Meet the Team at Peterborough Wellness Group
Chiropractors | Massage Therapists | Chinese Medicine & Dental Hygienist | Reiki Practitioner
Our Chiropractors
Dr. Jennifer Payne (Martichenko)
I am thrilled to be home and starting my practice at Peterborough Wellness Group
After growing up and graduating high school in Peterborough it’s hard to believe that a decade has come and gone since I last called this city home. I must say I am thrilled to be home and starting my practice here. I am proud of my roots and it is very rewarding improving the health of the people I grew up around and care so much about.
After much thought, I decided I wanted to become a Chiropractor
Choosing a career path was not easy for me. After high school I completed my honors science degree at the University of Waterloo. Four years of studying science and I still did not know what I wanted to be when I “grew up”. I took a year off to determine my next step. After much thought, research, and personal experience, I decided I wanted to become a chiropractor. I attended the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) in Toronto and after four grueling years I knew I made the right decision. Although there is much diversity within the profession, chiropractors all share the same belief; the spine and overall health are related in a fundamental way, and this relationship is mediated through the nervous system.
I am a perpetual learner and take great pride in my up to date knowledge of chiropractic, health care, disease processes, and treatment techniques. I am currently enrolled in a Pregnancy and Pediatrics course with the ICPA. I will have my full certification by December 2013. Once this certification is complete I plan on working on my acupuncture certification. Continuing education is very important. I take pride in relaying all new information I learn to my patients. I do my best to educate patients on their condition, the importance of preventative and maintenance care and give advice on appropriate diet and exercise regimes.
I use a number of Chiropractic Techniques at my practice. In practice, I use a number of techniques to provide optimal patient care; spinal manipulation, muscle release therapy, laser therapy, Webster technique, drop table, Activator, and I prescribe rehabilitation exercises. Proper chiropractic care requires commitment from not only myself but from you as well. My job is to ensure your spine is functioning at its optimal capacity minimizing disturbances in your nervous system. Your job is to keep your body healthy between visits. The human body has an amazing ability to heal itself when it is functioning at its optimal capacity. People who regularly see a chiropractor have less illness, less injury, and spend less time at their doctor’s office. Regular chiropractic care is part of a healthy lifestyle. Let me help you make it a part of yours.
Often patients ask me how often they should receive chiropractic care. There is no general answer to this question. Every body is different. So many factors come into play; past medical history, activity level, if you are taking medications, age, your commitment to care, and most importantly how your body responds to care. When you come into the clinic, a full medical history and physical exam is performed. With the information I collect, a diagnosis and a care plan will be determined.
I am very happy to be married to my best friend and high school sweetheart. Nick and I are both recent chiropractic graduates each taking on very different practices. He works mainly with golfers in Toronto where I have a family practice here. I am currently on the interview panel for new students applying to CMCC and I participate in the Back’s in Motion run to help raise money for chiropractic research. I enjoy exercise classes at the gym, running, cooking, and spending time with my family and friends.
I appreciate you taking time to visit our website and read through our profiles. Life can be very busy but taking time for your health is important. I look forward to meeting you to discuss your health concern. Give our Peterborough office a call and start your journey to optimal health.
Dr. Luke Norval
Dr. Luke Norval graduated from University of Wollongong, Australia, with a Bachelor of Science (Exercise Science). He then completed a Master’s in Chiropractic from Macquarie University in 2010, also in Australia. He practiced in Sydney, Australia for 5 years and during this time frame he met his beautiful Canadian wife Emma. In 2015, he completed the Canadian board exams and began treating in Toronto.
Dr. Luke is a spinal care expert and loves treating neuromusculoskeletal problems of the extremities. He often incorporates medical acupuncture, nutritional advice and rehab in his treatment sessions. Dr. Luke is committed in assisting all of his patients to reach their maximal health goals and well-being. He adopts current evidence-based research to ensure efficacy to his practice. As a primary health care professional he deems it a priority to lead a healthy lifestyle. In his spare time he is an exercise enthusiast, loves rugby & hockey, and is an avid surfer and snowboarder.
