I have had many different jobs in my life, ranging from answering phones at a pizza place, to managing a movie rental store, to teaching at Job Corps. I struggled to find a fulfilling career — not just a job, but a real career. When I was 31, I went back to school to study speech-language pathology. After I graduated, I was lucky enough to get a job working with Carolina Pediatric Therapy (CarolinaPeds). And this is hands-down the best job I’ve ever had. Let me tell you why.
First of all, this company is owned and operated by an amazing couple who want Carolina Pediatric Therapy to feel like a family — and they work every day to make that a reality. They also sincerely want to help people, and it shows. I feel supported, both as a therapist and a person, and that support gives me a level of confidence in my work that I have never had before. I know that my employers want to challenge me to be the best therapist I can be, but they also genuinely want me to enjoy my job.
Second, Carolina Pediatric Therapy is made up of speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, behavioral therapists, one wonderful audiologist — and a fantastic group of administrative staff — who all work every day to help children improve their daily lives. I am surrounded by this group of talented, knowledgeable, open-hearted co-workers who honestly care about the children and families we all work with. All of the staff at CarolinaPeds are willing to offer help, information, a shoulder to cry on, or even coffee or tea, whenever it’s needed.
Third, I get to work with children, and I enjoy just about every minute of it. Each time one of my little ones says a new word (I know it sounds silly, but it’s true), I feel all warm and fuzzy. And it feels pretty fabulous when one of my clients grins at me or gives me a hug! I get to teach parents ways to help their children with communication, and it is a real honor to be invited into the lives of my families in this way.
ALSO SEE: Career Opportunities at Carolina Pediatric Therapy
Carolina Pediatric Therapy does feel like a family — one that works hard to help people. As a part of that family, I know that what I do matters. What I do helps make life a little better for each and every child I work with. And that makes me happy. That’s why I love my job.
A Therapist Perspective
Teresa Davis, MS, CF-SLP
