Gavin Tonkin
Physiotherapist
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is helping people build their resiliency and reach their goals. By providing support and guidance, I witness individuals overcome challenges and achieve personal milestones, which brings me a great sense of fulfillment.
What is a common misconception with your work?
A common misconception with my work as a physiotherapist is that people often think we only give exercises or perform manual therapy. However, it is essential to understand that our profession goes beyond these traditional approaches. We recognize that a person’s health and well-being are influenced not only by physical factors but also by psychological and social factors.
This approach allows us to address the full spectrum of factors influencing a person’s health, incorporating strategies to support their psychological and social needs and physical rehabilitation. It is through this holistic perspective that we can provide comprehensive and effective care to the people we work with.
What drew you to physical therapy?
What drew me to physical therapy was the recognition of physiotherapists as leaders in empowering people to regain their mobility. I wanted to be part of that transformative process, supporting individuals in their journey towards movement and independence. Additionally, I appreciate that the field of physical therapy allows for a healthy work-life balance for therapists themselves.
As a physiotherapist, I recognize the importance of maintaining a balanced and fulfilling professional and personal life. The nature of the profession allows for that flexibility. By prioritizing my own physical and mental health, I can bring a positive and energized mindset into my work, which ultimately benefits those I work with.
What is unique about what you do?
One unique aspect of my work is that I have the privilege of both treating individuals and supervising students at the Physiotherapy and Research Clinic at UBC. This dual role allows me to provide hands-on care to patients while also sharing my knowledge and learning from aspiring physiotherapists.
Was there anything challenging or unexpected when you applied to the UBC MPT program?
Having completed my undergraduate and post-graduate degrees in Australia, it was challenging to determine if my classes met the admission criteria and if my grades were equivalent to the program’s standards.
What did you appreciate the most about the MPT program and studying at UBC?
Throughout my time in the MPT program and studying at UBC, what I appreciated the most was the exposure to incredible teachers who are leaders in their fields. Janice Eng, Jackie Whittaker, JF Esculier, Neil Pearson, and Roland Fletcher, to name a few. Learning from these experts provided me with valuable insights, mentorship, and a strong foundation in the field of physiotherapy.
What is one thing we might be surprised to learn about you?
People are often taken aback when they find out about my Australian background. Having lived in Canada for over 10 years, my accent has been so diluted it’s hard to pick up.