On the spectrum:
Advocating for children diagnosed with autism
or with developmental delay

Wrote about me...

When the parents of Yogev (pseudonym) arrived at Netta Pelleg-Gerard’s clinic, they described a complex clinical picture: their son had been diagnosed with low-functioning autism, communicated very little with others, and suffered from hereditary anemia, atopic dermatitis, multiple food allergies, and a weakened immune system.

“After several months of advanced naturopathic care, his allergies and sensitivities were under control,” explains Netta Pelleg-Gerard, a certified naturopath (ND), clinical herbalist, aromatherapist, and a board member of the Israeli Naturopathic Association. “Yogev became noticeably happier and more engaged, and his school’s support staff reported remarkable improvements. We even managed to increase his iron levels—something that didn’t happen even with iron infusions.”

Pelleg-Gerard is also certified in Dr. Waller’s functional integrative autism approach, a science-based, holistic protocol. Through comprehensive diagnostic testing—including analysis of gut microbiome health, heavy metal toxicity, vitamin and mineral imbalances, and food sensitivities—she builds personalized healing plans that address the root causes of symptoms. These plans often include nutrition adjustments, medical-grade supplements, herbal remedies, essential oils, medicinal mushrooms, homeopathy, and lifestyle interventions.
 

“An imbalance in the gut microbiota can lead to intestinal inflammation, which may spread to the body and brain and disrupt both function and development,” she explains. “When inflammation is reduced and the gut ecosystem is rebalanced, the body can regain its natural capacity to heal and thrive.”
 

Breaking the Genetic Paradigm

“Genes are not destiny,” Pelleg-Gerard continues. “While each of us has a genetic blueprint, our lifestyle choices determine how those genes are expressed. Some parents believe that once a child is diagnosed with autism, there’s nothing more to do—but in my clinical experience, that belief can be transformed. Functional medicine empowers us to break the genetic paradigm and support real change.”
 

Her success has been recognized internationally: she was recently invited to present her work at the upcoming International Naturopathic Conference in Paris. According to her internal statistics, over 75% of her cases show improvement in areas such as verbal expression, communication, emotional regulation, behavior, sleep, and pain levels.

Although grounded in laboratory-based evidence, her approach remains holistic. Each treatment plan begins with an in-depth intake session and comprehensive blood testing. Functional diagnostic tests are then conducted and analyzed, forming the basis for a second-phase protocol discussed during a third session. Nutritional counseling and regular follow-up appointments support the six-month therapeutic process.
 

From Corporate to Clinical

With a background in behavioral sciences and an MBA, Pelleg-Gerard previously served as VP of HR in international corporations. Twelve years ago, she made a career shift to pursue her lifelong passion: natural healing. “I’ve always been drawn to health,” she shares. “The first book I ever bought with my own money at age 15 was on healthy living. In the army, I was a combat medic and first aid instructor. After graduating as a naturopath, I chose to specialize in autism and developmental delays—both due to personal experience and a deep commitment to helping families on the spectrum.”
 

“I make no promises, only that I will do my absolute best,” she emphasizes. “And thankfully, the method almost always leads to measurable improvement. Recently, I worked with an 18-year-old girl with high-functioning autism. She struggled with anxiety, irritability, nausea, gag reflexes, insomnia, social withdrawal, and juvenile diabetes. Today, her blood sugar is balanced for the first time—even without medication—her emotional state has stabilized, and she has started her national service. It’s a privilege to improve the quality of life of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.”