Dr. Helene Darmanin, PT, DPT, CSCS

Hi! I’m Dr. Helene Darmanin, founder of Mama Bear PT. I’m an orthopedic and pelvic-health physical therapist who specializes in preparing and healing expectant and new moms. Mama Bear started with the desire to provide moms with the care they need and deserve, but seldom get.

It is all too common to hear stories of dysfunction and pain that can be solved with targeted exercise and education, persisting for many years after giving birth. My interest in this area was sparked when I attended a Future Birth Professionals Club meeting while studying Exercise Science at Smith College. I gained a deeper understanding of pelvic-floor treatment during my doctorate in physical therapy at New York University. I began to realize how difficult it is for birthing parents to access support pre- and postpartum; I then experienced it myself when I gave birth and had to find my own support through my professional network and self-advocacy. Most of the focus is on the health of the baby—don’t get me wrong, that is incredibly important! But giving moms the right care is the best way to ensure happiness and health for their babies, in addition to mamas deserving this happiness and health themselves. My mission became to empower moms in their pregnant and postpartum bodies; to educate them about pelvic-floor health; and to crush current taboos and stigmas. Why? Research has shown that exercise and patient education are the two most effective interventions for positive long-term outcomes. I love to utilize both, and I do it virtually, making it more affordable and convenient for pregnant folks or new moms. I experienced the difference that having support made on my pregnancy journey, and I am honoured that those same practitioners I worked with now make up the Mama Bear team. I’m excited to bring their excellence to you!