Timeline
Our Origination
The Developmental Therapy Center has a rich history of serving the community, beginning with our very first program in 1951.
We Adopted a New Name
In recognition of our expanded range of services and commitment to providing comprehensive care for individuals with various developmental challenges, the Cerebral Palsy Clinic made a significant decision to change their name to the Developmental Therapy Center.
New Highlawn Therapy Wing
Unfortunately, due to the deterioration of the physical space that housed the Developmental Therapy Center next to Highlawn Elementary School, the decision was made to demolish the facility.
Move to the Morris Building
Shortly after our time at Highlawn Elementary School, our organization began providing vital therapy services from the third floor of the Morris building in downtown Huntington.
The Fire
In July of 2014, a devastating fire swept through our facility, causing extensive damage and resulting in the loss of not only valuable office space and supplies, but also our critical therapeutic equipment.
Temporary Home
Developmental Therapy Center learned to adapt in our time at the Cabell Gateway building after the fire that destroyed our previous facility.
Our New Home
Despite the setback caused by the fire, we persevered and worked tirelessly to rebuild and find a new home that would better serve our patients.
1951 – Our Origination
The Developmental Therapy Center has a rich history of serving the community, beginning with our very first program in 1951. This groundbreaking initiative was made possible thanks to the selfless donation of time by experienced and registered therapists and psychologists, who were committed to helping children in need. With limited resources, they provided half-day sessions each week, accommodating up to six to eight children at the Oley School. As enrollment increased, the Clinic was given larger quarters in Simms School, and therapy was offered on a five-day-a-week basis. In time, the Cerebral Palsy Clinic was given their own permanent residence beside Highlawn Elementary School in Huntington, WV. This move was a pivotal step towards providing comprehensive care and support for those with disabilities across the Tri-State area. With a focus on meeting the unique needs of children and adults living with cerebral palsy, the clinic was poised to set the standard for quality care and community outreach in the region.
1986 – We Adopted a New Name
In recognition of our expanded range of services and commitment to providing comprehensive care for individuals with various developmental challenges, the Cerebral Palsy Clinic made a significant decision to change their name to the Developmental Therapy Center. This change was aimed at helping potential new patients understand that we offer a broad spectrum of therapies and treatments beyond just cerebral palsy related services. This important decision has allowed us to better serve our community by more accurately conveying the full extent of our capabilities and expertise.
1990– New Highlawn Therapy Wing
Unfortunately, due to the deterioration of the physical space that housed the Developmental Therapy Center next to Highlawn Elementary School, the decision was made to demolish the facility. Unfortunately, this resulted in our patients and staff being left without a proper facility to receive and provide care. Thanks to the unwavering support of the Cabell County Board of Education, a new therapy wing was funded and constructed at the school to accommodate the needs of the community.
1996 – Move to the Morris Building
Shortly after our time at Highlawn Elementary School, our organization began providing vital therapy services from the third floor of the Morris building in downtown Huntington. This location proved to be instrumental in the success and growth of DTC, as it allowed the center to attract and maintain a loyal and committed patient base.
July 2014 – The Fire
In July of 2014, a devastating fire swept through our facility, causing extensive damage and resulting in the loss of not only valuable office space and supplies, but also our critical therapeutic equipment. This catastrophic event was a significant setback for our organization but through determination and the unwavering support of our community, we were able to rebuild and continue providing vital therapy services to those in need.
August 2014 – Temporary Home
Developmental Therapy Center learned to adapt in our time at the Cabell Gateway building after the fire that destroyed our previous facility. During those two years, our team of professionals provided exceptional care and services to their patients while navigating the challenges of being in a temporary space. While at our temporary home, the former Ronk’s Uniform Center was renovated to provide a more welcoming and comfortable environment for the families and children that DTC serves. The anticipated move was met with enthusiasm and appreciation by all involved.
August 2016 – Our New Home
Despite the setback caused by the fire, we persevered and worked tirelessly to rebuild and find a new home that would better serve our patients. After careful consideration and planning, we purchased the former Ronk’s Uniform Center at 803 7th Avenue in Huntington. This new facility is not only more accessible, but also offers ample space for us to continue providing the specialized care our patients require. We are committed to fulfilling our mission and improving the lives of those we serve, and we believe this new location will enable us to do so even more effectively than before. We also understand that staying at the forefront of our field requires constant learning and adaptation, and we are dedicated to remaining proactive in our approach to meeting the evolving needs of our patients. This includes regular upgrades to our technology and a rigorous focus on evidence-based practices so that we can consistently provide the highest quality developmental therapy services available. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in everything we do, and we look forward to continuing to raise the bar for developmental therapy care.