Our Story
Welcome to Kia Ora Chiropractic & Wellness, where we blend the serene vibes of New Zealand's holistic lifestyle with cutting-edge chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture. Inspired by our love for the laid-back Kiwi way of life, we've created a space that embodies relaxation, rejuvenation, and whole-body wellness. Nestled in the heart of Sherwood Park, our studio offers more than just spinal alignments; it's a sanctuary where you can escape the hustle and bustle, unwind, and reconnect with your body's innate healing power. Come and enjoy a moment of tranquility on a journey catered just for you!
Dr. David Flim
Chiropractic, Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA)
Dr. David Flim is a fun loving and genuine individual. He experienced the benefits of chiropractic care as a child and has been passionate about the profession ever since. He completed his chiropractic education at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic. He is dedicated to meeting people where they are at in their health journey and supporting them as they pursue their health goals.
Dr. Sarah Shipton
Chiropractic, Medical Acupuncture & Chiropractic, Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVA)
Dr. Sarah Shipton graduated from the New Zealand College of Chiropractic after studying Kinesiology & Biology at the University of Alberta. She has since worked in Australia, Calgary and has finally decided to move home to Sherwood Park! Sarah has a keen interest in working with the neurology of the body and getting to the source of the problem, whatever that may be. She focuses on functional health and helping people regain and maintain their ability to do what they love, whether that be through the reduction of pain or the improvement of movement. Sarah uses a variety of different techniques including cupping therapy, medical acupuncture and, soft tissue release alongside chiropractic adjustments to help you reach your health goals.
Elizabeth McGuire
Psychology
Liz holds a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and is passionate about creating a safe, supportive space for clients. She takes a collaborative, client-centred approach to counselling, meeting individuals where they are and tailoring therapy to their unique needs. Liz integrates a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and attachment-focused strategies. She works with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, family and relationship challenges, parenting issues, and supporting postpartum moms.
Gina Ellison
Massage Therapy
Gina Ellison is a bright and caring individual who has a passion for supporting people in their healing journey and helping them feel their best. She graduated from her 2200 hour massage therapy program with Vicars School of Massage in June 2022. Gina loves therapeutic deep tissue work as well as working with children, which has been complimented by completing her level one pediatric massage training.
She is excited to continue to expand her knowledge with continuing education and grow in her practice at Kia Ora.
Kiera Gadallah
Acupuncture
Kiera graduated from the Acupuncture Program at Grant MacEwan University in Edmonton, AB. Throughout studying Traditional Chinese Medicine, she has taken a special interest in women’s health, mental health, and digestive disorders.
Kiera supports individuals in connecting with their mind, body, and spirit. She is passionate about helping patients navigate the ever-changing aspects of their lives while maintaining harmony and balance within.
Outside of the clinic, Kiera can be found with her nose in a book, camping and kayaking, and exploring the outdoors with her dog Freddy.
Kristina Evans
Massage Therapy
Kristina studied Massage Therapy at Grant McEwan, graduating in 2000. She started to branch off into other modalities and found her passion working with the Craniosacral System and continues to study deeper into the Somatic aspects of this modality. She is a Meditation Teacher, certified through Lifestyles Meditation and offers a blend of Energy Healing including Reiki, SRT and MDS.
As a mom of two busy teenagers Kristina understands the importance of taking time for yourself to recharge what fills up your cup. She is passionate about the mind, body, and soul connection. Kristina’s sessions offer soulful selfcare for those that are ready to experience peace, wellness, and freedom.
Lauren Detheridge
RMT
Massage Therapy
Lauren is a bright and attentive Registered Massage Therapist, graduating with honours from Vicars School of Massage Therapy’s 2200-hour program. She is dedicated to providing personalized, intuitive massage to support your goals—whether that’s reducing tension and pain, improving range of motion, or creating space to feel like yourself again. Lauren loves deep tissue and fascial work and will tailor pressure and techniques to meet your unique needs.
Lauren also offers cupping therapy and Therapeutic Facial & Buccal Massage for clients looking to release deep tension in the face, jaw, head, and neck.
Melanie Hermens
Massage Therapy
Melanie, a graduate from Makami College, has been practicing massage therapy since 2013. Melanie specializes in therapeutic/deep tissue massage and has received certification in Dynamic Cupping, Cranial Sacral Techniques and Subconscious Imprinting Technique. She also received her diploma in Holistic Nutrition in 2017.
Melanie is the mother of 2 littles. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, camping, yoga, and spending time with her family and friends.
Melissa Shank
Massage Therapy
Melissa is friendly and compassionate, with a passion for health and wellness. She studied at Northern Institute of Massage Therapy in Red Deer and graduated with honors in 2017. She looks at the whole body picture when addressing pain or dysfunction, and uses a variety of therapeutic techniques to promote healing and relaxation. She has studied sports massage, infant massage, dynamic cupping, and myofascial release. Every session with Melissa is uniquely tailored to the individual, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Sydney Stanicky
Acupuncture
Sydney Stanicky is a Registered Acupuncturist dedicated to restoring balance, relieving pain, and promoting holistic well-being through compassionate, individualized care. Rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, she empowers patients to take an active role in their healing journey by addressing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
Before becoming an acupuncturist, Sydney worked as a hairstylist, where she developed a deep appreciation for human connection and the power of helping others feel their best. Her own experience with chronic headaches — and witnessing her father’s ongoing health challenges — inspired her to pursue acupuncture as a path toward meaningful, lasting healing.
Sydney believes that mental health plays a foundational role in physical wellness and integrates this understanding into every treatment. She has a special interest in women’s health, mental wellness, digestive concerns, pain management, and headache relief, using a gentle and holistic approach to treat the root cause of imbalance rather than just the symptoms.
Amanda Wojcikowski- Clinical Assistant
Deanna Baron- Clinical Assistant