Community Conversations
Naseem Chatiwala, PT, DPT, MS
Community Voices: Naseem Chatiwala, PT, DPT, MS, NCS– Living Life with Purpose and Passion
“Lead with kindness, stay grounded in gratitude, and let your passion speak louder than your words.”
I am a physical therapist and the owner of Rehab Health 360, a private holistic-focused physical therapy practice based in Acton, MA. Our clinic specializes in working with individuals living with neurological, orthopedic and pelvic floor conditions. We love helping people realize that movement is medicine—and that small steps really do lead to big changes. My role is not just clinical—I’m also a leader, teacher, mentor, and someone who tries to bring a little more hope and healing into the community each day.
Like many women juggling multiple hats, one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been being taken seriously as both a clinician and a business owner—especially when I first started. People often assume you’re either one or the other, but not both. I didn’t fight it with big words—I let my work speak. I stayed focused on building something meaningful, and over time, people began to see that this wasn’t just a business—it was a purpose.
Balancing personal life and professional responsibilities is never perfect, but I try to live by a simple rule: be present where you are. When I’m at work, I give it my all. When I’m home, I try to give my family the best of me. Some days it flows, some days it doesn’t—but I’ve learned to laugh, to let go, and to be grateful for the messiness of it all.
As a woman, I think we bring something special to healthcare—our ability to listen, to connect, and to lead with empathy. I believe in treating every person with respect, and I try to create a space where my team and my patients feel seen, heard, and cared for.
If I had one message for young students, especially young women—it would be this: Don’t be afraid to dream big, but also know that the journey won’t always be easy. Lean into your values. Do what you love. Keep learning. And most of all, remember that kindness and hard work go a long way. There’s space for you—and we need your voice.
-Naseem
www.rehabhealth360.com
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Naseem Chatiwala, PT, DPT, MS (she/her)
Board certified Neuro Clinical Specialist
Certified Vestibular Specialist
Certified in Parkinson’s Foundation Team Training
Owner/ Physical Therapist
Rehab Health 360 LLC
289 Great Road, Suite 102, Acton MA 01720
Ph:978 263 3600
F :978 798 6217
Rakhee Tailor
Hello,
My name is Rakhee Tailor with more than two decades of experience as a Pharmacist, first in retail and now in a specialty institute. I have witnessed the profession’s transformation from a traditional, dispensing-focused role to a more patient-centered, clinical practice. Today, pharmacists are recognized as essential healthcare providers, actively engaging in patient counseling, medication therapy management, disease management, immunization services, and even prescribing.
However, the profession is not without its challenges, particularly for women. Gender stereotypes often lead to assumptions that female pharmacists are better suited for patient-centered roles, while they are frequently overlooked for senior managerial and academic positions. As a result, women often have to work harder to achieve the same recognition as their male counterparts. However the landscape is changing. As more women rise to meet these challenges, the profession is becoming more inclusive, opening doors to leadership opportunities.
Balancing personal and professional life has also been a constant challenge. Pharmacy, especially in community and hospital settings, often demands irregular hours, including weekends and holidays, making it difficult to maintain a stable work-life balance. I would not have succeeded without the unwavering support and understanding of my family, who have been my strength and a constant source of motivation.
I firmly believe that women naturally excel in multitasking, organization, interpersonal skills, time management, and empathy—all of which are essential qualities for a successful pharmacist. Our profession is built on trust, and pharmacists consistently rank among the most trusted healthcare professionals.
My advice for young students is to believe in your potential, continue to challenge stereotypes, and strive for leadership positions where your voice can drive meaningful change. Pharmacy is no longer confined to the traditional dispensing counter. There are vast opportunities in areas like pharmacy benefit management (PBMs), pharmaceutical industry, regulatory affairs, health informatics, and more. It’s a demanding field, but one that offers immense personal and professional fulfillment.
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Regards,
Rakhee
Vahila
Hello!
As an Indian immigrant, both certified anesthesiologist, and now the founder and medical director of my own antiaging and regenerative aesthetic center REJUV CARE in Westford,MA specializing and injectables lasers and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, blending science and artistry to help clients look and feel their best, my journey has been anything but conventional. On top of my medical career, I am also the proud mother of two young children, one of whom has special needs which adds another layer of complexity and purpose to everything I do.
One of the most significant challenges I have faced is time management, whether it’s taking a 24 hour call and being away from home trying to make it to the kids field day, balancing personal and professional life is a daily effort that requires intentional planning, grace and flexibility. I have learned to set firm boundaries, delegate wisely and prioritize self-care. being a woman and mother gives me a unique level of empathy and intuition which deeply enhances how I care for my patients, whether I am in the operating room or consulting at the Medspa I bring nurturing but precise approach that my patients and clients genuinely appreciate.
To young Women aspiring to be physicians: Prioritize yourself. Medicine is a demanding path, but your well-being matters just as much as your ambition. Find a way to balance your goals with self-care, relationships, and rest. For immigrant moms I say your background is your strength- embrace it.Success doesn’t come from fitting in. It comes from standing out with confidence, compassion, and a relentless commitment to excellence.
-Vahila