Share
When Deanna Berenato arrived at YAI’s Southampton crisis stabilization home in New Jersey last September, she was often agitated, overwhelmed, and relied on repetitive behaviors to communicate. Over a few months, with consistent support, structure, and care, she transformed.
“By the time she left, she was a totally different person,” said Erin McLean, Assistant Supervisor at Southampton. “It was incredible to watch.”
Staff focused on supporting Berenato as a person, not just managing behaviors. They followed her individualized plans while ensuring she felt heard and valued. One of her biggest challenges, frequent calls to her mom, which had reached 50 times a day before arriving, was managed with a structured phone schedule, helping her build independence while maintaining family connection.
As she settled in, Berenato’s confidence grew. She enjoyed daily activities and community outings: getting her nails done, walking around the mall, picking out coloring books, and drawing. She loved listening to music, especially songs from the Backstreet Boys.
The holidays were a milestone moment. Though not officially discharged, the team arranged for her to spend Christmas Eve and Day with her family, an exception that meant the world to Berenato. Weeks later, she celebrated her 37th birthday with a Wednesday-themed party, complete with decorations and surprises that made the day all about her.
By the time she moved to her new home, Berenato was communicating clearly, holding full conversations, and showing a playful side of her personality. “At her birthday party, she suddenly started joking around and telling everyone it was time for cake,” McLean recalled. “Her personality just blossomed.”
Today, Berenato is thriving in her new residence, living with a peer and continuing to build relationships. For McLean, watching Berenato’s transformation reinforced the power of crisis stabilization work.
“Watching her change showed me that we really are making a difference in people’s lives,” she said.