Melissa Donovan : Winner of the 2024 Great Companies International Women Entrepreneur Award

Name: Melissa Donovan

Business Name: Donovan Rehab

Location: Hinesville , USA

Establishment (Year): 2014

Category: Health & Wellness

Profession/ Specialty: Speech Pathologist

Website: www.donovanrehab.com

Social Media : Linkedin

Company Detail:

Donovan Rehab was opened in 2014 by Vernon and Melissa Donovan. They had the desire to provide quality therapy services for children in and around the Hinesville, Georgia area, so they opened an office less than 5 minutes from Fort Stewart military base. They wanted children to come to a facility that did more than just provide therapy services. The emphasis was on providing quality and comprehensive services to everyone seen at the office.

They then joined with other therapists that shared their same goals and genuine love for children and their work. The therapists at Donovan Rehab strive to help children reach their fullest potential because they believe that “Every Child has a Voice to be Heard.”

They evaluate and treat children with various medical diagnoses in addition to speech-language, gross/fine motor and sensory delays. They also meet and exceed the requirements of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). At Donovan Rehab, clients can be reassured that their therapists care about them, and will do everything they can to help them and their child have a voice and be heard.

Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage

Partnerships with ABA and HeadStart so children can receive services in their natural environments. Resource center and hub for parents with resources for local ABA, support groups, dentists, barbers, pediatricians, and other specialties.

Challenges Faced During the Journey Staffing challenges.

Started by running a solo practice and grew to having an office team and multiple therapists. Dealing with expanding and providing more space to see more clients. It took 4 years to renovate and move into an old laundromat that they turned into a beautiful functioning therapy facility. They did most work themselves. Many challenges with initial startup with getting referrals and clients.

Advice for Women Entrepreneurs:

Keep their bottom line low. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or purchase gently used items when starting fresh.

Shadow, ask questions and form relationships with other entrepreneurs who have already walked in their current shoes.

Get a therapist/life coach to help them balance their life.