Meet Our Team

Developmental Steps employs experienced pediatric physical therapists who are movement specialists.
Our therapists have specialized skills and training to address the unique needs
of infants, toddlers, and young children. We strive to facilitate the posture, strength, and symmetry
that will be the building blocks of movement for years to come. We provide thorough
assessments for each child prior to developing a comprehensive treatment plan.

Joseph R. Kiefer, PT

Physical Therapist/Founder/Owner

Hayley A. Apiscopa, DPT

Physical Therapist/Owner

Emma Costa , DPT

Physical Therapist

Vita Dequatro, DPT

Physical Therapist

Deirdre Nebel

Physical Therapist

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Beth Pokrywa, DPT

Physical Therapist

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Amy Milgram, DPT

Physical Therapist

Kristin Conklin, DPT

Physical Therapist

Courtney Dumain, DPT

Physical Therapist

Diana Gomez Schneider, PTA, CMT

Physical Therapy Assistant

Tara Murphy, ATL, PTA

Physical Therapist Assistant

Client Testimonials

Employment Opportunities

Developmental Steps is looking for a fun and exciting Per-Diem Pediatric PT to join the team!
The word is out that we are helping so many kids reach their potential – (we couldn’t be happier!).
We have two clinics: Mount Kisco and Port Chester. We also treat in several schools in central Westchester County.
If you are interested in working with us, let us know ASAP.
Email your resume to hayleydevsteps@gmail.com or give us a call at 914.939.6400.

I have been in practice since receiving a Masters Degree in Physical Therapy from Hahnemann University in 1994. My work has focused on motor learning and motor development in children. I feel privileged to have published articles in the Pediatric Physical Therapy Journal regarding fetal alcohol syndrome and cerebral palsy. I completed my Internship at Georgetown University Child Development Center and worked as a senior pediatric therapist at United Cerebral Palsy before starting my own practice in Westchester. The drive behind opening a pediatric center is seeing how motivated the kids get when receiving “therapy” in places other than their homes, one they view as fun places. Developmental Steps is that “Fun” Place. I love helping kids find a way to “Do” something through a strategy, practice, or making it plain old fun. Playing with my 2 kids, going on bike rides or hikes with my wife and 2 dogs, skiing in Vermont and going to Montauk is how I fill my free time when not at home in Katonah, NY.

I have been practicing as a Physical Therapist since receiving my Masters Degree in Physical Therapy in 2003 and my Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2006 from Boston University. Having been a competitive gymnast has left me with a love for fitness..  Being at Developmental Steps, LLC since 2008, I have extensive experience with multiple diagnoses but not limited to torticollis, hypotonia, cerebral palsy, neurological injuries, and developmental delay.  I’m enthusiastic about children and pride myself on being able to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families through using manual techniques while making it fun at the same time. I love teaching community tummy time classes for new parents. I live in Katonah with my husband and 2 children.

I joined the Developmental Steps team as a Physical Therapist in September 2022 after earning my Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Stony Brook University in Long Island, NY. Prior to that I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, NY. While at Mount Saint Mary College I was also a member of the Women’s soccer team. During my time at Stony Brook University, I was given the opportunity to work with children of various abilities in both the school-based setting and outpatient setting. I love that this field of work allows me to help children progress in various areas and help them grow into who they truly are. When I am not working, I like to spend my free time with friends and family, on a beach and traveling. I currently reside in Norwalk, CT.projects. 

I’m enthusiastic about children and pride myself on being able to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families through using manual techniques, w Medical College, I continued to practice as a Physical Therapist in Outpatient Orthopedics for almost ten years. After meeting Hayley at Stroller Strides, and then bringing my son into Developmental Steps for treatment, my passion to practice in a pediatric setting was reborn. I was further inspired watching the team at Developmental Steps work together cohesively and efficiently while taking extra special care of their patients. I love working with infants and children; especially having the ability to design fun and creative activities. I find it most rewarding to see the pride and joy they have when they achieve a new skill. I currently live in Elmsford, NY with my husband and three children.

I recently joined the Developmental Steps team in September of 2022. I graduated from New
York Medical College in 2002 with a Masters in Physical Therapy. I immediately began working in pediatrics at Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center in Bronx, NY. I was fortunate to meet and treat some amazing children and families with a variety of diagnosis. After taking a few years off to raise my own children I returned to work at Kidabilities and Los Ninos Services in Hawthorne, NY. At these facilities I serviced families with children from birth to five years old. Recently, I worked at ACDS of Scarsdale and Easter Seals Project Explore in Valhalla, NY. I was fortunate to work with children in their preschool environment and help prepare them for the transition to elementary school. I currently live in Valhalla, NY with my husband and three active daughters. I enjoy coaching them all in soccer during my spare time. I am extremely passionate about making therapy fun in order for each child to achieve their own gross motor goals.

I have been a Pediatric Physical Therapist since 2005 when I graduated from The University of Miami with my Doctorate of Physical Therapy. The only field I have ever worked in and had a passion for has been pediatrics.  I began my career in New York City and worked there until joining the Developmental Steps team in September 2023. Through my work over the years, I have had experience with a variety of diagnoses including developmental delay, autism, torticollis, down syndrome, and neurological injuries. I approach a child in a holistic manner, taking the time to learn how they interact and develop to address their physical needs in an appropriate way.  What works for one child may not work for another and I have the patience and flexibility to deal with challenging situations.  I have worked in sensory gyms, clinics, and home care with children as young as one week old. Engaging a child’s natural inclination to play has shown to develop their physical, mental, and social abilities.  I currently live in Warwick, NY with my husband, son, and giant puppy.

