The C’est La Vie Wellness team is a group of dedicated holistic healthcare practitioners and specialists ready to help you achieve your health and wellness goals. We often consult each other and work together to ensure we offer the best protocol and treatment for our patients and clients.
Get to know us a little better by reading about our background and professional experience below. Please note that all our practitioners offer a free 15-min Meet-and-Greet to discuss your needs.
As always, feel free to contact us for any additional information.
Working Together For You
We love to work together to offer a series of workshops, talks, cooking classes, or online programs on various topics relating to health and wellness. We have worked with fitness groups, non-profit organization, corporations, and schools. We can tailor workshops to the age, size and general needs of any organization.
Helen Brcic, Office Administration
Office Administration
Anick Lamarche, Speech Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Therapist
Anick Lamarche, Speech Language Pathologist
Anick Lamarche est franco-ontarienne et native de Cornwall, ON. Elle est passionnée par la voix humaine dès sa jeunesse et poursuit cet intérêt par des cours de chant. Cela la poussera à faire un BMus à Toronto et MMus à l’Université en chant classique. Elle continue à approfondir ses connaissances avec un PhD en acoustique musicale à l’Université Royale des technologies à Stockholm. Par la suite, elle se focalise sur le côté clinique de ses études et complète un MScH en orthophonie à l’Université d’Ottawa.
Depuis 2012, Anick oeuvre en voix et déglutition à l’hôpital pédiatrique McMaster. Anick trouve important de désservir la population pédiatrique francophone de la région qui n’ont pas facilement accès à des services orthophonique. Anick est heureuse de joindre l’équipe de C’est La Vie Wellness!Anick Lamarche is a Franco-Ontarian and native of Cornwall, ON. She is passionate about the human voice and from a young age pursues singing lessons. This prompted her to do a BMus at U of T and MMus at the UdM in classical singing. She went on to do a PhD in musical acoustics at the Royal University of Technology in Stockholm. Subsequently, she focused on the clinical side of her studies and completed an MScH in Speech Language Pathology at the University of Ottawa.
Since 2012, Anick has been working in voice and swallowing at McMaster Paediatric Hospital. Anick believes it is important to serve the French-speaking paediatric population of the region, who do not easily have easy access to S-LP services. Anick is pleased to join C’est La Vie Wellness’s team.
Dr. Sofie Desforges-Bell, BSc, ND
Naturopathic Doctor & Co-Clinic Director
Dr. Sofie Desforges-Bell, BSc, ND
Naturopathic Doctor
Co-Clinic Director
After graduating from Wilfrid Laurier University in 2013 with a BSc in Biology & Psychology, I wanted to put my scientific knowledge and passion into practice. I furthered my studies and graduated with a Doctor of Naturopathy degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in the spring of 2018.
I was drawn to naturopathic medicine as it allows me to explore the root cause of disease in a holistic manner. I love incorporating evidence-based natural medicines with more traditional therapies. By individualizing treatment plans to address each patient’s unique health journey, I guide my patients to optimize their physical, mental-emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
Although I operate as a general practitioner, I do currently focus my practice on health concerns relating to digestive health, skin health, brain health and mental health. As part of my scope of practice, I offer lab testing (including functional tests such as the Food Sensitivity Test, GI Map, etc.), supplement recommendations, botanical medicine, nutrition and lifestyle recommendations, acupuncture (Traditional Chinese Medicine), and cupping among many other therapies.
I am always happy to offer a Free 15-min Meet & Greet consultation to see if we would be a good fit to work together on achieving your health goals. You can also visit my LinkedIn profile and follow me on Facebook and Instagram for additional educational content. I look forward to connecting with you!
Danika Desforges-Bell, MSc. Ps.ed.
Mental Health Counsellor & Co-Clinic Director
Danika Desforges-Bell, MSc. Ps.ed.
Mental Health Counsellor, OAMHP 4913-G
Behaviour Consultation and Intervention
Co-Clinic Director
While completing my education in Psychoéducation at the Université de Montréal, I did internships at a Community Center for adults dealing with psychiatric diagnoses (schizophrenia, mood disorders), in a hospital working with children in Child Psychiatry, and in an elementary school implementing Bullying Prevention programs.
Back in Toronto, I combined my psychoeducational and cognitive-behavioural practices to new therapeutic strategies, when working with Morneau Shepell’s EAP crisis line and single-session therapeutic support. I honed my skills by leading clients through talk-therapy, solution-focused therapy and mindfulness. During my time there, I provided short & long-term support through an online CBT-inspired platform which helped shape my therapeutic style for my ongoing work at C’est La Vie Wellness.
