We recently connected with Deborah Hughes and have shared our conversation below.

Deborah, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Taking the Leap: A Personal Journey into Pediatric Therapy

Risk looks different for everyone. For me, one of the biggest risks I ever took was starting my own clinic. After more than 20 years as a hardware/software integration engineer, transitioning from a veteran of the industry to owning an outpatient pediatric therapy clinic was a bold move. But my decision was made even more daunting when the clinic opened the very same week the state was shut down due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

So, why did I take such a significant risk? What might have seemed like an abrupt career shift was, in fact, the culmination of a long-held passion. I’ve always known I wanted to work with children, though I wasn’t initially sure in what capacity. It wasn’t until 2010, when my son was born with a rare disease, that I found my true calling in the world of pediatric therapy.

My son’s diagnosis introduced me to outpatient therapy, a field I came to know intimately. Through our journey, I encountered a mix of therapists—some deeply committed to their work, and others who seemed only to show up for the paycheck. This stark contrast fueled my desire to make a difference. I envisioned a place where families could feel supported and cared for—where they would experience a true sense of community, or what I like to call a “village.”

In this village, I wanted to offer more than just therapeutic services. I aimed to be a resource hub, educating parents about the various community waivers available, who provides specific services, how to access necessary equipment, and more. The truth is, these essential resources aren’t always readily shared by pediatricians or other healthcare providers, leaving many families in the dark about what’s available to them.

At the core of our clinic, I employ a team of passionate therapists who go beyond treating children—they partner with parents to create a holistic, cohesive approach to care. Together, we work to ensure that each child receives the support they need to thrive and become the best version of themselves.

It is an honor and privilege to continue providing these resources, and I look forward to many more years of making a difference in the lives of families and children in our community. I am proud to share that our clinic has earned a reputation for being both knowledgeable and resourceful. We have built lasting relationships with our clients, and the feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive. This commitment to excellence has been recognized by the community, and we are honored to have been named among the Best of Gwinnett for two consecutive years.

Deborah, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As a parent of a medically fragile child, it was crucial for me to create a safe, compassionate, and nurturing environment where children could receive care from dedicated therapists who genuinely prioritize their well-being. I wanted to ensure that every child feels valued and supported, with therapists who go above and beyond to deliver the highest standard of care for each child on their caseload.

Having experienced the challenges of navigating multiple appointments, I deeply understand the difference between entering a space where my child is treated as just another number versus one where they are truly part of a supportive community. My goal has always been to ensure that every child who walks through our doors knows they are not only important but the most important person during their therapy session. It’s essential that children feel safe, loved, and free from judgment, so they can fully engage in their treatment without fear of embarrassment or shame.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

As a parent of a medically fragile child, I have firsthand experience with the daily challenges that families of special needs children face. This personal journey has not only deepened my understanding but has also helped me build a strong reputation within the community. My passion for advocacy and unwavering commitment to supporting these families drive my work.

When I engage with the community, it’s clear that I am not merely offering services—I live this reality every day. My dedication goes beyond words; I follow through on my commitments, ensuring that families receive the connections and support they need. With an extensive network throughout the metro Atlanta area—including clinics, healthcare providers, durable medical equipment suppliers, and support groups—I can tailor resources to each family’s specific needs, helping them provide the best possible care for their children.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

As a business owner, I quickly learned the importance of balancing compassion with sustainability. Early on, I found myself deeply moved by the difficult stories families shared, often offering my services for free. While my desire to help was unwavering, I soon realized that this approach placed my business in a financial strain. To continue making a meaningful impact, I had to establish boundaries—ensuring that my business remained financially stable while still providing valuable support to the families who need it most.

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