Over the past three years, Rose Lane has welcomed 14 newly graduated therapists into its rehabilitation department. Each bringing fresh passion, curiosity, and a drive to make a difference. This consistent effort to hire and nurture new professionals reflects Rose Lane’s deep commitment to investing in the future of healthcare.
At Rose Lane, professional development doesn’t stop after graduation. The team has built a supportive environment where recent graduates can learn, grow, and build confidence as they transition from the classroom to clinical practice. Through mentorship, collaboration, and teamwork, Rose Lane has become a place where careers begin and thrive.
This ongoing commitment is guided by leaders like Erin Diaczun, Director of Rehabilitation at Anchor Lodge and Student Placement Coordinator for therapy across all Sprenger Health Care facilities. Erin ensures that every new therapist receives the mentorship and support they need to succeed. Her dedication helps make facilities like Rose Lane a model for professional growth and long-term career success.
Starting Strong: Building Confidence as a New Therapist
Transitioning from student to professional can be both exciting and challenging. At Rose Lane, new therapists find the encouragement and guidance they need to develop confidence in their clinical skills and their voice as healthcare professionals.
Olivia Howell, PTA, shared that her passion for therapy began in high school when both of her grandparents received rehabilitation services.
“I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to help people without needles or blood,” Olivia said. “At the time, both of my grandparents were receiving therapy, and it seemed interesting to me.”
Since joining Rose Lane, Olivia has seen her skills and confidence grow significantly.
“My time at Rose Lane has been valuable to me because it has helped me grow as a therapist and gain confidence in my skills.”
She credits her coworkers for fostering a culture where learning is encouraged, and curiosity is welcomed.
“My coworkers have played a huge role in helping my career and confidence grow by not ever making someone seem inadequate for asking a question. The therapists here enjoy when someone asks because it sparks conversation and room to learn new things.”
Furthermore, Olivia noted that Rose Lane’s emphasis on teamwork and cross-disciplined collaboration gives new professionals a strong foundation for success.
“Rose Lane helps prepare therapists by making sure you learn all aspects of the rehab department—not just your specific discipline. We emphasize the importance of teamwork.”
A Culture of Mentorship and Lifelong Learning
In addition to nurturing new graduates, Rose Lane fosters an environment of continuous learning for every member of the team. This supportive atmosphere allows both new and experienced therapists to share ideas, challenge one another, and grow together.
Stephanie Crescenze, COTA, has built her career around helping others regain independence and rediscover confidence.
“I always knew I wanted to work in a field where I was going to help and serve people,” she explained. “Seeing people regain their independence or helping to improve their ability to modify their new lives has been rewarding.”
Stephanie began her professional journey alongside Jaime Marino-Freetage, Corporate Director of Rehabilitation, who inspired her to join Rose Lane.
“I worked with Jaime when I graduated. She has been instrumental in me coming and staying at Rose Lane for the last 14+ years. Rose Lane has evolved in many ways, but therapy has been consistent in the manner in which they treat patients.”
Over the years, Stephanie has come to deeply value mentorship and collaboration among the therapy team.
“The therapy staff supports my learning in so many ways. We are always educating one another on various therapy ideas. It definitely helps that we view one another as equals. The mentorship is the reason why we are so successful as a therapy team.”
When offering advice to new graduates, Stephanie emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people.
“Make sure you have a mentor that can guide you, help you when you have questions, support you, and respect you. Find a whole therapy team like that. Liking who you work with is half the battle!”
Reflecting on her experience, she summed it up perfectly:
“Rose Lane is an exciting place that will bring joy, successes, and challenges daily—but you will learn, grow, and become a better clinician for having the privilege to be here.”
Shaping the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
Ultimately, Rose Lane’s dedication to supporting new graduates does more than strengthen its own team—it strengthens the healthcare profession as a whole. By fostering mentorship, encouraging collaboration, and creating opportunities for growth, Rose Lane ensures that every new therapist has the tools to thrive.
As Erin Diaczun and the Rose Lane team continue to build pathways for professional success. Their message remains clear: when we invest in people, we invest in the future of care.