Today we’d like to introduce you to Melisa Moore.
Hi Melisa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I am a child psychologist specializing in sleep and board-certified in behavioral sleep medicine. I had been doing this work for about 10 years at the Sleep Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia when my first son was born. Asspa psychologist, having a child with autism was my biggest fear, as it seemed like there we so few effective interventions. When he was 3, my son was diagnosed with autism. I continued my work in Philadelphia until 2023 when our family moved to the LA Area for various reasons and I started a private practice. I see children and teens with a variety of mood, sleep, and other issues. I also teach and speak in the area. In March of 2026, my book “The Good Sleep Guide for Neurodivergent Kids” will be published by New World Library. This book is a combination of stories from my life (personally and professionally) and parenting advice.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been hard to move from the academic sector to the private sector. In academia I was already established, but as a business owner I’ve found that parents don’t care how many scientific papers you’ve published. I’m still in the process of learning to promote my business and my book, and so far I’ve been busy enough from word of mouth referrals.
Also, getting to this point where I was able to integrate the personal and the professional has been a journey of its’ own.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m most proud that my many years of experience allow me to really tailor my recommendations to fit each family. I don’t have any one recipe or way I approach things. I use science as my guide, but primarily consider the family’s goals and values.
Also, a book like this doesn’t exist. Parents of neurodiverse kids with sleep problems don’t have a resource like this. What sets me apart is that I live what I’m writing about. I also have unlimited empathy for parents who have children with sleep problems, developmental conditions, and mental health concerns. So I know what I’m talking about from both sides.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most is 1) that parents and kids feel understood and validated. I want them to know that I see how hard these things are. Struggling to figure out what to do is a universal parenting challenge, as we all want to do the right thing for our kids. and 2) the information I provide has been tested and supported by science. It is as accurate as it can be. There is a ton of misinformation and promotion of products that promise to help parents, and a lot of times these prey on parental anxiety but don’t actually work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.drmelisamoore.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmelisamoore/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisa-moore-6589a340/
Image Credits
Lisa Phelan Photography (first picture in blue sweater)
Sarah Miller Photography (photo from website)
