Recipient of the 2023 CASE MANAGER OF THE YEAR

Nicole Galeotalanza

Nicole Galeotalanza

Nominated For: CASE MANAGER OF THE YEAR

Nicole is the owner and director of Tri-Star Health Management Group Inc. She has been working with families and supporting individuals with traumatic injuries since 2002 and started her case management practice in 2007. Nicole’s academic and professional journey is a true testament to her commitment, passion, and dedication to supporting others. In 2001, Nicole graduated with a Bachelor of Science, with Honours in Athletic Therapy, from Concordia University, in Montreal, Quebec. She later completed the Case Management Certificate program from McMaster University, in 2009. In 2013, Nicole successfully completed the Life Care Planning Pre-Certification Program, through the University of Florida, and was certified as a Canadian Certified Life Care Planner through the International Commission of Health Care Certification (ICHCC). More recently, and in addition to her current Case Management and Life-Care Planning practice, Nicole embarked on a new journey, and in 2021, became a Certified Professional Life Coach & Certified Happiness Coach, focusing on mental wellness. Nicole is a member in good standing with the Ontario Kinesiology Association, the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario, and the International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals. She is firmly committed to lifelong learning and continues to attend and participate in various educational conferences and seminars to remain up to date with current research and advancements in the field of rehabilitation.

Using a person-centered and strengths-based approach, Nicole works collaboratively with her clients to identify their unique needs. She supports them to determine their own individualized path of recovery by optimizing care, autonomy, independence, and allocation of resources to achieve a self-determined life. She also recognizes the value and importance of collaborating with an experienced interdisciplinary rehabilitation team in order to maximize a client’s growth and recovery. Through a trauma-informed and empowerment lens, Nicole works to ensure her clients regain control of their own destiny, goals, and structures in their life, by valuing and building on the multiple capacities, resilience, skills, internal and external resources, coping abilities, and the inherent worth of each client she supports.

Nicole’s practice is grounded in the belief that people can and do overcome the barriers and obstacles that confront them and strives to foster hope, which she believes to be the catalyst of the recovery process. Whether in her practice in the field of rehabilitation, case management, or within her private coaching practice, Nicole’s integrity, strong advocacy, and her “leave no stone unturned” approach fosters genuine care and builds trust within her professional relationships. It is through this cultivation of care and established trust that the families and individuals she supports are able to achieve personal progress, sustainable growth and create transformative change in their lives.

Today, Nicole continues to maintain an active case management practice, managing rehabilitation services for individuals with various catastrophic injuries, including, but not limited to, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, Chronic Pain, Psychiatric Disorders, Substance Use, and Amputation for both children and adults.

Nicole is proud to be a co-chair on the sponsorship subcommittee for the Toronto ABI Network Conference. She also is a supporter of BIST and OBIA events and was a fierce competitor in the Haunted Hot Wing Challenge last Halloween.

Once again, Nicole is truly honoured to be nominated for Case Manager of the Year for the fifth time!

44 Comments
  • Alisa L. says:

    Nicole is, without a doubt, phenomenal at what she does. She’s incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about client advocacy and works tirelessly to ensure that her clients receive the care and support that they need. She is truly an asset to her field, her clients, her colleagues and any individual lucky enough to cross paths with her.

  • T. Fraser says:

    Nicole’s dedication to her clients is both admirable and unparalleled. She consistently strives to improve the lives of others and does so with a high degree of grace and professionalism.

  • Cristina Speciale says:

    Nicole is a purpose driven, kind, compassionate professional. She extends herself to her clients needs going above and beyond to resolve any obstacles.
    Her genuine concern for the well being of her client is clearly number one. At times, Nicole’s attention to detail has provided such comfort in situations that only she has been able to resolve.
    Thanks to her knowledge and skills and experience she is highly respected in the medical field and is thorough and timely.

    Thank you Nicole for the support you continue to provide to myself and my family.

    Cristina Speciale

  • Marek Siekanowicz says:

    I know Nicole for over a decade.

    Always on time with her interventions according client needs or crisis situation!

    Congratulations!