Dr. Nick Martichenko
I couldn’t be happier to be back home in Peterborough, working with family at PCG.”
After growing up in Peterborough, graduating from PCVS, playing NCAA Div 1 golf in Pittsburgh, PA (RMU), Dr. Nick became a Chiropractor (CMCC) in 2009 and has been helping patients with injury and performance goals ever since. Dr. Nick is currently a member of Denis Shapovalov’s Performance Team, working with him at multiple tournaments/year—including Denis’s 2021 Wimbledon semifinal and 2020 US Open quarterfinal appearances. Dr. Nick works with Reg Millage (Head Coach of Golf Ontario & Peterborough Native) to lead Golf Ontario’s Provincial Development Program, helping Ontario’s best young golfers reach their University and Professional goals. Dr. Nick also teaches for Spidertech Kinesiology Tape as their Director of Education.
Dr. Wayne Martichenko, D.C., D.T., FIACA
Research indicates that over 90% of us will have incapacitating back pain.
This certainly is not planned and it is rarely brought on by an accident that we simply hope to avoid. Like preventative dentistry which can detect and correct, modern chiropractic care will assist you in not becoming a painful statistic.
In choosing a career path, chiropractic was a natural for me. I grew up with chiropractic, given that I had an uncle who practiced from the early 1960’s until his passing. My siblings and I were treated from our childhoods onwards. At that time I could not fully appreciate the far reaching benefits. Now, knowing that many chronic problems in adulthood I have their origins in falls, twists and poor posture as children. I am thankful for my family’s insight.
Learn More About Dr. Wayne
I was fortunate to have studied chiropractic in Toronto.
The Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College is held in high regard both nationally and internationally. The education that I received reinforced my benefits that our bodies have an innate ability to maintain health. To support these efforts our bodies require nutrition, exercise and a stable spine which protects our nervous system. A neurology professor who continually enforced this knowledge once suggested to our graduating class that we would be a benefit to our profession if we, as individuals worked hard enough to want to have ourselves as our doctor. This concept has always motivated me to continue to learn.
Because of this and many other influences I have developed a practice philosophy to educate my patients. The more a person knows of their condition, its origin, its probable course and the action steps in its treatment, the more they become part of the solution with a greater probability of resolution. It’s the healthy part of our human nature to want to have an active involvement in the positive change. I find that people like this approach. I never tire of patients relating their heartfelt stories of their spinal health and total health successes while under my care.
I have been married for 30 short years to my high school sweetheart. We have been blessed with two wonderful sons who have found their own successes. Our youngest, Daniel, is in the field of firefighting and Nicholas has his doctorate degree in chiropractic, graduating in 2009. Janice and I are very proud of them for the people they are.
When patients ask me about my personal health regimen, I am surprised by their surprise when I tell them how often I receive chiropractic care. We are human. The continual stresses placed upon our own spines while delivering care to our patients or through the normal activities of daily living affect our structures. It is true that the majority of the care that we receive is preventative and supportive mostly because we have done our homework. There is rarely an exercise be it core strengthening or flexibility, that I prescribe to a patient that I have not done myself. Combining these physical supports with nutritional support my goal is to practice what I preach. I understand that there are times when drug intervention is necessary but I attempt to decrease their need when these medications are targeted at my specialty.
In closing I consider myself an excellent listener and hope I get the opportunity to meet you in person and discuss your specific health challenge. Give our Peterborough office a call or email me with the link below.
Dr. Robert I. Horvat B.Sc, H.K., D.C.
During high school I almost gave up football because of back pain.
