Pediatric Therapy Services Available for Families in Jersey Village

Jersey Village Welcomes Launch Pediatric Therapy: A New Beacon of Hope for Families

Michelle Mitcham, a dedicated speech pathologist, discovered her professional passion while pursuing a communications degree at The University of Texas. An elective phonetics course not only fulfilled a scheduling requirement but transformed her life direction. “I took this phonetics class, and I fell in love with speech pathology, so I changed my major, and I never looked back,” Mitcham recounted, underscoring the pivotal moment that shaped her career.

After completing her degree, Mitcham began her clinical practice in 2007. Fast forward to October 2023, she opened Launch Pediatric Therapy in Jersey Village, a move she considers fulfilling both personally and professionally.

A Commitment to Community

Mitcham’s decision to establish her practice in Jersey Village stems from her deep roots in the community. Growing up in the area and attending Jersey Village High School, she felt a strong connection to the environment that had shaped her. “It’s just been so nice to be in the community that I already love,” she shared, highlighting the significance of returning to her hometown to serve its residents. The location of her practice, situated mere streets away from her own home, facilitates a healthier work-life balance, further enhancing her ability to contribute meaningfully to the local community.

Beyond simply operating a therapy center, Mitcham emphasizes the importance of creating an environment conducive to both child and family well-being. “I entered this profession to make an impact, to make big changes, and not just for the child, but the whole family unit,” she asserted, reflecting the holistic approach that underscores her practice.

In a full circle moment, she has also partnered with a program at Jersey Village High School, HOSA, where students volunteer to assist therapists at Launch Pediatric Therapy. This collaboration not only provides hands-on experience for future healthcare professionals but also strengthens community ties.

Therapeutic Services Offered

Launch Pediatric Therapy is staffed by a team of 12 skilled professionals including speech, feeding, occupational, and physical therapists, collectively providing a comprehensive support system for children of all ages. With a particular emphasis on speech and feeding therapy, Mitcham actively engages with children during sessions, utilizing innovative techniques rooted in positive reinforcement.

The therapy center focuses on gradually introducing children with cognitive differences and developmental delays to new foods and communication methods, fostering emotional regulation in a nurturing setting. “I’m on the floor a lot, and we get thrown up on a lot. We all have spare clothes, but it is one of the most rewarding parts,” Mitcham reflected. Her enthusiasm for her work shines through as she notes, “Feeding and eating is so social,” highlighting the emotional and social dimensions of these critical developmental milestones.

Launch Pediatric Therapy stands as a testament to Mitcham’s vision and commitment to enhancing the lives of children and families in her community. As she continues to inspire and uplift, it is clear that her passion for speech pathology will resonate deeply within Jersey Village.