Katherine Berthiaume – Physiotherapy Technologist | Saint-Jérôme, QC

Katherine Berthiaume is a dedicated Physiotherapy Technologist (Phys. T.). Practicing at CISSS des Laurentides in Saint-Jérôme, QC, Katherine is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her role involves assisting in the implementation of treatment plans prescribed by physiotherapists or physicians, guiding patients through therapeutic exercises, and applying various treatment modalities to support recovery and functional improvement. Katherine's approach emphasizes personalized care, ensuring each patient receives tailored interventions that promote healing, reduce pain, and restore mobility.

Serving primarily senior patients, Katherine understands the unique needs and challenges faced by older adults. She works closely with her patients to foster independence and enhance quality of life, focusing on conditions common in aging populations such as joint stiffness, balance issues, and post-surgical recovery. Her compassionate and attentive style helps patients feel comfortable and motivated throughout their physiotherapy journey, emphasizing education and proactive management for long-term wellness.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy technology, Katherine has developed skills and a particular interest in therapeutic exercise instruction, modality application, and patient monitoring. She continuously updates her knowledge through ongoing professional development and adheres to evidence-based practices to provide effective, safe, and respectful care. Katherine is fluent in French, enabling her to communicate clearly and effectively with her diverse patient community.

Katherine Berthiaume provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Msk

• Ankle Sprains and Instability: A 'rolled' or twisted ankle with subsequent swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting your full weight on the foot.
• Hip Pain (e.g., Bursitis, Muscle Strains, Labral Issues - conservative): Aching, sharp, or deep pain in the hip that may worsen with activity, specific movements, or even at rest.

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

• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Utilizing targeted electrical currents to help alleviate pain, manage discomfort, and support healing in conjunction with other physiotherapy interventions.
• Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES): Employing different types of electrotherapy to support your rehabilitation goals, including promoting tissue healing or improving motor control.
• Therapeutic Heat Application: Superficial heat application carefully monitored by your therapist to promote relaxation, pain relief, and enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.
• Cryotherapy Application (Cold Therapy): Cold therapy techniques applied by your therapist to effectively alleviate acute pain, reduce inflammation, and manage muscle soreness or spasm.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound Application: A non-invasive physiotherapy modality that uses sound energy to stimulate cellular activity, enhance circulation, and support tissue recovery from injury or inflammation.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) / Photobiomodulation: The application of specific wavelengths of light energy (cold laser) by your Physiotherapist to targeted tissues to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration at a cellular level.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Katherine. 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 CISSS des Laurentides, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Katherine frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Katherine believes that everyone deserves to move well and feel their best. If pain or weakness that's stopping you from enjoying your favorite hobbies is hindering your ability to attend yoga and pilates classes without limitation, a personalized plan focusing on restoring independence with daily activities and self-care can make all the difference.
• Physiotherapy with Katherine can be a transformative turning point for those affected by pain in their shins when trying to run or be active (shin splints). The shared goal is to learn specific exercises that provide ongoing relief and help maintain progress, enabling you to return to your regular workouts and active lifestyle.
• Dealing with ongoing swelling in your arm or leg, possibly lymphedema after surgery or treatment? Katherine works collaboratively to implement practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life. This may include specific rehabilitation techniques, hands-on care, and home programs, all aimed at helping you confidently resume important activities and maintain good posture during presentations or public speaking.

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

Katherine practices at CISSS des Laurentides, located in the Downtown Saint-Jérôme, in the Saint-Antoine Sector neighborhood. This public healthcare facility is conveniently situated near Parc Régional de la Rivière-du-Nord and is easily accessible via exo (Secteur Laurentides - Bus). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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).

What types of conditions do Physiotherapy Technologists at CISSS des Laurentides treat?

Physiotherapy Technologists treat a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory conditions. This includes, but is not limited to, issues like back and neck pain (Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD/3PD)), joint problems (such as arthritis or post-surgical recovery), sports injuries (like Developmental Delays (Gross Motor Skills)), and nerve pain. They also employ specialized skills in therapeutic exercise instruction and modality application, including services like Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy and Other Electrotherapy Applications (e.g., NMES, FES). Their goal is to help patients achieve functional goals through tailored treatments and education, supporting recovery and wellness.

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

In Quebec, patients can typically see a Physiotherapy Technologist directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before your appointment to understand your coverage requirements.

Does CISSS des Laurentides offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, CISSS des Laurentides offers direct billing for most major private insurance companies such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, and others. Please bring your insurance card and policy details to your appointment. If direct billing is not available for your plan, we will provide detailed receipts that you can submit for reimbursement. Always confirm your specific coverage, including any annual maximums, per-visit limits, or deductibles, directly with your insurer. You are responsible for any costs not covered by your insurance.

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

Generally, RAMQ does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket or rely on private insurance for coverage. In some cases, care received in public hospitals or CLSCs might be covered if meeting specific criteria. It is recommended to verify your eligibility directly with RAMQ and check your private insurance plans for comprehensive coverage options.

CISSS des Laurentides
1000, Rue Labelle
Saint-Jérôme, QC J7Z 5N6

Phone: (450) 432-2777

Katherine Berthiaume 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.