Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika (Shumock) Espana
Hi Erika, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started Mastering Milestones 5 years ago with the goal of being able to provid a higher level of care to my patients & families. We started with just one therapist (me!) and 100% mobile, with treatment sessions being performed solely in the child’s natural environments. We have since opened our first clinic in January 2023 and have grown a into a team of wonderful therapists so we can continue to offer clinic, in-home, and virtual consultations. Our team of therapists is unique in that we specialize in helping babies Master their Milestones from Breastfeeding through Walking & Beyond!
It wasn’t until after having my first daughter 2 years ago that I experienced first hand how tension, tone, torticollis, & the birth process itself can impact all areas of development – including breastfeeding, posture, movement, airway, craniofacial development – just to name a few. I have since dedicated my career to understanding infant development from a more holistic approach. I have nearly 8 years of experience working as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (exclusively in the pediatric field), I have training in advanced manual therapy bodywork techniques including craniosacral fascial therapy, as well as 95 hours of additional lactation training.
Our team of Therapists work very closely with local IBCLC’s to provide a collaborative approach to improving breastfeeding outcomes for infants with Musculoskeletal disorders.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting Mastering Milestones has been the most satisfying & rewarding professional experience, but it certainly comes with its challenges! The constant stress of managing operations, financial risks, uncertainty, & potential for burnout are just a few of the common challenges of business ownership. However, I’ve learned through the years how to navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and to be resilient in the face of setbacks. Finding balance in my professional and personal life, surrounding myself with like-minded people, and remembering the positive impact that we’re creating on our community helps me to keep going!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We are a team of Pediatric Therapists specialized in helping babies Master their Milestones from Breastfeeding through Walking & Beyond! We specialize in early identification & treatment of torticollis & craniofacial asymmetries, breastfeeding challenges related to musculoskeletal challenges, and Movement & Milestone delays.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Our goal is provide the highest level of care to our patients, which often includes the mother-baby dyad (& not just the baby). For this reason, we love to connect, collaborate & refer to other local businesses working in the perinatal space so Moms & Babies can get the well-rounded support that they deserve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.masteringmilestones.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masteringmilestones
