In our weekly feature section, Pelvic Rehab Report is proud to present this interview with newly certified practitioner Reeba Varghese, DPT. PRPC.
How did you get involved in the pelvic rehabilitation field?
I was asked to attend a course by my director back in 2008 because they wanted to expand pelvic rehabilitation services to a few of our company's locations. I told my director I did not think this specialty was for me but I would be willing to attend one course and see how I felt. When I attended PF1 I was immediately drawn in by the wealth of knowledge I gained. Learning the intricacies of the human anatomy, specifically the female anatomy just completely opened my eyes to one of Gods most amazing creations. Also, the passion in the instructors was contagious. When I returned to work and started to see patients with incontinence and listened to their stories my passion for supporting these individuals in their rehabilitation journey began to grow. As I continued to expand my knowledge base by attending more courses through Herman and Wallace I realized I had found my niche in the world of physical therapy.
What patient population do you find most rewarding in treating and why?
I feel honored every time a patient walks into my clinic and begins to open up and share about their pelvic health issues. There is so much stigma associated with discussing these issues so when someone is willing to receive help I want to support them however I can. Also, it seems like more and more women I see have been through some kind of traumatic experience in their life and they find their way to you in an emotionally unstable state. What a great opportunity to be a part of their healing journey.
What motivated you to earn PRPC?
After practicing as a physical therapist for 10 years I was re-evaluating my life as a whole and was praying about what direction to go next in my life/career. I felt like the next step for me was to pursue a specialty area that I wanted to invest more time and energy into, as well as seek opportunities for professional growth. Shortly after I made this decision I received an email from Herman and Wallace regarding the fall 2014 PRPC exam. The lightbulb went off and I decided to apply to sit for the exam.
What is in store for you in the future?
One of my biggest dreams is to be a mother one day. I will be getting married this fall and hopefully starting a family. I plan to work part-time once kids come along. I am considering maybe working in a clinic which solely provides pelvic rehabilitation services. I also have a passion for taking my skills and knowledge and serving women in areas that do not have healthcare. I have done medical mission trips to Oaxaca, Mexico and served in an orphanage in Brasov, Romania. I absolutely plan to continue doing medical missions. I think it would be an honor to serve the women and children in the red light districts of India.
Learn more about Reeba Varghese, DPT. PRPC at her Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner bio page. You can also learn more about the Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification at www.hermanwallace.com/certification.