Surround yourself with people who get it. Being a parent of a child with a disability can become very isolating. It's very important to connect with other parents to learn how to handle challenges, about services available and emotional support from a non-judgemental perspective because they've been there too. There are many support groups to choose from. Due to a loaded therapy and school schedule, your time is precious so it's important to find a support group that aligns with your values and gives you the knowledge you need to help your child.
If you are unable to find childcare or have limited time, then consider joining some online local support groups who can also provide support and answer questions you may have.
There is a new trend for father's creating a support group for other fathers and there's an opportunity to start one here in the Lehigh Valley. Dads have their own unique concerns and experiences with their kids who have Autism.
​
Scroll down the list to see support groups for people with ASD, parent/grandparent/caregiver support groups and sibling support groups.
​
Support Groups for People Diagnosed with ASD:
​
​Autism Society of the Lehigh Valley
Parent Support Groups
Contact Mimi Ludwig - autismsocietylv@gmail.com
​
Camelot for Children
A non-profit organization for seriously, chronically and terminally ill, handicapped or disabled children that provides an environment of emotional support among these special children and their families. Teen Grief and Bereavement--Teens (12 years of age and older) meet with a professional as a group or individuals.
Where: 2354 W Emmaus Avenue,Allentown, PA 18103
Website: https://www.camelotforchildren.org/
​
Good Shepherd Pediatric Communication Skills Group
For children who completed Good Shepherd's speech program to maintain skills. Groups are split by articulation, auditory processing groups, augmentative/alternative communication, fluency, and pragmatics.
Ages: 3-18
Where: Allentown, Health & Technology Center
Call: 610-776-3578.
Website: https://www.goodshepherdrehab.org/news/pediatric-social-skills-groups-what-is-all-the-chatter-about/
​
Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living
Where: 713 North 13th Street, Allentown, PA 18102
Call: 610-770-9781
Email:info@lvcil.org
Website: http://lvcil.org/peer-support or http://www.lvcil.org/consumergroups
The Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living (LVCIL) is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that serves people with disabilities, and their family members, living in Lehigh and Northampton Counties. LVCIL is one of eighteen Centers for Independent Living in Pennsylvania and is governed, managed, and staffed at all times by a majority of persons with disabilities.
-
CommUnity Club is a social group for young adults with disabilities ages 18+. The club is a great way for young adults to meet new people, build lasting friendships, and learn about independent living.
For more information on CommUnity Club, please email communityclublv@gmail.com.
-
Adaptations is a social and support group for people in their 20’s and 30’s with learning disabilities, or those needing support. The group offers a wide variety of opportunities, from social activities to ways to improve interpersonal skills. Adaptations meets at LVCIL.
-
Independent Living Skills Groups: These group educational sessions are held periodically to provide consumers with education on the skills needed to live independently. To register to attend, or for more information, please check our community calendar or contact a Community Support Coordinator.
-
Peer Support Group: The purpose of the group is for people with disabilities to be able to offer their realistic help and knowledge to other facing similar experiences. The group can offer social, emotional, and practical support to members living with disabilities. Peer support group meets every other Monday. To register to attend, or for more information on the peer support group, please contact Debbie Rozear at 610-770-9781 or email debbierozear@lvcil.org.
​
MyLife Program for Youth in Lehigh and Northampton County
Magellan Health Services offers this program made up of persons who have experience with mental health, substance abuse, juvenile justice and foster care-related issues. Through regular meetings, special events and local and national workshops, presentations and performances, the group focuses on important issues affecting youth. You do not need to be a Magellan member to join the group.
Ages 13 to 23
Where: St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 340 E. Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA
When: 2nd Friday, 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MYLIFEyouth
​
S2L Group
LVCIL-It's a yearlong program for young adults with disabilities (14-25 yrs). Monthly meetings focus on the development of independent living, social, vocational, leadership and other skills. The group also volunteers throughout the community and undertakes a variety of projects. Fees apply.
Where: 713 N 13th St, Allentown, PA 18102
Call: 610-770-9781
Website: www.lvcil.org
​
Peer 2 Peer Support-Reflections Whole-Life Recovery Community
Short-term 24-hour peer-to-peer support in a homelike environment for those experiencing overwhelming distress
Where: 1360 Main Street, Hellertown, PA 18055
Call: 610-748-1011
Email: ReflectionsRP@gmail.com
Website: http://www.recoverypartnership.org
​
Parent and Grandparent Support Groups:
​
Autism Urban Connect, Inc.
This support group started in Pennsylvania and supports families from African American, minority, and economically disadvantaged communities.
