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)
Front porch "lockdown" photo by the talented Tara Zaal
Kiyoko Marton - Vision Therapist
After graduating from UVIC with a degree in Psychology and time spent adventuring around the world, I am very happy to be back in my hometown of Courtenay. I have been working in the social service sector since 2012 and love being able to apply these skills to my 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. I was the first member to join Dr. Vinge in 2018 and have jokingly made history as "The first vision therapist in the North Island". I have completed my formal certifications with Vision Therapy Canada and am happy to be better able to help our patients.
In my spare time I am an avid knitter, sewer and outdoor enthusiast!
Accreditation:
Practical Vision Therapist (PVTAP) - Vision Therapy Canada
Shawney Lefley - Vision Therapist
Vancouver Island and the Comox Valley have always been my home. I discovered my passion for Eye Care in 2016 as a Certified Optometric Assistant and am very excited to have finally found a place that allows me to build on my prior knowledge and and help others in a meaningful way. In 2021, I completed my formal certification as a Vision Therapist after 2 years of studying and gaining practical experience.
In the office, I am known as the organizational pro but on my off days you can find me exploring the beaches and trails with my two four legged friends: Mars and Macey! I have a handsome young son that keeps me busy as well.
Accreditation:
The Canadian Association of Optometrists - CCOA
Practical Vision Therapist (PVTAP) - Vision Therapy Canada
Michelle & Nicole: Administrative and Optical Dynamic Duo
These two offer the ying and yang of eyecare: Michelle has 15+ years of experience in a optometry office and brings her vast knowledge base and advanced skill set to her ability to problem-solve and think outside the box; Nicole is newer to the industry but brings endless enthusiasm, creativity and organizational skills to the team. We are fortunate to have them both.
Pictured: Nicole
Unwilling to be photographed: Michelle