Beacon Therapies

04/30/2026

As Occupational Therapy Month comes to an end, we'd love for you to meet Misha LaVanway, COTAL, CTSS. Misha is the Program Manager and COTA at The Beacon Center in Waters!

Misha LaVanway is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant with over a decades experience working with individuals with Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) in the rehabilitation industry. Passionate about promoting holistic wellness and independence, Misha focuses on community reintegration and leisure participation to increase the quality of life for her clients. Fueled by her belief in the transformative impact of empowering individuals to maintain their abilities, Misha is committed to promoting habits that contribute to an increased quality of life.

Thank you, Misha, for all the hats you wear and all the stellar care you bring to your clients! We appreciate you!

04/23/2026

Occupational Therapy Month is still in full swing and this week we'd love to introduce Kyle Medearis, MS OTR/L, CBIS, CCM. Kyle is the Director of Programs and Strategic Initiatives for Beacon Therapies and an OT at our Traverse City and Waters location!

"I am an enthusiastic, compassionate, energetic, and team-oriented Occupational Therapist and Case Manager. I have experience with orthopedic conditions, neurological conditions, manual therapy, advanced functional electrical stimulation, client-centered therapy, psychosocial issues, and have achieved the ability to take on multiple responsibilities ensuring that a client receives the best rehabilitation experience and outcomes possible. I look forward to my career each day to spread positivity and optimism, while challenging myself to grow both personally and professionally, for the benefit of all I serve."

Thanks for being such a valuable part of the team, Kyle!

04/20/2026

Currently burning… a 6-piece coaster set inspired by the beauty of Michigan ✋🏼🎣🐻🌉

You're not going to want to miss this one!

Available soon at our IDEAS Gift Shop. Be sure to stop by The Beacon Center in Waters to see what else our participants have been creating!!

04/17/2026

This week we're highlighting Megan Hamelin MS OTRL, HPCS, CTRI, the OT at our Traverse City location!

"In celebration of Occupational Therapy Month, I’m excited to share a bit about my journey and what drives my work.

I earned my Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Western Michigan University in 2004, after completing a Bachelor’s in Movement Science and Psychology from the University of Michigan. In 2025, I also completed my K–6 teaching certificate to further support children’s growth and development.

I’m certified in Sensory Integration and Praxis Testing, Myofascial Release, a certified Hippotherapy Clinical Specialist (using equine movement in therapy). With a background in exercise science and neurodevelopment I love using exercise and movement alongside regulation and cognitive therapies. I’m passionate about helping individuals grow in confidence and become the most authentic version of themselves through meaningful, engaging experiences.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with kids and family, hiking, gardening, baking and riding horses—activities that continue to inspire both my life and my approach to therapy.

Grateful to be part of a profession that makes such a meaningful impact every day."

& we're grateful for you, Megan!
💙

04/10/2026

2024 vs today

The same four walls, but with a bigger impact.

Stop by today to see and shop the incredible products our participants pour their heart and soul into everyday 💙

04/09/2026

04/09/2026

Did you know April is Occupational Therapy Month? Occupational therapists can help people with brain injury re-engage with meaningful activities that can be challenging post-injury, from support with things like bathing, dressing, and eating, to helping individuals re-engage with old hobbies or exploring new work or educational opportunities. Read more about how occupational therapists can help support brain injury recovery: https://bit.ly/3JEvFq8

04/07/2026

April is OT month, and we're excited to highlight the people behind the care here at Beacon Therapies!

First up, meet Julie Fowler, COTAL, the COTA at our Traverse City location.

Julie graduated from Macomb Community College with her associate’s degree in 2013. She brings over 12 years of experience in home care, along with a background in acute care and skilled nursing settings.

Julie is also a certified Senior Personal Trainer and Wellness Coach, allowing her to take a well-rounded, holistic approach to helping individuals improve their strength, independence, and overall well-being.

Her diverse experience and passion for wellness make her an incredible asset to our team and the patients we serve.

Thank you for all you do, Julie!
💙

04/01/2026

April is Occupational Therapy month!

Meet our therapy team 💙

A mix of different personalities, strengths, and approaches who are all working towards the same goal: helping people live as independently and meaningfully as possible.

As the month moves forward, we'll be introducing each therapist so you can get to know the people behind the care.

Stay tuned!

03/28/2026

Stop by CDs Craft Show until 4pm today at the Ramada Grayling Hotel and Conference Center and check out some amazing work from a couple of our participants!

They’ve put so much creativity and effort into preparing for today and it shows. Come take a look in person, support their work, and show them some love!! 💙

03/24/2026

Another sweet day of productivity here at the Beacon Center! 😋

Our participants whipped up delicious brownies, painted colorful creations, drew from their imaginations, and played games that kept the laughs coming. With creativity and chocolate in the air, the joy of trying something new is always in motion! 🎨🍫🎲

10/17/2025

Join Our Team at Beacon Therapies!!

We're Hiring Immediately - Multiple Positions Available!

Beacon Therapies is seeking passionate, dedicated professionals to join our growing team based in Waters/Ga***rd and Traverse City, MI and serving most of lower Northern Michigan. If you're ready to make a meaningful difference in people's lives, we want to hear from you!

Open Positions:

Licensed Mental Health Therapist/could work with students in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Compensation based on experience and credentials.

Life Skills Trainer (4 Positions Available)
Starting Pay: $20/hour
Join our team as a Life Skills Trainer and help individuals develop the practical skills they need to succeed in daily life and employment. This rewarding role involves working one-on-one with clients to build independence and confidence.

Speech Therapist
Compensation based on experience and credentials.
We're seeking a skilled Speech-Language Pathologist to provide assessment and treatment services. Experience working with traumatic brain injury a plus.

What We Offer
• Immediate Start Date - Begin making an impact right away
• Two Locations - Waters and Traverse City, MI
• Supportive Team Environment - Work alongside dedicated professionals
• Meaningful Work - Help clients achieve their goals and improve their quality of life
• Competitive Salaries
• Flexible Work Schedules
• Room for growth for aspiring therapists and company-paid training for everyone
• Fun Work Environment - we love what we do and it shows! And supporting life and daily living skills means you might get paid to go to lunch, social events, shopping, fun field trips, and more!

Requirements for All Positions
✓ Reliable vehicle - Travel between office locations and community settings
✓ Valid driver's license and auto insurance
✓ Ability to pass background check and drug test
✓ Strong organizational and time management skills

Ready to Apply?
Contact us today to learn more about these opportunities!

Phone: (231) 499 8066
Email: beacontherapies@outlook.com

(Map below is a rough estimate of area coverage of client based locations)