Dr. Madeleine Vieira: Balancing Motherhood and Professional Excellence in a Cosmopolitan Lifestyle

Dr. Madeleine Vieira, a distinguished Clinical Child Psychologist, exemplifies the delicate art of balancing a vibrant professional career with the demands of motherhood. As a mother of three young daughters, Dr. Vieira offers a unique perspective on modern parenting, seamlessly integrating her professional expertise with her experiences as a cosmopolitan parent.

Having resided in several cosmopolitan cities in the world with her family, and their lively 3 dogs, Dr. Vieira brings a multicultural lens to her work and life. Her upbringing in a Dutch-Portuguese household and extensive global travel have shaped her understanding of family dynamics and childhood development. These experiences inform her practice and fuel her passion for helping children overcome anxiety and other mental health challenges.

Juggling Multiple Roles

“As a mother of three young daughters, I’ve learned that life’s demands never stop coming,” Dr. Vieira shared. “Whether it’s preparing breakfast before school, attending a parent-teacher conference, or working with a child in my practice, every day is a balancing act.”

Dr. Vieira’s professional expertise extends to treating childhood anxiety disorders and providing cognitive-behavioral therapies. In private practice, she specializes in techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Play and Creative Arts Therapy, which help children and their families navigate complex emotional challenges. Her parenting journey profoundly informs her professional work, where she applies her therapeutic insights to support her daughters’ mental well-being.

A Cosmopolitan Approach to Parenting

Living in global hubs like London and Dubai has allowed Dr. Vieira to expose her daughters to various cultures, perspectives, and experiences. She emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability in her parenting and professional work.

“Raising children in a cosmopolitan environment is both a privilege and a challenge,” she said. “It requires teaching them to embrace diversity while maintaining their own identity. My daughters are also learning to navigate a multicultural world with confidence and empathy, values I prioritize in my practice.”

Professional Passion Meets Personal Mission

Dr. Vieira’s passion for mental health advocacy extends beyond her practice. She is the author of the “I’M AFRAID” series, a collection of six therapeutic children’s books aimed at helping young readers understand and overcome anxiety. The series features charming animal characters and practical strategies rooted in graded exposure therapy, empowering children to address fears such as separation anxiety and specific phobias.

“Creating these books has been a way to reach children beyond my practice,” she explained. “As a mother, I understand how crucial it is to have tools that resonate with children and their families. These stories offer a gentle, relatable way to navigate tough emotions.”

Finding Harmony

Despite her busy schedule, Dr. Vieira carves out time for hobbies that refresh her spirit. She prioritizes balance and self-care when exploring portrait photography, horseback riding, dancing, or engaging in family activities. These moments of joy and creativity often inspire her therapeutic approaches and remind her of the importance of mindfulness in daily life.

Advice for Parents

Dr. Vieira’s dual role as a professional and parent allows her to offer practical advice to families striving for balance. She encourages parents to model healthy emotional habits, foster open communication, and embrace the imperfections of family life.

“Parenting is an evolving journey,” she noted. “It’s about being present, showing empathy, and creating a safe space for children to express themselves. In doing so, we equip them with the tools to thrive.”

As Dr. Madeleine Vieira continues to excel in her career while nurturing her family, she inspires parents and professionals alike. Her dedication to improving children’s mental health and her commitment to her daughters underscore the profound impact of balancing work and family in a cosmopolitan world.