Autism Therapists in Luzerne County, PA

BMMT provides a form of expression and an avenue to develop areas that traditional therapies or learning may not provide for either individuals facing: Autism,Smith-Magenis Syndrome Sensory processing issues ADHD, ADD, Irreversible Neurodegenerative disorders,Trauma-related symptoms, brain injuries,other developmental/neurological /behavioral issues
Back Mountain Music Therapy is a client-led, Developmental-Relationship based Therapy, that cultivates attention, self-regulation, engagement, and communication through relating in a safe, predictable environment. While simultaneously considering each individuals preferences and differences, BMMT administers an evidenced-based assessment, through musical play, which drives musical, relational experiences to aid in further developing core emotional milestones necessary for expanding higher levels of thought in order to help clients increase their abilities to relax, regulate, engage, express, communicate and relate.
BMMT provides a form of expression and an avenue to develop areas that traditional therapies or learning may not provide for either individuals facing: Autism,Smith-Magenis Syndrome Sensory processing issues ADHD, ADD, Irreversible Neurodegenerative disorders,Trauma-related symptoms, brain injuries,other developmental/neurological /behavioral issues
Back Mountain Music Therapy is a client-led, Developmental-Relationship based Therapy, that cultivates attention, self-regulation, engagement, and communication through relating in a safe, predictable environment. While simultaneously considering each individuals preferences and differences, BMMT administers an evidenced-based assessment, through musical play, which drives musical, relational experiences to aid in further developing core emotional milestones necessary for expanding higher levels of thought in order to help clients increase their abilities to relax, regulate, engage, express, communicate and relate.

Four Winds Acupuncture & Integrative Therapies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
In my practice, I treat children, adults, and families - specializing in trauma, anxiety, autism, and substance abuse.
I have over 200 hours of specialized training in treating trauma and abuse. I have also completed certifications in autism, as well as substance abuse. This being said, I have treated almost every diagnosis in the past 20 years.
In my practice, I treat children, adults, and families - specializing in trauma, anxiety, autism, and substance abuse.
I have over 200 hours of specialized training in treating trauma and abuse. I have also completed certifications in autism, as well as substance abuse. This being said, I have treated almost every diagnosis in the past 20 years.

Additionally, I also work with children and adolescents, including those with Autism.
I am a skilled and compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a background in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and a deep commitment to promoting emotional and behavioral well-being. My comprehensive understanding of the "whole person" approach, empowers individuals and facilitate positive changes in their lives.
Additionally, I also work with children and adolescents, including those with Autism.
I am a skilled and compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a background in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) and a deep commitment to promoting emotional and behavioral well-being. My comprehensive understanding of the "whole person" approach, empowers individuals and facilitate positive changes in their lives.

Deanna Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, Deanna Dixon, NCC, LPC
Mountain Top, PA 18707
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a broad spectrum of needs which include but are not limited to Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Level One Autism, and Mood Disorders.
My mission is to provide each person who I meet with the dignity of their individual goals and needs, as well as to provide a safe and comfortable environment in which to work on said goals. Trust and rapport in a therapist is critical to success and while I provide tools in which to utilize, I also provide comfort, validation, and support.
I work with a broad spectrum of needs which include but are not limited to Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Level One Autism, and Mood Disorders.
My mission is to provide each person who I meet with the dignity of their individual goals and needs, as well as to provide a safe and comfortable environment in which to work on said goals. Trust and rapport in a therapist is critical to success and while I provide tools in which to utilize, I also provide comfort, validation, and support.

We also provide neuro-psychological testing and evaluation that may be needed for a variety of reasons: determination of a possible learning disability (AHDH, Autism), fitness for medical procedures (bariatric), Fitness for duty/Lethal weapons testing (Act 235/Act 120) .
We view therapy as the systematic process of self-discovery. To aid in this process, our trained and licensed therapists offer a supportive and emphatic environment. We see ourselves as guides on your journey to self-knowledge and healthier lives--physically, mentally and spiritually.
We also provide neuro-psychological testing and evaluation that may be needed for a variety of reasons: determination of a possible learning disability (AHDH, Autism), fitness for medical procedures (bariatric), Fitness for duty/Lethal weapons testing (Act 235/Act 120) .
We view therapy as the systematic process of self-discovery. To aid in this process, our trained and licensed therapists offer a supportive and emphatic environment. We see ourselves as guides on your journey to self-knowledge and healthier lives--physically, mentally and spiritually.

