Bernadette Nolan - Director & Principal Physiotherapist BSc(Hons) Physiotherapy, NZRP Certified Holistic Pelvic Care™ & Holistic Pelvic Energy™ Practitioner
Bernadette is a dedicated Pelvic Health & Women’s Physiotherapist with extensive training and experience in her field. She is also a Certified Holistic Pelvic Care™ and Holistic Pelvic Energy™ Practitioner, embodying a holistic approach to women's health. With over 23 years of physiotherapy experience, Bernadette has treatedthousands of women in both public and private sectors in the UK and New Zealand.
Her expertise extends beyond traditional physiotherapy, as she has undergone specialized training in Visceral Manipulation, Trauma-informed care, Emotional and Energetic Methods, and continues her education with the INSTITUTE FOR BIRTH HEALING™ in the US. Bernadette is passionate about providing comprehensive care beyond pelvic floor exercises, empowering women at all stages of life.
Bernadette holds memberships in several professional organizations, including PWMH SIG New Zealand, IUGA, NZCA, WHTA, and MPNZ, reflecting her commitment to staying current in her field and upholding professional standards. Throughout her career, Bernadette has focused exclusively on pelvic health, holding positions at Auckland DHB and Counties Manukau DHB. She has been recognized for her contributions to women's health, receiving an Allied Health Service Recognition Award in 2012 for her role in establishing a perineal trauma clinic with an Obstetrician at Counties Manukau. Advocating for improved services for women is a central part of Bernadette's work. She has initiated and supported various projects aimed at enhancing women's health services within the Hawkes Bay region. Despite challenges such as funding cuts during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bernadette remains dedicated to advocating for change and equity in service delivery. In addition to her professional endeavors, Bernadette volunteers her time to support birthing women and their partners through Whanake Te Kura, Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga Antenatal classes, ensuring they have comprehensive knowledge for post-partum care. Bernadette established Hawke's Bay Pelvic Health & Women's Physiotherapy in 2017, offering her expertise to the women of Hawke's Bay. She is based in the Clinic Rooms of Fusion Physio in Napier and Kowhai Clinic in Napier, providing a professional, sensitive, and individually tailored approach to her clients.
On a personal note, Bernadette, originally from Ireland, has made New Zealand her home for the past 18 years. She enjoys spending time with her husband, Jean-Pierre, and their two daughters, who keep them busy outside of the clinic. Bernadette maintains a balanced lifestyle, participating in weight training, pilates, yoga, and appreciating the beauty of the outdoors in New Zealand.