Circle Creek Therapy Named Washington’s 2025 SBA Small Business of the Year; Launches Circle Creek Cares

AUBURN, WA — Circle Creek Therapy, a pediatric therapy clinic founded by speech-language pathologist and CEO Courtni Doherty, has been named Washington State’s 2025 SBA Small Business of the Year. Built from the heart of a family navigating special needs themselves, Circle Creek was created so children and families could receive compassionate, collaborative care in one place.

The recognition inspired the Dohertys to take their next step: launching Circle Creek Cares, a new nonprofit dedicated to supporting children, families, and providers through education, inclusive community spaces, support programs, and future learning opportunities.

“As both providers and parents, we’ve lived parts of this ourselves,” said Courtni Doherty, CEO of Circle Creek Therapy and President of Circle Creek Cares. “We know many families are carrying that same weight without the same access, knowledge, or support.”

“Circle Creek Cares gives us a way to partner with the community to build something bigger together,” added Stephen Doherty, Chief Administrative Officer.

Initial programs will include parent education nights, sibling and parent support groups, inclusive community play spaces, and long-term life skills programming. A key early goal is creating an inclusive outdoor space where children of all abilities can play and families can gather.

Circle Creek Cares will operate as a separate nonprofit alongside Circle Creek Therapy. The organization is currently seeking community partners, donors, volunteers, and local businesses.

Learn more at CircleCreekCares.org.