Melody Millsap, COTA

For Melody, helping children build skills and confidence has always been the most rewarding part of being an occupational therapy assistant.

After spending part of her career working with adults in a skilled nursing facility, she realized something was missing.

"I enjoyed working with adults, but I missed pediatrics," Melody said. "There's something special about watching children make progress and knowing you're helping them build a brighter future."

Finding Her Way Back to Pediatrics

A Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) for 17 years (16 years at Therapy 2000); Melody grew up in Colorado, prior to moving to East Texas with her husband and two children. It was there that they raised their family and built a life in a community they quickly came to love.

When she discovered a part-time opportunity with Therapy 2000, she decided to continue working both jobs while reconnecting with her passion for pediatric therapy. Before long, her home health caseload grew, allowing her to transition fully into serving children and families.

Today, she can't imagine doing anything else.

"I love working with children and their families," Melody said. "Getting to celebrate their progress and milestones alongside them is incredibly rewarding."

Supported to Provide the Best Care

Just as meaningful to her is the support she receives from her colleagues.

"Therapy 2000 truly takes care of its employees and patients," she said. "You feel supported, valued, and equipped to provide the best care possible."

Melody also believes that commitment to excellence is recognized throughout the community.

"Our referral sources trust us because they know our therapists are well trained, compassionate, and focused on doing what's best for every child," she said.

A Culture of Genuine Care

One experience in particular reinforced her appreciation for the company's culture. A therapy student spent two months learning alongside the team, and everyone made a point to support, encourage, and invest in her growth.

Later, the student attended an event where she unknowingly found herself speaking with members of the company's senior leadership team.

"She came back talking about how friendly, welcoming, and genuine they were," Melody recalled. "She had no idea who they were at first. That's just who they are."

For Melody, the story perfectly reflects what makes the company special.

"People here genuinely care about each other," she said. "Whether you're a patient, a family member, a student, or an employee, you're treated like you matter."

Building a Career and a Life in East Texas

Outside of work, Melody appreciates everything East Texas has to offer families. From large school districts to smaller community schools, abundant youth sports and agricultural programs, and neighbors who look out for one another, she believes it's an ideal place to raise children.

"You get the benefits of a close-knit community while still being close to major medical centers and bigger-city attractions," she said.

For Melody, the combination of meaningful work, supportive colleagues, and a strong community has made East Texas, and Therapy 2000, the perfect place to build both a career and a life.