Our Team
Dr. Mikayla Raddysh
NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR
THRIVE FOUNDER
Born and raised in Regina, Dr. Mikayla Raddysh ND always knew she wanted to go into a medical field, but wasn’t sure exactly which path to take. It wasn’t until facing her own health struggles in 2014 that she was led to discover her interest in and passion for naturopathic medicine. She greatly appreciated the time spent during each visit, the in-depth investigation into her health, and the abundance of knowledge provided for every question. All these qualities, inherent to the field, confirmed this career was a perfect fit.
Where she truly fell in love with naturopathic medicine was working alongside Dr. Laura Stark ND—whom she shadowed for a year while completing her bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and Health Studies from the University of Regina.
Dr. Raddysh ND spent the next four years in Toronto, obtaining her Doctor of Naturopathy from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). This was a time of learning and new experiences: living away from home for the first time, experiencing life in a big city, and seeing how naturopathic medicine has moved into the 21st century with advanced and innovative technologies. She is so excited to be back home in Regina, allowing for the sharing of this knowledge with her patients, as well as having the honour of partnering with her mentor and inspiration, Dr Laura.
Despite Dr. Raddysh ND now being fully licensed to practice in Saskatchewan, she’s committed to being a lifelong student, staying on top of the latest developments to help her patients.
Her drive to expand naturopathic medicine—to more people, with further research—is a big part of what motivates Dr. Raddysh ND. She appreciates the practitioners and researchers that have built the profession, and is eager to contribute in a way that enhances the field, while increasing the longevity and health of her patients.
Dr. Laura Stark
NATUROPATHIC DOCTOR
THRIVE FOUNDER
After more than a decade of practicing naturopathic medicine, Dr. Laura Stark ND remains in awe of the body’s wisdom and ability for renewal and growth. With a strong foundation in German New Medicine, she loves connecting with patients to help them draw the connections that help them heal.
Dr. Stark ND’s path to her career might go back to her years as a sports trainer who focused on more than just taping ankles and treating injuries, but a chance conversation with a friend led her from a Bachelor of Kinesiology (with a minor in psychology) at the University of Regina to the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). That conversation was the first she’d heard of naturopathic medicine, but she knew immediately that the principles were everything she wanted to do, and aligned even better than her previous plans to pursue physiotherapy.
On that pivotal day, she started her application to CCNM—and she hasn’t looked back. Upon graduating with an abundance of knowledge but a desire for more wisdom, she pursued a seven-month stint at an eco wellness centre outside Ottawa, studying a fourth-generation naturopathic doctor. There, she learned the value of a good night’s rest and grounding in nature—and discovered German New Medicine, which eventually led to her current work with cancer patients. Then she was called home to Regina and established a successful practice here. She’s excited to have gone from mentoring Mikayla to going into business with Dr. Raddysh, to have a colleague who thinks the same way she does, and has a complementary skillset.
Alora Bashnick
COLON HYDROTHERAPIST, RECEPTION
Alora was first introduced to naturopathic medicine when she struggled with years of skin issues and Western Medicine had failed her. She sought out alternatives to figure out the root cause of her skin issues. This eventually led to learning about more than just skin! She addressed issues with gut health, hormones, food sensitivities, ways to optimize detoxification and so much more with the guidance of naturopaths. Dr Mikayla Raddysh was exactly the person she needed in her health journey because Alora’s mindset aligned so much with hers. Soon after becoming a patient of Dr Raddysh’s, Alora started working at Thrive Naturopathic as a part of their reception team. In September of 2023, an opportunity presented itself to Alora to expand her knowledge within the natural health community to become a Certified Colon Hydrotherapist. She excitedly did an intensive training in Moose Jaw to learn all things digestive health! She is so happy to offer help to those struggling with their digestive health and helping them optimize their health and lifestyle.
Reception Team
Our clinic is rounded out with the vital support of our reception team. These are the folks who answer the phone when you call and greet you with a friendly face when you arrive at the clinic. They help with answering your questions, booking your appointments, taking payments, assisting with supplements and products, and ensuring your comfort during your treatments. They also bring their own brilliant backgrounds to support our treatments and help the clinic run smoothly.
From left to right: Wendy Palmarin, Alora Bashnick, Jayd Savage, Dr Laura Stark ND, Dr Mikayla Raddysh ND, Jessica Cross, Laura Sullivan
Missing from photo: Kyra Fiacco
Wendy Palmarin
Wendy is a student of holistic nutrition and health coaching who has provided workshops for female students and athletes on holistic foods and nutrition, and influenced health food initiatives. She is passionate about designing and creating a holistic health and wellness plan to support future Thriving.
Alora Bashnick
Alora is a biology student at the U of R and hopes to one day attend the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. She has always approached her own health and wellness with a holistic and natural approach. She is completely in her element working at Thrive. Outside of work she enjoys experimenting with different cuisine and spends time working on her mind and body in the gym.
Jessica Cross
Jessica found Thrive through her husband, who is a patient of Dr. Stark’s. She instantly fell in love with the clinic as they finally felt like they found a place where they were seen, heard, and surrounded by like minded people. A judgement free atmosphere bursting with positivity and hope. Jess is passionate of all thing’s health and wellness. In her spare time she has a little side hustle Raw Kindness, making delicious and nutritious desserts.
Jayd Savage
Jayd recently graduated from the University of Regina, earning her degree in Kinesiology with an Honours in Neuroscience. Her future goal is to become a nurse practitioner and work alongside the doctors at the clinic. She is passionate about holistic and natural medicine and loves interacting and making connections with every person that comes through the door.