The PULSE JANUARY 2026
Highlights from the EVPS
Address One Word... Year 4 Some of you may recall I wrote about the one-word book this past June. I was on year three of diving into this concept along with many of our Admin Team. As a quick reminder, the book One Word That Will Change Your Life, is about a 90-minute read.
As I considered my commitment to my previous words, I had to admit that over any given twelve-month period I was able to make improvements on being engaged, having a sense of gratitude and working hard to be present. As I should have expected, the progress I made every year was directly correlated with the effort The basic premise from authors Jimmy Page, Dan I made to keep my word front and center. Paying closer Britton, and Jon Gordon is that you choose your “one attention led to more of the behaviors I was seeking. word” for the year and by committing to that word, you are starting a transformational journey. Candidly, my ability to keep my word front of mind is challenging. Old habits are hard to break, patterns of If you haven’t read the book, it may be worth your time behavior are set over years, and life has a way of and effort. You can also check out page 18 of the PULSE inserting itself in ways that we can’t anticipate. that explains the basic steps of the process. As I let “now” slip away, I found myself circling to My previous three words were: “intentional”. The most comfortable description for me Engaged (2023) is that being intentional means: Gratitude (2024) Present (2025) “to act with purpose, making deliberate As I was searching myself for my 2026 word, I choices that align with your values and repeatedly came across a central Buddhist teaching goals, rather than just letting things (I am not Buddhist) that states, “Do not dwell in the happen by accident or autopilot.” past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment”. The teaching is to make us My goal is to approach 2026 with more intention in my aware that the past is gone, the future isn’t here, work, in my relationships, in my family, and in life. I am a leaving us this single moment for life. work in progress!
ADMIN HOLIDAY VIDEO
I was drawn to the concept and jumped to the word Intentional. “now”. One of the definitions, “at this very instant”, seemed to dive headfirst into Buddha’s lesson. As I It feels like the right fit for me in 2026. I hope all of you rolled “now” around in my head and my life, I have a great 2026! Thanks for all you bring to PTSMC! concluded that I wasn’t in a place where I could fully commit to it. It felt too immediate almost rushed.
Announcements
Open Enrollment for benefits is around the corner March 1, 2026 All eligible employees, be on the lookout on ADP home screen for information regarding open enrollment.
IN THIS ISSUE Employee Spotlight pg 6 Sam Zhu, New Haven PT
We have scheduled the following mandatory meetings. Please see email from Nicole Dorosh to get your meeting scheduled by Friday, January 16
Main Feature pg 7-8 Highlights from the EVPS
Wednesday, January 28 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Thursday, January 29 9:00 am – 10:00 am Friday, January 30 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Monday, February 2 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Tuesday, February 3 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Highlights & Happenings pg 9-15
Techy Tips pg 16 Barracuda Inbox
Financial Resilience & Longevity: 4 “Lunch & Learn” Sessions
HR Buzz pg 17 2026 Updates
Gain valuable financial insights and tips based on your generation, from our advisors at Connecticut Wealth Management, to empower your personal and professional financial decisions. Each of the 4 sessions will be designed with content specific to a generation. Attendance welcome to any and all sessions.
Lifebeat pg 18 One Word That Will Change Your Life
February dates to be announced.
Wrapping Up Your Clinic’s Holiday Drive? Email Mallory (Mason) Izmirlian where your clinic donated to, any photos you took, and an estimate of how many items were donated, so we can share in the next PULSE. Thank you!
Clinicians Corner pg 19-20 Balance, Safety, and Independence After Discharge
BRAGS! pg 21
2
Welcome
ptsmc employees
Parker Ayoub Newtown PT Aide
Sara Blakely Monroe PT Aide
Ashley Bunnell Guilford PSC
John Coleda Groton PTA
Janice DeMayo Monroe PSC
Kathy DiMarco Newtown PT
Patti DiNicola Newtown PSC
Tom DiNicola Newtown PTA
Josh Dobratz Newtown PT
Evan Franchere Manchester PT Aide
ome Back! Welc
Mark Gerace Newtown PT
Channing Harwood Wallingford PT
Lauren Hathaway Monroe PTA
Anja Kearney Windsor PT Aide
Isabella Martelli Monroe PT Aide
Melanie Paquette Easthampton, MA, PSC
Tiffany Parkin Newtown PSA
Bryce Sweetapple Guilford PT Aide
Raymond Weitekamp Newtown & Monroe Partner
Rita Willumsen Monroe PT
Another welcome to the Monroe and Newtown teams who joined PTSMC in December! Stars are referred by current employees!
