
OUR TEAM
Bringing The Pieces Of Your Care Together
Physiotherapists: Support movement, physical function, and nervous system regulation.
Occupational Therapists: Help with daily routines, sensory needs, lifestyle, sleep and environmental modifications
Psychologists: Address stress, mood, trauma, and the psychosocial factors that influence health

Meet The Team

Zianna Esmail
Physical Therapist / Founder, MScPT
Zianna is a physical therapist with a passion for supporting individuals living with complex neurological and medical conditions. She began her career in pediatrics, working with children and teens with musculoskeletal and neurological challenges, which shaped her appreciation for how complex conditions affect daily life and identity.
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She later expanded her work to individuals of all ages with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and other multifaceted conditions. To advance her practice, she has completed FND training in Toronto and Los Angeles and is a member of the Functional Neurological Disorder Society.
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Her ongoing learning includes areas that commonly overlap with complex conditions, such as sensory processing, nervous system regulation, chronic pain, lifestyle management, and dysautonomia/POTS. Zianna blends evidence-based practice with personalized care to meet each person’s unique needs.
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She founded Tessera Therapy to create a space where people with complex and often misunderstood conditions feel seen, supported, and empowered with meaningful strategies for change.

Shaniff Esmail
Occupational Therapist and Expert in Sexual Health Rehab, PhD
Shaniff Esmail is an Occupational Therapist with over 30 years of clinical and academic experience. A Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Alberta, he has educated generations of healthcare professionals and contributed to advancing rehabilitation practice worldwide.
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He is internationally recognized for his leadership in sexuality and disability, including the impact of illness and injury on intimacy, sexual health, and relationships. Shaniff has designed Canada’s first post-graduate certificate in sexual health, published extensively in the field, and is regularly called upon as an expert witness in cases involving sexuality, disability, and rehabilitation.
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At Tessera, Shaniff serves as an expert consultant on both rehabilitation and sexual health cases. His ability to integrate physical, neurological, and relational perspectives reflects Tessera’s mosaic model of care, helping clients and clinicians understand the whole picture of recovery and well-being.

Danielle Wilanowski
Physical Therapist, MScPT
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Danielle completed her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Master of Science in Physiotherapy at the University of Alberta. Since then, she has worked across a variety of clinical settings, including acute and sub-acute neurology, geriatric care, and musculoskeletal outpatient physiotherapy.
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Danielle has a strong passion for neurorehabilitation and continues to pursue advanced training in this area. She holds a certificate in Vestibular Rehabilitation through Bernard Tonks and has completed additional coursework in Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) as well as concussion management.
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She is committed to providing individualized, evidence-based care and enjoys helping her clients achieve meaningful improvements in their function and quality of life.

Troy Farn
Psychologist
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Bio coming soon!