Photo by Mike Ingram Photography
Suzanne Herchak, R.Ac
Registered Acupuncturist (CTCMA)
Diploma of Acupuncture (Pacific Rim College, Victoria B.C.)
Student of Phytotherapy (Western Herbal Medicine Program 2022-present, Pacific Rim College, Victoria B.C.)
Suzanne has long been interested in cooking and using whole foods to heal. However, it wasn't until she struggled with her health that she found diet changes alone were not enough. Following a friend's advice, Suzanne tried acupuncture. The results with her health were so positively profound that she became intrigued with Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine and decided to pursue it as a career.
In 2007, Suzanne enrolled in the 3-year Diploma of Acupuncture program at Pacific Rim College of Complementary & Integrative Medicine (PRC) in Victoria, BC. She graduated from PRC and is a registered acupuncturist (R.Ac) with the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of British Columbia (CTCMA).
Following the ancient teachings of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and applying a virtually painless technique and a hands-on approach, Suzanne gently yet powerfully influences and encourages healthy changes within the body. Customized treatments may include cupping, Gua Sha, essential oils, and nutritional suggestions. A natural and intuitive healer, Suzanne ensures her patients feel supported, comfortable, and relaxed during their sessions.
Suzanne is dedicated to lifelong learning and continues to improve her skills and knowledge to serve her patients better. She is currently in her second year of studies in the Phytotherapy (Western Medical Herbalist) program at Pacific Rim College. She looks forward to incorporating herbal medicine with acupuncture in the future.
Her interests include aiding those with digestive concerns, mental health, and emotional support, including grief, depression, and anxiety. Suzanne enjoys the area of women's health, including fertility and pregnancy. She has also treated everything in between, from pain, eye disorders, detox, cancer support, and so much more.
Michelle Smithwick, RMT
Registered Massage Therapist (CMTBC)
Diploma of Massage Therapy (Mount Royal University, Calgary, AB)
Born and raised on Vancouver Island. Michelle has 15 years of working in health care and loves to spend her free time doing yoga, running, and chasing after her 3-year-old son.
Michelle has spent the last four years working with people with cervical spine and shoulder pains, along with preventing and treating tension headaches, migraines, chronic pain and TMJ disorders.
She also treats marathon runners and people recovering from sports injuries. Additionally, she enjoys helping people with their mental health. Her treatments calm the nervous system for people with emotionally stressful jobs, such as health care workers and parents.
Lastly, Michelle loves supporting expecting mamas to be more comfortable throughout their pregnancy journey, especially following them after the delivery of their babies.
Michelle is currently taking on new clients!