I have been practicing as a Physical Therapist since 2014 after graduating from CUNY Hunter College with my Doctorate of Physical Therapy. I began my career at New York Presbyterian Hospital where I spent over 6 years treating a wide population of patients from the Cardiothoracic ICU to Pediatrics. From there I moved to Boston and began working at an outpatient pediatric clinic, which was where my heart belonged. I was fortunate to treat some amazing children with a variety of diagnoses such as Torticollis, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome and rare genetic disorders. I joined the Developmental Steps team in February 2024 after moving back to the tri-state area to be close to family and friends, where I live with my husband and son.

I graduated from Ithaca College with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2008. I grew up in Binghamton, NY and settled in Westchester in 2014. Along the way, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and as a travel physical therapist. Through my experiences working with the adult neurologic and orthopedic patient populations, I bring a wealth of knowledge to treat children with similar conditions. Being a mom of 2 kids has unlocked my interest in pediatric physical therapy. I am passionate about helping children achieve their potential through hands-on and fun treatment interventions. In addition, I understand the importance of supporting and educating their parents. I joined Developmental Steps, LLC in 2024. Outside of work I enjoy days at the park, hiking, gardening, cooking, running, yoga, and spending time with family and friends.

I joined the Developmental Steps team as a Physical Therapist in September 2023 after earning my Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Dominican University in Orangeburg, NY. Before that, I received my bachelor’s degree in mathematics from St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC) in Sparkill, NY. While at STAC I was a member of the women’s soccer team for four years and the women’s lacrosse team for one year. While at Dominican University, I was fortunate enough to work in a school setting treating various children. Like a well-coached soccer team relies on teamwork and precision to achieve victory, your child’s journey to physical wellness and excellence deserves the same level of dedication. As a pediatric physical therapist, I offer not just healing, but a partnership built on trust, compassion, and a shared goal – to help your child kick their way to success. When I am not working, I like to spend my free time with my family, friends, and dogs. I enjoy running, going on adventures, baking, and playing soccer. I currently reside in Port Chester, NY.

I received my Associates Degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant and Massage Therapist in 2001. Having over 5 years of experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant working with a variety of patients has prepared me for a future that includes pediatrics, athletics, post surgery rehab, and geriatrics. I have also had extensive experience as a massage therapist, personal trainer, and fitness instructor. I joined Developmental Steps, LLC in the spring of 2020 and I am currently treating in the schools, doing backyard training sessions and camps, and treating patients in our offices. I love working at Developmental Steps, the pediatric field is so rewarding and I enjoy the playful nature of interacting with children and the creativity and joy that ensues. Health and fitness have always been an important part of my life.  I strongly believe that early childhood physical therapy can unlock a lifetime of good health. I live in Katonah, NY with my husband and three extremely active children involved in multiple sports.

I joined the Developmental Steps Team as a Physical Therapy Assistant in July 2019 after earning my degree at Norwalk Community College. Prior to that I received my Bachelors in Athletic Training at Sacred Heart University. Having 5 years of experience as an Athletic Trainer working with HS athletes, as well as treating outpatient pediatric and orthopedic patients has been a fulfilling experience. Since working at Developmental Steps, I have become more passionate and excited as I am able to provide a fun, warm and creative environment for the children. I love to see a child “light up” as they achieve a new skill and become the best they can be! I enjoy time spent with family & friends and teaching my young cousins how to play sports.  I stay active by attending kickboxing & yoga classes, running, hiking and playing soccer. I currently live in White Plains, NY.

I graduated from Pace University of Law and practiced family law for 25 years, representing children and families, before I retired.  After that I decided to try my hand at administrative work and bookkeeping. I have spent most of the last 8 years working in places that provide services to families and children. I find it inspirational to watch the therapists be creative, energetic, caring and intuitive to the needs of their patients.  The end result is always progress and increased self esteem for the children. I am very passionate about lending a helping hand to all children. I have spent most of my adult life interacting with children and parents helping them navigate whatever comes their way. I enjoy working at Developmental Steps with our dedicated and intelligent staff and the families we serve. I have extensive experience in helping families navigate through the complications of insurance and obtain out of network exceptions and coverage. I have raised my family in the Westchester area and live with my dog, two cats , a tortoise and my almost 18 year old granddaughter.  Some things I enjoy are reading, politics, cooking, spending time with family and friends, and crafting DIY projects.

I have worked in the medical field for about 10 years doing clerical work, billing and working with insurances. I am very organized and have a high attention to detail. I have excellent communication skills. I am a people person and love helping others. I have been a stay at home mom for the past 6 years. I was raised in Port Chester, NY and graduated from Port Chester High School. I am a certified Medical Coding and Billing Specialist. I studied to get my certification through the US Career Institute. I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, baking and reading. My favorite books are Harry Potter. My family and I are avid Disney World goers and love to have fun. My husband is a Police Officer and we have two children, a girl and a boy, and one dog, a chocolate lab named Kane. I have always loved working with children and I am excited to join a team that helps children thrive in all aspects.