trudy’s volunteerism, passion and energy related to Association activities and her positive and enthusiastic professional spirit.

Venue

Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto Airport & Conference Centre

Delta-Hotels-by-Marriott-logo

655 Dixon Rd, Toronto, ON M9W 1J3

Special Rate is sold out for April 4. Limited rooms may be available for April 5 and 6, 2019. Contact the hotel to find out about rates.

Discounted rate: $129 CAD per night

Travel

Air Canada

Discount
10% on applicable fares to InterACTION within Canada (does not apply to Standard fares – Flex and higher only).

Travel dates
Friday, March 29, 2019 to Saturday, April 13, 2019

Coupon code: 3G2A8UD1

To book a flight with your promotion code, access aircanada.com and enter your promotion code in the search panel

Westjet

Discount
5% off Econo* and 10% off Flex and Plus fares for travel within Canada
2% off Econo*, 5% off Flex and 10% off Plus base fares for guests travelling Trans-border** into and out of Toronto.

Travel dates
March 30, 2019 to April 6, 2019

Coupon code:  2F3W6GL

Visit www.westjet.com/conventions to make a booking online.
*Travel Agent use only WBB88

Porter

Discount
Porter Airlines is proud to offer a 10% discount on available base fares (with the exception of the lowest class fare during a public seat sale) for travel to and from the InterACTION 2019 conference.

Travel dates
From anywhere in Canada or US to Toronto: April 3, 2018- April 7, 2019
From Toronto to anywhere in Canada or US: April 5, 2019-April 7, 2019 

Please book online at flyporter.com/Flight?culture=en-CA&promocode=INTA19 or through your travel agent using promo code “INTA19”.

Via Rail

Discount
10% off the best available fare in Economy, Economy Plus, Business, Business Plus, Sleeper class. “Subject to the conditions and restrictions of the fare plan to which the additional discount is being applied.”
Exception: Discount does not apply in any Escape fares and Prestige Class.

Travel Dates
April 3, 2019 to April 8, 2019
Territory: From all stations throughout the VIA system to Toronto, Ontario and return.
Restrictions: Fare applies to a maximum of two passengers per booking. One complimentary stopover is allowed at no additional charge.

For travel on all fare plans in Business class, the first stopover is allowed at no additional charge, provided that this stopover takes place in Toronto, Montréal or Ottawa only.

Coupon code: 13813

Win for your School Contest – Congratulations University of Toronto & McMaster University PT students!

With 20 registrants for the full InterACTION conference, University of Toronto and McMaster University physiotherapy students won $300 towards their school’s year-end social event. One more prize to be won!

Win $300 towards your school’s year-end social event. Get 20 students to register for the full InterACTION 2019 conference. The first three schools to register 20 students each win!

Complimentary Bus

Take the complimentary coach bus to conference*, meet students from across the province, check out educational sessions and have fun at our One World Awards Dinner & Gala. Buses leaving from: Ottawa through Kingston, London and Hamilton.**

Interaction-student-bus-ad
*you must be registered for conference to board the bus
**alternative arrangements will be offered if numbers are insufficient

Student Bus Sponsored by Neurofunctional Acupuncture.

Friday Night Student Social

Join students from across the province for the InterACTION Student Social following the keynote speaker on Friday, April 5. Food will be provided.

lifemark-logo

Student Social sponsored by Lifemark.

Make a Team for your Chance to Win $1000

Five groups of hands together
INNOVATE, LEARN AND ACHIEVE WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES AT INTERACTION 2019

How to Enter:

  1. Make a team of 5 and register* your team by April 1, 2019.
  2. Register for the full conference. Registration now open; click the Register tab.
  3. More chances to win! Each team member who has not been to InterACTION in the last three years (InterACTION 2018, 2017 and 2016) qualifies your team for an extra entry. Maximum number of entries per team is six (one for the team, and one for every member who has not attended in the last three years).

*Teams can be submitted to OPA prior to registering for full conference. Once all team members are registered for full conference, the team name will be entered into the draw. If you have already registered for full conference, you are still eligible to join a team.

The winners will be announced on April 6, 2019 at the One World Awards Dinner and Gala. Questions? Contact Sara Pulins.

Rules
  1. Registrants can only be on one team.
  2. All team members must register for full conference by Monday, April 1, 2019 at 11:59pm to be entered into the draw.
  3. The contest is open to all paying, non-student registrants of InterACTION 2019 including award winners, speakers, exhibitors, sponsors and delegates.
  4. Those registered at student pricing are not eligible to participate.
  5. The prize will be split equally among all five team members.

Terms and Conditions

Team Up Contest Entry

Sponsor InterACTION 2019

Check out new sponsorships available in the InterACTION 2019 Sponsorship and Exhibit Prospectus. Contact Diane at 416-322-6866 xt 227 with any questions or to plan your sponsorship.

