Autism therapists in Altoona, PA
Find experienced Autism therapists in Altoona, Pennsylvania who provide Autism testing, evaluations, and therapy. Our directory features detailed therapist profiles so you can compare qualifications, specialties, and treatment approaches to find the provider that’s right for you.
Autism
Alaina Ables
Counselor/Therapist, LMHC
I have hands on experience and training
5 Years Experience
Online in Altoona, PA (Online Only)
Autism
Dr. Jag Soni
Psychologist, Ph.D., HSPP, PCC, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Navigating a world not designed for your neurodivergent experience requires an expert, neuro-affirming approach to Autism and Asperger’s that honors your unique perspective. Drawing on over 35 years of Ph.D.-level expertise, I provide a specialized space focused on the internal shifts that allow you to thrive without the exhausting pressure to mask. Together, we move toward a life of authenticity and social comfort, tailored to your specific story and sensory needs. In a private Telehealth setting, I am ready to help you thrive on your own terms—contact me to schedule your first appointment.
36 Years Experience
Online in Altoona, PA (Online Only)
Autism
Dr. Elizabeth Coldren
Psychologist, PSYD, PSYPACT
Many of the adults I work with are thoughtful, capable professionals and students, often in detail‑oriented or technical roles, who have spent years feeling “different” without having language for why. You may be wondering if you are autistic, have a recent diagnosis, or have known for a long time but never had support in making sense of it. From the outside, you may meet or exceed expectations and keep up with work or school. Inside, it can feel like constant effort: managing sensory overload, masking to fit in, replaying conversations, or needing significant time alone to recover from social or emotional strain.
Many adults I see describe a lifelong sense of being out of step with others, feeling misunderstood, or being told they are “too sensitive,” “too intense,” or “too much.” You may have built a life that works on paper but still feels exhausting to maintain. Masking, perfectionism, and trying to meet unspoken social rules can take a real toll on your nervous system and sense of self.
In our work, we approach autism and other forms of neurodivergence through a neurodiversity‑affirming, trauma‑informed lens. We look at how your brain and body naturally process the world, how past experiences have shaped your coping strategies, and what helps you feel more regulated and authentic. The focus is not on changing who you are, but on understanding your wiring, reducing the internal cost of masking, and creating a life that supports your nervous system rather than straining it. This is core to my practice, and it’s work I care about deeply.
26 Years Experience
Online in Altoona, PA
Autism
Valiant Minds Counseling, P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ADHD-CCSP
I have had extensive experience working with children and families on the ASD spectrum in a variety of settings, including schools, home based, and outpatient based services. I help clients and families explore their strengths and therapeutic needs. Guide client and parents in the development of skills and strategies for dealing with their problems, collect information about clients through observations, act as advocate to coordinate required services to or resolve problems, develop and implement treatment plans based on clinical experience and knowledge.
20 Years Experience
Online in Altoona, PA
Autism
Jonathan Schmalz
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Many autistic adults struggle to have connections with others in ways they would like. Moreover, social situations may feel downright confusing and anxiety-provoking and intimate relationships may seem impossible. In the professional sphere, you may struggle to keep steady employment, often finding that your ways of communicating with co-workers and bosses make it hard to feel you belong or that your talents are appreciated. I take an affirming, autism-informed approach in helping autistic adults to better appreciate themselves and thrive in their relationships and life pursuits.
17 Years Experience
Online in Altoona, PA
Autism therapists in Altoona, PA Statistics
Autism therapists in Altoona, PA average 15 years of experience and charge around $203 per session. 100% offer online sessions. The top treatment approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (69%), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) (44%), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) (35%).
Average years in practice
15 Years Experience
Average cost per session
$203
Accept insurance
37%
Offer sliding scale
33%
Gender ID
| 61% |
Female |
|
| 27% |
Male |
|
| 9% |
Non-Binary |
|
| 3% |
Gender Fluid |
|
Session Type
| 63% |
In Person and Online |
|
| 37% |
Online Only |
|
Top Treatment Approaches
| 69% | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) |
| 44% | Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) |
| 35% | Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) |
| 33% | Psychoeducational Therapy |
| 31% | Behavioral Therapy |
| 29% | Family Systems Therapy |
| 29% | Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian) |
Ages Served
| 98% | Adult |
| 79% | Young Adult |
| 63% | Teen |
| 46% | Children |
| 46% | Senior |
Client Focus
| 58% | Women |
| 54% | LGBTQ+ |
| 40% | Persons with Disabilities |
| 37% | Men |
| 31% | Black / African American |