Jessica Frantz

Let me Introduce myself... Hi! My name is Jess and I decided to embark on this beautiful journey of outpatient mental health services with a focus on neurodiversity and accompanying MH diagnosis. Through much of my experience, I have first hand witnessed a cliff of outpatient services to support those with major mental health diagnosis accompanied by neurodivergence, especially into adulthood. We are also seeing a rise in late (adult) diagnosis of ADHD, as I experienced this personally, and those in need of exploring self, increasing understanding, and learning techniques that will support them in decreasing frustration and increasing success! I want to see this cliff of service change, so I'm stepping out to pave the way! I have a combined 15 years of experience throughout the mental health field, working with autism, IDD, as well as other major mental health diagnoses. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor through the state of PA with a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. I pursued and received certification in the PEERS Curriculum through UCLA in order to implement group services that focus on relational and social skills. This is an evidence based practice and was created for use with neurodivergent individuals with promising outcomes shown in their research. My most recent experience was as a vocational rehabilitation counselor at OVR for over 6 years working with adult Autistic and IDD individuals to support them in getting necessary services to obtain and maintain employment in the community post high school. Through this experience, I saw the lack of availability for MH services (especially for adults) that addressed their needs, provided flexibility and creativity for implementing evidence based practices, as well as experience and knowledge of the importance of being also competent in these areas. In addition to my professional experience, I also have an autistic son who lights up this world! He shows me every day how neurodivergence is a benefit to the world when given the chance! By watching his beautiful mind and how it works- I have learned to adapt, change, and become an outside of the box thinker myself to best understand him and provide the support that he needs. I have learned that “typical” responses or techniques often need to be modified or presented in a different way for him to best benefit and to be able to grow and strengthen his own skills to live his best life, while coping through situations that aren’t always ideal for him. I also became very aware of the lack of services after high school and wanted to start a path to make a change in this area- and he was my inspiration to do so! I plan to bring to the community a relaxed, flexible environment that allows for those to embrace their neurodivergence while taking a new approach to application of proven therapeutic techniques. Answer to the most FAQ of do I see any clients that are not considered neurodivergent? Yes of course I do! I feel certain that if our paths cross in this season it is for a reason 💫