A teammate recommended that I see a chiropractor. Shortly after realigning my pelvis and a few vertebrae, the pain resolved and I had no further problems. I thought it was amazing considering I had no previous awareness or experience with chiropractic. That led me to learn more about natural healing. Personal experience with rehabilitation of my sports injuries directed me towards chiropractic. Now I work in the same clinic where I was once a patient.
I attended CMCC (Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College) in Toronto. It provides world class chiropractic clinical training. The education in many ways paralleled medical training in regards to depth with specific emphasis in Chiropractic related diagnosis, assessment and rehabilitation.
My goal is to achieve rapid resolution of injury related pain and loss of function using a natural rehabilitation approach. I will thoroughly assess your condition following an in depth history. I will clearly describe your condition and outline the most effective modes of intervention. Based upon this I will develop an appropriate plan of care to address the source of your symptoms. Nothing worth achieving is easy, but if you are willing to make the effort to achieve optimal health I will guide you in achieving those goals.
I have a natural approach to healthcare and health promotion without the use of drugs. Does this sound like something you would be interested in? Medication has its place in healthcare, but if we are more responsible for our own health we will be less likely to rely on medication as a temporary fix in the future. Less medication means healthier kidneys, liver and gastrointestinal tract with fewer drug interactions and side-effects throughout the body, therefore that makes for a healthier and happier you!
I enjoy woodworking, construction and gardening. Future interests include canoeing, kayaking and spending more time outdoors with the hope of more international traveling. I would like the opportunity to take part in charity and disaster relief in roles both associated with and outside of my profession. The best way to assist others is by getting involved. On that note, over the last year I began volunteering with the Big Brothers program, the Peterborough YWCA and most recently the Red Cross. My athletic background was in contact sports, primarily football and rugby. I have recently returned to the role of sports therapy in minor hockey and began coaching youth rugby.
I receive chiropractic care every 2-4 weeks and sometimes more frequently when my energy levels are low or if I feel tighter than usual. I attend the gym a minimum of 5-7 times weekly combining resistance training, cardiovascular and core balance training. I prefer to get the majority of my nutrition from food therefore it is rare not to see me eating.
I believe in lifelong learning therefore I am often taking seminars and courses to increase my knowledge. The most appropriate treatment approaches, exercises and nutritional recommendations are constantly changing therefore I do my best to keep up! I consider myself to be progressive and attempt to rehabilitate injuries in the most efficient and effective way possible; that means staying current.
Thanks for visiting our site. I look forward to meeting you in person, listening to your personal situation and needs and learning how we may be of service to you. If you are like me and would like to have the energy to live life to the fullest; resolving pain and improving mobility will help you get there. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We will do our utmost to assist you using safe and natural, comprehensive rehabilitation strategies.
Dr. Chris Balson B.Sc., H.K. D.C.
I am thrilled to see peoples lives changed
I see people everyday who have suffered from various aches and pains for years, I am always thrilled to see their lives change in a short time with the help of chiropractic treatment.
I injured my neck in a football game at university. The team doctor referred me to a chiropractor, and the results were remarkable. I realized that the natural healing was far superior to drugs and I was able to return to play quickly.
My BSC was done at the University of Guelph. The study of anatomy and biomechanics turned me on to the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and the necessity of chiropractic treatment, to allow people to lead healthy and active lives.
I am married with two children, and our whole family is very active and plays several sports. I believe if kids get into an active, healthy lifestyle early, they will maintain good health for life. I enjoy coaching sports. I have coached hockey, baseball and football for the last 20 years, and I love to see young people develop self esteem and confidence as they improve their skills.
I personally work out most days, playing sports (hockey, golf, and water skiing), riding bikes and weight training. I try to eat well and get plenty of sleep. I believe “if you use it, you will never lose it”.
If people want to improve their health, they can stay with the status quo, or seek chiropractic treatment and lifestyle changes that will allow them to reach their physical goals.
Our Massage Therapists
Kim Pacey, RMT
The first time I had a massage I was nervous, but I loved it and decided this is what I am going to do.
