Melissa Dermody
Melissa graduated from Queen’s University with a Masters degree in Physiotherapy after completing a joint Bachelors of Physical and Health Education and Bachelors of Science in Biology. She is the director of education at Paediatric Physiotherapy Associates and is also the physiotherapist on the Sunnybrook Hospital Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Team. Melissa has held positions at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, SickKids, Grandview Children’s Centre and the Children’s Treatment Network. She has expertise in treating both children and adult cerebral palsy, SMA, muscular dystrophy, myopathies, Charcot Marie Tooth and other muscle disorders. Melissa has a special interest in aquatic therapy and is often found in the pool with her clients. She is also passionate about connecting her clients with Para sports and community programs. Melissa works with complex bodies with the intention of bringing ease to movement. Her goal is to enhance potential through the small things that can have a powerful impact. She aims to plant the seed of possibility for participation in recreation, sport and life while celebrating her client’s courage when they try something new. Melissa is a member in good standing with the Ontario College of Physiotherapists. Melissa provides therapy at our clinic location.
Courses/Certificates/Education:
- Unyte provider of SSP (Safe and Sound Protocol) and RRP (Rest and Restore Protocol)
- TMR Tots and Teens level 1 and 2
- Advanced Paediatric NDT (8 week course)
- ADP Authorizer for Mobility Devices and Conventional Orthoses
- Treating the Musculoskeletal Consequences of Maturing with a Chronic Health Condition
- Gait Observation and Individualized Intervention
- Foundational Aquatic Therapy, Paediatric Aquatic Therapy
- Dynamic core for kids
- Physiotherapy Management in Neuromuscular Diseases
- Expert Masterclass in Spinal Muscular Atrophy
- Expert Masterclass in Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy
Other:
- Medical classifier for Para Swimming
- Mentor for physiotherapists working with Spinal Muscular Atrophy
- Provincial and national presentations for Spinal Muscular Atrophy as well as a trainer for SMA motor function measures
- Past research for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, SMA and Myotubular Myopathy
- Attended Neuromuscular conferences for SMA, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and CMT