Certified Yoga Instructor

My Philosophy of Care

I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a Certified Yoga Instructor (200hr RYT) with a special interest in movement instructors of all types, dancers, adolescent athletes, and post-surgical recovery. My goal as a physical therapist is first and foremost to keep my patients moving and doing what they love.  Whether this means keeping a dancer in class with modifications, helping a runner build back up their rhythm, or helping a teacher get back to her daily walks with her dog.  I always try to have my patients' passions and activities sit front and center with exercises and in-clinic treatment playing the supporting role. I believe (and research is showing) that the human body is adaptable, not fragile, and that progress can be made when we push the edges of our comfort zone while ultimately respecting our body’s boundaries.  Physical therapy is a collaborative process, not an assignment and one size does not fit all.  I work together with my patients to help them understand their diagnosis and address the demands of their sport or daily activities so they can get back on track with reduced pain and improved confidence in their abilities, strength, and resilience.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Biology / University of Washington

Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Dance / University of Washington

Doctor of Physical Therapy / University of Washington

My Clinical Interests

• Sports/athletic rehabilitation
• Adolescents/Teens
• Post-surgical recovery
• Performing Arts/Dance Medicine
• Hypermobility
• Yoga

Movement Systems Physical Therapy's staff, from the front desk to the Therapist, Rachel, are professional, caring and excellent listeners. I had less discomfort as I was leaving my first appointment. The exercise program contains videos and tips specific to how I am instructed to perform the moves. It is wonderful to be moving to a pain free state all with the assistance of Rachel.

Lucille L.

Blogs

The unexpected magic of telehealth-physical therapy

Community Involvement/Volunteer Organizations

 Seattle Performing Arts Medicine Free Clinic (SeaPAM)

My Personal Story

A Seattle native, I grew up in Wedgwood and received both my undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Washington. Prior to my graduate program I worked as a dance instructor for children and teens at a local neighborhood studio.   I pursued a career in Physical Therapy, both because I was fascinated by the puzzle of the human body and because I felt there was a need for dancers like myself and extreme movers (I see you yogis and rock climbers) to have practitioners who understood their bodies, their sport and their needs.  I currently live in Snoqualmie with my husband Matt, and our pint-sized corgi Vala.

When I am not in the clinic you can find me reading, baking, practicing/teaching yoga, hiking, entertaining our dog and occasionally forcing myself to go for a run.

With 2 back issues I was referred to Movement Systems Physical Therapy and assigned to Rachel. In only three sessions Rachel has help me relieve a significant amount of back related pain through specific exercises and movement techniques. I am completely satisfied with the treatment I have received and highly recommend Rachel and Movement Systems.

Doug B.