Sisu Therapies was founded by married couple Laura Simenson, DPT, and Joe Schroeder, DPT in January 2020. For 15 years, the couple had a long-standing goal of starting a therapy and wellness practice together that offers a dynamic and holistic pathway leading to healthier lifestyles. When the space at 1230 W. Ash Street became available in December 2019, it finally seemed that all the pieces were starting to fall into place.
Working with East CO
Although Joe and Laura have over 30+ years of clinical and managerial experience in various therapy departments, they knew they were going to need some additional help to get their business up and running. They had started working with representatives from Larimer and Weld County SBDCs. Ultimately, because their business would be based out of Windsor (Weld County location), they connected with Kyla Benson, Associate Director and Consultant with the East Colorado SBDC. Working with Kyla has been one of the best connections that the owners of Sisu Therapies have made. Kyla has been a wealth of information from formulating a solid business plan, to financial and legal contacts, to help in promoting their business. Her experience, knowledge, and passion to help small businesses thrive is indomitable. The relationship started in 2019 and they still know that she is there for them when they may need additional advice regarding their business.
Opening amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
Although Sisu Therapies was formed in June 2019, it did not officially open its doors to the public until April 27th, 2020. Opening a small business certainly has its challenges on a normal basis, and to do so during a worldwide pandemic was the softest and slowest start that a business could ever go through. The challenges were insurmountable. Commercial insurance credentialing was delayed between 6-13 months, equipment and office furniture were delayed, and hygiene supplies were back-ordered or out of stock. Potential clients concerned (rightfully so) about their well-being or those they care for, were avoiding close contact with others. It was a recipe for a disastrous outcome for any new small business starting out.
Celebrating a Year in Business
Approaching its one-year anniversary, Sisu Therapies continues to push forward.
Starting out with two Physical Therapists and a front desk coordinator, they’ve added 6 employees to their team over the past year. This included two of the most experienced therapists in the Greeley-Windsor-Fort Collins area: a full-time Certified Hand and Shoulder Specialist and a Medical Massage Therapist. To strengthen the team further, four Wellness Specialists with advanced training in working with individuals of all ages provide strength, conditioning, and nutrition services to clients. Sisu Therapies has also teamed up with a local Ambulatory Surgical Center to provide post-acute therapy care to the patients during their stay. Lastly, the physical therapy-focused practice aims to give back to the community and has served in events and programs around the communities to achieve this goal including volunteering at the Weld County Food Bank, adopting a trail with Windsor Parks and Recreation, and sponsoring a local running race.
Sisu Therapies is growing and adapting every week to meet the demands of the communities. The clientele is building as individuals learn about the therapy, wellness services, and committed care that is offered. As Windsor and the surrounding areas continue to expand, Sisu Therapies will be ready to support Physical Therapy and Wellness needs. SISU!