In more recent years, I was Clinical Manager of Behavioural and Autism Interventions with the French Catholich MonAvenir school board where I provided guidance and clinical supervision to 10 behavioural consultants (a job I held previously) and 5 autism consultants. Through these various experiences, I have developed key active listening and coaching skills as well as realistic & useful strategies/interventions with children, school staff and parents which I can now apply in my private practice at CLV.
My focus at CLV is to support children, parents and individuals by providing them with concrete tools and strategies to cope with their personal challenges. I inspired my counselling approach through regular training and profesionnal development in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, SFT, trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ workshops, EFT and more! Feel free to contact me directly to schedule a FREE initial phone consult or by visiting my Psychology Today profile.
Psst! Je parle français 🙂
Quick message from Danika: I am no longer accepting clients or referrals as I am scheduled for maternity leave from May 2023 to Spring 2024. Please reach out to Gwyneth, Rebecca or the CLV clinic for waitlists & referrals. Thanks for your patience & understanding!
Lyne Desforges, R.H.N, B.Ed.
Office Administration
Lyne Desforges, R.H.N, B.Ed.
Office Administration
Registered Holistic Nutritionist
Culinary Nutrition Expert
Educating, motivating and inspiring have always been important aspects of my professional journey, first as a High School Teacher, then Library Technician, and finally as a Holistic Nutritionist. As co-owner of the C’est La Vie Wellness clinic in Bronte, I have been able to expand my skills to include the managing of our clinical space, our social media, and our website. I continue to enjoy adding nutritious recipes and informative blogs to our website as I move towards retirement. I am happy to support our new co-clinic directors, Dr. Sofie and Danika, whenever the need arises. I am happiest when working at the front desk chatting with patients and clients, especially about health and wellness.
I hope to see you in the clinic very soon.
You can follow me on Facebook or Instagram @lynedfoodie to see what I am cooking in my own kitchen these days!
Gwyneth Hodgins, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist
Gwyneth Hodgins, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist
Over my nearly 10 years of experience, I’ve worked with individuals across the lifespan, from young children to senior adults. In my work as a Child and Family Therapist at SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health, I worked with individuals and families struggling with a range of emotional and behavioural challenges. When working at Toronto Metropolitan University’s (TMU) counselling centre, I developed a love for working with young adults, as they discover their identities and go through major life transitions. And in my time as a single-session tele-counsellor at Morneau Shepell, I honed my ability to make good use of every moment with a client.
Currently, I work individually with teens (14+) and up. My approach is a mix of several therapeutic modalities, including Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused (Family) Therapy (EFT; EFFT), Mindfulness-Based, Attachment-Based, and Trauma-Informed therapy. I also strive to provide an anti-racist, anti-oppressive practice. I believe that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are, in large part, a product of our experiences. When we’ve had hurtful or traumatic experiences, we adapt to keep ourselves physically and emotionally safe. Sometimes, those adaptations are no longer useful or helpful to us, and we need to learn new ways to manage. My goal as your therapist will be to provide a safe and attuned space in which to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences and navigate how you want to think and feel in the present and in the future. Feel free to book a free initial phone consult to see whether I’m the right therapist for you.
You can also visit my website.
Dr. Angelica Dimita, HBSC, ND
Naturopathic Doctor, Focus on Pediatrics
Dr. Angelica Dimita, HBSC, ND
After completing an Honours Bachelor of Science at McMaster University in 2018, I furthered my studies and received my Doctor of Naturopathy from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2022.
My practice is primarily focused in children’s health. I have experience working with kids of all ages, from newborns and toddlers, to teenagers and young adults. ADHD, ASD, metabolic syndrome, skin conditions, sleep issues, digestive disorders, and anxiety are some of the areas I have special interest in.
My approach combines evidence-based medicine with the healing powers of nature, and empowers patients to achieve their health goals. My work integrates a range of therapies, including nutrition and lifestyle counselling, herbal medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (including acupuncture and cupping), and homeopathy. In order to provide the best possible care, I create a safe and inclusive space for my patients.
To learn more about my approach, and to see if we are the right fit together, please book a free 15-minute phone consultation. You can also visit me on Instagram @dr.angelica.nd for educational content and kiddie-approved recipes!