I love working directly with people. I had a degree in Kinesiology and thought it would be a perfect match.
I graduated from the University of Western, Ontario in 1992 with a BA in Kinesiology. I obtained a diploma from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 1996. I had a wonderful experience from both institutions.
I love giving people pain relief and contentment. I really try to listen closely to each individual patient and to work on them accordingly. Sometimes people are frustrated with their pain and fatigue and it is nice to offer other options that they may not have considered or known about.
I myself receive chiropractic and massage therapy as often as I can. I believe that I have a very physical job and it is important that I maintain my own self care. I am very active with treating myself with hydrotherapy, and stretching as well.
Paul Moss, RMT
I am passionate about getting results for my clients.
My approach to treatment combines extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology with finely honed intuition. I begin each session with tangible goals, and let my instincts guide my hands to where they will be most effective. I will help you get to the root of your problem, so that you can enjoy your body’s fullest potential.
I cultivate a compassionate environment for profound relaxation and true healing. I take pride in really listening to my clients, learning from your lived experience in your own body.
I graduated from Fleming College in 2012. I continue to cultivate my practice by studying the latest research on massage, and by exploring other bodywork modalities.
Whether you are recovering from an acute injury, seeking relief from a chronic condition, or simply wishing to reduce stress, I can help.
April Pharoah RMT
“To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise we shall not be able to keep our minds strong and clear.” – Buddha
I graduated and received my advanced diploma from Fleming College in Peterborough and am very excited to start my career as an RMT. Through my experience treating in clinic, I have come to appreciate the importance of treating each patient as an individual, listening to their specific symptoms and goals for their health, wellness and fitness. After careful assessment, I will create a treatment plan that is individually designed for each client so that the most effective and efficient treatment can be given. Through manual treatment, guided exercises, and home care, I hope to restore balance to the body and provide relaxation.
I am passionate about continuing to learn and grow and I enjoy educating my clients on how massage and movement can make big changes in the body and mind. I love the one-on-one interactions with patients and know from experience that a good therapeutic massage can be the highlight of a stressful week.
Anuhea Wise RMT
Anuhea has been a Registered Massage Therapist with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario since 2016. She has an extensive understanding of the human body coming from a background in Nursing, and has experience working in a variety of multi-disciplinary settings. Being fascinated by the human body and continued passion to work with people, she felt driven to continue her career in Massage Therapy.
Anuhea provides therapeutic treatments for a variety of ailments including, repetitive strain/overuse injuries, headaches/migraines, TMJ dysfunction, sports injuries, concussion symptoms, postural imbalances, and general muscle tension.
Anuhea has additional training in Craniosacral therapy, Cupping therapy, & Intra-oral massage, and may include these modalities into her treatments, along with deep tissue massage, trigger point release, and joint mobilization.
Anuhea’s focus is on using a holistic approach tailored to each client, with the goal of releasing tension, increasing mobility, and getting her clients back to doing what they love most. Anuhea encourages an active lifestyle, and believes that remedial exercise and home care is an integral part in assisting one with their health and wellness.
Zoë Stewart RMT
Zoë has been practicing Massage Therapy since 2009. She works to provide a comfortable and pain free experience with a focus on relaxation and whole body wellness. She has explored some training in CranioSacral Therapy and in Trager and hopes to continue her education in those areas.
Text or call: 705-868-2349
Email: zoe.stewart@ymail.com
Caitlin Brady RMT
Caitlin holds a BSc in Human Kinetics from the University of Guelph and has been a Registered Massage Therapist with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario since 2010. She provides Registered Massage Therapy treatments for musculosketal concerns such at repetitive strain and athletic injuries, headaches and tension, inflammatory issues such as arthritis, as well as pre/post-natal massage, chronic pain, stress and anxiety. Caitlin believes in the value of educating her clients on rehabilitation exercises and encouraging an active lifestyle with fitness at any age.
