The Natural Health Centre had its beginnings in 2009 when the building was purchased by Dr. Colette Szalay and her husband Scott after settling in Barry’s Bay with their young son Lex. There was already a small 3-person health centre operating out of the building, and it has since grown to a 2-level clinic with 10 rooms and over 14 professionals using the space today.
The building, originally built in 1938, has gone through 2 major renovations to modernize and make both floors fully wheelchair accessible, with plenty of paved parking on premises. This landmark business centre in the heart of Barry’s Bay offers general health, mental well-being, and other support services, as well as offices housing not-for-profit organizations.
Dr. Szalay, originally from Toronto, came to this area after practicing chiropractic in Peterborough for several years. Meeting her husband in Peterborough, they decided to simplify their lives and raise their new son in a small town where life is at a slower pace. Barry’s Bay was the perfect choice after years of visiting Colette’s dad who moved from the city to Papineau Lake in this area.
Colette had always had a vision of one day creating a thriving centre where people can seek out natural or alternative health services all under one roof. Natural healing has grown exponentially in recent years, and as people realize the value of seeking natural ways to help pain and illness, alternative care will soon become mainstream medicine. Living from a model of preventative maintenance will be the optimal choice for people who want to experience vitality and live life to the fullest.
The Natural Health Centre is the only one of its kind in the area, offering services to the community of Madawaska Valley and welcomes summer tourists and cottagers needing care while vacationing.