About this Presenter
Dr. Stephen Kuniak is an Assistant Professor in Lock Haven University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program and a Past President of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association. Dr. Kuniak is also a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in PA and clinical supervisor. He holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Duquesne University. Additionally, he is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Dr. Kuniak has practiced for over 15 years in the areas of family counseling, drug and alcohol counseling, as the clinical director of a counseling agency, and in private practice. Dr. Kuniak's areas of professional interest are in counseling theories and practice, anxiety disorder treatment, substance use treatment, family counseling, as an LGBTQIA+ community ally, and clinical supervision. His particular areas of focus are on the clinical application of geek and gaming themes. He has published and presented on the use of these forms of media as opportunities to build rapport, create metaphors, and to help clients practice important skills. Dr. Kuniak has founded a 501c3 non-profit organization, called Experience Points, to further his endeavors in gaming and geek culture. He has been interviewed about his research and clinical practice for publications like the Washington Post and Counseling Today. Aside from these clinical interests, he is also a fan of comic books, science fiction and fantasy movies, and an avid gamer. He primarily plays on Xbox, though has interest in all forms of gaming. Dr. Kuniak lives near Pittsburgh, PA with his wife Abby, also a professional counselor, their 4-year-old son Maxton, 2-year-old son Oliver, and their three fur children.
