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

Dr. Sharlene Dicks, DPT, BS, AAS

Physical Therapist

Tara Murphy, ATL, PTA

Physical Therapist Assistant

Diana Gomez Schneider, PTA, CMT

Physical Therapy Assistant

Denise Cooper

Admin

Sofia DiNunzio

Receptionist Mount Kisco, Billing, Insurance advocate

Selena Morales

Admin

Client Testimonials

“Developmental Steps is a magical place. It is a place where your child and family can find amazing advice and guidance for getting through life challenges and it is a place for your child to grow and achieve their full potential. Our 17 year old son has Cerebral Palsy and our family has been working with Joe Kiefer and Hayley Apiscopa for 12 years. Joe is above and beyond a traditional PT. He is a friend, an advisor and truly a mentor for us as we have moved through raising a child with a physical disability. He is an integral part of the team that works with our son and has guided us through two intensive surgeries. He and Hayley worked tirelessly with us to implement a very strenuous post surgery PT plan and it worked! The reality is that they get how hard it can be to make tough decisions on what is best for your kids…and they give great advice and support. The best part about Developmental Steps is that they understand the need to establish a trusting, caring relationship with the children and families they work with. During our time working with Developmental Steps, there have been hard days and easy days which is to be expected. Joe always has a smile on his face and patience throughout. He understands how to motivate kids to achieve their full potential and to provide a listening ear to parents who look out into an uncertain future. Hayley is a bright light each time she works with our son and, while she works him hard, he is always so proud of himself at the end. When he was very little, most people said our son would not walk or would be an “at home” only ambulator. Well, I am happy to say that Developmental Steps has helped our son learn to walk..literally! He uses a walker at home and at school and has begun working with crutches as well. He uses a wheelchair for longer distances, but is incredibly independent at making the choice about how he wants to get around in the world. As a parent, one of the things I hope for is that our son will be able to live independently some day. Developmental Steps has enabled us to make that hope a reality with his going to college by himself.”
PatriciaMother of 17 year old boy with Cerebral Palsy
As a pediatrician I recommend Developmental Steps frequently. I have always had wonderful feedback about all of their providers! In addition they are highly professional and dedicated to providing excellent care. I could not recommend them more highly.
Dr. Allison Neid
We came to Developmental Steps because our son’s Pre school teachers had said that he is a little behind other kids when it comes to going up/down the steps, and other physical activities. He had started walking late and was always a little under confident / hesitant to try new things in the playground. Our aim was to help him become stronger and more capable of undertaking physical activities/challenges and also more confident on the playground and gym. Developmental Steps came highly recommended by a friend. I am so very glad that we decided to go with Developmental Steps. Hayley, our physical therapist, is absolutely outstanding. Besides being very qualified & meticulous, she is very engaging, always cheerful and pleasant. We have been seeing her since April and I have noticed a HUGE change in my son’s abilities and confidence. Hayley always keeps me updated with his progress and often suggests games/activities we can do at home to help make my son stronger. During our initial evaluation, she identified that my son had slightly low muscle tone. She has been working meticulously to make him stronger, and more confident. The best part is that all the training/strengthening exercises are done through fun games. My son doesn’t even know that he is being challenged – he has so much fun. In fact, he even begs me to take him to Hayley on days when he is not scheduled to see her. Thanks to Hayley, my son is now at par with other kids when it comes to a lot of activities, and even ahead in some skills such as hopping on one leg and maintaining his balance. His teachers too have commented that he participates more in the movement classes/gym type activities in school. Hayley is absolutely fantastic and I would wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking professional physical therapy services. The facility is very clean and everyone is very pleasant and accommodating.
Jennifer Bursky BrauntuchMother of 18 month old
Hayley, Tara, Rebecca and the rest of the team at Developmental Steps are absolutely wonderful. Seeking PT for an infant can be scary and overwhelming, but they embraced my son with open arms and the progress he’s seen in just 6 short weeks has been truly impressive. They always take their time to explain the exercises so that we can do them at home and are so clearly invested in our son’s success. We have come to look forward to our sessions and in the time of Covid have always felt that the facility is spotlessly clean and safe. We cannot recommend them enough!
EmilyMother of a 1 Year Old Boy
We recently attended Developmental Steps free tummy time workshop, run by Hayley, with my 5 week old daughter. We had also attended the free workshop with my now 2 year old, when he was an infant, so we were ahead of the game with knowledge this time around. Hayley teaches different strategies to make tummy time fun for our little one. She also explains how tummy time can affect future developmental steps. Since we started tummy time when my daughter was only 1 week old, based on the encouragement from Developmental Steps, she was already doing fairly well at tummy time, which was totally different from my son at this point. While my daughter was doing well, it never hurts to attend the free workshop to gain more knowledge and further building tools. Hayley was positive and encouraging the entire time. I highly recommend Developmental Steps for any of your pediatric pt concerns. They will take good care of you!