4
Promotions!
Promotions!
Congratulations to Jen Ashman on her promotion to Simsbury Assistant Director!
Congratulations to Justin Marceau on his promotion to Wallingford CoAssistant Director!
Congratulations to Elena Kelleher on her promotion to Wallingford CoAssistant Director!
Congratulations to Emma Zaccagnini on her promotion to Naugatuck Patient Care Coordinator!
Learn more about the Assistant Directors in email announcements from Alan Balavender.
Not Pictured New Employees
January Anniversaries
Giana Dallaste, Plainville PT Aide Billy Ehlers, Guilford PT Aide Heather Gaudet, Hamden PT Aide Michelle Mordukhaev, Newtown PT Aide Nylah Wells, Windsor PT Aide Therese Zalenski, Monroe PT Aide
Years
Stef Cagno Katy Sullivan
Charlotte Head Kaitlyn Tunney Skylar Fox Giselle Banhon Jessica Ryan Year Carter Brandel Chris Chimento Lakisha McCall Ashley Stempek Noah Triumph Kaytla Norrid Devin Kelly Emma Grady Kali Woodhall Samantha Apgar
Accountant Admin Asst. Director Orange PT Aide PCC PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide PT Aide HR AUTH PT Aide PT Aide PSC PT PT Aide PSC PT Aide
New London Westbrook Avon Glastonbury New Milford New Milford Admin Admin Wallingford Wethersfield Windsor Avon Branford New London Fairfield
Promotion!
Promotion!
Congratulations to Carlos Arteta on his promotion to Patient Services Coordinator in Glastonbury! In Spring 2025, Carlos was promoted from PT Aide to PCC. He was drawn to the front desk because he loves being a part of a patient’s first interaction with PTSMC and takes pride in creating a positive and patient-centered care experience. Carlos’ experiences as PT Aide and PCC, have given him a deep understanding of the full patient experience and allowed him to develop strong relationships over the last two years. He credits his Glastonbury colleagues for their support along the way. He is continuously inspired by the team and their continuous efforts to build meaningful connections.
Brian Greer, Glastonbury Partner & Director, shared, “Transitioning Carlos into the PSC role was an easy decision. He has been a key part of our growth over the last few years, and he began making strong connections with patients from his earliest days as a PT Aide. It only made sense to make him a first impression upon walking in the door, as he completes a strong PSC team alongside Camille Mogelnicki.” We’re excited for Carlos to bring his infectious smile and energy to the front desk in Glastonbury!
New Role!
Chloe Pearce has officially transferred to the Billing team as Billing Representative. She started her PTSMC journey as a PSC in Groton New Role! from 2018 to 2021, where she learned the ins and outs of front desk operations and developed a people-first way of working that still shows up in everything she does. In 2023, after a brief hiatus from PTSMC, Chloe joined the Authorization team. She became a go-to teammate known for her attention to detail and willingness to jump in and help when things got busy. Chloe was a strong support to Christine Raffone, Sr. Authorization Coordinator, who shared, "She was always someone I could count on, give projects to and bounce ideas off of. She assisted with training new staff and was essential to the evolution of this department. Chloe is a team player with a great mind and ambition with a kind soul. She will be amazing in her new endeavor.” Chloe recently took on the role as Acquisition Liaison in the Monroe and Newtown acquisition. She was on site in the clinics ensuring the new teams could transition as seamlessly as possible. With her PTSMC background, affinity for helping people and strong understanding of how departments and clinics connect, Jenn Detlefsen, Director of Billing, shared, “Chloe’s move into the Billing department came at the perfect time. She quickly got up to speed, and her extensive knowledge and calm, steady approach makes her highly effective in this new position. She has become a valuable contributor to our team’s success!”
