Dr. Amber Vinge, OD, FCOVD
I completed my Bachelors of Science at UBC in 2006 and Optometry Doctorate at the University of Waterloo in 2011. I have also completed my Fellowship in Binocular Vision (FCOVD), which is the highest level of accreditation that an optometrist can receive in the field of binocular vision and vision development. I truly enjoy the variety and complexity of these types of cases and get huge personal satisfaction from working directly with my patients to achieve their visual goals. The variety and personal connection with my patients is what keeps me engaged in daily practice. In addition to my specialty work, I am fully certified as a "primary care" optometrist and welcome new patients to our office from all walks of life.
Personally, I don't like describing myself but have an incredible dog that thinks that I am the best human out there and will vouch for me. My children may also agree, depending on what I've cooked for dinner, their energy levels and whatever the barometric pressure is doing at the time.
Professional Memberships:
College of Optometrists in Vision Development (Fellow)
Vision Therapy Canada (Member, Volunteer Director)
Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association (Member)
British Columbia Doctors of Optometry (Member in good standing)
College of Optometrists of BC (Member in good standing)
Vision Therapists
Shawney, CCOA, PVTAP
Shawney, CCOA, PVTAP
Shawney, CCOA, PVTAP
Shawney started in the eye care world in 2016 and completed her Vision Therapist certification in 2021. Since that time, she has shared her endless energy and enthusiasm with her patients towards achieving their visual goals. She loves working with kids and helping out in all areas of the office.
When not here, you'll find Shawney explori
Shawney started in the eye care world in 2016 and completed her Vision Therapist certification in 2021. Since that time, she has shared her endless energy and enthusiasm with her patients towards achieving their visual goals. She loves working with kids and helping out in all areas of the office.
When not here, you'll find Shawney exploring the beaches and trails with her two four legged friends, Mars and Macey, as well as her handsome young son.
Kiyoko, BSC, PVTAP
Shawney, CCOA, PVTAP
Shawney, CCOA, PVTAP
Kiyoko holds a degree in Psychology from UVIC. She has been working in the social service sector since 2012 and loves being able to apply these skills to her work as a Vision Therapist. It is amazing to be part of a program which can have such a positive impact on individual’s quality of life and be able to witness those changes week-by-w
Kiyoko holds a degree in Psychology from UVIC. She has been working in the social service sector since 2012 and loves being able to apply these skills to her work as a Vision Therapist. It is amazing to be part of a program which can have such a positive impact on individual’s quality of life and be able to witness those changes week-by-week.
Kiyoko joined the office in 2018 and jokingly made history as "the first vision therapist in the North Island". She also holds formal certifications with Vision Therapy Canada.
In her spare time she is an avid knitter, sewer and outdoor enthusiast.
The Front
Michelle
Michelle
Michelle
Michelle has 10+ years of experience in the field and brings her vast knowledge base and advanced skill set to her ability to problem-solve and think outside the box. She takes care of all the "behind the scenes" work in the office to keep everyone organized.
It is no surprise that management is her strength as she has successfully balanced raising three teenagers and staying sane.
Nicole
Michelle
Michelle
Nicole brings endless enthusiasm, creativity and organizational skills to the team. Dr. Vinge has described Nicole as "impossibly positive" since we are yet to see her in a bad mood. She is an incredibly talented artist and brings her skills to colour our graph designs and window displays.
Outside of the office, Nicole has her own Etsy store to sell her art and macrame designs.
Lia
Michelle
Lia
Lia joined our office in 2022 and has quickly become a core member of the team! You'll find her helping throughout your visit to our office: greeting you on check in, specialty testing, lens/frame selection and contact lenses. What can she not do?? Lia will be completing her formal certification as an Certified Canadian Optometric Assist
Lia joined our office in 2022 and has quickly become a core member of the team! You'll find her helping throughout your visit to our office: greeting you on check in, specialty testing, lens/frame selection and contact lenses. What can she not do?? Lia will be completing her formal certification as an Certified Canadian Optometric Assistant in the fall.
At home, Lia is engaged to her elementary school crush and has a busy 3 year old. She is an avid equestrian and animal lover.
Misty
Misty
Misty
Misty is our newest full time member! So new that she missed the official team photos so stay tuned for an image. You won't be able to miss her smiling face though as she learns the ropes.
Tara
Misty
Misty
Tara actually came to Canada as an au pair for Dr. Vinge. But she loved the area so much that she has decided to make the Island her forever home. And Dr. Vinge loved Tara so much that she offered her a part time position in the office while she completes her degree in massage therapy to be certified as an RMT. So if you catch a wonderf
Tara actually came to Canada as an au pair for Dr. Vinge. But she loved the area so much that she has decided to make the Island her forever home. And Dr. Vinge loved Tara so much that she offered her a part time position in the office while she completes her degree in massage therapy to be certified as an RMT. So if you catch a wonderful and friendly accent on the phone, you're likely speaking with Tara.