Brightstone Blog
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month
June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. It is an opportunity to talk about the emotional experience of young men who are struggling silently. For autistic and neurodivergent young adults, mental health challenges are often misunderstood. At Brightstone, we have seen again and again that emotional wellbeing is one of the foundations that makes independence possible.
Transitional Living vs. Wilderness vs. Hybrid Care
Families searching for support for a young adult often find themselves asking a difficult question: What type of care is the right fit? The truth is—there is rarely one universally “best” approach. Different environments serve different purposes at different moments in a young person’s journey. At Brightstone, we believe insight alone rarely creates independence — application does.
Looking Ahead to NATSAP Utah
This June, Brightstone leadership will attend the 2026 Utah Regional Conference hosted by the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP), bringing together professionals across therapeutic schools, residential programs, outdoor behavioral health, clinical leadership, educational consulting, and transitional living to explore evolving best practices in care for adolescents, young adults, and families.
Brightstone's Jamila Minnifield to Present at the 2026 AMHCA Annual Conference
What happens when gender diversity and autism spectrum overlap — and clinicians aren't equipped to recognize it? That's the question Jamila Minnifield, MA, is bringing to one of the most highly attended sessions at this year's American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) Annual Conference in Portland, Oregon.
Autism Awareness Month at Brightstone: Supporting Neurodivergent Young Adults Through Community, Connection, and Independence
Autism Awareness Month at Brightstone highlights how neurodivergent young adults build independence, social confidence, and community connection through real-world support, including participation in the Autism and Unique Needs Resource Fair in Gainesville, Georgia.
Honoring Social Workers: Celebrating Social Work Appreciation Month
Brightstone Transitions celebrates Social Work Appreciation Month and recognizes the vital role social workers play in supporting young adults and families, highlighting the work of Lauren Kraemer McMahon, LCSW.
When Plans Change: Safety, Flexibility, and Community During the Ice Storm at Brightstone
At Brightstone Transitions, an ice storm became a real-life learning opportunity — highlighting proactive safety planning, executive functioning skills, flexibility, distress tolerance, and the power of community for neurodiverse young adults.
Growing From Within: Celebrating Leadership at Brightstone
Brightstone Transitions announces the promotion of Tato Gayflorsee to Program Director, highlighting internal leadership growth, program stability, and what strong leadership means for neurodiverse young adults and their families.
January 2026 at Brightstone: Growth, Connection, and Forward Momentum
The beginning of the year is often a time of reflection and quiet momentum. At Brightstone Transitions, this January is especially meaningful, marked by important milestones, deeper conversations around mental health, and continued evolution in how we share our work with the world.
Overcoming Social Anxiety: How Brightstone Creates Safe Spaces for Autistic Young Adults
Brightstone helps autistic and other neurodivergent young adults build social confidence through safe spaces, mentorship, and real-world practice.
Why Women with Autism Are Often Overlooked—And How Brightstone Helps
Women with autism are frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked. Brightstone offers tailored support in a neurodiversity-affirming environment where authenticity thrives.
Building Independent Life Skills (ADLs)
Independence starts with everyday skills. Discover how Brightstone helps young adults master Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) through hands-on learning.
ADHD and Autism Spectrum—A Closer Look at a Complex Connection
ADHD and autism often overlap, sharing traits like executive function challenges and sensory sensitivities. Learn how Brightstone supports young adults navigating AuDHD.
Finding Your Way Back to Routine After the Holidays
After the holidays, getting back into a steady routine can feel overwhelming—especially for young adults learning to live independently. Brightstone makes the transition smoother.
Healthy Relationships and Boundaries
Healthy relationships and boundaries are key to independence. Learn how Brightstone helps young adults build trust, communicate, and set limits.
Developing Social Skills
Social skills open the door to friendships, career opportunities, and community connection. See how Brightstone helps young adults build them step-by-step.
The Importance of Mentors
Discover how mentorship transforms the lives of young adults with autism. Learn how Brightstone’s mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and real-world skills for independence.