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Laura Albares
Dr. Laura Albares received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the George Washington University. Laura’s love of movement began in the dance studio, training to be a professional dancer. During this time, she also cross-trained with Pilates and has not stopped since. With over twenty years of personal Pilates practice, Laura is also a certified Pilates instructor through Balanced Body and loves incorporating Pilates into her patients’ treatment plans. Laura brings a strong orthopedic background to her pelvic health patients, and values looking at the entire system to get to the root of the problem. Laura’s continuing education in physical therapy align with her clinical interests including coursework in the McKenzie Method for treatment of the lumbar spine, American Physical Therapy Association’s Pelvic Health Physical Therapy and Fundamental Topics of Pregnancy & Postpartum, and Herman & Wallace Pelvic Function. Laura is passionate about the mission of District Pelvic Health and eager to help patients realize their full potential and reach their movement and wellness goals. When she’s not working with patients, Laura loves spending time with her husband and daughter.
Dr. Laura Albares received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the George Washington Universit... Read More
Blake Cooper
Dr. Blake Cooper, PT, DPT, CAPP-Pelvic, is a pelvic health physical therapist passionate about helping people feel stronger, more confident, and more at home in their bodies. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Duke University School of Medicine and holds a Certificate of Advanced Practice in Physical Therapy in Pelvic Health (CAPP-Pelvic). As a comprehensively trained Polestar Pilates practitioner, Blake integrates evidence-based pelvic health care, orthopedic rehabilitation, and movement-based approaches to provide individualized, whole-body treatment.
Blake treats pelvic floor conditions across all genders throughout the adult lifespan, including bladder and bowel dysfunction, pelvic pain, pelvic organ prolapse, and pregnancy- and postpartum-related concerns. Her approach extends beyond Kegels to address strength, mobility, coordination, relaxation, and pressure management, helping patients return to exercise, sport, intimacy, and the activities they love.
Blake strives to create a safe, collaborative environment where patients feel supported, understood, and empowered in their recovery. She believes pelvic health symptoms deserve attention and that everyone deserves to feel confident and comfortable in their body.
Outside the clinic, Blake enjoys practicing Pilates, traveling, walking her dog Bruno, and spending time with her cat Minnie.
Dr. Blake Cooper, PT, DPT, CAPP-Pelvic, is a pelvic health physical therapist passionate about he... Read More
Maliha Khan
Dr. Maliha Khan was born and raised in Northern Virginia, proudly treating pelvic floor dysfunction in her community. She received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Mary Baldwin University in Staunton, Virginia. A GMU alumna with a B.S. in Kinesiology, Maliha has a deep understanding of the anatomical and physiological processes that influence both women and men throughout the lifespan. She emphasizes a holistic approach to care and employs hands-on manual techniques to help her patients feel their best again. Maliha treats a wide range of pelvic conditions in both women and men, including sexual dysfunction, vulvovaginal pain, pelvic pain, bladder and bowel issues, menopause-related concerns, and prenatal and postpartum care. With her background as a certified gait analyst and personal experience as an avid runner, Maliha takes a special interest in treating running-related injuries.
When not working with clients, Maliha enjoys running, dancing, reading a good book, trying out new restaurants and spending time outdoors.
Dr. Maliha Khan was born and raised in Northern Virginia, proudly treating pelvic floor dysfuncti... Read More
Ashlyn Lauder
Dr. Ashlyn Quain, PT, DPT is a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor physical therapy at District Pelvic Health, with a focus on pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and women’s health. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from The George Washington University and an Honors Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, with minors in Dance and Health & Wellness, from the University of Delaware Honors College.
Ashlyn’s clinical expertise spans a wide range of pelvic floor conditions including bowel and bladder concerns, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, diastasis recti, and pregnancy and postpartum care. With more than 20 years of dance training and teaching experience, she brings a unique understanding of movement, biomechanics, and the demands of returning to meaningful activities. She has completed post-doctoral studies through the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute and is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association.
Ashlyn takes a holistic approach to care, combining individualized pelvic floor rehabilitation with hands-on manual techniques, functional movement, and strengthening. She prioritizes creating a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered. By treating each patient as a partner in their care, she develops personalized treatment plans that reflect their goals and help them feel confident in their bodies.
Outside the clinic, Ashlyn loves cooking, working out, and spending time with her husband and their two miniature dachshunds, Norbert and Moose.
Dr. Ashlyn Quain, PT, DPT is a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor physical therapy a... Read More
Ellen Nixon
(She/Her/Hers)
With over 25 years of personal Pilates practice and 15 years of teaching experience, Ellen brings a deep understanding of the Pilates method to every session. Her foundation is rooted in authentic Pilates, beginning with Classical Mat certification through Quantum Pilates and continuing with comprehensive training through Balanced Body. She recently completed the Graduate Intensive Cycle with Lori Coleman-Brown at Atlas Pilates in Seattle, an advanced 6-month program where she refined her teaching skills and built a community of like-minded teachers.
Ellen’s continuing education reflects her love of learning and movement exploration. She has completed specialized training in Pilates for Neurological Conditions and Advanced Movement for Neurological Conditions, as well as workshops focused on the spine and pelvis. She studied Kathy Grant’s work through multiple workshops with Blossom Leilani Crawford, including a Wunda Chair intensive, and is currently exploring the Ron Fletcher lineage through a Pilates Mat Certification.
A few times a week you can find Ellen in her home studio or dropping into classes around the DMV for her personal Pilates practice because staying connected to the work helps her stay curious. Ellen meets people where they are in their movement journey: training for a big race, recovering from injury, managing a neurological condition, prenatal or postpartum, or simply looking to move with more efficiency and strength. Ellen believes Movement is Magic and Pilates is for EVERYbody!
When not in the studio, Ellen prances around the world seeking adventure, snuggles her adorable pups, Wallace and Violet, and enjoys time with her amazing community of family and friends!
With over 25 years of personal Pilates practice and 15 years of teaching experience, Ellen brings... Read More
Rachel Payne
Rachel is a doctor of physical therapy, pilates instructor, and the founder of District Pelvic Health. She started District Pelvic Health to provide birthing people with the individualized, one-on-one care they deserve. She has a passion for helping birthing people successfully navigate all stages of their pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the postpartum period.
She has advanced training in orthopedics and pelvic floor physical therapy and specializes in obstetrics. She is a Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher, comprehensively trained as a Polestar Pilates Rehab Practitioner, and integrates the Pilates principles into her treatment sessions. Rachel lives in Arlington, VA with her husband, son, and dog.
Rachel is a doctor of physical therapy, pilates instructor, and the founder of District Pelvic He... Read More
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Need Help? 703-249-9319 rachel@districtpelvichealth.com