My training covers a variety of conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, concussion, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, stroke, and dementia.
My goal when providing neuropsychological evaluations is to assess an individual's cognitive functions, behavior, and social-emotional functioning to help understand how their brain is working. The evaluation can help identify patterns of cognitive strengths and weaknesses, confirm or clarify diagnoses, and provide recommendations for treatment.
My training covers a variety of conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, concussion, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, stroke, and dementia.
My goal when providing neuropsychological evaluations is to assess an individual's cognitive functions, behavior, and social-emotional functioning to help understand how their brain is working. The evaluation can help identify patterns of cognitive strengths and weaknesses, confirm or clarify diagnoses, and provide recommendations for treatment.

My passion lies in supporting neurodiverse individuals, including those with ADHD and autism, and addressing a wide range of mental health concerns such as anxiety and emotional regulation.
I have a strong background in working with LGBTQ+ youth and autistic children, fostering inclusive, safe, and affirming spaces. Whether working with a playful child or a reflective adult, I tailor my approach to meet each client's unique needs with patience, understanding, and care.
My passion lies in supporting neurodiverse individuals, including those with ADHD and autism, and addressing a wide range of mental health concerns such as anxiety and emotional regulation.
I have a strong background in working with LGBTQ+ youth and autistic children, fostering inclusive, safe, and affirming spaces. Whether working with a playful child or a reflective adult, I tailor my approach to meet each client's unique needs with patience, understanding, and care.

I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.

As a neurodivergent therapist, I bring both professional experience and personal insight into the experiences Autistic and ADHD clients face. I know firsthand the challenges and strengths that come with neurodivergence and I am passionate about providing a supportive and affirming space for individuals navigating similar experiences. Whether you are self-diagnosed, formally diagnosed, or in the process of questioning- I am here to support you.
I also enjoy working with clients experiencing grief, relational concerns, and navigating life transitions.
As a neurodivergent therapist, I bring both professional experience and personal insight into the experiences Autistic and ADHD clients face. I know firsthand the challenges and strengths that come with neurodivergence and I am passionate about providing a supportive and affirming space for individuals navigating similar experiences. Whether you are self-diagnosed, formally diagnosed, or in the process of questioning- I am here to support you.
I also enjoy working with clients experiencing grief, relational concerns, and navigating life transitions.

Cory Ian Shafer Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Kingston, PA 18704
A world of dew, And within every dewdrop A world of struggle. Kobayashi Issa
A world of dew, And within every dewdrop A world of struggle. Kobayashi Issa

Our roads in this life are never perfect. We will all experience bumps, roadblocks, and detours we did not plan for. Sometimes it is a life event, loss, or a new diagnosis that rattles our sense of reality.
Our roads in this life are never perfect. We will all experience bumps, roadblocks, and detours we did not plan for. Sometimes it is a life event, loss, or a new diagnosis that rattles our sense of reality.

Hope Krashnak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Kingston, PA 18704
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation. I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and utilize peer consultation to improve my skillset to best support your needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation. I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and utilize peer consultation to improve my skillset to best support your needs.

Don't you love when your doctor tells you to "reduce the stress in your life". Life in general is stressful, right? Relationships can become stressful. Work can be stressful. Kids can be stressful. Anxiety, depression, anger, frustration, and lack of effective ways to cope will influence your need for counseling. Everyone needs someone to vent to and therapy provides you not only with a way to express your frustrations, but it also helps you learn how to cope better with the things that stress you out! Eliminating stress is impossible however learning better ways to cope is not impossible, I can help you work on it.
Don't you love when your doctor tells you to "reduce the stress in your life". Life in general is stressful, right? Relationships can become stressful. Work can be stressful. Kids can be stressful. Anxiety, depression, anger, frustration, and lack of effective ways to cope will influence your need for counseling. Everyone needs someone to vent to and therapy provides you not only with a way to express your frustrations, but it also helps you learn how to cope better with the things that stress you out! Eliminating stress is impossible however learning better ways to cope is not impossible, I can help you work on it.