Emp
loyee
6
u h Z SPOT LIGHT S a m Sa
m
Zh
u
Sam Zhu joined PTSMC in 2022, stepping into his first PT role after graduating from Quinnipiac University. He started out in the Groton clinic, where he built up confidence and refined his skills. In 2023, the opportunity to transfer to the New Haven clinic presented itself. Not far from his home in Milford, Sam’s strong connections to the New Haven area since college and being a self-described “city person”, he transferred. He enjoys being surrounded by people, energy, vibrant neighborhoods, restaurants and a constant sense of movement. Working in New Haven has been especially meaningful for Sam. The clinic serves a diverse patient population, and as a bilingual clinician, he can connect with Chinese-speaking patients in a way that builds trust and comfort. Growing up in China, Sam moved to the U.S. at 15 to attend high school. One of his priorities was to find a career that would allow him to stay in the U.S., receive a strong education, and build a stable future. After conversation with his family, PT stood out as a career that combined his love for sports, hands-on skill, and the need for healthcare professionals. As he progressed through his education, he discovered that what he enjoyed most was connecting with people, and that continues to make his work fulfilling. He is proud of his heritage and values how it allows him to better serve the community. His work has shifted perspectives, both for patients and within his own family. In traditional Chinese culture, injury is often met with rest and avoidance. Sam has been able to help patients and loved ones understand the importance of movement and active rehabilitation. One proud moment was helping his father manage a knee injury remotely, offering guidance rooted in evidence-based care while respectfully bridging cultural beliefs. Outside of the clinic, Sam loves sports and travel. Soccer has always been his favorite. He played in high school and was an assistant coach for the QU men’s team while in college. He also loves the global reach of soccer and its ability to connect people across cultures. Today, he enjoys playing tennis, hitting the courts with his girlfriend, a former college athlete who now coaches him! He also loves to travel. Visiting Alaska is high on his list next, and a trip to South America is a longterm goal to experience new cultures. Sam stays closely connected to NYC, where he has family and friends. Living two minutes from the train station, he visits them each month to enjoy great food, shows, and quality time. When asked why he chose PTSMC, Sam recalled a 25-minute conversation with Alan Balavender at a job fair that left a lasting impression. Alan’s insight into PTSMC’s values made Sam feel truly welcome. He now experiences daily the culture and genuine care for people that Alan and he discussed!
Sam has taken up photography and has an Instagram to display his work!
Highlights from the EVPS
In May 2025, PTSMC employees participated in the Employee Value & Perception Study (EVPS), a survey designed to better understand how employees value employer-provided benefits. Benefits are a wide net to cast. The EVPS allowed us to narrow in on what is most valued and meaningful for PTSMC employees across life and career stages, in hopes to find some guiding themes. Our climate survey from previous years did not dive deep into benefits, so this was a new way to approach employee feedback for everyone. The results were shared with Partners and Directors at the October Management meeting. The group was able to discuss the aggregated values of our people, the breakdown of values across stages (which we are all extremely similar), and the areas people are most concerned about in their lives. We wish we could support every need of our employees. We also have to remain fiscally responsible as a company. The results of this survey are important to showcase what makes the most impact for the most people. It was clear from the results that there are several areas where PTSMC does provide valued benefits. It was also clear, there is a need to improve the training and education on the benefit offerings. Finally, make benefits information easier to access enabling employees to get the most value from them.
Pain Points
Benefits That Matter Most
Medical Costs: Future medical expenses were the top area of concern as were high deductibles and lack of wellness incentives.
The EVPS identified five benefit areas, outside of medical coverage, that are most meaningful to PTSMC employees as a whole:
For the 2026 medical plan renewal, PTSMC & OneDigital, our benefits partner are exploring: Lower deductible options Possible copay-style plans Enhanced wellness perks Education to help employees maximize their plan and reduce out-of-pocket costs Student Loan Debt: Student loan debt remains a significant concern across all employees’ life and career stages. This remains an active area of focus, with more updates to come.
Paid Time Off (PTO) Retirement Savings Employer Retirement Contributions Flexible Schedules Continued Education Support & Reimbursement Good news; PTSMC already offers benefits in all five of these areas. The opportunity ahead includes making all benefits easier to understand- what is available, who is eligible, and how to maximize use. It may also include enhancing, changing or eliminating current benefit offerings to better target the options to what is most valuable.
