Traditional Chinese Medicine
Faculty
Paul Gaucher, R. TCM. P, R. Ac.
Instructor
Paul earned a diploma in the Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (DTCM) program in 2006 from the former Academy of Classical Oriental Sciences (ACOS).
This 4-year full-time program involved intensive studying of acupuncture, herbalism, diet, nutrition, and emotional health.
He’s been an instructor for 4 years (at ACOS and KCC) and Paul is now in his 16th year of private family practice at his clinic in Creston, BC.
At a young age, Paul had a fascination with nature and biology. This innate curiosity about life inspired him to study the patterns of the natural world, and ultimately to embrace TCM.
Paul has a passion for bringing people to their full health potential and seeks to bridge the roots of the guiding principles of TCM with modern health challenges. He’s genuinely motivated to help individuals with a wide range of health issues.
Paul is an instructor, clinic supervisor, and our Program Manager within the TCM program at KCC. His primary responsibilities include ensuring program alignment with CTCMA and Canadian healthcare standards, contributing to the development and management of course curriculum, and overseeing instruction to meet the objectives of the TCM Program. Paul is the main point of contact for clinic supervisors, instructors, dispensary, and clinic coordinators.
Kevin Wallbridge, TCM. P.
Instructor
Kevin earned his degree in Medical Anthropology and Asian Studies. He is a highly experienced teacher of the esoteric concepts of the body and health that are found in Chinese physical culture. From a year-long residency in China, Kevin has first-hand experience of the People’s Republic. He was trained as a cross-cultural facilitator by the founder of the Canadian Association of Applied Anthropologists. He offers his twelve years of experience in Asian martial arts to the benefit of the students and the community alike. Kevin is bilingual in English and Mandarin.
Dr. Monica Ander, U.S.A Doctoral degree in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, B.C. R.TCMP
TCM Academic Coordinator & Instructor
Monica began her journey in the healing arts as a personal trainer in 1998. She completed the Thai Massage Practitioner Program and Therapeutic Touch Training, which made her hungry for more knowledge in different modalities such as Trigger Point Therapy, Raindrop Therapy, and Thai Herbal Compress Massage.
After years of practicing massage, Monica began working with Traditional Chinese Medicine. She is currently registered as a Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Chinese Herbalist, and Acupuncturist through the CTCMA. Monica also received her Diploma in Manual Osteopathic Practice and has been practicing these life-changing techniques, focusing on acute and chronic pain management in her treatments, with great success and results. She takes pride in her intent listening skills and focused treatments, sure to provide results. We are delighted to have her on our team in the TCM program.
Ellissa Crête, Dr. TCM, B.A.
Instructor
Ellissa Crête is a BC registered Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr.TCM) and Certified Bodyworker. In 2014, Ellissa graduated from the five-year Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Program at the Academy of Classical Oriental Sciences (ACOS) in Nelson, BC. She participated in additional TCM clinical internships in Kunming, China. Ellissa is continuing studies in gynecology, mental health, sound healing, and Western herbology. She is an Ohm Therapeutics™ practitioner in sound healing with tuning forks. Ellissa has a private practice in Nelson offering services in Acupuncture, Chinese Herbology, Tuning Forks, Massage, and Yoga.
Since 2019, Ellissa has been an instructor in the TCM program; she teaches Chinese Herbology and Herbal Therapeutics classes. Ellissa is honored to support students on their journey of self-reflection, theoretical understanding, and practical clinical application.
Ericka Rankin - Friesen- RMT
Instructor
Originally from Manitoba, Ericka is a feline enthusiast, who enjoys analyzing data and applying her findings. As a graduate of the Massage Therapy Program in 2022, Ericka has been growing her practice within the region. Before her career as an RMT, Ericka was a Redseal Electrician, as well as a former business owner. She has acquired experience in many different fields and has gained wisdom throughout the overlap and individualities of each field. Helping people has always been Ericka’s priority, and given the opportunity, she will always present relevant and current information to help any student on their journey.
Kevin Bendig, Dr. TCM
Instructor
A graduate of KCC, Kevin Bendig is a licensed Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Dr.TCM) in British Columbia. He has traveled extensively throughout Asia and immersed himself in various meditative and yogic practices, studying under some of the most renowned teachers. His deep-rooted passion for learning and a genuine desire to help others have led to a unique teaching approach that he utilizes both in his work as a practitioner and instructor. Beyond his professional pursuits, Kevin is a devoted father to an 11-year-old son. In his spare time, he finds solace and inspiration in woodworking, where he channels his creative energy into crafting intricate sculptures.
Allison Core - RMT
Instructor
Allie graduated from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 2018 and has been practicing as an RMT since. She has worked in several clinical settings including operating her own private practice. Allie became a registrant of the College of Complementary Health Professionals in 2024. Prior to completing her RMT education, Allie obtained a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of Guelph.
She enjoys weaving the knowledge she has gained from her education into her practice and teaching style. Ultimately, her goal is to create an environment that allows for growth, learning, and compassion. Since relocating to the Kootenays, Allie has found joy in teaching and supervising the student clinic at the Kootenay Columbia College. She enjoys many forms of movement and has a deep love for plants, food, and the natural world.
Allie Bates, R. TCM. P
Instructor
Originally from Calgary, Allie completed her BSc in Biological Sciences at the University of Calgary before moving to Nelson to pursue studies in Chinese Medicine. After graduating from Kootenay Columbia College as a Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner, she now practices at an integrative clinic in town called Active Balance when not assisting with the KCC TCM clinic.
She enjoys the dynamic yet easygoing Kootenay lifestyle and connecting with other practitioners in a community that embraces health and wellness. Allie is excited to be joining the KCC team to help coordinate the Chinese Medicine clinic. She is eager to cultivate a vibrant space for students, staff, and patients!
