James G. Balestrieri

Based on dozens of intensive interviews with parents, clinical psychologists, teachers, therapists, and more, An Unlikely Trust is the fictional story of Alina, a young girl adopted from Russia. After a lengthy adoption process, Alina`s parents are confounded by their daughter`s behavior upon arriving in America. They were aware that she did not speak English and expected some developmental delay, but they did not foresee that the tiny four-year-old would hoard her food, deeply mistrust affection from others, and fail to initiate or respond to most social situations. Most concerning, though, are Alina`s rages. When she is frightened, overwhelmed, or confused, Alina lashes out with the strength and stamina of a person many times her size,...

Дата выхода: январь 2013

Based on dozens of intensive interviews with parents, clinical psychologists, teachers, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and more, Mr. Incredible is the fictional story of Adam, a boy diagnosed with autistic disorder. On Adam`s first birthday, his mother recognizes that something is different about him: he recoils from the touch of his family, preferring to accept physical contact only in the cool water of the family`s pool. As Adam gets older, he avoids eye contact, is largely nonverbal, and has very specific ways of getting through the day; when those habits are disrupted, intense meltdowns and self-harmful behavior follow. From seeking a diagnosis to advocating for special education services, from keeping Adam safe to...

Дата выхода: январь 2013

For Parents, Educators, Pediatricians, and Mental Health Professionals. Based on dozens of intensive interviews with parents, clinical psychologists, teachers, and more, Meltdown is the fictional story of Benjamin, a boy diagnosed with Asperger`s disorder and additional challenging behavior. From the time Benjamin is a toddler, his parents know he is different: he doesn`t play with his sister, refuses to make eye contact, and doesn`t seem to understand how to communicate with others. And his tantrums are not like normal tantrums; they`re violent meltdowns that will eventually make regular schooling-and day-to-day life-impossible. From first clues to diagnosis, navigating the special education system to securing expert help, Benjamin`s...

Дата выхода: январь 2012