  • Meagan Buttle says:

    Nicole is an amazing Case Manager who is SO SO SO deserving of this recognition. Her warmth, humour, advocacy, and drive to support her clients is second to none. Working with her alongside complex pediatric cases has been a highlight of my practice. She brings ease, extensive knowledge, and calm to families who rely on her expertise.

    As a team member, I know I can reach out to Nicole whenever there are hiccups or challenges and know she has a creative and client centred solution. She is truly a helper and a person I look up to. Her laugh and positivity are infectious, and she brings together cohesive teams who work better together.

    Cheers to you Nicole!

  • Jennifer Berg- Carnegie says:

    I have worked with Nicole on some of the most difficult files over my career. She is client focused always with a professional and caring approach. She is a go to CM for the challenging clients in the industry. Congrats Nicole!

  • Arthi Anthony says:

    Nicole is a one of the strongest case managers out there and also happens to be a wonderful person. She does not shy away from a hard file and puts her clients front and center of whatever she does. Our team loves working with Nicole; we look forward to impacting more lives in a meaningful way. She is truly deserving of this award.

  • Hugh says:

    Working with Nicole was very educational for myself, every step of the way she was apart of the journey with her client and his family. With her person centered approach as well as always wanting and willing to share her years of experince and point of views, Nicole is truly deserving of this award. congratulations on being recognized again.

  • Joanne Kaplen says:

    Nicole is a kind caring and conscientious worker who works for the best for her clients.

  • Crystal says:

    Nicole is the most absolute #1 Case Manager. I was given the best person to help me overcome so many obstacles, Nice never once gave up on me even when I wanted to give up on myself. I cannot thank her enough for everything she helped me with. She is a kind hearted person and loves her job enough to be there every time you need her. All I can say is Thank You for not giving up and pushing me when I needed it !

  • Josie Geisel says:

    Nicole has recently been assigned to my husbands case. In the short time she has been with us, she has already accelerated his care in so many ways. It is evident that she truly cares about her clients and makes sure that all their needs are taken care of . It’s our pleasure to have her in our team
    Congratulations Nicole

  • Liesel says:

    Nicole has been very efficient in her work!

  • Connie B says:

    I have known Nicole for just over a year and she is very alert and attentive in what she she does. With regards to her clients and their needs she responds promptly at all times. She is a people person, meaning she tries to put herself in people’s position to understand their needs. Very good worker and absolutely loves what she does.

  • Edward Kaplan says:

    Nicole is by far the best case manager in the industry. Her dedication and commitment to her work is unmatched. Her experience and continuing work to gain more knowledge to better her clients is very inspiring.
    If anyone deserves this award it’s her.
    You are the best Nicole. Congratulations on the nomination.

  • Johnny says:

    I have worked closely with Nicole over the last 15 years and she is a great Case Manager, with a specific focus pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury, nobody does it better than Nicole. Congratulation on the nomination and good luck.

  • Britney & Wesley Walsh says:

    Nicole is absolutely phenomenal at what she does. Countless times things have come up and we haven’t been sure where to go, or what to do and Nicole always gets right on it and figured things out for us. She fights for the best interest of her clients and gets results. She also is warm, caring all while staying professional. I’m so glad she has been nominated as she certainly deserves it.

  • Danielle Hyde says:

    Nicole’s dedication, unwavering commitment, and unique person-centered and strengths-based approach make her unquestionably deserving of this recognition!

    Nicole consistently demonstrates an unparalleled level of care and expertise when working with individuals who have experienced a brain injury and their families. Her profound understanding of the challenges these individuals face is matched only by her genuine compassion and tireless efforts to ensure their well-being.

    Nicole’s exceptional talent shines brightly in her ability to assemble an exceptional rehabilitation team that is uniquely tailored to fit each client’s personality and individual needs. Her person-centered approach recognizes each individual’s strengths and qualities, empowering them to participate in their own recovery journey.

    Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!

  • Marty Kaplan says:

    Nicole is most capable and conscientious does the very best for her clients. She is a multitasker and has helped so many clients.
    Way to go, Nicole!