Kristen ZarellaMother of 5 week old girl
Hayley from Developmental Steps is someone that I will never forget. I was a petrified mom of a daughter who was showing developmental delays and it seemed like I couldn’t find anyone to help me. She stepped up in my time of need, welcoming my daughter with open arms, and advocating for her when I didn’t know how. She didn’t hesitate to work with me financially, completely open to different appointment durations, frequencies, and payment schedules so that my daughter could continue to see her. During the sessions she worked with my daughter to make her feel comfortable and had this magical ability to work the physical therapy to suit my daughter, not work my daughter to suit the physical therapy. Willa was calm with her and I trusted her with my baby instantly. She taught me every movement and made me feel confident that I could help my daughter. She boosted my self confidence as a mother in a time where I was doubting my capabilities. Within the 6 weeks of treatment, we saw HUGE improvements. We celebrated together when Willa would reach a new milestone. When I was finally able to find a location that would take our insurance, Hayley was excited for us and so happy that she was in good hands. In a time where everything seems to be about money, it was so refreshing to be surrounded by professionals that truly cared. I will never ever forget the kindness that was extended to my family. Thank you so much.
The Fitzgeraldsparents of 5 month old girl
My son is 3 years old and broke his femur and was in a spica cast for 7 weeks. His cast was taken off on a Friday and he had his first session on Monday. I’m truly forever grateful to the staff and Joe at Developmental Steps for helping my son learn to walk again. We are 6 weeks post cast and he is walking, running, and finally jumping. He is back to himself and it would not be possible without Developmental Steps. To watch these therapists help children through fun games and play, yet they are still completing their goals to get the child wear they need to be is truly incredible to watch and be a part of. I strongly recommend Developmental Steps if your child is in need.
NicoleMother of 3 year old boy
Highly recommended. Tara has been incredible at inspiring our teen to follow through with his at home regimen. She is motivating and has made more progress with him in the past 2 months than anyone he has ever worked with. He is doing better than we thought possible. His doctors are very impressed at his progress. Everyone there is so caring and professional. Thank you so much!
JenniferMother of a 17 year old boy
My son has Congenital Muscular Torticollis and mild hypotonia. We moved from Canada to NY when he was 8 months old and began working with both Hayley and Joe. We learned right away that we had not been doing enough to combat the torticollis or help DS gain the strength to catch up on his motor skills, BUT that it’s never too late to start. Within 6 sessions, DS was rolling. We’ve been working with Hayley and Joe for just over 3 months and now DS has the core strength and balance needed to crawl, transition into/out of sitting, and gain some much needed independence around mealtimes. All our visits have been centered around play and fun. My questions and concerns have always been answered thoroughly and honestly. Also, shout out to Barbara for being the absolute best over the phone.
AliciaMother of 2 two year old boy
Joe is an excellent therapist. He diagnosed my son’s muscular problem within ten minutes of our first session/evaluation. My son had physical therapy many times from other providers, but they were not effective. After only 5 sessions my son is pain free. Joe is very knowledgeable and takes the time to explain what is going on and what works best. He is a sharp observer and a trustworthy practitioner. I strongly recommend him to anyone who needs PT. Scheduling is convenient and efficient as they work with your schedule which we greatly appreciate. Joe and his staff have also been extremely helpful at providing any documents requested by our health insurance. I only wish we had known about Developmental Steps sooner.
Vismayra EstevezMother of 15 year old boy
The welcoming staff and experienced physical therapists make Developmental Steps a wonderful place! We have been a part of the Developmental Steps family for just over two years, and Hayley and Tara have treated both our sons. Their patience, caring nature resonates with us and our children. They combine their expert knowledge of pediatric physical therapy with creative strategies so each session is exciting and fun. We’ve seen great results, and we feel so fortunate to have found Developmental Steps!
Melissa MayerMother of 2 boys
My 4 month old son was diagnosed with Torticollis. After 1 week of therapy & at home stretches and exercises his strength greatly improved! Our therapist, Hayley, taught me how to incorporate play in order to help my son stretch his neck muscles. I’m so impressed with this facility & therapist! I couldn’t believe how quickly he improved in just a week! I know with more work & therapy he will have full range of motion, and I’m also learning some new and inventive ways to play with my baby! So glad I decided to start therapy sooner than later
Julianne McKennaMother of 4 month old baby