Crystal Lyon RMT
Crystal is currently on maternity leave and will return in April-July of 2026
Crystal Lyon has been a Registered Massage Therapist from the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO.ca) since 2012. Crystal’s clinical focus is treating Lymphedema and the associated impairments. She is a certified Lymphatic Drainage practitioner and provides treatment for primary and secondary lymphedema (fluid retention/swelling in limbs) by using integrated lymph drainage techniques. In addition, Crystal provides Registered Massage Therapy treatments for musculoskeletal issues such as repetitive strain and sports injuries, headaches/migraines, plantar fasciitis, arthritis, as well as pre/post-natal massage, chronic pain, stress and anxiety. Crystal believes in the value of educating her clients on rehabilitation exercises and posture improvement skills.
Jenny Burk, RMT, DOMP, RMO,CST, Acupuncture Designation
I am thrilled to join the Peterborough Wellness Group!
I am passionate about helping my clients/patients through collaborative outcome based therapeutic treatment. Over the last 9 years , I have made it my mission to educate myself to the benefit of my clients/patients. Here is a summary of my qualifications:
In 2017, I graduated top of my class from Oxford Colleges Massage Therapy Program, and am registered with the CMTO (College of Massage Therapist of Ontario) in good standing.
In 2024, I graduated from the National Academy of Osteopathy, with a diploma of Manual Practice, in Manual Osteopathy. I am a member of the CRMO (College of Registered Manual Osteopaths) , and the ACMA ( Canadian Alliance of Alternative Medicine). Including Manual Osteopathy into my treatments has been a dream of mine for many years. Osteopathy is very helpful in creating an environment in the body system that encourages the body to correct dysfunction on a deeper level. It includes Joint Mobilizations, Muscle energy techniques, Visceral manipulation techniques and Cranial Sacral techniques.
I am a Certified Foot Reflexologist, through the Ontario College of Reflexology, and hope to eventually become certified in hand and auricular Reflexology. Foot Reflexology is a pressure point technique on the feet that can have a homeostatic(balancing) effect throughout the entire body.
In 2021 I completed Level 1 and Level 2 training as Cranial Sacral Therapist, with Robert Harris, through the Cranial Therapy center in Toronto. Cranial Sacral Therapy is a gentle, non-invasive method of working with the body, to correct subtleties that can have magnified effects throughout the body’s systems.
I am also qualified to perform, and regularly apply the following modalities as needed into treatment:
- Therapeutic UltraSound
- Athletic Taping
- Cupping Therapy
- Guasha/IASTM (Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization)
- Reiki
- Indie Head Massage
- Hot Stone Massage
- Intra Oral TMJ massage
When it comes to life after work, I enjoy Gardening, learning how to play guitar, watching car racing, working out at the gym and playing disc golf. I proudly sponsor, and treat my sons U14 rep City Soccer team.
Our Chinese Medicine & Dental Hygienist
Kathy Allen, Chinese Medicine & Dental Hygienist
*BIO COMING SOON!
Our Reiki Practitioner
Nicole Stimers, Reiki
Exciting News-I’ve joined Peterborough Wellness Team!
I’m thrilled to now be part of Peterborough Wellness Group, a collaborative and heart centered healthcare team.
With over 30 years of experience as a nurse, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful healing can be when modern medicine and holistic practices come together.
Thorough Reiki, meditation, and energy work, I help others find balance in their busy lives. My offerings also include handcrafted gemstone jewelry, homemade body scrubs and soaps, as well as specialty tea blends-each made with love and intention.
I have a deep love for animals and children. My dog, Sophie has been trained in Reiki Therapy alongside me.
Beyond my work, I’m a wife, a mom to two amazing kids and someone who truly values family and community. My heart is in everything I do, and I’d love to help you on your journey toward balance and well-being.
If you’re curious about Reiki, meditation, or self-care but don’t know where to start, reach out..I’d love to connect.