​
Colonial IU20 Parent/Teacher Support Group (online)
This page is created for IU20 Teachers & Parents to come together & communicate to help support the children through their education.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/573197979704177/
​​
Elwyn Parent/Caregiver Support Group
Where: 1347 Hausman Rd, Allentown, PA 18104
Call: Robin Urenko, Parent Partner at 610-295-2110 or email: urenkor@elwyn.org
When: Every Thursday morning 9:30am-11am
Note: Limited childcare is available and requires a minimum of 48 hrs notice. RSVP for childcare by calling 610-573-2500.
​
Good Shepherd Parents of Children with Special Medical or Complex Needs
Types of Complex Needs: Chronic illness, congenital disorders, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, developmental delay or disabilities, and/or traumatic injury (brain injury, spinal cord injury, burn, amputation) Light refreshments will be served.
When: Last Monday every month at 6p.m.
Where: Good Shepherd Rehab, Hospital Pediatric Unit, 2855 Schoenersville Rd, Bethlehem, PA 18017
Call: Becky Small, LCSW at 610-807-4252
​Grandparent Support Group
Pinebrook Family Answers offers FREE psycho-educational groups for grandparents who are caregivers to their grandchildren.The goal is to offer grandparents a valuable opportunity to gain information, build peer support, and share ideas & experiences. The program is run by Masters Level Behavioral Health Interns.
When: The group meets weekly on Thursdays at 10 AM. Sessions run for 90 minutes.
Who: Socialization groups are available for children ages 4-10 while the grandparents meet.
Where: 402 N. Fulton Street. Allentown
Call: For more info, please call 610-432-3919, Ext. 4430
​
Kidspeace
Connect with other parents parents/guardians of children with autism. Find resources and supports. Great ideas for future planning, care, and programs. FREE with light refreshments. Please RSVP by Wednesday prior to the meeting.
When: Every second Saturday of the month, 10:00am to 11:30am
Where: Kidspeace, CDTRC Building, 1620 Broadway Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015 (meeting place is in front of the building, please be on time)
Contact: Lauren DeLucia 610-799-8225 or lauren.delucia@kidspeace.org
​​​​
PA KinConnector
This program was launched by the Wolf Administration to provide guidance, advice and support for grandparents raising grandchildren, other relative and non-relative Kinship Caregivers. The KinConnector Navigators seek to assist these caregivers and other issues caregivers face when raising children to provides stability and permanency in the home.
CakkL 1-866-546-2111
Website: www.kinconnector.org
Lehigh Valley & Slate Belt, PA Area Special Needs Parent Support (online)
This support group is a closed Facebook Group for families and professionals in the Lehigh Valley. A very active group always willing to answer questions and provide recommendations when you need it.
Click on the following link to request to join in.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1541248959458468/
​​
PAAC Passionate Parents
Where: PAAC 2071 Route 209, Brodheadsville, PA
When: once per month on every 3rd Tuesday of the month at 5:30 pm
Contact PAAC or Paula Rivera Ainge for additional information 570-992-6720 18322. Childcare is available and requires RSVP.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/622209054586055/
​
PA Family Members of Adults with Autism and/or Intellectual Disabilities (online)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SEPaAutismFamilyMembersOfAdults/?fref=gc&dti=1541248959458468&hc_location=ufi
​
Parent Support Group-Easton Area
Educational speakers are invited to do a presentation and a Q&A to follow. Light refreshments are available.
When: One Saturday a month depending on availability of the speaker 2-4p.m., schedule is printed in advance.
Where: Faith Lutheran Church, 2012 Sullivan Trail, Easton, PA
RSVP: leslie.mckelvey@yahoo.com or call 610-554-1988
​
Parent to Parent of Pennsylvania
Purpose: For one on one support, Parent to Parent of PA helps match parents/family members to a volunteer Peer Supporter. They also help you find support groups that match your specific needs (especially if your child has special healthcare/developmental needs). This includes physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, special health care needs, behavorial/mental health concerns, foster care/adoption, and educational issues. They also provide technical assistance to a local support group. They have over 1200 volunteer Peer Supporters who help you on a one to one basis according to the conditions or concerns you have. Someone who understands your family's unique challenges. Services are FREE and confidential.
Contact: Michele Mikolosko, Northeast Regional Coordinator via email Eneregion@parenttoparent.org
Call: 1-888-727-2706 (toll free)
Website: www.parenttoparent.org
Parents of Twice Exceptional Children (online)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/158474124337015/?fref=gc&dti=1541248959458468&hc_location=ufi
​​
Parenting Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Facilitator-Stu Horowitz, LCSW
A license counselor will guide your group experience and provide expert advice to reach individual treatment goals.
