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

Tamra Rutfield, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist

Vita Dequatro, DPT

Physical Therapist

Deirdre Nebel

Physical Therapist

Tara Murphy, ATL, PTA

Physical Therapist Assistant

Diana Gomez Schneider, PTA, CMT

Physical Therapy Assistant

Sofia DiNunzio

Receptionist Mount Kisco, Billing, Insurance advocate

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 received my Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Northeastern University in May 2020. After being raised and attending college in Massachusetts, I moved to White Plains, New York in August of 2020 to pursue a pediatric career. As a former gymnast, I fell in love with the field of physical therapy early on as a patient myself. Between being an overnight camp counselor, Special Olympics gymnastics coach, and interning at a school for children with disabilities, I quickly learned that my true passion was pediatrics.  I love helping children reach their full potential and gain skills that they will use for the rest of their lives. When I am not at Developmental Steps, you can usually find me coaching gymnastics, on a run, eating ice cream, or curled up with a good book! 

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.

Dr. Sharlene holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy with over twenty years’ experience as a clinician. She also has her undergraduate degree in the health sciences and applied science. Dr. Sharlene has spent the latter part of her career working directly with infants, toddlers, preschool age, adolescence, and their families. She incorporates manual techniques, neuro-developmental techniques, sensory-based techniques, and a family focus educational training. Her background primarily involves treating children with congenital disorders, developmental delays, musculoskeletal disorders, neuromuscular disorders, gait abnormalities and orthopedic injuries.


Dr. Sharlene collaborates with multi-specialty doctors and other disciplines implementing a comprehensive approach to care. She is excited to join the Developmental Steps team.

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 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 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 discovered Developmental Steps LLC, when I brought my daughter in for treatment in 2021, and shortly after joined the team! I have over 10 years experience working in the medical coordinating field, with insurance based knowledge. I graduated Mercy College in 2013 with a Bachelors in Health Science, and later attended Finger Lakes School of Massage here in Mt. Kisco, and graduated in 2019 and I am a New York State LMT. I genuinely enjoy working with children, and seeing the accomplishments they will achieve here everyday! I enjoy cooking, baking, and spending my free time with my husband, daughter and family. I enjoy vacationing to Italy, and Newport RI, in my free time and curling up with a good book. ying with my dog Bella, engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, bike riding, and playing sports. I currently live in Mahopac, NY. 

Selena joined the Developmental Steps Team September 2022. She has worked in the physical therapy field as an admin for the past 5 years. She have experience verifying insurances, submitting Authorizations and gap-exceptions. She is able to help parents answer any questions they might have about their insurance, billing, appointments, etc. Selena is currently studying Exercise Science at Lehman College and hopes to get into Physical Therapy school. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her family and dog.