She graduated from Yale University and Harvard Medical School, and did her internship and residency at Children's Hospital, Boston. As a pediatrician and parent, Nethersole believes that the first 12 months of life are critical for a child. "A nurturing, child-centered environment is important for the early years," she says. "Children need to be protected from some of the adult issues and concerns that surround them, and should be able to enjoy just being a child." As a pediatrician, she tries to work with parents to identify and address their concerns. She sees her relationship with parents as a partnership, the goal of which is to promote the child's well-being in every dimension.