8
Needs For All
Retirement savings, retirement plan contributions, and PTO were ranked as the top three needs for employees at every life and career stage. Retirement Benefits PTSMC has exceptionally high participation in our 401(k) plan, reflecting how meaningful retirement savings are to our employees. PTSMC is committed to continuing to offer a Safe Harbor Nona-Elective 401(k) plan where ALL eligible employees receive a 3% employer contribution regarless of their personal deferral election. Additionally, PTSMC will continue to offer education sessions on investing, 401(k) program benefits and resources. PTO The results highlighted the need for education around understanding Sick time vs. Vacation, Floating Holiday Time, and how paid time off balances appear in ADP. The goal is to provide clearer communication to help employees better understand—and fully use—the time they have earned. The PTSMC Benefits Hub One of the clearest themes from the EVPS was confusion about benefit details, what benefits are available and where to find information. To address this, PTSMC is developing a Benefits Hub—a one-stop resource for all things benefits. The hub is designed to “be there” when employees need it. It will include: Clear explanations of benefit programs Eligibility details Resources to help navigate life events and benefit decisions Truly understanding benefits is so important! PTSMC is committed to ongoing education and communication through: The HR Buzz PULSE article to share reminders and deeper dives into benefits and policies Lunch & Learn sessions to provide short, helpful overviews and questions on benefit topics. Schedules are busy and don’t always allow for live attendance, so flexibility and access remain a priority. All sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing. HR Road Trips to bring HR directly to employees, creating an easy, face-to-face opportunity to ask questions, talk through benefits, and address HR-related needs.
Happiness Factors
The EVPS also looked at factors that influence workplace happiness. One clearly stood out: Managers and supervisors are the #1 influence on employee happiness. PTSMC will continue to train current and future leaders and supervisors. This is accomplished at meetings for partners and directors, assistant directors, administrative leaders as well as the Leadership & Management Development Program and Administrative Leadership & Management Development Program for upcoming leaders. In 2026, a New Supervisor program will be implemented for employees entering people management roles for the first time.
Admin
Bristol
Avon
Glastonbury
Guilford
Hamden
CONTEST
Middletown
Manchester
New Haven New Milford
Lock Street
Norwich
10
Plainville
Orange
Shelton
Southbury
Simsbury
Waterbury
Watertown
WINNERS
West Hartford
Wethersfield
Fab 5 Great vibe - very professional but pleasant and fun; the therapists I have worked with, especially Devin (Kelly), are very knowledgeable and have directed my therapy in an effective, comfortable, yet sufficiently challenging way that seems to be working so far! – Avon It's like coming home from a hard day's work. You are greeted with a smile and your name. – Glastonbury The staff is great. They work around my schedule. The therapist is very clear to understand. A person answers when you call instead of a robot. Great, overall! –Hamden
Kasey Adinolfi was inducted into the Branford Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of her outstanding athletic career at Branford High School and beyond, including competing and coaching at the Division I level. She was proudly supported at the ceremony by her family, a special moment honoring both her achievements and the people who have cheered her on every step of the way.
Juliann (Chacko) is awesome. She is very knowledgeable, patient, and takes the time to explain in detail so I understand the tasks she is having me do. Everyone at PTSMC of Orange is always welcoming and a pleasure. Thank you!! – Orange All of the staff are very helpful, knowledgeable and sensitive to your individual needs. They are all wonderful to work with. – Southbury
SIPTA
GADUATES
Congrats to the following PT Aides who completed the Skills Introduction for PT Aides Program:
The 2025 ALMDP group met with guest speaker DEI Team Lead, Marilex Harwood. In attendance, left to right from the top: Stevie Fell, Marilex, Lori Lawson, Tracy Laramore, Christine Raffone, Donna Baribault, Sandy Wickman Mason, Janet Tarasuk
Alexa Ciccone, New Haven Ciara Collins, Wallingford Sammie Down, Simsbury Olivia Garrity, Fairfield Heather Gaudet, Hamden Michelle Mordukhaey, Newtown Ava Saraceno, Fairfield Emma Smith, Middletown Sammy White, Simsbury
12
Step It Up: #GetMoving Team Competition Results TOP 3 TEAMS & STEPS COUNTS 1.Plainville (500,767) 2.Southington (489,272) 3.Simsbury (356,355) Shout Out To The Top Individuals: 1. Reece Ketchum, Southington (677,154) 2. Pete Cambi, Southington (649,987) 3. Kendall Davis, Plainville (593,458) Total steps combine from all challengers was 39,934,091... Roughly 17,220 miles!
Clinic Anniversaries! Openings:
Acquisitions:
Watertown 2005 Newington 2016 New Milford 2017
Essex 2019 Danielson 2022 Putnam 2022
The 2026 ALMDP cohort had their first meeting- an introduction to PTSMC’s origin led by Alan Balavender. Pictured left to right: Emily Fillion, Chris Colley, Alan & Sandy Wickman Mason, Shelby Pocius, Marilex Harwood, Evelyn Villarreal Laclede, Aaron Kalish
Superstar Clinical Instructors PTSMC is proud to recognize CIs who have recently achieved milestones in the Student Program:
First Time CIs: Agata Sarna, Newington Jeff Panepento, New Milford
If you are interested in becoming a CI in 2026 reach out to Juliann Chacko.