  • Colleen Boyce says:

    I have known and worked with Nicole for over 15 years, and she is an incredible Case Manager and so deserving of this nomination again (5th time), demonstrating her exemplary work in this field. The clients and families love her, so do team members, and the medical community. Apart from being professional, compassionate, extremely client/family centred she is also a strong advocate for her clients and their needs. She sponsors at brain injury events and gives back to the community. Nicole is a Life Care Planner and a Coach and recently expanded her practice – very committed to the brain injury community. Congratulations on this well-deserved nomination.

  • Ana Gollega says:

    Nicole is very knowledgeable and passionate for her work as a case manager. She provides an amazing support for her clients and family addressing their needs timely. She also brings together the clinical team promoting a collaborative approach that is so important in the recovery after brain injury. This is a well deserved nomination. Congratulations Nicole!

  • Josée Robert says:

    Nicole is such a kind and wonderful person. She was our case manager following my son’s accident, during one of the most difficult times in our lives. She was there to help us navigate therapies, doctor’s appointments, and all that came along with the recovery process. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without her.

  • Trisha Di Caro says:

    I have known Nicole for many years now and we have worked together on several teams. Nicole is always an absolute pleasure to work with. She is goal oriented, action focused, knowledgeable and supportive, down to earth and funny. Her clients are lucky to have her, I am very grateful to get to work with her and I think she is very deserving of this award.

  • Trisha Di Caro says:

    I have known Nicole for many years now and we have worked together on several teams. Nicole is always an absolute pleasure to work with. She is goal oriented, action focused, knowledgeable and supportive, down to earth and funny. Her clients are lucky to have her, I am very grateful to get to work with her and I think she is very deserving of this award.

  • Dr M Galati says:

    Speaking as a healthcare provider and TBI survivor, Nicole is the best, most caring Case Manager in the industry. She truly goes above and beyond for her clients. Her positivity, advocacy, support and dedication to her clients makes a hugely positive impact on her clients recovery. She was a pillar of strength during my own recovery and I felt confident that I was I great hands during my own recovery. From my experience, she cares for the well-being of her clients as if they were her family and that in my mind is the gold standard. She was a huge part of my ability to return to a profession in medicine and any person with lived experience who has her on their care team is truly blessed. She is extremely deserving of this award.

  • Michelle G says:

    I am thrilled to vote for Nicole Galeotalanza, and write in support of her 5th nomination for the Awards of Excellence-Case Manager of the Year ?.

    I say this from the bottom of my heart, there is truly no other candidate more deserving of this honour than her. Those who work with her, have been supported by her, or who simply have the pleasure of knowing her, just know; she is the best of the best and has a heart of gold. True story!

    I have been fortunate enough to witness firsthand the incredible dedication, compassion, and professionalism that Nicole consistently demonstrates in her work with her clients. Nicole is a true powerhouse in the realm of case management supporting individuals and families with acquired brain injuries (ABI). Her commitment to improving the well-being and lives of her clients is unparalleled, and her extraordinary efforts have had a profound and lasting impact on the individuals fortunate enough to work with her.

    One of the many remarkable aspects of Nicole’s work is her steadfast determination to go above and beyond the call of duty with everything that she does. She consistently goes the extra mile for her clients, seeking out new resources, establishing interdisciplinary relationships, cultivating creative partnerships, and tirelessly advocating on behalf of those she serves. She truly embodies the spirit of a dedicated case manager, tirelessly pushing boundaries and exploring innovative treatments and approaches to enhance the quality of life for community members under her care.

    Using a person-centered and strengths-based approach, Nicole works collaboratively with her clients to identify their unique needs and supports them to determine their individualized path of recovery by optimizing care, autonomy, independence, and allocation of resources to achieve a self-determined life. She also recognizes the value and importance of collaborating with an experienced interdisciplinary rehabilitation team to maximize a client’s growth and recovery. Through a trauma-informed and empowerment lens, Nicole works to ensure her clients regain control of their destiny, goals, and structures in their life, by valuing and building on the multiple capacities, resilience, skills, internal and external resources, coping abilities, and inherent worth of each client she supports.

