At a time when obesity and chronic disease are still stigmatized, Positive Change Weight Loss has emerged as a compassionate, community-focused health practice committed to transformative wellness.
Founded by Dr. Melissa Morales, a physician and health coach, Positive Change empowers patients to control their health in a health care setting that prioritizes empathy, individualized care and evidence-based treatment.
"I treat excess weight as I would any other chronic disease, with the goal being the attainment of better health — not just a better-looking body.”
Dr. Morales’ journey began long before she opened her practice in West Hartford.
Growing up, she witnessed the painful impact of chronic disease in her own family. Her grandfather’s struggle with diabetes and the resulting complications were a firsthand lesson on how interconnected health issues can lead to suffering, which fueled her early desire to understand these ailments.
“It was clear that a person’s environment can impact their weight and lead to other diseases,” Dr. Morales recalls. This awareness guided her into medicine and eventually inspired her to develop a practice that addresses obesity not only as a physical issue but as a complex interplay of genetics, environment and lifestyle.
Positive Change focuses on giving patients the time and space to discuss their health concerns thoroughly. Dr. Morales tailors her program to each individual, beginning with an extensive hour-and-a-half consultation. This involves physical exams, a review of past medical records and a lifestyle assessment to understand what barriers may be contributing to a patient's weight challenges. She and her patients then set mutual goals, choosing sustainable methods to achieve healthier living. Her approach is designed to foster an epiphany with patients —a revelation that often marks a turning point in a patient’s journey to wellness.
"One of the greatest things you can witness as a doctor is your patient having an ‘aha!’ moment that leads to a fundamental change. For many, these realizations result in improved cholesterol, normalized blood pressure, and, perhaps most importantly, restored confidence and self-esteem.”
Dr. Morales’ passion extends beyond individual consultations. On a larger scale, Positive Change advocates for community initiatives that promote healthier living and supports legislative action like the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, passed by Congress in 2021. The federal law seeks to improve access to obesity treatments for Medicare beneficiaries.
“Members of our community can learn more or ask for congressional support by visiting the Obesity Action Coalition website,” she notes, encouraging community involvement in health advocacy.
Positive Change also uses shared decision-making and motivational interviewing techniques to help patients find their internal motivation.
“All goals and steps are decided upon together. I help patients identify their barriers to change, which can be the catalyst needed to take actionable steps.” Her approach is enhanced by Positive Change’s small patient load, allowing Dr. Morales to dedicate time to each individual—one of the rarest but most valuable resources in healthcare today.
One of the most exciting upcoming initiatives at Positive Change is Dr. Morales’ foray into culinary medicine, a movement that emphasizes nutrition and home-cooking as tools for disease management and prevention. Research suggests that cooking at home can help prevent weight gain and promote a balanced diet, which is why Dr. Morales plans to offer virtual cooking demos for her patients and the community. These classes aim to make healthy eating accessible and enjoyable, a mission that reflects her philosophy that wellness should be as much about empowerment and education as it is about treatment.
As Positive Change continues to grow, Dr. Morales remains steadfast in her vision to foster a compassionate, holistic approach to weight loss and health. Through advocacy, education and individualized care, Positive Change has become a source of hope for those seeking to reclaim their health and build sustainable, healthy lives.
“Obesity is a disease, and there should be no delay in treating it.”
Dr. Melissa Morales
Positive Change Weight Loss
45 South Main St., West Hartford
Email: MD@bepositivechange.com
Online: Bepositivechange.com
Phone: 860-264 - 5841
I treat excess weight as I would any other chronic disease, with the goal being the attainment of better health — not just a better-looking body.
"One of the greatest things you can witness as a doctor is your patient having an ‘aha!’ moment that leads to a fundamental change. For many, these realizations result in improved cholesterol, normalized blood pressure, and, perhaps most importantly, restored confidence and self-esteem.”