Professional experience: over 34 years         

Amanda is a highly experienced Natural Health Consultant with a profound dedication to holistic healing and wellness. A retired Dental Hygienist with over 31 years of experience, Amanda’s journey in healthcare began in 1990 when she graduated from Cambrian College in Sudbury, Ontario. Her career took off in 1991 when she moved to Vancouver, British Columbia, where she excelled in the field of cosmetic dentistry. Amanda’s commitment to high standards of excellence and her intuitive nature allowed her to connect the dots between her patients’ oral health and their overall well-being. Her passion for educating and empowering her patients to live healthier lifestyles was always evident.

In 2004, Amanda relocated to Calgary, Alberta, where she had the privilege of working with holistic dentist Dr. Craig Young. Under his mentorship, Amanda was introduced to various holistic modalities, including auricular therapy using ear seeds to help calm anxious patients during dental appointments. She was amazed at how the clinic was run. Before the clients went for their dental treatment, they would often start with an RMT massage and a chiropractic treatment. Acupuncture and some other TCM methods were used for pain management. The approach was not only holistic but also highly effective. The clinic would be able to take some clients who were refused by other clinics because the patient either had extremely high anxiety or an extremely complex case such as treatment of root canals, which many clinics wouldn’t do. This experience deepened Amanda’s understanding of holistic health and the power of the human body’s natural healing abilities.

In 2010, Amanda returned to Vancouver to resume her career in cosmetic dentistry, continuing to apply the holistic approaches she had learned, although she always missed her Calgary practice.

Amanda’s life took a significant turn in November 2016 when she moved to Vancouver Island with her partner of five years. In January 2019, her partner was diagnosed with stage 3b cancer, a challenge that drastically altered their lives. Instead of succumbing to despair, Amanda delved deeply into research on holistic healing, exploring every possible avenue to support her partner’s fight against cancer. By 2020, the combined pressures of caregiving, full-time work, and household management led to Amanda experiencing burnout and an injury related to her work. After two years of rehabilitation, her doctor advised her to retire from dental hygiene, marking the end of a beloved career.

What initially seemed like a devastating setback turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Amanda embarked on a journey of reinvention, exploring various roles until she found her calling with Fresh Start. Here, she continues to care for people in the most meaningful way, using her extensive knowledge and experience to guide her clients toward optimal health and well-being. Amanda’s unique blend of expertise, compassion, and holistic perspective makes her an invaluable asset to those seeking transformative health retreat experiences.

Outside of her professional life, Amanda enjoys music and the great outdoors.  Whether it’s hiking through the scenic trails, enjoying the tranquillity of being on the water or immersing herself in the rhythm of a beautiful melody, these activities bring her great joy and inspiration.

Amanda’s mission as the Program Consultant is to empower you to embark on a journey of holistic healing so you can live your best life.  Together, you’ll explore the best retreat options that will help you reconnect with yourself, achieve wellness goals, and discover a renewed sense of vitality.