Meet the Team at
Hands On Health Family Chiropractic
Dr. Stacey Farquhar
Dr. Farquhar started her scholastic studies at the University of Western Ontario where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. It was during this time that she discovered chiropractic.
“I was suffering from terrible menstrual cramping every month,” she says, “and the temporary symptom relief of the doctor-prescribed medication didn’t resonate with me since I knew it wasn’t addressing the cause of the problem.” A close friend studying chiropractic recommended that she pursue it and the rest is history. “I knew after my first visit that this profession was not only going to help me but it was what I was searching for as a career,” tells Dr. Farquhar.
Dr. Farquhar is passionate about raising healthy, well-rounded children. She has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education in the field of pediatric care with the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association and is certified in Webster’s In-Utero Constraint Technique.
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Her practice encompasses an eclectic mix of families who have actively chosen to incorporate chiropractic care as an integral part of their healthy lifestyle choices. “I strive to provide a relaxed environment to share information so that my practice members are free to make informed health care decisions for their families.”
Dr. Farquhar primarily incorporates Torque Release Technique in her practice which is a very gentle chiropractic technique. It utilizes a neurologically based analysis that incorporates a non-repetitive sequence of adjusting priorities resulting in much greater effectiveness and practice member improvement. Utilizing The Integrator, a torque and recoil release adjusting instrument, Torque Release Technique combines the best of existing chiropractic techniques and principles, quantum physics and the body/mind connection.
Dr. Farquhar loves being active. She can regularly be found either on a brisk walk, trying a new sport or practicing yoga. Her downtime incorporates a lot of reading, time with good friends, good food and good wine!
“Chiropractic care increases our potential to be our best!” she exclaims. “I welcome you and your family and promise to provide a healthy environment for growth along with the very best care possible.”
Dr. Matt Garofolo
“I wasn’t a skeptic at all when I discovered chiropractic,” remembers Dr. Garofolo. “In fact, I desperately wanted help because my left arm was going numb up to my elbow. Chiropractic was a really attractive option to me since I was already a vitalist who believed that my body could heal itself naturally. I was so inspired by the results that I decided to become a chiropractor myself.”
Dr. Garofolo began his pre-chiropractic education in Oklahoma City where he studied the basic sciences such as inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, along with basic physiology and anatomy courses. After completing his study there, he was accepted at Parker College of Chiropractic in Dallas, Texas. During his four years at Parker, courses included biochemistry, a major emphasis on anatomy and human physiology, x-ray, diagnosis, chiropractic adjusting techniques and practice member care in the Parker College Public Clinic.
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“It wasn’t until after about six months of adjustments in chiropractic college that I experienced for myself the true power of regular chiropractic care,” continues Dr. Garofolo. “I realized that my regular sinus and allergy problems that had plagued me for years and had made my life miserable had disappeared. I also noticed that my every-other-month colds and three-times-per-year flues had also disappeared. Since 1998 I have rarely contracted the flu and can sometimes skip a year without contracting a cold, amazing! I was also able to ride my road bike for three hours without any back discomfort at all which was unheard of before then.”
“I understand that chiropractic care and the vitalistic wellness paradigm are foreign to many people in today’s society. So we make it a point to explain everything in advance, answer questions and attempt to make our office a warm and friendly healing environment. Practice members appreciate that.”
“I also know that we live in a time where people are looking for more natural ways of staying vital and creating health in their lives,” smiles Dr. Garofolo. “They want to stay healthy as long as possible and they want to avoid toxic drugs, unnecessary surgeries and hospitals. At the end of the day they just want to be empowered with factual information so that they can take the self-responsibility to care for themselves and keep themselves vital. I understand that way of thinking because that’s what I want for my family as well.”
Dr. Tamara Holowka
Dr. Tamara has been a trusted member of the Greater Toronto Area community for over 20 years, dedicated to guiding families on their health and wellness journeys through specialized chiropractic care. She believes that optimal health begins even before birth, with a focus on prenatal and infant care that sets a strong foundation for all stages of life.
Dr. Tamara is committed to addressing the root causes of health issues, ensuring a lasting impact on her patients’ lives, whether they are adults seeking relief, pregnant women preparing for childbirth, or children growing and developing.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to help adults on their health journeys, as well as experiencing the joy of making a positive difference in a child’s life before challenges arise.”
With an Honours Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology from the University of Toronto, Dr. Tamara furthered her education at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. Her passion for her work is evident in her ongoing studies in prenatal, postnatal, and pediatric care through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Her Style of adjusting incorporates a blend of techniques, like instrument and drop work among others.
When she’s not in the clinic, Dr. Tamara enjoys spending weekends outdoors with her family, cooking nutritious meals, and exploring various cultures through art, food, and lifestyle. She embraces new adventures and cherishes every moment spent with her loved ones.
Dr. Tamara welcomes you to experience the benefits of chiropractic care tailored for adults, families, pregnant women, and children, fostering a healthier future for everyone.
Dr. Peter Hryciuk
Dr. Peter Hryciuk brings over 25 years of experience working with people of all ages. He has been the owner and clinic director of Royal York Chiropractic since 1992.
A long-term Etobicoke resident, he holds an honours degree in Biology from The University of Toronto and a doctorate from The Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. Dr. Hryciuk combines hands-on adjusting with instrument and drop table techniques to best serve his patients.
He and his wife, Meredith, live nearby with their blended family of six kids. They prioritize health through chiropractic care and holistic principles.
Dr. Hryciuk enjoys gourmet cooking, travel, cycling, fishing, woodworking, and renovation projects. He’s known for long walks with his dog Freddie, and occasionally sings Sinatra at karaoke!
His infectious energy and enthusiasm for healthy living are sure to inspire and benefit you.
Vanesa Symchych, Office Manager/Personal Trainer
Meet Vanesa, the dynamic and vibrant office manager at our chiropractic clinic. With a passion for health and wellness, Vanesa seamlessly combines her role as an office manager with her expertise as a personal trainer. She brings a unique energy to the clinic, infusing it with her love for the outdoors and an active lifestyle. When Vanesa isn’t busy keeping the clinic running smoothly, you’ll often find her soaking up the sun and fresh air. She relishes every opportunity to dive into nature’s embrace. Whether it’s walking through scenic trails, biking along paths, or gliding in her kayak, Vanesa finds solace and inspiration in the great outdoors. She effortlessly balances her responsibilities as an office manager with her commitment to personal fitness, always encouraging her colleagues and clients to prioritize their own well-being.
With her warm personality and her genuine desire to assist others make her an integral part of the chiropractic clinic’s success.
