Gabrielle Cousineau Daoust – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Gabrielle Cousineau Daoust is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal - Installation Lucie-Bruneau in Montréal, QC, Gabrielle is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with the standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Her approach emphasizes understanding each patient's unique needs and crafting personalized treatment plans that foster recovery, independence, and improved quality of life.

Gabrielle's role as a Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus) involves assisting individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing their overall well-being after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. She works closely with adult patients, providing compassionate support and expert guidance throughout their rehabilitation journey, ensuring they can regain confidence and maximize their potential.

With a solid educational background and clinical experience, Gabrielle completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has developed a particular interest and expertise in neurological physiotherapy. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development and applying evidence-based practices. Her philosophy centers on empowering patients through clear education about their condition and practical self-management strategies, fostering a collaborative approach to achieve meaningful and lasting results. Gabrielle is fluent in English and French.

Gabrielle Cousineau Daoust provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A structured and individualized rehabilitation approach for individuals recovering from a mild traumatic brain injury, guiding a safe and gradual return to school, work, and sport activities.

Neurological

• Facial Palsy / Bell's Palsy Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy for weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, often affecting one side of the face (e.g., Bell's Palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, post-surgical facial nerve injury).
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Rehabilitation: Tailored rehabilitation programs focusing on restoring physical abilities, managing secondary complications, and improving quality of life for individuals post-TBI or ABI.
• Stroke (CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive neurological rehabilitation provided by a Neuro Physiotherapist to help individuals regain independence, maximize their recovery potential, and adapt to any residual impairments following a stroke.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Symptom Management & Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with MS stay active, manage symptoms effectively, maintain independence for as long as possible, and adapt to changes in their condition.

Vestibular Balance

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Resolving the spinning sensations caused by BPPV quickly and effectively through targeted canalith repositioning techniques, often providing immediate relief.
• Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD / 3PD): A common cause of chronic dizziness that can be helped with specific physiotherapy strategies aimed at desensitizing the brain to provocative stimuli and normalizing reliance on sensory inputs.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Gabrielle can assess your needs.

• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• Neurological Rehabilitation (e.g., Stroke, MS, Parkinson's, Acquired Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury): Comprehensive physiotherapy programs designed to maximize quality of life and functional abilities for individuals with conditions like stroke (CVA), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's disease, traumatic or acquired brain injury (TBI/ABI), or incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI).
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Education and instruction on effective and safe stretching techniques to help you maintain or improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise plans designed to help you recover from injury, manage chronic conditions, improve physical performance, and achieve your functional goals safely and effectively.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Customized strength training to address specific weaknesses identified in your assessment, helping to correct imbalances, improve movement efficiency, and achieve your physical objectives.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Gabrielle. For a full list or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

At CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal - Installation Lucie-Bruneau, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Gabrielle frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Gabrielle believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If pain or weakness that's stopping me from enjoying my favorite hobbies is hindering your ability to hitting the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding in winter, a personalized plan focusing on feeling more positive, capable, and optimistic about their physical health can make all the difference.
• Tired of trouble performing repetitive tasks at work without pain interfering with working on detailed woodworking projects in your shop without hand pain? Gabrielle uses a blend of physiotherapy techniques to help you achieve getting back to enjoying life's simple pleasures without physical limitations and regain your freedom of movement.
• At Gabrielle's physiotherapy practice, individuals with that nagging tennis elbow (or golfer's elbow) that flares up with activity are guided towards improved overall mobility, making it easier to navigate their home and community. The focus is on enabling you to once again participate fully and comfortably in activities you enjoy, such as enjoying long, challenging hikes on weekends again.

Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Gabrielle, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Gabrielle practices at the CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal - Installation Lucie-Bruneau, situated in the heart of Montréal. This modern public healthcare facility is conveniently located in the central Montréal neighborhood, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The clinic is close to various community services and pharmacies, providing a comprehensive support network for patients. Accessibility is prioritized, with excellent public transit options available, ensuring that patients can reach their appointments with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

What should I do if my condition seems to worsen after a physiotherapy session?

Some temporary post-treatment soreness can be normal, much like after a good workout. However, if your pain significantly worsens, if you develop new concerning symptoms, or if the discomfort doesn't settle down within a day or two, please call us. Your Physiothérapeute would want to know so they can offer guidance and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan. Open communication is key to your successful recovery.

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Yes, a personalized home exercise program is a crucial and integral component of most physiotherapy treatment plans. Your Physiothérapeute will prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition, abilities, and goals. These exercises are designed to complement your in-clinic treatment, help you manage your symptoms effectively between sessions, accelerate your recovery, and empower you with tools for long-term self-management. Your active participation in your home program is key for optimal results.

What is manual therapy in physiotherapy?

Manual therapy involves skilled, hands-on treatments performed by your Physiothérapeute as part of your overall physiotherapy plan. These techniques are designed to assess and treat your joints, muscles, and nerves to decrease pain and improve your mobility and function. Examples include specific joint mobilizations to improve movement, soft tissue release techniques to address muscle tightness or scar tissue, and sometimes manipulations (adjustments) if indicated and appropriate for your condition and your therapist's qualifications.

What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) in Quebec?

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy. They are autonomous healthcare professionals authorized to perform patient assessments, establish a physiotherapy diagnosis, create and modify treatment plans, and apply a wide range of therapeutic interventions. This includes certain restricted activities if they hold the specific attestations (e.g., spinal manipulations, specific needle-based therapies). A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist or Phys. T.) holds a college-level (CEGEP) diploma in physiotherapy technology. They work under the supervision of, or based on a treatment plan established by, a physiotherapist or a physician. Technologists apply prescribed treatment modalities, guide patients through exercises, monitor progress, and adapt interventions within the established plan, but they do not diagnose or independently create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiothérapeute in QC?

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required to begin physiotherapy, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your insurance policy details before your first appointment to ensure coverage.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance for coverage. However, if care is received within a public hospital or CLSC and meets specific criteria, it may be covered. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and review your private insurance plans, as many offer substantial physiotherapy coverage for services outside the public system.

CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal - Installation Lucie-Bruneau
2275, Avenue Laurier E
Montréal, QC H2H 2N8

Phone: (514) 527-4527

Gabrielle Cousineau Daoust is regulated by the Code des professions and Professional Integration Arrangement for physiotherapists in QC and is a member of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Registration can be verified with the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.