Tommy is a 24-year-old who finds joy in boating, listening to music, and spending time outdoors. These moments help him feel at peace, but his journey hasn’t been without challenges. At times, he’s struggled with binge eating, sticking to self-care routines, and managing unexpected changes in his day. For a while, he needed help during meals, reminders for hygiene, and support getting dressed. When things didn’t go as planned, frustration would sometimes lead to emotional outbursts, leaving him and his family feeling stuck.
Wanting to help him build independence, Tommy’s family connected with a behaviorist who introduced visual schedules and positive reinforcement to give his days more structure and predictability. With these tools, Tommy has made incredible progress. The iPad now helps him express his needs more clearly, reducing the frustration he once felt. He’s also becoming more comfortable in social situations and enjoying activities with friends. His mom proudly says, “He’s thriving in social situations and feels more confident.”
Tommy’s Support Coordinator plays a key role, working closely with the family and behaviorist to ensure his behavior plan grows with him. Together, they make adjustments as needed to support Tommy’s progress toward greater independence and prepare him for opportunities, including potential employment. With the right support, Tommy is not only overcoming challenges but thriving—finding joy in what he loves, deepening connections, and building a future full of new possibilities.
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