News & Events
At STEPS, we focus on evidence-based healthcare, supporting your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Our mission is to help you take control of your wellness journey with practical, accessible guidance.
We’re proud to host and promote a variety of workshops, classes, and community activities designed to support your wellness journey.
Our News & Events page is your go-to source for all the latest developments and events at STEPS. Whether it's a new healthcare initiative, community activity or advancements in patient care, you'll find all the exciting news right here.
Dr Viger Practice Closing
Dr. Viger will be closing his practice as of September 1, 2025 as he relocates out of Kamloops. At this time, STEPS does not have a provider available to take on new patients. We are actively recruiting and will prioritize previous patients once we are able to reattach. Make sure you’re registered with the BC Health Connect Registry (call 811 or visit healthlinkbc.ca) to be added to the waitlist for a new provider.
Effective Communication Group Therapy
Struggling to express yourself or feeling unheard? Learn how to communicate with clarity and confidence. Join Effective Communication: Group Therapy, a 6-session online series designed to build awareness of your communication style and strengthen your assertiveness skills - using tools from CBT & DBT. Led by Angela Owen (RSW) & Dr. Kristina Birkholz (Psychiatrist)
Befriending your Nervous System: Group Therapy
Feeling overwhelmed or stuck in fight, flight, or freeze? You're not alone — and there's support. Join us for Befriending Your Nervous System: Group Therapy, a 6-session online series based on Polyvagal Theory. Learn how to feel more regulated, build resilience, and connect with others on the journey. Led by Angela Owen (RSW) & Dr. Kristina Birkholz (Psychiatrist)
Coping with Chronic Conditions Therapy Group
Living with a chronic condition? You’re not alone. If you're a STEPS patient, join our FREE 9-week Coping with Chronic Conditions Therapy Group - an online program designed to help you build coping skills, manage symptoms, and connect with others who truly understand. Led by STEPS RN Katie & Dr. Kristina Birkholz (Psychiatrist) For STEPS patients dealing with conditions like long COVID, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, post-concussion syndrome, diabetes & more.
Clinic Name Changes
New name, same great care! Orchards Walk Medical Clinic is now STEPS Community Health Centre - Valleyview. Nothing else changes - same team, same location, same commitment to YOU. We’re excited to continue growing with you under a stronger, more recognizable brand.
Aging Mindfully
Aging Mindfully: Our FREE 8-week group for adults 55+ is now FULL - thank you for the amazing response! We’re so excited to bring people together to connect, move, and support each other’s mental wellness. If you missed out this time, don’t worry - we’re hoping to offer another group soon!
Notice: Prevention & Screening Adults
Working with you to keep you well. See your Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner if you have any symptoms or significant family history of certain diseases. All tests have pros and cons.
Notice: COVID-19 and Influenza Immunizations
COVID-19 and influenza immunizations are free and available to everyone 6 months and older in BC this fall, and you can receive both at the same time.
Event: Sleep Clinic Group Education
Sign up for a free 90 minute Zoom education session in December on “Sleep Basics” with STEPS RN Katie and Dr. Birkholz.
Event: STEPS Group Therapy Session
STEPS Group Therapy Session with psychiatrist Dr. Kristina Birkholz and Registered Social Worker Angela Owen. Two sessions are available: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Befriending your Nervous System Group.
Event: Free Yoga Classes for STEPS Patients starting in September
Weekly therapeutic yoga techniques for everyday life. All abilities are welcome. Starts in September.
News: STEPS hopes its healthcare model can expand to help more residents access primary care
STEPS, a healthcare organization in Kamloops, is aiming to expand its model to help more residents access primary care.