Autism Committee

The PAR Autism committee focuses on the unique needs of individuals with autism, the unique requirements of the adult autism waiver, and strategies facilitating high quality services and supports for this population. The committee will identify and advocate for systemic changes that need to occur to ensure that state and federal regulations and policies allow individuals with autism live everyday lives.

Allison Packard, Co-Chair

Chief Executive Officer  
Ganister Station Adult Day Services
[email protected]

Ms. Packard is currently the Chief Executive Officer at Ganister Station Adult Day Services. She began her career as a Program Specialist and at the end of 2016, developed and started the Behavior Support department, which is now called Cornerstone of Ganister Station. Ms. Packard was the Behavior Specialist Supervisor starting in 2017 until she became Chief Executive Officer in November 2019.

Ms. Packard has worked in the field since 2007. She received her Associates Degree in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science of Human Services Management, and a Master’s of Science in Psychology from University of Phoenix.

Dave Leamer, Co-Chair

Chief Executive Officer
Applied Counseling & Consulting Services
[email protected]

Dave has been a clinician and healthcare administrator for the past thirty years. For the past fifteen, he has focused exclusively on working with adults and children living with autism to help them live more independent and robust lives and to advocate for true inclusion in all walks of society. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and Certified Brain Injury Specialist and has a particular clinical interest in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Organizational Behavior Management (OBM). He holds an MA in Counseling Psychology from Immaculata University and Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from University of North Texas.