Student Program Update CI’s with January Students Brendan Law, Southbury, will host Lettey Stocks from New York Medical College. Steven de Castro, Groton, will host Sophia Koveleskie from Olympic College.
Straight from our Students: When students wrap up and affiliation, they share the feedback on their experience, which is valuable for our CIs’ for growth and development. There are also some great amazing testimonials! In 2026, the Student Program will be highlighting quotes from our students to showcase our CIs and the value they bring to each affiliation!
“Amazing culture, and environment, great group of people who genuinely love what they do and care about their patients”
CLINICAL EXCELLENCE CONGRATS DOCS GRADS
Shout out to the most recent clinicians who graduated from the Development of Clinical Success program:
Ryan Nguyen, PT, DPT, CMTPT Bristol Physical Therapist
Noah Rattet, PTA, BS
Guilford Physical Therapist Assistant
Happenings! Amy Demers welcomed baby Felix Demers born on Dec 12.
Micaela Pina welcomed baby Ava Marie Pina born Nov 21.
Admin team members had a surprise baby shower for Christine Dolegala!
Simsbury and their community celebrated Eric Horne heading out to Easthampton MA to open the next PTSMC clinic!
14 12
Happenings! Jess Cherwin made beautiful cookies for patients and staff in Norwich
Guilford thew a celebration for Carol Pimenta in honor of her retirement!
New London had a holiday celebration at Top Golf!
Hamden collected for their local Hamden Kids Holiday Toy Drive.
The YHP team got together for an end of dinner!
Scott Cameron & Westbrook supported the Clinton Social Services giving tree, gifting toys to kids from newborn to 17 years old. They collected 37 “tags”!
Admin....
Bear from Middletown PD, visited staff to pick up 74 toys from their drive!
Admin teams collected over 400 items (food, toiletries, & clothing) this year!
Soutington collected 282 items, an increase from 152 last year! The food will be donated to Bread for Life in Southington.
Cindy Mazzarella & Watertown collected 68 toys and 73 food items in their drives!
Guilford collected over 1000 books in their book drive! A PTSMC holiday drive RECORD collection!
16
Barracuda Inbox Y H Barracuda helps protect our email system. It is an extremely important layer of PTSMC’s TEC cyber security. From time to time it may hold legitimate emails such as company S updates, system notifications, or messages from outside partners before they reach your TIP
inbox. Taking a few minutes to review your Barracuda inbox can help ensure you don’t miss anything important while keeping your email inbox safe and clutter-free.
How to Check Your Barracuda Inbox Step 1: Navigate to Barracuda Go to: https://us.ess.barracudanetworks.com/ Bookmarking or favorite this page for easy access.
📌
Step 2: Log in with your PTSMC email Enter your same PTSMC email address and email password. If you are already logged into Outlook in your browser, you should be logged in automatically.
Step 3: Review quarantined emails You’ll see a list of emails Barracuda has quarantined (held) on your behalf. The view defaults to the last 2 days. Adjust the date range to see more.
If the emails appear to be junk, no action is needed — Barracuda has already taken care of them. If you see an email you should have received, check the box next to the subject. Action options will appear at the top. Select Deliver to send the email to your Outlook inbox.
Step 4: Mark trusted senders as safe (optional) If the email is from a sender you regularly need to hear from, you’ll be given the option to mark the sender as safe so their future emails will go directly to your inbox. Building a quick Barracuda review into your routine (even once a week) can help ensure important PTSMC communications are never missed, maintain cyber security practices, and of course, enjoy a cleaner inbox.
k c i u Q Tip
Protection = less junk = less inbox noise. Some emails truly belong in quarantine, and that’s a good thing! Let Barracuda do its job to keep the PTSMC email environment protected, and only receive messages you actually need.
HR BUZZ
2026 Updates
Explore Total Rewards in ADP ADP provides a comprehensive summary of your Total Rewards. This feature helps employees understand their complete compensation package, which goes beyond what is reflected on paychecks. It includes PTSMC’s contributions toward your overall compensation. The Total Rewards in ADP include: Salary
Employer and employee contributions to selected benefits
Bonuses Employer contributions to federal and state unemployment, Social Security, and Medicare To view your Total Rewards in ADP, navigate to the Myself tab > Pay > Total Rewards. Select the desired year to view. A summary and pie chart will be displayed. You can also download the statement.
