Dr. Sarah Dawson, PT, DPT, ATC, PRPC, PCES* is the owner and physical therapist at Collective Physical Therapy, serving Northfield and the North Shore community. She earned her degree in Athletic Training from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and went on to complete her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Governors State University.

With over 10 years of experience, including managing an outpatient orthopedic and pelvic floor clinic, Sarah is known for her thoughtful, individualized approach to care. She’s especially passionate about helping moms and active women understand their bodies, address the root cause of pain or dysfunction, and return to the activities they love with confidence.

Sarah works with patients experiencing pelvic health concerns, pregnancy-related aches and pains, postpartum recovery (including diastasis recti), and orthopedic issues such as hip, knee, shoulder, and low back pain. Whether someone is returning to exercise after having a baby or trying to stay active through life’s transitions, she provides personalized, evidence-based care that meets patients where they are. She has pursued advanced training and certifications in pelvic health and is frequently sought out for her expertise. She also enjoys mentoring physical therapists who are early in their careers.

Outside of the clinic, Sarah loves staying active, baking, and bird-watching with her husband—often around the North Shore. She’s also a mom of three young kids who keep life busy, fun, and constantly moving, which gives her a deep appreciation for the demands moms and active women in Northfield and surrounding communities face every day.

*DPT: Doctorate of Physical Therapy

ATC: Certified Athletic Trainer

PRPC: Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification through Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute

PCES: Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist