Alex Gitter, Licensed Professional Counselor

I have worked to support individuals and their families in reaching their greatest potential for over twenty years. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and their families as a clinician, program developer and evaluator, supervisor, college instructor, and researcher in pursuit of this goal. In addition to seeing clients through my private practice, I teach classes in Disability Studies at William Paterson University. Prior to this, I developed and ran a social and vocational skills instruction and support program for adults on the autism spectrum. Through all my experiences, I have developed a particular passion for and specialty in working with individuals on the autism spectrum. I also work with individuals who experience other neurological differences, developmental disabilities, and mental health challenges, including ADHD, learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, and others (see below). I have earned a Master of Science degree in psychology (child clinical concentration) from Pennsylvania State University, a Master of Education degree in professional counseling (mental health concentration) from William Paterson University and a Bachelor of Arts degree, with highest distinction, in psychology from the University of Virginia. I am also licensed in New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor. Effective counseling, like effective parenting and teaching, involves understanding where someone is at in their growth process and providing them with a safe space and the supports essential to move to the next level. Developmentalists refer to this as "scaffolding". Like scaffolding for a building, these external supports are specific and put in place to allow for expansion and strengthening. Now, think about your favorite mentor, coach, or teacher. It is likely that they provided support and encouragement that was a good match for you. They also probably challenged you to grow. As a counselor, I provide these same types of supports to my clients and their parents.