Through our Monthly Spotlight Series, we are taking the time to highlight the staff at KidsCare Home Health. We hope you gain inspiration and valuable advice from these successful individuals and their stories.
This month we were excited to interview Shannon Hanberry. Shannon began working for KidsCare Home Health as a Speech-Language Pathologist in 2006 after graduate school. She then had the opportunity to become a Clinical Manager in 2010 and was promoted to the Director of Therapy Operations for Texas in 2019.
Where did you grow-up and what is special about your hometown?
I grew up in Stillwater, OK. Stillwater is home to Oklahoma State University and I was raised cheering for the Cowboys at football and basketball games. OSU continues to be my second favorite team behind Texas Tech.
Where did you go to school for college?
I received both my bachelor and master degrees from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
Why did you decide to become a Speech Language Pathologist?
I always knew I wanted to be in some aspect of health care and work with kids. I received speech therapy as a child and later on helped my younger brother when he received speech therapy, so I was familiar with the field. In college, I decided to volunteer for a speech-language pathologist and fell in love with the career after getting to observe her therapy sessions.
What is your favorite part about your current position as a Director of Therapy Operations (TX)?
I really enjoy working with my Clinical Managers and getting to learn more about the business side of KidsCare. We have a great team that not only supports each other, but also supports our therapists.
How has your role changed since you’ve been at KidsCare?
My role has changed a lot over the years. I started with KidsCare right out of grad school when all documentation was still done on paper and we had around 30 therapists on staff. Since then, we’ve grown exponentially and are now on our second EMR system. I’ve been able to grow from a SLP to a Lead Therapist to a Clinical Manager and now Director of Therapy Operations. I feel very lucky that I’ve been able to grow so much with KidsCare!
What is your favorite thing about working in pediatric therapy?
I always loved working with the kids and seeing all of the obstacles they overcome. I don’t get to see the kids as much these days but I know we have lots of therapists out there impacting the lives of so many children. It’s always fun to read the Kudos we receive and how thankful families are for the services that we provide. We have some amazing therapists!
When you’re not at work, how do you like to spend your time?
Outside of work, I like to spend time with family and friends. My husband and I have two girls that keep us very busy. I also enjoy traveling, attending musicals, catching up on tv shows, reading, and spending time in the sun.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
The growth that I’ve been able to have in my career and the opportunity to grow along with KidsCare from nearly the beginning.
What is the best advice you’ve received for your career?
Never assume your superiors know how you want to grow. Tell them how you want to grow so they can help you achieve it.
What advice would you share with someone looking to become a SLP?
Seek out mentors to help you increase knowledge in areas with which you’re less familiar.
What is your favorite memory in working at KidsCare Home Health?
There are a lot of favorite memories from over the years, but most recently would be our CM work days. Prior to COVID, this was a time when all of the CMs would meet together in the office to catch up and prepare for our therapist quarterly meetings. We have a lot of business we take care of, but we also make sure to go out to dinner one night and have lots of laughs.
What is the best part of working at KidsCare?
The people! We have a great team!
