meet the team

founder, hayley o'hara

Hayley O’Hara

CLINIC DIRECTOR | REGISTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Hayley is a Registered Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist and Certified Yoga Instructor on a mission to transform the practice of Pelvic Health by blending Pelvic Floor Therapy, Yoga, and wellness. Her passion for women and family health led to founding Higher State Health and Wellness Club, where she currently practices, teaches, and operates as Clinical Director.

physiotherapist, erin mckinnon

Erin Mckinnon

PHYSIOTHERAPIST RESIDENT

Erin is a St. John’s native and holds a Master of Science in Physiotherapy from Dalhousie University and an Honours Bachelor of Kinesiology from Memorial University. With a background in competitive soccer, Erin specializes in working with athletes to enhance performance and fitness. She finds the most inspiring part of her work to be the direct impact she has on patients’ lives, guiding them on their recovery journey and helping them return to doing what they love.

acupuncturist, alex simmonds

Alexandrea Simmonds

REGISTERED ACUPUNCTURIST

Alexandrea Simmonds is a dedicated acupuncturist with dual diplomas in Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She specializes in women's health, reproductive wellness, chronic pain, sports injuries, digestive issues, and mental health. Alex combines various techniques, including acupuncture, cupping, and gua sha, to offer personalized, holistic care. Passionate about supporting patients on their wellness journey, she has helped many improve their well-being since starting her practice in Alberta. Alex is committed to ongoing learning and integrates advanced methods like the Balance Method and Heat Sensitive Moxibustion in her treatments.

dietitian, julia blackwood

Julia Blackwood

DIETITIAN CANDIDATE

Julia is a dedicated Dietitian Candidate with a passion for women’s health and wellness. She holds a background in Nutrition (Dietetics) and specializes in digestive health, weight management, and overall well-being. Julia creates realistic, evidence-based nutrition plans tailored to her clients’ needs, helping them make lasting, sustainable changes. Outside of her work, Julia enjoys cooking, baking, and staying active in the gym. She is committed to empowering her clients to lead healthier, fuller lives through nutrition and is excited to be a part of the Higher State team.

Nick Rowsell

REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPIST

Nick is a skilled Registered Massage Therapist with a passion for helping clients regain mobility and find relief from chronic pain. Specializing in deep pressure techniques, chronic pain management, and neck treatments, Nick is dedicated to providing personalized care that supports both physical and emotional well-being. With a strong background in competitive sports and a commitment to ongoing learning, he combines his expertise and passion for healing to help clients feel their best. Nick is excited to bring his skills to Higher State and looks forward to supporting clients on their wellness journeys.

Sierra Jackson

PILATES INSTRUCTOR

Sierra is passionate about helping clients build strength, confidence, and mindfulness through Pilates. Originally from St. John’s, she discovered the transformative power of movement firsthand and now shares that experience with others. Specializing in mat Pilates, Sierra focuses on creating accessible and enjoyable sessions for all fitness levels. When she’s not on the mat, she’s indulging her creative side through design, thrifting, and home projects—or unwinding with a good book and a seasonal latte.

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