Madeline "Maddy" Esterer, PhD, LP

As a child psychologist, I see children with developmental disabilities, and provide behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy, with a special focus on developmental adaptations and parent training. I also enjoy leading child and parent group therapies, where kids can practice new skills alongside their peers and families can find support together.

My approach is rooted in evidence-based interventions, and I believe every child and family brings unique strengths and assets to the table. I love tailoring treatment to fit each family’s needs, and I focus on coaching and empowering caregivers to support their children in real-world situations outside of the therapy space. It’s important to me that families feel connected to our hospital and the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, so I’m always happy to help shed light on hospital and community resources.

I was inspired to become a child psychologist because I wanted to increase access to effective mental and behavioral healthcare for young people and their caregivers. I’ve always felt strongly that mental healthcare should be well integrated with medical care and available to families whenever they need it. Working in group therapy settings is especially rewarding—I love seeing children learn and grow together.

Outside of work, I enjoy taking long walks with my dog or friends, reading novels and learning to cook new recipes.