Families in the
Two new providers have training in pediatrics and will be caring for kids: Kelsey Baker, a physical therapist, and Brittany Burke, a speech language pathologist. Also, Mandi Wahlin, an occupational therapist, recently received additional pediatric training.
To make space for the new services, a registration and office area was converted to two treatment rooms. That’s in addition to the current therapy gym. The community is invited to see the new space during an open house event from
During the planning process, leaders at Essentia Health-Ada worked with the local school districts, which reported a great need for these services in the community.
“It’s something we’ve needed for a while,” says Erin Stoltman, director of rehabilitation at Essentia Health-Ada. “To now have staff who can focus on this and do it well – it’s a big win for the facility and the community.”
The pediatric therapy services can help children with a wide range of issues, including language and motor skills delays. “It’s a different approach with kids,” Stoltman explains. “You need to have an understanding of where they are in their development.”
Stoltman says therapy services, when needed, can have a major impact on kids’ learning and growth. “With speech issues, if kids can’t communicate, it will affect their success at school. From an OT and PT standpoint, therapy is needed to help kids be kids, to enjoy the things they want to do.”
