BACKSTAGE PASS: Abilities Rehabilitation

Sue Cook says it might be one of the area’s best kept secrets.

She’s speaking of Abilities Rehabilitation Services, which she runs while offering a wide range of services from its Midland base.

“Many people do not realize that we have these services in Midland,” Cook explains. “They are familiar with physiotherapy and chiropractic clinics but not multidisciplinary clinics.

“Clients have expressed how happy they were to see that a particular service was offered locally as they thought they would have to travel to a larger city.”

Cook, an occupational therapist, started Abilities Rehabilitation Services in 2000.

Over the last 20 years, Cook has developed a multi-disciplinary team across Ontario that offer a wide range of skills and services.

That team consists of occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers, case managers, dieticians, support workers along with a psychologist, neuropsychologist, paediatric psychotherapist, speech language pathologist and a massage therapist.

Cook continues at the helm of this organization, but notes that she couldn’t do it without her amazing office staff.

Last year, Abilities was recognized by the Ontario Brain Injury Association and PIA law as Rehabilitation Company of the Year.

“We were thrilled that we were recognized on a provincial level,” Cook says. “Clients indicate they are very happy with our services. Our services are tailored to the client’s needs.

“Our therapists are exceptional with several being nominated for Rehabilitation Professional of the Year by the Ontario Brain Injury Association and PIA law.  Our services are tailored to the client’s needs.”

But despite its longevity, there are still some who don’t realize Abilities Rehabilitation Services can likely help them.

“Although we have been in the community for 20-plus years, people don’t really know we are here because you only deal with rehabilitation professionals when you are in need of their services,” she says.

The Midland clinic also has a dedicated playroom for children’s therapy and a physiotherapist, who is highly trained in dizziness and vestibular issues.

“Abilities has just launched several programs targeted at maintaining seniors at home and functioning as independently as possible,” Cook adds.

“This is going to become increasingly important as our population ages. People are most surprised by the specialized nature of the programs we offer.”

For more information, visit www.abilitiesrehab.ca.