    Her practice is grounded in the belief that people can and do overcome the barriers and obstacles that confront them and strives to foster hope, which she believes to be the catalyst of the recovery process. Whether it is in her practice in the field of rehabilitation, case management, or within her private coaching practice, Nicole’s integrity, strong advocacy, and “leave no stone unturned” approach, fosters genuine care and builds trust within her professional relationships. It is through this cultivation of care and established trust that the families and individuals she supports can achieve personal progress, sustainable growth and create transformative change in their lives.

    The positive and transformative outcomes achieved by Nicole are a testament to her exceptional skills and unwavering dedication. Her clients consistently achieve milestones, surpass expectations, and experience enhanced lives under her care and support. She has proven time and time again that she is a true ‘one-of-a-kind ‘asset to the field of case management and ABI. Today, Nicole continues to maintain an active case management practice, managing rehabilitation services for individuals with various catastrophic injuries, including, but not limited to, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, Chronic Pain, Psychiatric Disorders, Substance Use, and Amputation for both children and adults.
    There is truly no candidate more extraordinary than Nicole. She is truly deserving of this recognition for the many years of her heart-work, and the countless contributions she has made to this field and community.

    Good luck, Nicole! Wishing you only the best. You deserve it.

    Michelle

  • Mede Ovbiagele says:

    Most recently, I have had the pleasure of getting to know Nicole. And she is everything as described in these comments, and more. She has a heart of gold.

    Congratulations to all the nominees. Keep changing lives!!! Wishing you the very best, Nicole!!!

  • Stacey Levine says:

    Congratulations Nicole on your 5th nomination for Case Manager of the Year! Nicole has consistently delivered the highest quality of care to her clients, the families she is supporting, as well as to the rehabilitation teams involved in the client’s and family’s recovery.

    The case manager is an instrumental role in the rehabilitation process to ensure that the client’s needs are met and there is a cohesive team approach to optimize the client’s progress and help the family adjust through this challenging time. Nicole demonstrates the ability to go above and beyond consistently in this role with her kind-hearted nature and utmost professionalism. She is collaborative, supportive, efficient, attentive, and always has a calm demeanour, which makes working with her such a pleasure.

    Nicole is extremely resourceful and always available for guidance and support when required, which allows the team to operate effectively and maintain a goal oriented and client-and-family focused approach. On some of the most highly complex cases that I have worked on with Nicole she has exuded a level of confidence and problem-solving ability that has allowed for the best possible outcome for these clients and their families. I know my confidence level is always higher knowing she is the case manager on a file that I’m working on with her unwavering support and dedication.

    Without a doubt Nicole is so deserving of this recognition and to receive this Award of Excellence.

  • A. Fry says:

    You will not find anyone more dedicated to her duties than Nicole. She truly cares for each and every one of her charges.

  • Zely Lee Boxer says:

    Nicole very much deserves recognition for her unflagging efforts to build strong teams for her clients. She is an excellent communicator and a fierce advocate for her clients. It is always a privilege to work with her! Congrats, Nicole!

  • Nakema Walker says:

    I have had the pleasure of working with Nicole for over a decade. Her dedication, passion, and willingness to go above and beyond for her clients is second to none. This is a well deserved nomination, and it speaks volumes to the qualities that Nicole possess.

  • Angela says:

    I have had the pleasure of working closely with Nicole over the past 10 years and now am grateful to have her as a mentor. Nicole brings knowledge, empathy and integrity to every client and rehab team she works with. Clients and team members feel heard as Nicole has an ability to create a supportive and client-centered environment.

  • Mario P says:

    Nicole is an incredibly knowledgeable, resourceful and caring case manager. She truly is an asset to any team, and an absolute pleasure to work with. She has helped countless clients, and is an expert in her field. Nicole truly is deserving of this award!

  • Peter P says:

    Congratulations Nicole! You are an exceptional case manager who is dedicated to helping your clients and their families. You continuously provide the highest quality of care and support with a compassionate approach, always going above and beyond to ensure the clients get the best rehabilitation for their recovery. You truly deserve this award of excellence and to be recognized for your high standard in this field.

