Meet Our Founders

Kevin Kern, MPA, M.S., is the Founder and CEO of Hearts & Habits Horizon and has dedicated 26 years to supporting autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Beginning his career as a Direct Support Professional in 2001, Kevin advanced through every level of leadership—from frontline support to Program Specialist, Director, Chief Program Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and ultimately Chief Executive Officer. His experience includes more than 17 years as COO of The Pursuit Center and serving as Interim CEO of Avondale House, where he led major program expansions and workforce development initiatives.

Kevin has also contributed extensively to statewide IDD leadership through board and advisory roles, helping strengthen systems, services, and opportunities for individuals across Texas. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human & Social Services Administration, a Master of Public Administration, and a Master of Science in Human Resources Strategic Management.

After decades of service, Kevin and his wife of 33 years, Rebecca Kern, LPC, launched Hearts & Habits Horizon to bring a practical, empowering approach to adult independence training. Rebecca, who has worked in the field for over 25 years, is the founder of Hearts & Habits Haven for I/DD & Autism Wellness, PLLC, which partners with Hearts & Habits Horizon to provide counseling and behavior supports for program participants.

Together, they are committed to helping neurodivergent adults build confidence, independence, and meaningful life momentum.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 23 years of experience supporting diverse individuals from all walks of life, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS). I am also a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS), which will allow me to assess and identify autism in individuals and provide even more tailored support aligned with autism.

As a parent and neuroaffirming counselor, I hold the autistic community close to my heart. My heart is also full with the joy I get in supporting those with IDD.

Before becoming an independent counselor with my own practice, I previously worked at a local non-profit that served adults with IDD and autism. I was the Director of Behavior Services for 17 years, which included my providing counseling as well as behavior supports. I developed behavior support plans and worked in alignment with the Texas Medicaid waivers such as HCS, CLASS, and TxHmL. This knowledge and experience allowed me to provide unique and holistic supports to this population so that they could become their best selves.

While I am certified as a Dementia Practitioner (CDP) and a Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer (CADDCT), I have also completed doctoral coursework for Psychology with a specialization in Gerontology, which allows me to work with individuals who have early presentation of dementia and their families/caregivers.

I have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), a research-supported approach that effectively treats insomnia and circadian rhythm-related sleep difficulties.

My approach to counseling integrates evidence-based therapeutic techniques with a holistic, wellness-oriented perspective. I practice from a person-centered foundation while incorporating Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-focused interventions to support meaningful, sustainable change.

Here is a little bit about me…

I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for more than 16 years with 23 years of working with diverse individuals, including those who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and related conditions.

Before entering the counseling field, I spent 7 years as a special education teacher in Humble ISD, working with elementary-aged students. These experiences—spanning both childhood and adulthood—have shaped my holistic and individualized approach to service delivery, ensuring that each person receives support aligned with strengths, needs, and goals.

On a personal note, I have been married to my best friend and greatest supporter, Kevin, for 32 years. Together, we co-founded Hearts & Habits Horizon LLC.

We are proud parents to two adult daughters, Jessica and Emily. Our youngest is an individual with autism.

I am passionate about our beloved pets, bird watching, geology, astronomy, and chess.

Above all, I find immense joy in helping those I serve. Witnessing individuals apply what they have learned in counseling to enrich their daily lives is the most rewarding part of my work.

I look forward to learning more about you and supporting your journey.