NorthStar Physical Therapy

#63: Collaboration with Physical and Mental/Behavioral Professionals in Pelvic Health

Dr. Shirlea North, PT, DPT, GCS, CLT

Hey there, welcome to the NorthStar Physical Therapy podcast!  

I am your host, Dr. Shirlea North and I dive into lymphedema, lipedema, and various pelvic health dysfunctions. My goal is to provide to you a better way to understand these conditions so that you empower yourself with knowledge to advocate for yourself. Let NorthStar Physical Therapy guide and navigate you on your journey to optimal health!

In this special collaboration episode, I am  joined by Dr. Amanda Skowron Romano, licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Peace of Mindfulness, to explore the deep connection between mental health, pelvic health, and the nervous system.

Together, we unpack the value of integrated care—where pelvic floor therapy and psychological support work hand-in-hand to address postpartum recovery, perimenopause, trauma, identity shifts, sexual health, and stress management.

If you’ve ever wondered how your mental and emotional state influences your pelvic floor—or why healing your body involves more than just muscles—this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, you’ll also learn:

  • Introduction to today’s topic
  • Amanda reframes therapy as a tool for wellness, not just crisis, especially for new moms and those navigating life transitions.
  • Why collaboration matters
  • Understanding the nervous system
  • The pelvic floor & emotional holding
  • Mindfulness & body literacy
  • Common emotional overlaps
  • Breathwork practices that work
  • Tips for clients & providers
  • Mindfulness for the whole family
  • Amanda explains why finding the right therapist matters and offers free 15-minute consults to ensure good alignment
  • Final thoughts

About Dr. Amanda Skowron Romano, PsyD

Dr. Amanda Skowron Romano is a licensed clinical psychologist who is passionate about breaking down the stigma of therapy and helping people understand that seeking therapy is about health and wellness. In addition to working with individual clients and couples, Dr. Skowron Romano provides workshops and presentations bringing mindfulness into corporations, schools, and healthcare settings. Dr. Skowron Romano has extensive specialized training in Mindfulness and Acceptance Based Interventions. She has conducted research on mindfulness and published articles about postpartum depression. Her passion is to work with a clinical focus on prevention and wellness. 

Reach out to her here: https://www.peaceofmindfulnessllc.com/ 

Check out the website for the services we perform or send me a message at Facebook or Instagram!

If you have any questions about this episode or anything related to the services that we offer, please feel free to reach out so we can help you.

If you have other topics in mind that you want me to talk about, hit me up and I’ll make sure to consider it for my next podcast!

See you in 2 weeks!