Where: St. Luke's University Health Network
1107 Eaton Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18018
When: Meets 1st Wednesday of every month 5p.m.-6p.m.
Phone: 484-526-2400
​
Spanish Autism Support Group
Where: ReciproCity, 1329 W Hamilton Street, Allentown
​
Sibling Support Groups-Siblings have a tendency to mature very quickly compared to their peers. If you want to know more about the child with a disability, ask their sibling. They can be amazingly compassionate and look out for their brother/sister. One of the most common challenges siblings have is not getting enough attention. This download has some great ideas to help siblings feel more special.
ARCH of Lehigh Valley-Sibshops
Lively action packed surprise filled 1.5 hr workshops that celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters. The model mixes information and discussion activities including games designed to be unique off beat and appealing. Sib Shop kids open to ages 8-12 yrs and Sib Shop Teens open to 13-18 year olds.
Where: 1347 Hausman Road, Allentown
Call: Robin Urenko at 610-295-2110
Email: urenkor@elwyn.org
Center for Integrated Behavioral Health
Claire Oxtoby, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Where: 1 West Broad St, Suite 810, Bethlehem, PA 18018
Call: 610.865.4300
Email:info@centerforibh.com
Website: https://www.centerforibh.com/
​
Glen Koch & Associates Sibling Support Group
No dates or times listed. Please fill out the form to find more information. They also offer one to one sessions with a counselor if your child is more comfortable.
Where: 961 Marcon Blvd, Suite 312, Allentown, PA 18109
Call: (610) 266-0610
Website: https://www.glennrkochandassociates.com/sibling_support_group.html
Good Shepherd Kids Connect Sibling Support Group
Kids Connect is a lively, 3 hr event that celebrates siblings of children with special needs. The event is run by professionals who understand the impact a child's disability has on the whole family. Each event is a mix of information and discussion with dynamic games and craft activities.
Where: Good Shepherd Health and Technology Center at 850 S. Fifth St., Allentown.
When: Second Saturday 9am-noon, no sessions Jan, Feb, July & August
Ages: 6-10 years old who have a sibling with a physical and/or developmental disability.
Cost: $5 per session snack is included (limited scholarships available)
Call: 610-776-8313
Website: https://www.goodshepherdrehab.org/news/good-shepherd-pediatrics-offers-special-needs-call-in-hours-virtual-support-group/
Good Shepherd Sibshops
When: Held on the second Saturday of the month from 9:30am to 12:30
Where: Good Shepherd Rehab Hospital-Pediatrics Gym at 2855 Schoenersville Rd, Bethlehem, PA
Cost: $5 per child, lunch is provided and made by the children
Ages: 8-13 years old
Call: Michele or Laura at 610-807-4240
Email: mshara@gsrh.org orlzagacki@gsrh.org
​
Siblings with a Purpose Support Group
When: Every Wednesday 5p.m.-6:30p.m.
Where: The LINCS Center, 2400 Firmstone Street, Easton
Call: Lauren Fehr at 484-560-6990
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/897193247101623/
Via SibShops
Meant to be a fun experience for siblings to spend time with other siblings. It's not considered therapy or group.
Ages: 8-12 yrs old
Website: https://www.facebook.com/groups/897193247101623/
​
Works of Heart Therapy
Contact: Marisa Lawrence ATR-BC LPC, Registered, Board Certified Art Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor
Services: Counseling, Art Therapy, Art Therapy Assessments, Supervision, and Consultation for Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Where: 628 Twin Ponds Rd, Breinigsville, Pa 18031
Call: 484-891-1131
Email: marisa.lawrence.lpc@gmail.com
Website: https://www.worksofhearttherapy.com/?dti=1541248959458468&fref=gc
​
National Support:
​National Survey for Siblings of Individuals with disabilities, their support needs and their families.
The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University is working together with the Sibling Leadership Network to study the support needs of people with disabilities. This project is funded by the PA Developmental Disabilities Council. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Meghan Burke atmeghanbm@illinois.edu or call 217-300-1226.
​
Support Groups for Professionals
Olive Wood Counseling
Services: Special education teachers and school staff are under so much pressure to meet IEP goals for their students. Olivewood Counseling recognizes this may be overwhelming for some staff. They created Educator Support Group Meetings 11am-12:30 on Saturdays
Where: 510 Delaware Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18015
Call: (610) 417 0463
Website: http://www.olivewoodcounseling.com/
​