OGDENSBURG -- United Helpers has opened Stepping Stones Children's Therapy Services, geared to providing speech, physical and occupational therapy services for children ages 3 to 5.

Housed in the former North Country Dental Clinic space on Hamilton Street, Stepping Stones offers therapy services in a child- and parent-friendly environment.

"Stepping Stones is a bit different because we offer therapy in an environment that is geared totally to the need of the child," says Terry L. Micelli, Director of Rehabilitative Services for United Helpers. "A lot of parents prefer site-based services as they provide a greater opportunity for one on one attention with less distraction."

Home- and school-based services can be a challenge as other students or siblings, pets, visitors, and other factors may cause interruption. "Stepping Stones puts the focus back on the child," Micelli said. "There are fewer distractions. The child visits our center and from the moment they enter, the attention is directed to them and their experience." In addition, Stepping Stones has flexible scheduling, no waiting list, and a complete therapy team.

Stepping Stones is designed with bright colors and with child friendly décor. The waiting area offers books, toys and a computer for the kids and a coffee station and television for Mom and Dad.

"Parents are the real experts when it comes to their children, so we created an environment based on what real parents told us," said Michele M. Montroy, Administrator for Stepping Stones and United Helpers Care, Inc. "Parents are looking for options. United Helpers has built a century-old reputation of providing quality therapy services in St. Lawrence County. We very are excited to once again offer services to children and are excited about strengthening our community partnerships."

To learn more about the program or to inquire about the referral process, contact Michele Montroy at the United Helpers Management Company at 393-3072.

To learn more about the United Helpers organization, visit online at www.unitedhelpers.org or search United Helpers on Facebook.

Pictured, from left, are Marlese Leggett, United Helpers Assistant Administrator Colleen S. Aldridge, Director of Rehabilitative Services Terry L. Micelli, Alycia M. Cole; back, Administrator Michele Montroy, Secretary to the Administrator Elizabeth J. Porter, and Michelle W. Ramsdell.