Matthew Esposito NP, MSN, FNP-BC

What made you want to become a health care provider or what is your earliest memory of wanting to be one?

I became a health care provider because caring for others has been woven into my life from an early age. My mother is an inpatient pediatric nurse, and through her work I was exposed to both the realities and the rewards of caring for chronically ill children in the Hudson Valley. Being involved in local pediatric support groups with her showed me the power of compassion, presence, and advocacy. Over time, I developed a genuine passion for helping people, especially those who feel unheard or overlooked.
I continued to pave my own path in nursing and later expanded my scope of practice through my education as a Family Nurse Practitioner. It has even become a family affair, as my brother and I both pursued careers in nursing—which makes for some very interesting dinner conversations! Becoming a health care provider allows me to honor that passion, give others a voice, and make a meaningful difference in their lives.

What do you love most about your specialty? / Why did you choose your specialty?

What I love most about my specialty is the opportunity to build long-term, meaningful relationships with patients and their families. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, I’m able to care for individuals across the lifespan, which allows me to truly get to know them, understand their unique needs, and support their health goals over time. I appreciate the continuity, trust, and connection that come from walking with patients through different stages of life.
I chose this specialty because I wanted the broad scope and versatility to care for diverse populations while maintaining a patient-centered, holistic approach. My early exposure to pediatric care through my mother’s nursing career sparked my love for compassionate, relationship-based practice, and over time I knew I wanted to expand that impact beyond a single age group—plus, I genuinely love caring for both kids and adults. My work in the Emergency Department and the Cardiac Cath Lab strengthened my ability to think critically while still maintaining a genuine, grounding presence when patients are at their most vulnerable.
Becoming an FNP allows me to advocate for those who may feel unheard, provide accessible and comprehensive care, and be a consistent, trusted presence in their health journey, all in a welcoming, inclusive, and non-judgmental environment.

How do you connect with your patients?

I connect with my patients by creating a space where they feel heard, respected, and genuinely cared for. I listen closely to understand not just their symptoms, but the experiences and emotions behind what they’re going through. I strive to meet each person where they are, without judgment, and tailor my communication to what makes them feel most comfortable.
A big part of how I build trust is through being candid and straightforward. I’m honest and direct with my patients, but always in a way that feels supportive and encourages open dialogue. This transparency helps us work together to create a plan of care that is realistic, collaborative, and aligned with their holistic well-being: physical, mental, and emotional.
I also love breaking down complex medical concepts into simple, understandable terms. I want my patients to feel confident and informed, not overwhelmed. And I naturally mix in humor and warmth; my bubbly personality helps put people at ease and makes even difficult conversations feel more approachable.
By combining empathy, clarity, honesty, and a little lightheartedness, I’m able to form meaningful connections and empower patients to take an active role in their health.

What are your interests outside of the office (hobbies, activities)?

Outside of the office, I have a wide range of interests that keep me energized and balanced. I’m an avid reader and a big movie lover, I enjoy watching films and even collecting them. I also love staying active, whether I’m hiking, running, practicing yoga, lifting weights, or playing soccer. These hobbies keep me grounded, help me clear my mind, and bring a lot of joy into my life.

What is your advice for your patients?

The advice I give most often is that holistic health is a journey, with natural ups, downs, and seasons of change. I remind my patients that they don’t have to navigate that journey alone. My role is to provide clear, evidence-based information and guidance so they feel empowered to make meaningful changes for themselves. Together, we can weather the storms, celebrate the progress, and build a plan that supports their whole well-being: mind, body, and soul.

Awards & recognitions: NYP Hudson Valley Hospital Novice Nurse Award Winner
Professional Affiliations: Nurse Practice Association of New York; American Nurse Association; Emergency Nurse Association; Sigma Theta Tau.