Hi! I'm John. Are you having a hard time managing your work stress? Anxiety? Are you feeling like your relationship/marriage is 'On the rocks?' Or, just feeling down? If so, I can help!
Hi! I'm John. Are you having a hard time managing your work stress? Anxiety? Are you feeling like your relationship/marriage is 'On the rocks?' Or, just feeling down? If so, I can help!

I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.

Hill Counseling is committed to helping clients grow. Please click on the link to our website (underneath the profile picture) for specific information as to our specialties and our therapists. We pride ourselves on being able to see clients quickly as we generally have no waiting list. Thank you for choosing Hill Counseling!
Hill Counseling is committed to helping clients grow. Please click on the link to our website (underneath the profile picture) for specific information as to our specialties and our therapists. We pride ourselves on being able to see clients quickly as we generally have no waiting list. Thank you for choosing Hill Counseling!

Thaxton Holistic Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, EMDR
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
You can reach us at 570-904-7363 and get to know our therapists via our website. At THWC it is our mission to create a soothing, client-focused, healing focused environment, committed and focused on you as a whole person. With over 75 years of combined experience, our skilled and compassionate therapists offer virtual and in-person individual, couple, family, and group counseling services for all ages and concerns. Supported by years of experience and training, we will work with you to develop specific, tailored strategies using effective approaches to help you quickly achieve and sustain results and feel relief.
You can reach us at 570-904-7363 and get to know our therapists via our website. At THWC it is our mission to create a soothing, client-focused, healing focused environment, committed and focused on you as a whole person. With over 75 years of combined experience, our skilled and compassionate therapists offer virtual and in-person individual, couple, family, and group counseling services for all ages and concerns. Supported by years of experience and training, we will work with you to develop specific, tailored strategies using effective approaches to help you quickly achieve and sustain results and feel relief.

Overwhelmed? Feeling lost? Living in survival mode? Whether you're working through life transitions, struggling to regulate your emotions, or seeking clarity and confidence in who you are, I tailor my work to meet you where you are—with compassion, structure, and collaboration. I’m LGBTQ+ affirming, neurodiversity-informed, and culturally responsive in how I practice. Though my primary therapeutic approaches are CBT and DBT, I recognize that every person is unique, taking an integrative approach to sessions. My goal is to help you develop practical skills, shift self-defeating patterns, and create a life aligned with your values.
Overwhelmed? Feeling lost? Living in survival mode? Whether you're working through life transitions, struggling to regulate your emotions, or seeking clarity and confidence in who you are, I tailor my work to meet you where you are—with compassion, structure, and collaboration. I’m LGBTQ+ affirming, neurodiversity-informed, and culturally responsive in how I practice. Though my primary therapeutic approaches are CBT and DBT, I recognize that every person is unique, taking an integrative approach to sessions. My goal is to help you develop practical skills, shift self-defeating patterns, and create a life aligned with your values.

Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.

I have worked with all age groups ranging from 3 years old up to 70 years of age. I have worked in a variety of settings such as schools, daycare, homes, group homes, inpatient, and outpatient facilities. My goal is to help the client identify problematic behavior patterns and reflect on how experiences influence behaviors. I provide clients with a safe environment to open up about their problems. I help clients explore how the past can influence the present and identify ways to disrupt negative thinking/behaviors.
I have worked with all age groups ranging from 3 years old up to 70 years of age. I have worked in a variety of settings such as schools, daycare, homes, group homes, inpatient, and outpatient facilities. My goal is to help the client identify problematic behavior patterns and reflect on how experiences influence behaviors. I provide clients with a safe environment to open up about their problems. I help clients explore how the past can influence the present and identify ways to disrupt negative thinking/behaviors.
See more therapy options for Luzerne County
Autism Therapists
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.
How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.
How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.
How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.