Today we’d like to introduce you to Jillian Giannini.
Hi Jillian, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in the Valley, the daughter of two immigrants who each came to the U.S. in their 20s—my father from Argentina and my mother from the Philippines. I’m incredibly grateful that they made it a priority to keep our cultures deeply rooted in our home. That foundation shaped who I am and how I connect with others today.
My journey into physical therapy began unexpectedly in middle school. I dealt with a few sports injuries and also received physical therapy for scoliosis. I remember admiring my physical therapists—they were kind, encouraging, and made a lasting impression. Their impact was part of what drew me to this profession. I pursued my undergraduate education at San Francisco State University and then transferred to USC with the goal of becoming a physical therapist.
While at USC, I worked with the athletic department, supporting the football and women’s tennis teams between 2011 and 2012. That hands-on experience with athletic trainers and physical therapists really solidified my passion for the field. After graduating, I applied to physical therapy school—but it wasn’t an easy path. It took me three application cycles to be accepted. Despite the many applications I submitted, I was admitted to one program: Cal State Northridge (heck yeah! haha). And I’m so thankful—that program was exactly where I needed to be. It was there that I was first introduced to the world of pelvic health physical therapy.
When I was in PT school, pelvic health was barely touched on—just a couple of guest lectures. I didn’t even know this specialty existed, let alone how profoundly it would impact my life and career. My final clinical rotation was at a pelvic health clinic at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, where I was mentored by the incredible Dr. Mona Espanola, DPT. That rotation opened my eyes to the real-life struggles people face with bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction. It also helped me connect to my own experiences—I saw myself in many of the patients.
Throughout PT school, I dealt with unexplained pelvic pain and recurring infections. I was told it was probably just stress, and like many others, I was dismissed. I kept pushing through, attending appointment after appointment without getting answers. But that clinical rotation was my turning point. I learned about pelvic floor dysfunction, connected with the right specialists, and finally started getting answers. That experience inspired me to dedicate my career to pelvic health.
After earning my DPT, I worked at clinics that focused exclusively on pelvic health. These clinics and their providers played an enormous role in shaping me as a clinician.
Since pelvic health wasn’t emphasized in PT school, I had to seek out extensive post-grad education. Fortunately, the field is growing, and I hope more PT programs start to integrate it more thoroughly into their curricula. Like many areas of healthcare, pelvic health is constantly evolving, and I believe lifelong learning is essential. Throughout my clinical years, I’ve especially had interest in the incorporation of trauma-informed care and nervous system regulation into my practice. Given how vulnerable this work can be for patients, understanding trauma and safety isn’t optional—it’s foundational. That’s something I’m deeply committed to.
In 2023, I felt ready to take the leap and start my own practice: LIA Pelvic Health. The name “LIA” honors my two beloved grandmothers, Odilia and Ophelia—both of whom are no longer with us. They embodied compassion, love, and care for everyone around them. Their spirit is at the heart of my work and continues to inspire me every day.
I currently see patients both in the North Hollywood and Sherman Oaks areas.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was having to apply to physical therapy school three years in a row. During that time, I was also retaking courses, volunteering to complete my observation hours, and working at a physical therapy clinic. Once I was accepted and began my journey through PT school and into my early career, I encountered significant health challenges. These experiences—both mental and physical—ultimately inspired me to start my own practice. While being a solo practitioner comes with its own set of challenges and stressors, it has given me the space and flexibility to prioritize and care for my overall well-being. And I wouldn’t have been able to do it without my amazing support system.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I’m a pelvic health physical therapist located in the Valley, who works with individuals experiencing bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction. One of the most common things I encounter is that people either haven’t heard of pelvic health therapy or assume it’s only relevant during pregnancy or aging. Many also believe pelvic floor issues only affect women—which isn’t true. Everyone has a pelvic floor, and anyone can experience dysfunction.
To put things into perspective, studies show that 1 in 4 people with vulvas will experience pelvic or vulvovaginal pain in their lifetime. About 25% will experience some form of pelvic floor disorder, and roughly 15% of the general population lives with chronic pelvic pain. Yet, despite how common these issues are, they remain under-discussed—often seen as taboo, embarrassing, or simply ignored in mainstream conversations. As a result, many people facing these conditions feel isolated, confused, or ashamed. Research also shows that those with pelvic floor disorders often experience higher rates of anxiety and depression, which is why open, honest dialogue is so critical.
Pelvic health physical therapists and occupational therapists can help with a wide range of conditions, including (but not limited to): urinary and fecal incontinence, constipation, urinary urgency or frequency, pelvic organ prolapse, pre- and post-operative care for abdominal and pelvic surgeries (like endometriosis excision, hysterectomies, or gender-affirming surgeries), birth preparation, pregnancy-related pain, postpartum recovery, pain with sex, and general pelvic pain.
In my own practice, I primarily work with clients experiencing pelvic pain (although I can work with other concerns as well), and they represent a diverse range of ages, gender identities, and backgrounds. Over time, I’ve been drawn toward a more holistic, integrative approach to care—completing continuing education and certifications in areas like yoga, Pilates, the Resilience Toolkit, trauma-informed care, visceral manipulation, health coaching, and more. This has allowed me to support my clients with a whole-body, whole-person model of care.
I’m still in the early stages of my solo practice, so right now it’s just me—wearing all the hats as the admin and practitioner! My hope is to eventually grow the practice and expand my impact in the community by offering workshops and events that support education and access to pelvic health care. I understand how difficult it can be to find a nearby or accessible pelvic health therapist, and I’m passionate about creating more opportunities for people to get the support they need.
I’m constantly inspired by the evolving field of pelvic health. Fortunately, platforms like social media have played a huge role in breaking down stigmas and making this information more accessible. My hope is that by continuing to speak openly about pelvic health—from pee and p**p to s*x—we can empower more people to seek help, feel less alone, and know that support and healing are possible.
If someone is looking for a pelvic health physical therapist in their area here are a few directories:
https://www.vaginarehabdoctor.com/woc-pfpt-directory/
https://pelvicrehab.com
https://www.aptapelvichealth.org/ptlocator
What makes you happy?
My happy place is my family. I come from a big, close-knit family—with 23 first cousins on my mom’s side alone, and several more on my dad’s side. We’re incredibly close, and spending time with them—whether it’s a family party, karaoke night, game night, or a group trip—means the world to me. Being with my nieces and nephews especially brings me so much joy.
Outside of family, I also find happiness in quality time with friends, dancing, and traveling. These experiences fill my soul, bring so much laughter, and remind me of the beauty of life. I’m deeply grateful for every moment that makes me feel connected, alive, and inspired.
Pricing:
- I offer Free Discovery Call to learn more about my services and pricing
Contact Info:
- Website: https://liapelvichealth.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.g_dpt/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-giannini-pt-dpt-b340721b8
- Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iUr54NbiCm3rAyaM9
Image Credits
Headshots were done by Morgan Demeter