Holiday Time Off Policy (Calendar Year, Jan - Dec 2026) Full Time (FT)
56 hours (48 holiday and 8 float)
Part Time 30 (PT 30)
42 hours (36 holiday and 6 float)
Part Time 20 (PT 20)
28 hours (24 holiday and 4 float)
Holiday hours will continue to only be used on the actual holiday. Float hours must be used during the calendar year, between Jan - Dec.
💵 Three Payroll Months:
🚗 Mileage Rate
2026 PTSMC Holiday Schedule
🎆 New Year’s Day – Thu, Jan 1 🇺🇸 Memorial Day – Mon, May 25 🎇 Independence Day (Observed) – Fri, July 3 👷 Labor Day – Mon, Sept 7 🦃 Thanksgiving – Thu, Nov 26 🎄 Christmas – Fri, Dec 25 📄 2025 W2's
April & October
Starting Jan 1, 2026, IRS standard
The extra payrolls will not include
mileage rate increases from 70 to
2026 (applies to all employees).
medical, dental, vision, or
72.50 cents per mile.
Paper copies mailed to home address
Colonial deductions.
Updated reimbursement forms
listed in ADP by Jan 31, 2026 (excludes
available in ADP by Jan 10, 2026.
employees who opted for paperless).
💳 Health Savings Account (HSA) Participants: Contribution Limits for 2026
Digital copies available in ADP by Jan 30,
Individual: $4,400 (up from $4,300) & Family: $8,750 (up from $8,550) Catch-up Contributions: If you’re age 55 or older (or turn 55 in 2026), you’re eligible for an additional $1,000 in catch-up contributions. This means you can contribute the maximum of individual or family plus the catch-up amount. Total limits including the catch-up are $5,400 for individual and $9,750 for family. 2026 401(k) Contribution Limits, Catch-Up, “Super Catch-Up” & New Secure 2.0 Mandate: Employee elective deferral limit has increased to $24,500 (up from $23,500 in 2025). If you're age 50- 59 you're eligible for an additional $8,000 in catch-up contributions for a total deferral of $32,500. You can contribute the maximum of $24,500 plus the catch-up amount of $8000, in 2026. If you’re between ages 60- 63 you’re eligible to contribute up to $11,250 in catch-up contribution for a total deferral of $35,750. You can contribute the maximum of $24,500 plus the catch-up amount of $11,250, in 2026. If you're age 64 or older, you're eligible for an additional $8,000 in catch-up contributions for a total deferral of $32,500. You can contribute the maximum of $24,500 plus the catch-up amount of $8000, in 2026. NEW SECURE 2.0 Roth catch-up mandate for certain Highly-Paid Individuals (HPIs): Anyone that earns over $150,000 in FICA (i.e. Social Security, W2 Box 3) wages in 2025 are considered a HPI for 2026. Starting in 2026, any catch-up contributions for HPIs MUST be treated as Roth contributions. Employees who are NOT HPIs can continue to choose pretax or Roth catch-up contributions and are unaffected by this new rule. Manage your contributions changes in your John Hancock account: https://myplan.johnhancock.com/login
Lifebeat: One Word That Will Change Your Life
18
In a world filled with constant goals, resolutions, and to-do lists, One Word That Will Change Your Life by Jon Gordon, Dan Britton, and Jimmy Page presents a simple yet powerful approach: instead of focusing on many changes, focus on one word that can guide you in the year.
Three Steps to your One Word: The book outlines three powerful steps to choosing and living by your One Word:
1.Prepare 1. Prepare your heart
This first step is about slowing down and reflecting. Preparing your heart means taking an honest look at where you are and where you want to grow. It invites selfawareness by identifying what feels missing, what needs strengthening, or what deserves more attention in your life. This reflection sets the foundation for meaningful change.
2.Discover 2. Discover your word
The biggest takeaway from One Word That Will Change Your Life is this: meaningful change doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, one clear word lived intentionally can spark a lasting transformation.