A huge shout out to developmental Steps, physical therapy for my 8 year old! She has flat feet and before we started, she would constantly complain about back pain and tired legs. It was stopping her from playing. I went to her pediatrician who said not to worry AND I went to a podiatrist who just said to use orthotics, which she said hurt even worse. I KNEW something more needed to be done, but no one would listen to me. Finally, a friend suggested a PT evaluation. At the eval, they validated my feelings and laid out a plan. It was the first time I felt heard. We got great orthotics that make her feet feel happy AND worked on exercises to strengthen her legs and core to actually correct the problem, not just treat the symptom. Now, she can fully be a kid. I’m so thankful!!
Lynn TrottaMother of 8 year old girl
Our son (1-year-old) has been doing PT with Developmental Steps for a handful of sessions and the progress he’s made (with Hayley and Tara) in this short period of time has been remarkable! One of the parents left the following review, which I’ve copied and pasted below, because it perfectly represents my thoughts/feelings… “The Developmental Steps team is extremely knowledgeable and each session is truly tailored to our son’s needs. The facility is bright, clean and cheery. They go above and beyond to communicate with parents, give us ‘homework’ to carry over at home and are always available to answer questions. I highly recommend this wonderful team!!”
Michael BellomFather of 1 year old boy
Hayley began working with my daughter over Zoom last year, and despite never having met in person, my daughter immediately connected with her. Even through a computer, my daughter was engaged and participated in all of the activities that Hayley directed. Since then, we have gone to the Port Chester facility for weekly in-person PT. The facility is always clean, and it is reassuring to see the numerous protocols that Developmental Steps has put into place to ensure everyone’s safety. Hayley has helped my daughter in so many ways – from strengthening her muscles, to increasing her flexibility, to increasing her confidence. She is so patient, and makes the “work” fun, so my daughter remains attentive and tries her hardest. I would highly recommend Developmental Steps, and Hayley in particular, for anyone looking for PT services. My daughter looks forward to her “date with Hayley” every week.
Jodi BarrowMother of 4 year old girl
Joe at Development Steps is fantastic! He treated my son for Torticollis, starting at 4.5 months. He was very clear about his treatment plan and stuck to it. He also provided helpful, objective feedback to questions and concerns I had around wearing a DOC band. Joe gave detailed instructions on how to work with my son at home to ensure his treatment moved ahead rapidly. He was eager to answer questions and allowed me to take videos during our sessions in order to have visuals to reference. The facility itself is very clean (with strict Covid-19 protocols in place) and has high quality equipment and the very best toys. We did a lot of hard work, but my son still had fun every time we were there. We have achieved all of the goals we set out to reach and I couldn’t be happier with our experience!
Joanna De FinaMother of 5 month old boy
As a parent it is difficult to acknowledge that your child needs a service beyond what you can provide, but once you know you need additional support, you want to make sure you find the best option for your child. About a year and a half ago we began a discussion with Hayley at Developmental Steps about our daughter’s physical therapy needs and since then we have only been completely satisfied with the experiences our daughter has had. Hayley is an amazing physical therapist who seems to have an endless supply of patience and a magic ability to motivate a child regardless of their mood. She is empathetic to the needs of the parent and is more than happy to teach a parent specific activities and exercises that can be done at home to help continue improving the child’s strength. From the moment you enter Developmental Steps you are warmly greeted by either Barbara or Rebecca, which helps to make idle waiting time so much more enjoyable, especially when you have a younger sibling in tow, as I often do. As a result of a family scheduling change, we recently switched to Diana for our daughter’s pt sessions and we continue to be very happy with the care she is receiving. We highly recommend Developmental Steps – the team that works there is an exceptional one
Meghan H.Mother of 4 year old girl
We found Joe Kiefer and Developmental Steps when our son was two years old and severely delayed. Joe taught him how to sit up, crawl, stand, balance, weight shift, walk with a walker, walk with crutches, dress, safely navigate school and home environment, and more. Joe patiently and expertly has been training him and working with him through developmental milestones for the past 14 years. Thanks to Joe and Hayley, our son has not stopped becoming more independent, stronger, and more determined. Even when we had to move to another state for two years, we coordinated trips back to town with appointments with Joe to get his feedback and plan future treatment. We trust Joe and Hayley without reservation and our son has benefited from their expertise and support. We could not be more grateful.
John DNellie HarasimowiczMother of 15 year old boyoe
We worked with Haley and Joe to get diagnosed for my daughters Torticollis. We were waiting for early intervention which is a lengthy process and didn’t want to wait to get working on the issue. They were absolutely wonderful at diagnosing and helping with stretches and exercises and gave us homework exercises to do at home. I highly recommend them and encourage others in our situation while waiting for EI to not delay and start working with another PT cause the earlier the better
Erin CorenMother of 4 month old girl
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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.

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Call our Port Chester location at 914-939-6400 or Mt Kisco at 914-864-0855 or request an appointment

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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.