Upstate Carolina Autism Associates

09/02/2026

09/01/2026

WELCOME Michelle Griffin as our newest Fall Intern!

Hi. I am Michelle Griffin, and I believe that mental wellness begins with feeling genuinely heard, understood, and supported. With more than 30 years of experience serving children, adolescents, families, and educators, I bring a compassionate, client-centered approach to counseling that is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and respect. My professional background includes roles as an English teacher, school administrator, nonprofit executive director, and educational leader, experiences that have given me a deep understanding of the academic, emotional, and family challenges individuals often face. I am currently completing my Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University while also holding a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and a master's degree in English.

My passion is helping children, adolescents, and adults discover their strengths, develop healthy coping skills, and build resilience as they navigate life's challenges. I strive to create a safe, welcoming environment where clients feel empowered to grow, heal, and achieve meaningful change. Outside of the counseling office, I enjoy spending time reading, exploring new hiking trails, and traveling to experience new places and cultures. I believe that learning, connecting with others, and spending time in nature helps us stay grounded, and I bring that same spirit of curiosity, hope, and encouragement into my work with every client.

08/31/2026

📚 Back-to-school isn't just about schedules and supplies.
For many autistic individuals, it also means navigating new social situations, unfamiliar classmates, and increased communication demands.
Here are a few reminders:
✅ Social success looks different for everyone
✅ One meaningful friendship matters more than fitting in
✅ Shared interests create natural connections
✅ Regulation supports communication
✅ Conversation starters are tools—not rules
At UCAA, we believe every individual deserves opportunities for authentic connection without pressure to mask who they are.
Join us at NeuroConnect as we continue building a more accepting and inclusive community. 💙
If you or your family are looking for autism-informed mental health support in Upstate South Carolina, visit UpstateCarolinaAutismAssociates.com or call/text (864) 835-8409.

08/30/2026

🧱 Let’s build connections, one brick at a time!🎉😃

NeuroConnect👀 is heading to Bricks & Minifigs for our next social gathering! Autistic adults ages 18+ are invited to enjoy a welcoming, low-pressure evening of shared interests, conversation, and community connection.

📅 Thursday, September 3
⏰ 6:00–7:30 PM
📍 Bricks & Minifigs
1280 Eighteen Mile Road, Suite E
Central, SC

📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer to pre-register.
https://forms.gle/ZfEcKxaaj9EKprH79

Come as you are and participate at your own comfort level. We look forward to connecting with you!

Sponsored by Upstate Carolina Autism Associates
🌉 Bridging Care, Connection, and Community

Please note: Participation does not establish a therapeutic relationship; this is not a therapy event.

08/27/2026

📚 Back-to-school transitions are about more than getting ready for class.
For many autistic individuals, changing routines can impact executive functioning, emotional regulation, and sensory processing.
Community partners can support success by:
✨ Creating predictable environments
✨ Supporting sensory needs
✨ Providing clear communication
✨ Building inclusive spaces
Every supportive interaction matters.
🌐 UpstateCarolinaAutismAssociates.com
📞 (864) 835-8409

08/25/2026

SAVE THE DATE!

08/24/2026

📚 Back-to-school season is about more than school supplies and schedules.
For many autistic individuals, returning to school means navigating major changes in routine, sensory experiences, social expectations, and executive functioning demands.
Community partners can help by:
✅ Creating predictable environments
✅ Offering sensory-friendly spaces
✅ Using clear communication
✅ Allowing extra processing time
✅ Partnering with families
Small changes can make a big difference.
Together, we can create communities where autistic individuals feel supported, included, and successful.
If you or your family are looking for autism-informed mental health support in Upstate South Carolina, visit UpstateCarolinaAutismAssociates.com or call/text (864) 835-8409.

08/23/2026

🎉 BRIDGED Expo 2026! 😃

It was wonderful meeting so many people today and making meaningful community connections at the BRIDGED Disability Resource Expo!

Thank you to everyone who stopped by the Upstate Carolina Autism Associates table to say hello and learn more about our neuroaffirming mental health services and NeuroConnect. We are also grateful to BRIDGED and all the participating organizations for bringing so many valuable resources and support services together in one place.

We look forward to continuing to build partnerships and strengthen support throughout the Upstate!

💙 Upstate Carolina Autism Associates
Bridging Care, Connection, and Community.

🌐 UpstateCarolinaAutismAssociates.com
📱 864-835-8409

08/23/2026

🎉🎉 Join us TODAY at the BRIDGED Disability Resource Expo!

📍 Greenville Convention Center
⏰ 2:00–6:00 PM
🎟️ Admission is FREE!

Upstate Carolina Autism Associates will be there alongside 115 other organizations sharing valuable resources, services, and community support.

Please stop by the UCAA table, say hello, and learn more about our neuroaffirming mental health services and NeuroConnect! 😃

💙 Upstate Carolina Autism Associates
Bridging Care, Connection, and Community.

🌐 UpstateCarolinaAutismAssociates.com