A message from our founder

When Aspire Therapy began, it started with a simple but powerful vision: to provide therapy that was truly individualized, meaningful, and family-centered. I (Dana) wanted to create a space where every child’s unique needs were honored and where families were active, empowered participants in the process, not just dropping off their child and picking them up later, but truly involved every step of the way.

Back in 2015, Aspire was just me and the trunk of my car. As a speech-language pathologist, I traveled to homes part-time, juggling this dream with work elsewhere. But even in those early days, it was clear that there was a real need for therapy that was both personal and practical. Within months, we added occupational therapy to our services and saw our very first clients.

In June 2016, we opened our first physical space in Verona. It was just one room, an office and a therapy space rolled into one, but it was full of heart and hope. That same year, we welcomed another speech-language pathologist and a few more therapists who believed in the vision of care that’s collaborative, creative, and connected. By 2017, we added our first physical therapist, continuing to build a team that could serve the whole child and the whole family.

The growth continued in 2018 when we moved into a larger Verona clinic inside the Verona Athletic Center. This space gave us the room to run—literally—with a big gym and several dedicated therapy rooms.

Then came 2020. In the middle of a pandemic, we opened our East Madison clinic and quickly adapted by adding virtual sessions to make sure families could still access the care they needed. Through all the uncertainty, our focus stayed steady: show up for kids and families in meaningful ways, no matter the circumstances. Our team continued to grow, reaching more than 15 dedicated therapists all working together to meet kids and families where they are.

Most recently, in June of 2023, we opened a new and expanded Verona clinic (in a remodeled gas station and car wash!), complete with multiple gym spaces, a fully equipped “therapy kitchen”, an outdoor play space, and many more rooms to serve the increasing number of families looking for thoughtful, relationship-driven care.

From the beginning, our mission has remained rooted in a few core values that guide everything we do:

• Act with Integrity

• Be Passionate

• Have Fun

• Work Together

• Value Relationships

• Be Family Focused

We know that when a child comes to Aspire, it’s not just about the sessions, it’s about the whole journey. It’s about meeting families where they are, creating connections that matter, and celebrating every step forward. Supporting families and walking alongside them has always been, and will always be, our focus. We are honored to be a part of each child’s story, and we’re excited to continue growing alongside the incredible families we serve.

We also want to take a moment to honor all of the amazing therapists who have been part of Aspire over the past ten years. Each one has played an important role in shaping who we are today and in helping us live out our mission. Their dedication and expertise have been the heart of our success, and we are grateful for the care they’ve brought to every child and family.

Our therapists contribute so much of what makes Aspire special: their energy and creativity spark joy and engagement in every session; their commitment and compassion offer hope to families during challenging times; and their patient, step-by-step teaching helps children achieve incredible breakthroughs, big and small. We make it a priority to bring in therapists who truly share our values, helping Aspire stay a place where families feel supported, respected, and understood. Aspire truly would not be what it is today without each and every one of the therapists who have walked through our doors.

To those who are with us now, those who have been with us in the past, and those who will join us in the future: thank you for your unwavering commitment to helping children and families thrive.

Thank you to every child, parent, caregiver, and team member who’s been part of our story. We can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings.

Warmly,
Dana Bohrer
Founder, Aspire Therapy