Laura Ducharme, MScPT

Laura graduated with her Master’s in Physical Therapy from the University of Alberta in 2010 and has spent the majority of her career working in private practice orthopedics. Early in her career, she had the opportunity to collaborate closely with orthopedic surgeons, an experience that helped refine her assessment and diagnostic skills and shaped the thoughtful, evidence-informed approach she brings to patient care today.

Before opening her own clinic, Laura also worked as a manager with CBI Health, where she developed the business experience and confidence needed to take the leap into practice ownership. In 2016, Laura and her husband, Dustin, moved to Vancouver Island and opened Brightside Physiotherapy in Qualicum Beach.

At Brightside, Laura provides one-on-one, high-quality care in a solo private practice setting. She draws on her background in Exercise Science and her passion for patient education to create comprehensive, personalized treatment plans that help patients better understand their bodies and feel confident in their recovery. Her additional training includes acupuncture, SFMA (Selective Functional Movement Assessment), The Female Athlete, manual therapy, and New Trends in the Prevention of Running Related Injuries through The Running Clinic.

In late 2021, Laura became certified through GLA:D® Canada, an 8-week, evidence-based program designed for individuals diagnosed with knee or hip osteoarthritis.

Laura and Dustin welcomed their son, Duke, in the spring of 2019. Outside of the clinic, Laura enjoys staying active through running, strength training, paddle boarding, kayaking, yoga, and Pilates. She also loves spending time in the kitchen cooking healthy meals for her family.

Hannah Clayton

Hannah is a born and raised Islander, surrounded by an environment that promoted a holistic approach to health and fitness. She grew up hiking and camping and was a competitive gymnast throughout her teenage years. This led to her passion for sport. She holds a degree in Sport and Fitness Leadership with a designation in Exercise and Wellness. She is registered with the British Columbia Association of Kinesiologists. Hannah's approach to treatment is holistic and she is passionate about correcting the source of the problem rather than chasing a client's symptoms.

Hannah has developed an interest in Integrative Lifestyle treatment strategies and will be pursuing further training in this area, including nutritional counselling, the gut-brain-body axis, sleep, stress and more. She is eager to incorporate this into her practice.
 

Her mission is to help everyone reach their goal through exercise prescription and keep them active for life!

Ella Yarham

Ella completed her Kinesiology degree at Vancouver Island University, where she developed a strong interest in functional fitness and helping people of all abilities move with confidence. Her own appreciation for movement began after moving to Vancouver Island with her family in 2012, where the West Coast’s trails, beaches, and mountains quickly became the perfect playground for hiking, exploring, and staying active.

Before pursuing exercise science, Ella spent six years working in aquatics, building on a lifelong passion for swimming. That experience helped shape her supportive and approachable style. She enjoys creating a positive environment around movement, offering helpful corrections, and teaching practical strategies that support range of motion, confidence, and overall quality of life.

Ella is also excited to continue exploring the connection between physical literacy and lifelong movement, helping others build the skills and confidence to stay active in ways that feel enjoyable and sustainable.

Dustin Ducharme

Dustin moved to Vancouver Island years ago with his wife, Laura, and quickly felt at home. As co-owner of the clinic alongside Laura, Dustin enjoys being part of a local practice that values community, connection, and quality care. After making the move from Alberta, he has fully embraced island life and is happy to say he has no plans of moving back.

Dustin is a Primary Care Paramedic and is also involved in the fire service, where he enjoys the teamwork, training, and opportunity to keep learning. He also instructs CPR courses, bringing a practical, approachable teaching style to helping others feel more confident and prepared.

Outside of work, Dustin is happiest when he has a project on the go. He enjoys creating, building, 3D printing, laser engraving, and etching — basically anything that lets him turn an idea into something tangible. Dustin and Laura also have a son, Duke, who keeps life busy, fun, and full in the best possible way. For Dustin, life on the Island is a great mix of family, community, creativity, and staying involved in the things he loves.

Are you a recent grad?

At Brightside Physiotherapy, our vision is to be leaders in the Physiotherapy industry by providing a comprehensive mentorship program for our newest Physiotherapy Graduates.

If you are in your first 3 years of practicing as a Physiotherapist, we would like you to offer you dedicated support to help you launch your career in a direction that is tailored to you. 

Get more details and apply today.