Dr Katie Dougherty
Birmingham, AL
"Dr Katie," owner and lead clinician at PhysioBaby, is a licensed physical therapist (PT, DPT) with over 10 years of experience in pediatric therapy. After completing her doctorate at The University of Alabama at Birmingham, she honed her career skills at Texas Children's Hospital, contributing to innovative therapy program development in the Plagiocephaly Clinic, Vascular Anomalies Center, and Lung Transplant Program. Catherine is a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT-LANA) and has advanced skills in pediatric myofascial release with a particular niche in "ankyloglossia bodywork." She completed Gillespie Craniosacral Fascial Therapy training (CFT). She has special interests in holistic, multidisciplinary therapeutic treatment for babies and young children with neurodevelopment and postural concerns. Dr Katie is also a wife and mom to her young children, a daughter and a son.
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"As a pediatric physical therapist, I believe in meeting a baby and their family where they are on their journey. I aim to support comprehensive needs of baby and family along the way. This means becoming a part of the baby’s world and prioritizing what is important to the baby and family to achieve. Meeting physical and emotional needs of a baby and their family is critical to achieve optimal outcomes through physical therapy.
As a parent, I believe that my worlds as a pediatric physical therapist and mom complement one another in a special way. Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. I look forward to learning more about you and your precious baby!"
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Texas Children's Hospital ​
Advanced Clinical Specialist, 2012-2020
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2011
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Bachelor of Science in Biology (B.S.)
University of Alabama, 2007
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Memberships: American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA), Lymphology Association of North America (LANA), Junior League of Houston
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
The PhysioBaby Story
I have often referred to PhysioBaby as "my son's twin"; they were literally born at the same time. I was on maternity leave with my second baby when the idea for PhysioBaby came to life. During many hours of nursing and round the clock rocking, I envisioned the way I would want my own baby to be treated for therapy; with expert care. Someone who knew the intricacies of a newborn baby, their rapid physiologic and motor development, and could handle my baby with expertise and ease. Someone I could text or call directly with even the littlest of questions. I would want to be at home or somewhere as close to home as possible. Where I could nurse my baby if he was hungry or needed comfort. A place where sounds were soft and soothing, lighting soft, and an ambient temperature, not frigid like you often experience in a clinical environment. Not to mention the anxiety I had just loading the car up with my newborn and toddler. For my baby's therapy needs, I would want more accessible, direct care. Once PhysioBaby was born in my mind and heart, I knew I had to bring this vision and passion to life for other babies and families. I am so proud of my "3rd baby" and the expert team that has come together to serve so many babies. In the nearly three years since PhysioBaby's inception, we have evolved and grown so much. I am so excited for what our future holds!
- Dr Katie Dougherty