Giselle Habet, MD, FAAP

What is your favorite animated movie or cartoon?

One of my favorite animated movies of all times is the Lion King. Lately, Bluey is surely a family favorite.

What is your favorite children's book and why?

I was an avid reader as a child, children’s literature and poetry have offered profound inspiration for me in my adult life. Classic works such as The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry and The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams still remind me to see the world through a child’s eyes, to value imagination, and to recognize the transformative power of love and nurturing.

What was your favorite childhood toy?

I loved cabbage patch dolls and care bears

Who is your greatest inspiration and why?

As a female pediatrician, I have always drawn inspiration from Maya Angelou. Her words and life’s work remind me of the importance of empathy, resilience, and giving every child the chance to be seen, heard, and valued. She inspired me to approach medicine with compassion and to care for children not only physically, but also with respect for their emotional and spiritual well-being.

Her children’s book Life Doesn’t Frighten Me encouraged me to be both courageous and resilient in the face of fear, while her lyrical Amazing Peace gave me hope and comfort during trying times. Her famous "Still I Rise" —empowered me to meet adversity with strength and to uplift others around me. She inspired me to not only practice medicine to heal illness, but to help children grow into the fullness of who they are meant to be.

What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?

I love Spending time with my husband and 2 kids. It brings me great joy being a soccer and theatre/music mom, travelling together and experiencing new adventures. We are a Christian family and I especially enjoy spending time with our Church but also time in God's word doing devotions and hearing my children sing and play music in worship in our home.

What inspired you to work in pediatrics?

I was inspired to pursue pediatrics growing up in a third-world country, where I witnessed firsthand the tremendous need for preventive care. From a young age, I saw how the lack of basic resources impacted children’s health, and it motivated me to focus not only on treating illness but also on preventing disease before it begins. My passion is to help children reach their fullest potential—physically, mentally, and spiritually—so they can thrive in every aspect of their lives.

What unique qualities, skills, or services set you apart, and how do you build a positive rapport with patients and their families?

I practice pediatric care through a blend of medical expertise, compassionate communication, and a strong focus on education. I take time to explain diagnoses and treatment plans in clear, approachable language, ensuring families feel informed and empowered. My goal is not only to treat illnesses but to build trust and long-term partnerships with patients and their families. I emphasize empathy, active listening, and cultural sensitivity, which help create a safe and supportive environment. By combining evidence-based medicine with a personal touch, I strive to make every family feel valued, respected, and confident in the care their child receives.

How do you accommodate patients with special needs?

As a pediatrician, I accommodate children with disabilities by creating a supportive and flexible environment tailored to their unique needs. This includes ensuring physical accessibility, allowing extra time during visits, and using communication strategies that best fits the needs of the patient and family. I partner closely with families, listening to their insights and adapting my approach with patience and compassion. I also collaborate with local therapists and specialists to provide coordinated, comprehensive care, working together to build the best possible medical home for our patients with disabilities.