Dr. Rick Thompson

Dr. Thompson is a behavioural optometrist who has been in private practice in Brampton, Ontario since graduating from the University of Waterloo's optometry program in 1979.

He practices general optometry with a special interest in patients who have developmental issues including attention deficit disorder, learning difficulties, dyslexia, blindness and the visually impaired. He also has special interest in those who require optometric rehabilitation including those who have had closed head injuries, neurological disorders, macular degeneration, diabetic related vision changes, glaucoma, and toxic conditions.

Treatment options offered by our office include vision therapy, contacts lenses, prism lenses, contrast enhancement filters, low vision devices ranging from telescopes to magnifiers and traditional eye glasses. Dr. Thompson offers advice on ergonomics for hygiene, and prevention of a variety of eye conditions. A network of health and education professionals is at our disposal to complement our services.

Professional courses and affiliations:

• 1982 Earned fellowship in the American Academy of Optometry
• 1985 Completed the basic course in the application of light therapy by the College of Syntonic Optometry
• 1985 Enrolled in the Optometric Extension Program. OEP provides continuing education in behavioural optometry. Dr. Thompson is currently a clinical associate.
• Member of the Neuro Optometric Rehabilitation Association
• Member of the College of Vision Development.
• Member of the Ontario Optometric Association.
• Member of the Canadian Association of Optmetrists.
• Member of the American Association of Optometrists low vision section.

Dr. Thompson lives in the Bramalea area of Brampton with his wife Trish. Trish does the accounting for the practice. They have four children.

The family is involved in various activities at North Bramalea United Church. We are blessed to have so many friends at NBUC.

One particular subject that is near and dear to our hearts is albinism. One of Rick and Trish's children has oculo-cutaneous albinism which has a profound affect on her vision. Dr. Thompson, as a consequence has become active in the National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation. In the fall of 2000 he was elected to the board of directors of NOAH. He currently chairs the board of scientific advisors for NOAH. He has become quite knowledgeable about albinism through his contacts in this area. If you have any questions about albinism, please feel free to ask.

Hobbies he enjoys include maps of all kinds, genealogy and vintage cars, especially classic British Cars. Ask him about his 1957 Sunbeam Rapier.