What will your One Word be?
empathy strength purpose
PERSEVERANCE resilience
LOVE
inspire motivation
Living your word means putting it into practice every day through small, intentional actions. In the workplace, this might look like communicating with intention, approaching tasks with focus, or showing empathy toward colleagues. On a personal level, it can influence how you manage your time, care for yourself, and pursue personal growth. Over time, these choices shape habits, relationships, and perspectives.
trust HOPE pray
PATIENCE
3.Live 3. Live your word
COURAGE risk
OPTIMISM
Your One Word should represent the person you want to become or the mindset you want to carry with you. It’s not about perfection, but direction. At work, it can guide how you lead, collaborate, and respond to challenges. Whether it’s patience, focus, confidence, or balance, your word acts as a compass as it helps guide your decisions, attitudes, and responses across all areas of life.
growth MINDFULNESS
Clinicians Corner
Balance, Safety, and Independence After Discharge Taylor Hyde PT, DPT Naugatuck Physical Therapist Many patients go through a similar journey from inpatient rehab, to home care, to outpatient physical therapy. After a patient has successfully completed their course of outpatient therapy and demonstrated improved function, safety, and independence consistent with discharge goals, a common question often emerges: “How am I going to do this by myself?” The journey after rehabilitation is a critical time where balance, safety, and confidence become the foundation for longterm success. Physical therapists play a vital role in guiding patients through a comprehensive program that lays the foundations for improvements in all of these areas. Oftentimes, confidence is the most lacking by the time discharge rolls around, usually due to continued fear of falling, poor self efficacy, and the lack of a social/support network. An easy way to further build confidence and bridge the gap between formal outpatient therapy and independent exercise routines is through education on the various programs available throughout the state of Connecticut that will assist patients on their continual journey to maintain their gains in balance, safety, and confidence. Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance (TJQMBB) TJQMBB is an evidence-based balance and falls prevention training program for community dwelling adults and people with a history of falls, balance disorders, lower extremity muscle weakness, or those with difficulty walking. Each class is held for 60 minutes, 2 times per week for 24 weeks. Key components of the program target improving postural stability and awareness, mindful control of body positioning, eye-head coordination, range of motion around the ankle and hip, and lower extremity muscle strength. Tai Chi practice offers a safe exercise option for older adults in order to enhance sensorimotor control with improvements in strength, tactile sensation, kinesthesia, and static postural control. When compared to multimodal exercise and stretching, participants demonstrated up to 58% fewer falls over 6 months after successful completion of Tai Ji Quan intervention. A Matter of Balance This evidence based program includes eight two-hour classes aimed to reduce the fear of falling in older adults. The program consists of group discussions, problem solving strategies, home safety evaluation, learning how to get up and down safely, and developing positive strategies for change. Studies have supported the efficacy of this program in decreasing fear-related activity avoidance and supports more independent, active living among the older adults who participated in the program.
20
SilverSneakers SilverSneakers is a fitness and wellness program designed for adults 65 years and older. It provides access to a large network of local gyms and community exercise classes for those enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplemental Plan with SilverSneaker benefits. Live online fitness classes are also available for adults of all fitness levels and abilities. Eligibility and all local participating facilities can be found on their website at SilverSneakers.com. Home kits are available for eligible members which can include a Pedometer, resistance band, yoga belt, & 8” latex physioball. Supporting patients and providing applicable resources in order to maintain progress following formal rehabilitation is a critical component in order to ensure long-term safety and independence. Programs like Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance, A Matter of Balance, and SilverSneakers offer structured and consistent ways to continue to build strength, confidence and independence after discharge. By connecting patients to the right resources at the right time, we can help them transition from formal care with greater assurance and health self-efficacy.
Click Here for References
Click Here for a flyer of classes available in Connecticut!
2026 PTSMC Sponsored Courses SmartTools Level 1 BFR February 21, 2026 Location: PTSMC Hamden Myopain: Dry Needling Certification DN 1: March 7 - 9 DN 2: May 15 -17 DN 3: August 14-16 All held at QU North Haven Campus
ICE: Cervical Spine Management October 17-18, 2026 Location: PTSMC Wallingford Still in the works... ICE: Rehabilitation of the Injured Runner (June) IAMT: Exercise Prescription (Month TBD)
2026 DOCS Program Courses Upper Extremity Lower Extremity Introduction to the Assessment & April 18, 2026 August 1, 2026 Treatment of the Concussed Patient Instructed by: Instructed by: November 7, 2026 Andrew Kalach, PT, DPT, OCS, CMTPT, Melissa Boutagy, PT, DPT, OCS, CMT, CMTPT, Instructed by: Fairfield Ast. Director Clinical Compliance Officer & Guilford PT Rick Purdy, PT, CMTPT, Location: TBA Location: TBA New Haven PT Location: PTSMC New Haven
Course registrations are coming soon!
