The Team
Who We Are
Lauren Wootton, BHSc, MScPT
Founder & Clinic Director
Certified Advanced Vestibular Physical Therapist
Lauren earned her Master of Science in Physical Therapy from McMaster University in 2012 and has pursued extensive post-graduate training in vestibular rehabilitation, manual therapy, and acupuncture/dry needling. She holds a Certificate of Competency in Vestibular Rehabilitation through Texas State University and has completed the Advanced Vestibular Physical Therapist program through the University of Pittsburgh.
Driven by a passion for improving access to vestibular care, Lauren founded The Vertigo Therapist during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide virtual and in-clinic services to patients across Ontario. Today, she continues to provide both in-person and virtual care through The Centre for Vertigo & Balance.
In addition to her clinical practice, Lauren serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor (Adjunct) at McMaster University, where she contributes to the education and mentorship of physiotherapy students.
Lauren is dedicated to helping individuals with dizziness, vertigo, balance disorders, vestibular migraine, and concussion-related symptoms regain confidence and return to the activities that matter most to them. Her approach combines thorough assessment, patient education, and individualized treatment plans tailored to each person's goals and needs.
Simone Raisi
PT, MS, MTC, OCS
Vestibular Physiotherapist
Simone earned her Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh in 2016 where she completed her training in vestibular and neuromuscular rehabilitation. She is a Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist and a certified manual therapist with a special interest in vestibular rehabilitation.
Simone has clinical experience and expertise in treating headaches, dizziness, vertigo, balance disorders and fall prevention. She conducts a thorough assessment and uses treatment techniques such as corrective maneuvers for vertigo, balance training, manual therapy, exercise prescription and patient education to help individuals return to their desired activities and improve their quality of life.
Simone is an active listener and helps her patients come up with a treatment plan that works best for them. She is dedicated to continued education and certification in the field of vestibular physical therapy.
Simone is fluent in English, Gujarati and Hindi. In her free time, she loves to dance, listen to podcasts on nutrition and health, read mystery novels, cook healthy recipes and workout.
Isabelle (Bella) Cavanagh, MScPT, HBSc
Vestibular Physiotherapist
Bella is a registered physiotherapist who earned her Master of Science in Physiotherapy from McMaster University in 2026. She has also completed a Bachelor of Science in Biology, Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour at McMaster University.
Bella is currently completing her Certificate of Competency in Vestibular Rehabilitation through Texas State University and has completed 10 weeks of clinical mentorship with Lauren Wootton, Advanced Vestibular Physiotherapist and director of the The Centre for Vertigo and Balance.
Bella is passionate about helping individuals feel more confident and comfortable in their everyday lives, and is committed to providing patient-centred, evidence-informed care. She believes that effective rehabilitation begins with understanding each individual's unique needs and goals, and works collaboratively with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that support their recovery and help them return to the activities which matter most to them.
Outside of the clinic, Bella enjoys hiking, baking, reading, and spending time with her cat, Ducky.
Adiilah Sumser, PT
Vestibular Physiotherapist
Practicing since 2008, Adiilah is an experienced Registered Physiotherapist dedicated to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based care. Alongside her strong foundation in orthopedics, she has focused her practice since 2019 on vestibular rehabilitation, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and facial neuromuscular retraining for facial paralysis.
Adiilah’s practice philosophy is built on a collaborative, "wrap-around" approach to health. She frequently co-manages cases with multidisciplinary professionals, including mental health practitioners, registered massage therapists, and medical specialists to ensure her patients receive truly holistic support.
She is deeply passionate about community wellness and remains a tireless advocate for both her clients and the physiotherapy profession.
Xiao Rui (Sherry) Tang
Registered Massage Therapist
Xiao Rui (Sherry) Tang is a Registered Massage Therapist with a special interest in TMJ dysfunction, head and neck treatment, and intra‑oral techniques that support clients experiencing jaw pain, headaches, and postural strain. She integrates advanced lymphatic drainage training to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote gentle, restorative healing. Sherry’s approach blends precision, evidence‑informed techniques with a calm, client‑centered presence, helping individuals feel understood, supported, and empowered in their wellness journey.