By: Jocelyn Adams, Communications & Special Projects Assistant

This fall we welcome our new graduates into the profession and reflect on the accomplishments of our alumni. This season, we’re proud to recognize the career of alumnus Melissa Anderson, from the Dalhousie Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy Class of 1992. Anderson’s career focuses on the rewards of working in Neuro Rehabilitation and promoting the profession within the province of New Brunswick.

Prior to life as a Physiotherapist, Anderson knew she wanted to help people.

“I knew I wanted to work in healthcare. From an early age, I looked at a lot of different healthcare professions but with physio I knew I would have the opportunity to build a relationship with people. I wanted to have a rapport and to help people,” said Anderson.

Working as a front-line clinician created an early desire for Neuro-Rehabilitation.

“After graduating from Dalhousie, I started in Neuro and fell in love with the patients,” said Anderson.

Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) expands your professional horizons within physiotherapy.

“I became NDT certified in 1999 and worked everywhere in the hospital at that point. Neurology was always my favorite unit because each stroke patient was different. The most rewarding experiences was learning to communicate with people after stroke,” said Anderson.

“I had a stroke patient who was having a difficult time communicating.  He couldn’t speak. During the course of his physio, we found out he could sing. His favorite song was Oh, Danny Boy. We would get him singing during physio and his family would visit just to hear his voice again. This was such a powerful experience.”

Anderson’s experience led to various professional opportunities. As Clinical Practice Leader and now Manager of her division. She continues to seek ways to promote the profession and advocate for physiotherapists.

“Melissa Anderson has been a strong supporter of our clinical education program during her tenure as physiotherapy manager.  As a clinical physiotherapist, Melissa took students regularly.  She supports continuing education and works with Dalhousie to provide such for her teams,” said Gail Wainwright, (outgoing) Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education from the School of Physiotherapy.

Beyond the walls of the hospital, Anderson encourages new PT grads to become involved with their professional provincial associations.

“As former NBPA President, I had the opportunity to interact with physio leaders from across the country and to have some impact on the profession as it’s evolving. This position was definitely the most rewarding during my physiotherapy career. I encourage any students or alumni to get involved as much as they can with their provincial association,” concludes Anderson.

In 2010, Anderson was presented with the NBPA’s Professional Leadership Award. She currently is completing her Master’s in Public Administration from Dalhousie University. Anderson works full-time as Physiotherapy unit Manager within the Saint John Regional Hospital, and holds a Clinical Adjunct appointment with the School of Physiotherapy.