BRAGS, BRAGS, I want to give a huge shout out to Annabelle as this woman goes above and beyond at our clinic. She is a PT Aide here in Putnam but has cross trained front desk responsibilities with me as well. She of course does not have much down time with her job here as an Aide but when she does she is always helping me answer phones if I'm either already on the phone or face to face with a patient, always helping check patients in when there are several coming in at one time and always asking me if there is anything she can do to help. She is a “Jack of all trades” here and I really appreciate all she does day to day! Bragger: Shelby Humes
Annabelle Bastura Danielson & Putnam PT Aide
I had the pleasure of working with Theresa this year on the Thrive 25 team, where we collaborated to bring several 25 year initiatives to life for the PTSMC community. Theresa consistently went above and beyond, sharing thoughtful ideas, bringing genuine enthusiasm to every project, and working incredibly hard to ensure everything was completed on time. She was dependable, supportive, and truly fun to work with. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have partnered with her on this project!
Stevie goes above and beyond for all. There is not a front desk or department that does not call on her for one thing or another. She does it with ease. She is passionate about her job role and the people she works with and is truly a wizard of all things! Thank Stevie Fell you Stevie for all the Operations Coordinator things. I couldn't do what I do without you. Bragger: Christine Raffone
Theresa Nolan Customer Service Rep
Jack has been essential to the Authorization team in helping to create great efficiency in our daily processes. I came to Jack with a general idea of what I wanted but had no idea how to fully explain what I needed and how it would work. Jack, through his efforts, gave us exactly what we needed and BETTER! Jack is there for every Jack Pearce question, problem or tweaks the auth team needs in regards to this Data Analyst tracking sheet he provided us. This has been critical to our workday and workflow! When I asked the team about doing this BRAG the feedback I got was "He has changed our lives!" "100% I love this!" "Awesome!". Jack - from all of us in the auth department - WE THANK YOU! You made our job of tracking thousands of authorizations a lot less challenging!
Bragger: Marilex Harwood
Brianna is always a behind the scenes rockstar for so many admin projects and events. She did so much for the Thrive 25 team to help make the soiree happen. She is the go-to at admin and was a huge help in bringing holiday magic to admin.
Brianna Rivera Administrative Assistant
Bragger: Marilex Harwood
Bragger: Christine Raffone & Authorization Team 0
Editorial Team & Content Contributors Co-Editor Marilex Harwood
Co-Editor
Mallory (Mason) Izmirlian
DEI Lead Administrative Coordinator
Director of Culture & Engagement
Contributor Alan Balavender
Contributor Meghan Blanusa
President
Featured: Techy Tips Stevie Fell
Operations Coordinator
Clinical Excellence Coordinator & Naugatuck PT
Clinicians Corner Taylor Hyde
Contributor Sandra Boccialetti
Contributor Juliann Chacko
Contributor Emily Fillion
Contributor Kristen Forster
Contributor
Senior Director of Operations
VP of Operations
Contributor
Contributor Caty Mulligan
Contributor Bri Rivera
Director of Human Resources
Aneesa Mohamed Administrative Office Assistant
PSC Westbrook PCC Essex Westbrook
Sandy Wickman Mason
HR Coordinator & Sports Medicine Coordinator
JOB OPPORTUNITIES PTA Danbury
Naugatuck Physical Therapist
Orange Assistant Director & Director of Student Program
Senior Marketing Coordinator
PT Bristol Danbury East Hampton Essex Glastonbury Groton Hamden New Haven New London New Milford Norwich Orange Wallingford West Hartford Westbrook Wethersfield Windsor
22
PT AIDE Danbury Essex Guilford Middletown Westbrook Windsor
Admin Accountant IT Technician Level 2
Contact Karen Havlicek if you are interested in a position
Administrative Assistant
Referral Bonus Opportunities ADMIN Hourly: $500 ADMIN Salary: $1000 ADMIN Director: $2000 AT: $1000 PT/OT: $2000
PTA: $1000 PSC: $500 PT Aide: $25 at time of hire, $100 after 180 days of employment.
Contact Us!
Comments, suggestions, or questions? Want to contribute to the Pulse? Have photos to share? Email: Marilex Harwood or Mallory (Mason) Izmirlian
Check out The PULSE on Issuu for access to digital content