  • Andrée Nicole says:

    Absolutely outstanding work and contribution to the cause. Nicole’s work is not only driven by passion but is of purpose to educate, heal those that she comes into contact with. I celebrate you.

  • Mel P. says:

    Nicole is a wonderful case manager and invests so much of herself into helping others. The way she supports and advocates for her clients is second to none and truly makes a difference in their lives.
    I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award. Nicole is an absolute asset to everyone in her field, as well as anyone who is lucky enough to cross her path!

  • Victoria Sweetman says:

    Congratulations on your nomination, again, Nicole! As a fellow case manager, Nicole is always just a phone call or email away with information and/or resource ideas when asked. Nicole’s collegiality is exceptional. Her good nature and quick smile are infectious. Nicole is very deserving of this recognition, again, this year.
    Good luck, Nicole!

  • Susan Fray says:

    I would like to extend my heartfelt acknowledgment to Nicole for her outstanding nomination as Case Manager of the Year. Nicole’s exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment to her clients know no bounds. Her remarkable work ethic and the boundless care she provides to her clients have undoubtedly earned her this well-deserved recognition. Nicole’s consistent nominations are a testament to her exceptional qualities and the positive impact she consistently makes. Her strength, dedication, and compassion have left an indelible mark on her clients, their families, and her colleagues. Congratulations, Nicole, on this remarkable achievement. Your contributions are truly commendable and inspiring.

  • Milan Unarket says:

    Nicole is a fantastic case manager who manages some of the most difficult case files in which I am part of the treating team. She has excellent rapport with her clients and goes above and beyond in ensuring her clients have the best resources and team members to work with them to achieve their goals. She is collegial, collaborative and knows the industry/rehab community well which in turn greatly benefits her clients

    Nicole is very deserving of this award and is will continue to be a great advocate for traumatic brain injury rehabilitation

  • Kindree Alkins says:

    Nicole is so deserving of this nomination and award! A huge congratulations on this nomination, again. Nicole is an unbelievable Case Manager who goes above and beyond for her clients, families and team members! She knows how to build a strong team, keep them on track and push them to think outside the box! No matter how complex the case, she rolls up her sleeves and takes on the challenge with patience and ease, building trust and understanding of each clients unique needs. I admire her long hours, compassion, and all that you do for your clients; you are incredibly deserving of this award! Thank you for the advice, inspiration and guidance over the years!

  • Maureen Palmer says:

    Congratulations on your well deserved nomination Nicole and good luck!

  • Kyle Whaley says:

    Well done Nicole! Much deserved nomination for case manager of the year! It’s been a pleasure working together over many years.

    Good luck!

  • Sade Akande-Jones says:

    I have had the pleasure of working with Nicole Galeotalanza for many years now. As a Case Manager, Nicole is responsive, a great listener, understanding and approachable. She fosters a supportive and collaborative team environment focused on the client’s goals and treatment needs. She is knowledgeable and is skilled at effectively navigating the healthcare and insurance industries. I commend Nicole for all the wonderful work she has done over her career and wish her ongoing success in the future. Congratulations on your nomination!

  • Stephanie Lockerby says:

    Nicole is invaluable! She is always prompt, attentive, kind and caring. She is a consummate professional and an amazing problem solver. I am so thrilled that she has been nominated for the Case Manager of the Year Award! She is SO deserving of this nomination and possible win!!!
    Congratulations Nicole and best wishes!!!

  • Vipan Nikore says:

    Nicole is very worthy of Case Manager of the Year award. Having worked with Nicole over the past few years, I have had the privilege of witnessing her exceptional dedication, unwavering advocacy, and remarkable problem-solving skills in action.

    I have had the pleasure of collaborating with Nicole on several patient cases, and I can attest to her commitment to ensuring the highest quality of care for each patient under her case load. She consistently demonstrates a level of dedication that goes far beyond the expected, tirelessly working to secure the necessary care and support that her patients require to thrive. Her boundless energy and positive attitude creates an environment where patients feel not only cared for, but genuinely valued.

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