carefully chosen to reflect Sommers’ vi- sion as a practitioner but also meshes with the essence of the neighbourhood and even refers to the profession. “I offer a range of therapeutic services to my patients as well as discussing life- style changes that can lead to optimal wellness and function. I believe that heal- ing can be a process through which the patient becomes something, and hence, the name ‘evolve’,” says Dr. Sommers. “As well, the practice is in a community that is continually growing and develop- ing. Furthermore, our profession is con- stantly moving forward. So, the name seemed appropriate from an internal perspective as well as being a reflection of my profession and the neighbourhood in which I practice.” back to the community on many levels while furnishing him and his staff with a working atmosphere that is replete with inspiration for providing patient-centred wellness care. “For the practitioner, it doesn’t make sense to work in a space that does not jibe with your philosophy and your job,” says Dr. Sommers. “I am a firm believer in the power of the encounter between patient and practitioner . . . if the practi- tioner is not available to the patient be- cause he/she does not feel comfortable with, and connected to, where they are, this hampers the therapeutic encounter. The design should not be the last thing on your mind – it’s an important thing to consider.” Erin adds, “Chiropractors should know this sort of practical, yet pleasing, design is within their reach. They can infuse their workplace with their own presonality and represent, in an esthetic way, what they want to give to patients – and, many times, they can achieve this without having to spend a whole lot of money!” • Canadian Chiropractic Convention 2010 Sheraton Centre Toronto November 11 - 13 With so much to take in... three concurrent speaker tracks exciting tradeshow CMCC Gala: Centre Stage 2010 superior accommodations direct access to downtown shopping Erin feels the clinic name is a branding opportunity and well worth taking the time to choose carefully. “The name is a branding oppor- tunity,” adds Erin. “It’s worth it to take the time to choose it carefully.” In Sommers’ clinic, the name is painted on the front door and etched into the wall behind the reception desk, visible to even the curi- ous visitor who pops his/her head in to ask some preliminary questions. Erin has also placed the “evolve” logo, a calm, zen-like flower image that is meant to conjure a feeling of serenity, throughout the clinic, including on all doors and the gate that opens from the sidewalk. FINAL WORDS FOR CHIROPRACTORS Dr. Sommers has been able to effectively harness his vision and ideals, as well as Erin’s interior design talents, to respond to the location’s external character offer- ings with an inner environment that gives www.canadianchiropractor.ca find fellowship, knowledge and inspiration at the 2010 Canadian Chiropractic Convention. embracing the future Register online now... www.chi roconvent ion.com Register early for the chance to win $1,000 cash prizes, upgraded suite giveaways, limo transportation and more! Join the Canadian Chiropractic Convention 2010 facebook page. CANADIAN CHIROPRACTOR | MAY 2010 • 11