Hamilton Wellness Newsletter

September brings a season of change—new routines, new opportunities, and a chance to pause and reconnect with ourselves. Whether you’re settling into the back-to-school rhythm, adjusting to the shift in seasons, or simply seeking a fresh start, this is the perfect time to focus on your well-being. At Hamilton Wellness, we’re honored to be part of your journey.

This month, we’ll be sharing helpful resources and insights to support your growth and resilience. Together, we can continue building skills for balance, connection, and emotional wellness. We look forward to growing with you this season.

With care,

The Hamilton Wellness Staff

Stephanie is a nationally certified and state-licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. With over 18 years of experience in schools, clinics, and skilled nursing facilities across Macomb and Oakland counties, Stephanie brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her work.

She provides speech and language evaluations and therapy for children and adolescents who may struggle to understand and use language effectively. Her areas of expertise include receptive and expressive language delays, articulation and phonological disorders, fluency disorders, pragmatic language, and autism spectrum disorders.

What Stephanie enjoys most is partnering with children and families to create personalized communication goals. She celebrates every success—whether it’s a new sound, a smoother phrase, or a boost in confidence. Stephanie is passionate about helping kids build the skills they need to thrive in school and beyond.

Q&A:
Q: Can you tell us about your background and what led you to become a therapist?

A: From a young age, I was very interested in public speaking, acting, and forensics & debate. Those remained my favorite classes and hobbies through high school and led me to an undergrad degree in Communications. After graduation, I began working in corporate communication and public relations, but quickly realized it wasn't making me happy. Then one sunny spring afternoon, I was sitting on the floor in my parent's front room looking through a book about what to do with your communication degree. In the very back of the book, as if it were an afterthought, there was a section that said "Other" and the first entry: Communication Sciences and Disorders. Helping people who can't communicate. Helping people communicate better. Helping people. I'll never forget that moment. I had never been more certain or motivated. I started taking post bachelor classes at Wayne State that fall and preparing for grad school. Being a speech language pathologist is everything I thought it would be.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about your work?

A: I love watching clients achieve goals and grow more confident. There's nothing better than working on a skill for a few weeks with a child and then watching the joy that unfolds when they show their family what they can do now.

Fun facts:

Favorite TV/Netflix/Hulu Series: I love Ted Lasso and have watched every episode at least 4 times. I cannot wait for season 4 to come out!

When our kids are upset, it can be hard to know what to say in the moment. Sometimes the words we use—like “calm down” or “you’re fine”—are meant to help, but they can make children feel like their feelings don’t matter. The good news is, with just a few small shifts in language, we can comfort, support, and guide them through tough moments. The chart below shares simple, caring alternatives you can try at home to help your child feel understood, safe, and ready to move forward.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to shine a light on hope, connection, and the importance of reaching out for support. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death and affects individuals, families, and communities in profound ways. Yet many who struggle continue to do so in silence.

At our office, we believe in reducing stigma, fostering resilience, and reminding everyone that help is always within reach. Whether it’s learning the warning signs, encouraging open conversations, or simply checking in on a loved one, each of us has a role to play.

This month, let’s join together to strengthen our understanding, support one another, and continue building a compassionate community where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength.

These ricotta dumplings are everything comfort food should be—pillowy soft inside, lightly crisp outside, and finished in sage-infused brown butter that adds a nutty richness. While gnocchi are often made with potatoes, this lighter version from chef and TV personality Geoffrey Zakarian uses ricotta cheese for a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels just right for the season.