Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy

Independence Health & Therapy Closes Physical, Speech, and Occupational Therapies Clinic in Woodstock

For 75 years, the therapy clinic at 708 Washington Street in Woodstock has provided vital rehabilitation services to McHenry County residents. Originally founded as Easter Seals for McHenry County by Drs. Nuechiller and Tambone, the program began in response to the needs of disabled friends and neighbors, many affected by polio. Over the years, it grew and evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, thanks to consistent support from local residents.

In 2018, Adult & Child Therapy Services—the latest evolution of Easter Seals—merged with Family Alliance to form Independence Health & Therapy (IHT). The combined agency expanded its mission, offering behavioral health services, including psychiatry and counseling, along with an adult day program primarily serving older adults and individuals living with dementia.

 Despite these expansions, economic realities forced IHT to make the difficult decision to close its Physical, Speech, and Occupational Therapies program at the end of December. “This decision was not taken lightly,” said Tim Urban, Chair of the Board of Directors. “It is not a reflection on our talented staff or the community’s need for these services, but rather a response to the significant changes in healthcare delivery and reimbursement models over the past decade.”

While the closure marks the end of an era, IHT’s other essential services will continue at its Seminary Avenue location. The organization will maintain its behavioral health programs and adult day services, which remain vital to McHenry County and neighboring communities. “We are deeply grateful to the community for their steadfast support over the past seven decades,” Buckley said. “While we say goodbye to one chapter, our commitment to serving McHenry County remains as strong as ever.”