Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Tasha Darden.
Hi Dr. Darden, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have known that I wanted to be a Physical Therapist since I was 17. I credit my high school anatomy teacher for introducing me to the field. I have always had a love for science, learning about the human body and helping people. I realized early on that Physical Therapy was the perfect fit.
It has been ten years since I graduated from USC (University of Southern California) with my Doctorate in Physical Therapy. After graduation, I began working in Neurologic Physical Therapy in the Acute Rehab Setting. I’m grateful for having this foundation because it gives me a unique perspective with my Pelvic Floor clients and has many transferable skills.
I have always had an interest in Pelvic Physical Therapy but didn’t have the opportunity to do a clinical rotation in school. I began taking courses a little over five years ago in the specialty. I aim to inspire hope in situations where a condition has affected quality of life and ability to enjoy their favorite activities.It has been a rewarding experience to teach people about a part of their body which is typically seen as taboo. Those “a-ha” moments when a client is able to connect and tune in with their body for the first time is really special.
Shortly after starting my journey to pursue Pelvic Health, I became interested in becoming a Doula. I learned that the U.S. has the highest maternal and infant mortality rates among developed countries; and Black families have even worse survival rates. It was my hope that through consistent support, education and advocacy (from pre-conception through postpartum) that I can improve the birth experience and outcomes for all families.
The advantages of working with a Doula that is also a trained Pelvic P.T. is immeasurable. The way in which we are able to support in pregnancy and postpartum is unique in every way. A few examples include: tailored exercises to decrease discomfort and build strength in pregnancy, training the pelvic floor for birth, reduce risk of perineal tears, improve pushing efficiency, manual techniques for stalled labor, modification of labor positions for comfort and to decrease pushing time, guidance for postpartum recovery (weakness, pain, prolapse, diastasis recti, incontinence etc.) and return to activities. It’s important to note that we assist clients that have belly births (cesarean birth) as well. I have been able to prevent injuries and expedite the healing process for my pregnant and postpartum clients.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Honestly, the hardest part was getting out of my own way. I have had it on my heart to start my own business for awhile but was scared to take the next step. Having a short memory when it comes to failures and mistakes on this path has been a game changer. Reflect, assess and pivot as necessary.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a Pelvic Physical Therapist, I have taken advanced coursework in Pelvic Health beyond my Doctorate in Physical Therapy. I help people in all stages of life find relief from pelvic pain, bowel, bladder, menstrual and sexual dysfunction. This includes but is not limited to working with people trying to conceive, during pregnancy, postpartum or in menopause.
As a doula, I provide support in all stages of family planning. I am a companion providing informational, emotional, mental and spiritual support throughout the pregnancy, birth and postpartum transition periods.
I have recently launched a community program called “Reclaim Postpartum”. It aims to help black mothers and families in Los Angeles thrive in the postpartum phase. It is important to note that postpartum is forever. However, we are hoping to bridge the gap in the early postpartum period where families can often feel isolated and support is especially crucial. I am providing supplies for the parents to ensure the best and smoothest recovery possible. This includes personal care, meals and comfort items. We are providing essentials for the baby’s needs as it relates to clothing, diapering and feeding.
I’m hoping to extend the program to include access to free services such as: Birth & Postpartum Doula, Lactation Consultant, Mental Health Support, Physical Therapy Services, Chiropractic Services, Massage Therapy, etc. We are so excited that the first set of families will receive support from our program this month. We are currently accepting donated items or funds to provide to our next group in July. Please check out my website if you would like to donate or apply for the program.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I am happy to see increased awareness of the benefits of having a Doula in the birth and postpartum team. I hope to see an improvement in access as I think everyone deserves Doula support, but financial barriers can often get in the way. This is one of many reasons that I created the Reclaim Postpartum community program.
I see Pelvic Physical Therapy gaining a lot more momentum. It seems as if more students are becoming interested while in school and taking courses early on. I have been in contact with quite a few Pelvic P.T.’s that are interested in Doula work which is awesome for improving client experience and birth outcomes.
Lastly, telehealth has blown up due to changes with COVID which means that we can now reach and educate a larger audience. These are all great things!
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.physiodoula.com
- Instagram: @physiodoula
Image Credits:
Portrait: Alyssa Armstrong Additional images: Diana Hinek
