Brightstone Pathways

Fifteen years of walking alongside young adults and the families who love them, because the journey to independence is a team effort. What started in 2011 with a vision for something different has grown into a community built on trust, individuality, and real, lasting progress.

Meet Aleshka, Brightstone’s Director of Admissions & Outreach, and often the first voice families hear when they reach out to us. With over a decade of experience in behavioral health across adolescent treatment, young adult transitions, and wilderness therapy, Aleshka brings both deep professional knowledge and personal insight as the parent of a neurodiverse adolescent. Her goal is simple: to make sure every family feels heard, supported, and ready to take the next step.

Tea time, a park outing, and a yummy snack plate — a little bit of everything that makes a good day. For neurodivergent young adults, building routines that include movement, nourishment, and fun isn’t just enjoyable, it’s foundational. This is what thriving looks like in practice.

No two journeys look alike — and that’s especially true for autistic young adults. This Autism Awareness Month, we’re celebrating what it means to build support around the individual: their strengths, their goals, and the pace that’s right for them.

Sun, water, and the whole crew together — this is what community looks like at Brightstone. These moments of connection, joy, and belonging are what we’re all about.

Autism presents differently across genders, and for many women, that means years of being overlooked or misunderstood. Autism Awareness Month is a reminder that recognition matters — and so does creating spaces where every young adult can be seen, understood, and supported.

This Autism Awareness Month, we’re reflecting on what independence actually looks like for autistic young adults — and how mentorship makes it possible. At Brightstone, mentors provide the guidance, encouragement, and real-world support that helps young adults build confidence and move forward at their own pace.

Meet Cole Tolbert, Lead Mentor at Brightstone.

Cole brings a steady, compassionate presence to his work, grounded in years of experience supporting individuals across healthcare and personal care settings. His approach is simple but powerful—showing up, building trust, and creating space for meaningful connection.

This month, we recognize that acceptance lives in relationships like these.

Only about 15% of autistic adults are employed—but that number can change.

With the right support, structure, and opportunity, young adults can build the skills and confidence needed for meaningful, sustainable work.

Connection can be simple—fresh air, movement, and shared moments.

Time outdoors supports regulation, confidence, and joy, giving young adults space to reset, connect, and feel at ease in their environment.