PLATINUM SPONSORSHIPS 

Awards Dinner and Gala – Exclusive – $6,500 + HST – sold
  • VIP table at awards dinner (8 guests)
  • Opportunity to address attendees at dinner (max 5 minutes)
  • 10’x10’ exhibit area including advance reservation of preferred location (valued at $1,845)
  • Designated sponsor area at awards dinner including 6’ draped table
  • Two all access conference passes
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Delegate kit bag insert (valued at $375)
  • Top ranked sponsor logo on all conference signage
  • Logo with 150 word description in online conference program & conference site
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
  • Sponsor acknowledgement on OPA’s Twitter and Facebook
Opening Night Keynote & Cocktail Reception – $5,500 + HST – sold
  • Opportunity to address attendees at reception (max 5 minutes)
  • 10’x10’ exhibit area and advance reservation of preferred exhibit location (valued at $1,845)
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Two all access conference passes
  • Delegate kit bag insert (valued at $375)
  • Top ranked sponsor logo on all conference signage
  • Logo and 150 word description in online conference program & conference site
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
  • Sponsor acknowledgement on Facebook and Twitter
Hosted Breakfast – $5,500 – sold
  • Opportunity to provide the headline (or main) breakfast speaker (subject to approval by OPA)
  • 10’x10’ exhibit area and advance reservation of preferred exhibit location (valued at $1,845)
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Delegate kit bag insert (valued at $375)
  • Logo and 150 word description in online conference program & conference site
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
  • Sponsor acknowledgement on Twitter and Facebook

GOLD SPONSORSHIPS

Delegate T-shirt Sponsor – $2,500 + HST
  • Logo on the back of delegate conference t-shirt (1 colour logo)
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Logo on conference site & online conference program
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
  • Delegate kit bag insert (valued at $375)
BUY SPONSORSHIP
Delegate Bag Sponsor – $2,000 + HST – sold
  • Logo on all delegate conference bags
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Logo on conference site & online conference program
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
  • Delegate kit bag insert (valued at $375)
Key Cards Sponsor – $1,695 – sold
  • Logo on conference key card for all delegates’ hotel rooms
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Logo on conference site & online conference program
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
Photo Booth Sponsor – $1,500 + HST – sold
  • Signage at Photo Booth as sponsor
  • Sponsor logo on printed takeaway pictures
  • Logo on conference site & online conference program
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
Lunch Sponsor – $1,250 + HST
  • Signage in lunch area visible for duration of lunch break
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Logo on conference site & online conference program
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
  • Mention in pre-conference email messaging to over 5,000 members
BUY SPONSORSHIP
Lanyard Sponsor – $1,250 – sold
  • Logo on conference lanyard for all delegate badges
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Logo on conference site & online conference program
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
Mobile App Sponsor – $1,150 – sold
  • Logo and 150 word message on welcome splash screen with daily sign on of online conference program
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Logo on conference site
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario

STUDENT SPONSORSHIPS 

Student Bus Sponsor – $2,500 – sold

Transportation is offered complimentary to students traveling from University of Ottawa, Queen’s University, McMaster University and Western University

  • Delegate kit bag insert (valued at $375)
  • Company logo & link to sponsor website included in all conference emails to OPA student members
  • 200 word email message to OPA student members
  • Logo on student page & sponsor page of conference site
  • Logo in online conference program
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
Student Social Sponsor – $1,500 – sold
  • Logo on student & sponsor page of online conference site & conference program
  • Logo & one 100 word email message to students
  • Signage at event as sponsor
  • Two exhibitor passes
  • Logo on all conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario

SILVER SPONSORSHIPS

Refreshment Breaks Sponsor – $750 + HST – 1 of 2 sold
  • Signage in break area for duration of sponsored refreshment break
  • Logo in pre-conference email messaging to over 5,000 members
  • Logo on conference site & online conference program
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members in Ontario
BUY SPONSORSHIP
AGM Delegates Breakfast Sponsor – $750 – sold
  • Signage in breakfast area during AGM
  • Logo in pre-conference email messaging to over 5,000 members
  • Logo on conference site & AGM agenda page of site
  • Logo on conference signage
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members
  • Recognition and introduction from OPA President

Exhibit at InterACTION 2019

Check out exhibit opportunities available in the InterACTION 2019 Sponsorship and Exhibit Prospectus. Contact Diane at 416-322-6866 xt 227 with any questions or to pre-reserve your exhibit space. View the Exhibit Hall Layout.

Limited exhibit space is still available.

Standard Exhibit – $1,595 + HST
  • 10’x10’ exhibit area, 6’ draped table, two chairs
  • Exhibitor may express a preference for up to three locations
  • Space will be allocated on a ‘best available basis’ in order received
  • Includes delegate kit bag insert (valued at $375)
  • Logo on sponsor page of OPA website and conference program
  • Logo in Physiotherapy Today print newsletter – distributed to over 5,700 members
BUY EXHIBIT
Double Exhibit – $2,895 + HST

SAVE $300! (limited availability)

  • Premium location at entrance inside exhibit hall
  • Includes all Standard Exhibit features
BUY DOUBLE EXHIBIT
Advanced Reservation – $250 + HST

Advance reservation of exhibit location. NOTE: If you choose not to reserve your booth location in advance, your booth location will be assigned to you closer to the date of the conference.

BUY ADVANCED RESERVATION
Delegate Bag Insert – $375 + HST

Promote your product or service to all delegates by including one promotional item and/or one brochure. Catalogues will not be accepted.

BUY DELEGATE BAG INSERT