Dr. Kate Hovde is a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor physical therapy, women’s health, and oncology rehabilitation. She is passionate about helping women navigate pelvic health concerns throughout the lifespan, including urinary incontinence, urinary urgency and frequency, constipation, pelvic pain, painful intercourse, and changes associated with perimenopause and menopause. She also has specialized training in lymphedema management and works with women during and after treatment for pelvic cancers and other cancers affecting pelvic health and function.
Kate’s path to women’s health physical therapy began after a 22-year career in the military as a medevac pilot. As she prepared for military retirement and transitioned into motherhood, her own postpartum experience gave her a new perspective on the gaps that exist in women’s healthcare.
After seeking physical therapy for her postpartum recovery, Kate discovered firsthand how difficult it could be to find clinicians with the specialized pelvic health training women need. After spending months of her limited self-care time as a new mother without getting the answers or results she was looking for, she knew she wanted to provide women with a different experience—one where their concerns are taken seriously and they receive knowledgeable, individualized care.
Her passion has since expanded beyond pregnancy and postpartum to caring for women experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction during perimenopause and menopause, as well as those navigating the effects of cancer treatment, medically induced menopause, surgery, radiation, and lymphedema. Her interest in oncology rehabilitation is also deeply personal, shaped in part by witnessing her sister’s breast cancer diagnosis at just 40 years old.
Kate believes symptoms like leaking, urgency, constipation, pelvic pressure, and pain should not simply be accepted as a normal part of motherhood, aging, menopause, or cancer treatment. Her goal is to help women better understand what is happening in their bodies and give them the tools, strength, and confidence to return to the activities that matter to them.
At Athena Wellness & Physical Therapy, Kate is proud to provide compassionate, evidence-based pelvic health and oncology physical therapy to women in Fort Hunt, Alexandria, Mount Vernon, and the surrounding Northern Virginia community. She is committed to creating a space where women feel comfortable discussing concerns that are often difficult to talk about—and where they feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout their care.