Rebecca Hsiang MA, RP, CCC
Registered Psychotherapist, Canadian Certified Counsellor
Rebecca Hsiang MA, RP, CCC
I’m glad your curiosity has brought you here and I would like to share a little about myself.
After completing a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology at Western University, I have worked in various community settings to support children, teens, adults, and families facing relational challenges, traumatic experiences, significant life transformations, and identity development.
Currently, I provide one-on-one therapy to teens and adults with the exception of coparent consultations and parent-child sessions if supportive. I practice from a values-based and trauma-informed perspective to provide a safe, nurturing, and non-judgemental space for healing and growth. I am attuned to matters of inclusion and diversity and strive to provide an anti-racist, anti-oppressive practice. While I am trained in Emotionally Focused (Family) Therapy (EFT/EFFT), Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness-Based Therapy; I use a collaborative approach to ensure our work together meets your needs.
My privilege as your therapist is to honour the part(s) of you that yearns for change and growth. I have deep respect for your wisdom and I aspire to embody compassion in every interaction. Being human is hard and you need not navigate the landscape of life alone.
Louise Fitzgibbon
Functional Breathwork Coach
Louise Fitzgibbon
Louise learned how important it is to have the tools to manage stressors and to respond compassionately not only to others but also to oneself. Over the years Louise was searching for something that could help settle anxiety, allow her to handle situations with ease and increase performance. Learning how to adopt specific breathwork patterns has taught her how to use the power of breath to control how she experiences daily life with more presence.
Recognizing the benefits of focusing on the breath and the importance of functional breathing; Louise immersed herself in certification programs: Oxygen Advantage and Buteyko with Patrick McKeown, Peak Flow, and Pause Breathwork by Samantha Skelly.
Louise strives to reach her full potential and assist others in finding theirs. This can be done through workshops or custom designed multi-week programs based on the individual’s interests and needs.
Caroline (Cara) Gauthier, RMT
Registered Massage Therapist
Caroline (Cara) Gauthier, RMT
Cara graduated from the Massage Therapy program at the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 2011. The program has given her a vast knowledge of human anatomy as well as the intricacies of the physiology of the human body.
In her 12 years of practice, she has had the opportunity to work with a variety of chronic and acute pain sufferers, including motor vehicle accidents, Orthopedic rehab and sports injuries. She is a Graston Technique certified technician and has done extensive courses in Fascial release, both of which can be incorporated into treatments to obtain maximum results. She is also trained in pre and postnatal care, and has a belly table which is available upon request. She has also provided care for palliative care patients and patients in cancer treatment.
Although she tends to do a lot of deep tissue work, she understands the necessity of stress relief that goes along with light pressure relaxation treatments. She always encourages everyone to give her feedback to ensure they receive the optimum care needed for each individual. She is very client-centred, viewing each individual as unique and forms treatment plans based on assessments performed prior to each treatment.
She is also a Registered Yoga Teacher with the Yoga Alliance. She has many years of practical experience teaching and working with a diverse body of students with different ailments and physical limitations. In combination with her Massage Therapy training, this has given her a very good understanding of human biomechanics and remedial exercise to help form a well rounded plan for treatment.
Cara is also fluent in French and welcomes French speaking clients.
On her own time, Cara is an avid runner and outdoor enthusiast. She loves kayaking/canoeing, camping, hiking and snowshoeing with her partner and two young children.
Maria Fiordalisi
Registered Reflexology Therapist
Maria Fiordalisi
A dedicated practitioner deeply interested in balancing mind, body, and spirit, Maria Fiordalisi specializes in reflexology, reiki, aromatherapy, and holistic health/wellness coaching. She has owned and operated her own private holistic practice since 2014 and in 2020 founded Helianthus Holistic Arts, a multi-disciplinary holistic school where she shares wellness tools and teaches aromatherapy and reflexology certification courses.
Maria first became interested in complementary and alternative healing therapies while searching for relief from her own anxiety-related symptoms. She fell in love with reflexology in 2011 and committed herself to learn all she could about this form of healing. While continuing her own journey, Maria began using her passion to help others, as well. Today, she is a Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapist®, Registered Aromatherapist®, Certified Aromatherapy Health Professional®, Level 3 Certified Clinical Aromatherapist®, Reiki Master, and Certified Culinary Nutrition Expert. A lifelong learner, she continues to research and further her own education so that she can bring exceptional experiences to her clients and students.
When she’s not working, Maria enjoys reading, kayaking, and hiking with her husband and rescue dogs, Kona and Kaila.