Marion DiNapoli

Michelle has Autistic Spectrum Disorder… The focus has been on modifying her habits to improve her health, not just giving her a diet to follow to lose weight. She encourages Michelle to become more active by setting goals for each week and keeping track of her progress…this approach has been very good. Valerie has been very patient with Michelle. She never lets her feel that she has failed. When one suggestion does not work, she changes gears and looks for something else that might work. Valerie has also worked to change the family dynamic. Michelle was isolated from us. She spent most of her time in her room on her phone.  One of the things suggested was having a family game night. This helped our family communicate and work together.